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Lamonica's NY Pizza
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
Lamonica's NY Pizza
8.3
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Open since 1980 on Gayley, Lamonica's channels New York slice-joint energy with foldable pies, Sicilian squares, and garlic knots that have fed generations of Bruins late into the evening. It's the classic grab-a-slice spot before or after campus events.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic cheese slice, Sicilian pepperoni square, Garlic knots with marinara
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Decades-old New York slice shop where UCLA generations still line up.
Who should go: Slice lovers who prioritize flavor and history over decor.
When to visit: Late evenings after games or movies when lines ebb slightly.
What to order: Cheese slice, Sicilian pepperoni, side of garlic knots.
Insider tip: Grab reheated Sicilian slices for a crispier late-night bite.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Gayley can be tight at night; look for metered spots on nearby Weyburn or leverage the Broxton Public Parking structure for the most reliable option.
Dress code: Completely casual—hoodies, campus gear, and late-night comfort wear are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate—mostly counter chatter and students grabbing slices, but still easy enough to hold a quick conversation.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on post-game or movie crowds.
Weekday lunch: Often no wait, especially mid-afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—classic cheese slices, veggie pies, and Sicilian squares are consistently available.
Vegan options: Limited—no dedicated vegan cheese, but plain tomato slices may work for strict vegans.
Gluten-free options: None—no gluten-free crust options are currently offered.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re aiming for a low-pressure, grab-a-slice vibe; it’s more practical and nostalgic than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's counter-service with limited seating, so you’ll almost always find a spot or can eat standing with a slice.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple menu, fast service, and casual seating make it easy for families, though space is tight during peak student rushes.
Best For
Better for: Classic New York-style slices, late-night reliability, and nostalgic campus energy that newer spots can’t replicate.
Skip if: You want gourmet toppings, gluten-free options, or a sit-down restaurant experience.
Lamonica's NY Pizza
8.5
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Comfort Food Classics
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Lamonica's is a long-running slice counter by UCLA serving classic New York–style pies made with dough produced in Brooklyn and shipped west. Students and alumni rely on it for quick, foldable slices, late study breaks, and pre- or post-game fuel in the heart of Westwood Village.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cheese slice, Pepperoni slice, Sicilian square pie
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Old-school New York slice shop anchoring UCLA’s pizza cravings since 1980.
Who should go: Students, alumni, and anyone craving fast classic NY slices.
When to visit: Lunch, game days, or late evenings before closing.
What to order: Cheese slice, pepperoni slice, Sicilian square.
Insider tip: Skip the line by grabbing pre-baked slices and asking for a reheat.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking in Westwood Village is limited but doable; meters run until evening and spots turn over quickly near Weyburn and Broxton. The Broxton Public Garage (first hour free) is the most reliable option a 2–3 minute walk away.
Dress code: Extremely casual—students in sweats, hoodies, and game-day gear are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during peak hours; still easy to hold a conversation but expect the hum of constant foot traffic.
Weekend wait: Usually minimal because slices move fast; 5–10 minutes even during game nights.
Weekday lunch: Often no wait, though a small line can form right at noon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—plain cheese, veggie slices, and whole pies with customizable toppings.
Vegan options: Minimal—no vegan cheese, but you can order a cheeseless veggie pie if needed.
Gluten-free options: Not available—Lamonica’s sticks to traditional NY-style dough only.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if the vibe you want is casual, fast, and low-pressure. It’s more of a slice-and-go student favorite than a romantic spot.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—there are no reservations. Limited indoor seating is first-come, first-served, but most people grab slices and eat quickly.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—simple menu, quick service, and low prices make it easy for families, though seating is limited and best for older kids comfortable with counter-service.
Best For
Better for: Classic New York–style slices, speed, value, and a true college-town feel—it’s the fastest and most consistent grab-and-go pizza option in Westwood.
Skip if: You want artisan pies, vegan or gluten-free options, a sit-down meal, or a quieter environment for longer conversations.