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Masa of Echo Park
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Masa of Echo Park
8.4
Since 2004, this cozy bakery-cafe specializes in authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza with 2-inch thick cornmeal crust, made by Chicago-born chef Rob Rowe using organic, locally-sourced ingredients. The family-owned restaurant offers both deep-dish and thin-crust options with vegan alternatives, requiring 45-minute wait times for proper deep-dish preparation but delivering hearty, cheese-laden results worth the patience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sweet Italian Sausage & Mushroom Deep Dish, California Veggie Deep Dish, Warm Croissant Bread Pudding
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: LA's authentic Chicago deep-dish destination with fresh-baked cornmeal crust daily
Who should go: Deep-dish devotees and special occasion celebrators
When to visit: Weekdays to avoid 45-minute deep-dish wait times
What to order: Traditional deep-dish with sausage, authentic giardiniera, warm bread pudding dessert
Insider tip: Smaller deep-dish size easily feeds two with leftovers—order accordingly
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - metered spots on Sunset Blvd and residential streets nearby. Arrive early or use public lot on Alvarado ($8 flat rate)
Dress code: Super casual - jeans, t-shirts, whatever's comfortable. This is a neighborhood spot, not a scene
Noise level: Moderate to lively - cozy space fills with conversation buzz but you can still talk normally across the table
Weekend wait: 45-60 min for deep-dish prep plus potential 20-30 min table wait on Fri/Sat after 6pm
Weekday lunch: Minimal table wait but still 45 min for deep-dish - plan accordingly or call ahead
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - strong options including veggie deep-dish and multiple salads. The spinach deep-dish is a standout
Vegan options: Yes - vegan cheese available for both deep-dish and thin crust. Not an afterthought here
Gluten-free options: No - the cornmeal crust is the whole point. If you need GF, this isn't your spot
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, but manage expectations - the 45-minute wait is built-in bonding time, and sharing a massive deep-dish is interactive and fun. Just warn your date about the wait upfront so they're not surprised
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations, so it's walk-in only. Weekday lunch/early dinner is safe. Weekend nights expect 20-30 min table wait on top of the 45-min pizza prep time. Call ahead to put your pizza order in before arriving
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - casual vibe, families everywhere, and kids love the novelty of 2-inch thick pizza. High chairs available. The long wait can be tough with toddlers, so time it strategically or order ahead
How much food should I order? One small deep-dish genuinely feeds 2-3 people. Seriously. First-timers always over-order. Get one pizza, maybe a salad, and see how you feel. You can always order more thin crust if needed
Is it worth the 45-minute wait? If you've never had real Chicago deep-dish, absolutely yes. If you're just hungry and impatient, no - grab thin crust or go elsewhere. This is an experience meal, not fast casual
Masa of Echo Park
8.4
Echo Park's authentic Chicago deep dish destination serves 2-inch tall pan pizzas with cornmeal crust, chunky fillings, and layers of cheese. The family-owned spot uses organic ingredients when possible and offers vegan options with Teese mozzarella, turning pizza night into a warm, filling embrace.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicago Deep Dish Pizza, Bread Pudding, Vegan Deep Dish
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Authentic Chicago-style deep dish rare on LA's Eastside
Who should go: Deep dish devotees and groups sharing hearty comfort food
When to visit: Friday-Saturday until midnight for late-night deep dish cravings
What to order: Classic deep dish, bread pudding, house salad
Insider tip: Deep dish requires 45-minute prep time; call ahead or order drinks first
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Sunset Blvd and side streets - typically available but may require 1-2 block walk during peak hours
Dress code: Casual neighborhood spot - jeans, t-shirts, hoodies all welcome
Noise level: Moderate - cozy dining room allows conversation, busier on weekends but never overwhelming
Weekend wait: 30-45 min wait common Friday-Saturday 7-9pm, plus 45 min cooking time for deep dish
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, but factor in 45 min prep time for deep dish pizzas
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple deep dish options with veggie combinations, house salad
Vegan options: Yes - Teese vegan mozzarella available for deep dish, explicitly mentioned specialty
Gluten-free options: No - deep dish relies on signature cornmeal crust, not adaptable
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual first dates - warm family-owned atmosphere takes pressure off, sharing a deep dish creates natural conversation, but factor in 45-min cooking time so you're not starving and awkward while waiting
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights usually fine, but call ahead on weekends. Either way, order your deep dish immediately since it takes 45 minutes - grab drinks at the bar or order appetizers while waiting
