Best Family Friendly Pizza Restaurants in Santa Monica
10 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Bruno's Italian Restaurant
30+ year local institution with authentic Italian family recipes
Notable Picks
8.1
Family-owned for over 30 years, this old-school Italian gem serves authentic handmade pizzas and traditional dishes. Red checkered tablecloths and genuine hospitality create a warm home-away-from-home atmosphere just blocks from the pier.
Must-Try Dishes:
NY-Style Pizza, Chicken Parmigiana, Homemade Gnocchi
What Makes it Special: 30+ year local institution with authentic Italian family recipes
#2
Vito's Pizza
8.1
East Coast-style pizzeria serving thin-crust New York pies with crispy char and proper fold. The family-owned spot draws locals for its coal-oven taste and communal bench seating.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Cheese Slice, Pesto White Pizza, Pepperoni Pie
What Makes it Special: Authentic New Jersey-style pizza with that distinctive East Coast thin crust
Worthy Picks
7.8
Vibes:
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Family Friendly Favorites
Birthday & Celebration Central
Brunch Bliss Spots
An owner-operated beachside kitchen on Neilson Way where the draw is balcony seating overlooking Ocean View Park's pool and the sand beyond—empanadas and wood-fired pizza served in a setting that does the heavy lifting. It runs as a casual neighborhood spot for families and beachgoers who want to eat steps from the water without a reservation or a prix fixe menu.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Beef Empanadas with Olives and Pepper, Spinach and Mozzarella Empanadas
What Makes it Special: Owner-operated beachside kitchen steps from the sand with balcony seating overlooking an Olympic-size pool and Ocean View Park
7.8
The original California creativity in pizza form, with hand-tossed crusts and unexpected toppings open until 11pm on weekends. While it's grown into a chain, this location maintains the innovative spirit that started the California pizza revolution.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ Chicken Pizza, Thai Chicken Pizza, Tostada Pizza
What Makes it Special: Original home of California-style fusion pizza
7.8
Health-conscious pizzeria focuses on upgraded nutrition with fresh, ethically-sourced ingredients. Extensive dietary options including gluten-free, vegan, and keto make this an ideal choice for families with allergies or special dietary needs.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Triple Pepperoni, Gluten-Free Crust Options
What Makes it Special: Exceptional allergy protocols and dietary alternatives
7.8
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Family-owned since 1983, this old-school pizzeria makes classic and gourmet NY-style pies using imported Italian ingredients and local produce when possible. The long-standing neighborhood presence and consistent execution keep generations of locals returning.
Must-Try Dishes:
Original Cheese Pizza, BBQ Chicken Pizza, Caesar Salad
What Makes it Special: Over 40 years in the same location with multi-generational loyal following
7.8
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Late-night neighborhood workhorse serving gourmet pizzas, generous salads, and Italian pastas until 3 AM most nights. In-house dough made daily and creative specialty combinations draw locals seeking quality without pretension, from quick lunches to post-beach dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ Chicken Pizza, Classic Combo Pizza, Chicken Pesto Pizza
What Makes it Special: Open until 3 AM with made-from-scratch dough and surprisingly creative gourmet toppings
7.7
Corner pizzeria on Third Street Promenade offers New York-style pies and prime people-watching. Quick-service spot delivers reliable slices and whole pies perfect for families exploring the pedestrian shopping district.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Sicilian Thick Crust, BBQ Chicken Pizza
What Makes it Special: Prime location for promenade dining with outdoor patio
#9
SaMo Pizza
7.6
Vibes:
Late Night Legends
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Brick oven pizzeria serving late-night slices and pies until 4 AM on weekends. Established in 2018, this counter-service spot draws Santa Monica College students and locals with affordable prices, quick service, and specialty options including vegan, gluten-free, and creative toppings like their signature SaMo pizza with egg and jalapeño.
Must-Try Dishes:
SaMo Pizza, Margherita, BBQ Chicken
What Makes it Special: Open until 4 AM on weekends with brick oven quality at student-friendly prices
#10
Dagwoods
7.6
Neighborhood pizza shop delivers consistent quality at family-friendly prices with exceptional service. Known for generous portions and house-made dressing, this local favorite has anchored the Wilshire corridor for years.
Must-Try Dishes:
House Special Pizza, Turkey Sub, Grilled Chicken Caesar
What Makes it Special: Great prices with consistent quality and friendly service