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely - family-owned spot welcomes all ages, hearty shareable pizzas work well for families, relaxed neighborhood vibe means nobody minds if kids get a little loud
How hungry should I be? Come very hungry - these are authentic 2-inch tall Chicago deep dishes that are genuinely filling. One pizza typically feeds 2-3 people as a full meal
Is it actually authentic Chicago-style? Yes - family recipes with proper cornmeal crust, layered construction (cheese first, toppings, sauce on top), and the signature 2-inch height. Not LA-style thin crust masquerading as deep dish
Best For
Better for: Authentic Chicago deep dish on the Eastside, late-night comfort food until midnight on weekends, vegan deep dish options with quality Teese cheese, organic ingredients when possible, family-owned warmth over corporate polish
Skip if: You want quick pizza (45-min prep time doesn't work), prefer thin crust or Neapolitan style, need gluten-free options, want trendy scene over neighborhood comfort, or are dining solo (portions designed for sharing)
Masa of Echo Park
8.4
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Hidden Gems Heaven
Birthday & Celebration Central
Family-owned since 2008, this Echo Park institution serves authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza with organic, locally sourced ingredients and authentic Chicago imports like hot giardiniera. The 45-minute cook time for deep-dish gives kids time to enjoy complimentary bread while families settle into the warm, neighborhood atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lots of Meat Deep Dish, Lots of Cheese Deep Dish, Croissant Bread Pudding
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: LA's premier Chicago deep-dish destination with vegan options and scratch-made dough
Who should go: Families craving Midwest-style deep dish or accommodating mixed dietary needs
When to visit: Weeknight dinner when deep-dish 45-minute wait feels relaxed
What to order: Deep-dish with sausage layer, suppli, bread pudding
Insider tip: Large deep-dish serves 4 people for $40 with plenty of leftovers
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - relatively easy to find on side streets, but arrive 10 minutes early for weekend dinner. Free after 8pm.
Dress code: Casual neighborhood spot - jeans, t-shirts, and sneakers are the norm. Families come straight from the park.
Noise level: Moderate to lively - comfortable conversation but gets energetic with families. Not ideal for intimate discussions.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min wait typical Friday/Saturday 6-8pm without reservation, plus 45-min deep-dish cook time
Weekday lunch: No wait, seats available immediately. Deep-dish still takes 45 minutes to cook.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent options - multiple veggie deep-dish combinations, salads, and pasta dishes available
Vegan options: Strong vegan program - vegan cheese available for deep-dish, clearly marked options throughout menu
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free crust option - deep-dish dough is their signature and can't be substituted
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Skip for first dates - the 45-minute wait for deep-dish creates pressure, and the lively family atmosphere isn't romantic. Better for 3rd+ dates when you're comfortable together.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weeknights yes, weekends risky. They don't take reservations for parties under 6, so arrive before 6pm on weekends or expect 45-60 min waits. Wednesday-Thursday usually seats immediately.
Is it kid-friendly? Exceptionally kid-friendly - complimentary bread keeps kids occupied during 45-min deep-dish wait, casual atmosphere welcomes high chairs and noise, large pizzas mean no fighting over slices. All ages welcome.
How long does dinner actually take? Plan 2+ hours total - 45 minutes for deep-dish to cook (they start when you order), plus seating wait on weekends, plus eating time. Not a quick bite.
Is one deep-dish enough for our group? One large deep-dish genuinely serves 4 adults with leftovers. Order appetizers (suppli is excellent) while you wait, but don't over-order pizza - they're massive and rich.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Chicago deep-dish with legitimate Midwest imports (giardiniera, Italian beef), vegan accommodations, and feeding families economically ($10/person with leftovers). Best when you have time to relax and aren't in a rush.
Skip if: You need fast service (45-min minimum), want thin-crust pizza, prefer upscale date-night ambiance, or need gluten-free options. Also skip if you're dining solo - portions are huge and don't make sense for one person.
Masa of Echo Park
8.3
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
This family-owned bakery and cafe brings Chicago deep-dish pizza to LA with recipes from a born-and-raised Chicagoan. The 2-inch cornmeal crusts are baked in vintage pans forged in the Windy City, requiring 40 minutes but delivering authentic Midwest comfort with hand-crushed whole pear tomatoes and housemade Italian sausage alongside an unexpectedly diverse menu of Italian, Cuban, and French-influenced dishes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicago Deep Dish with Italian Sausage & Mushroom, Suppli Arancini, Spaghetti with Meatballs
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: LA's authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza baked in vintage Windy City pans
Who should go: Families craving hearty portions and Midwest-style Italian comfort food
When to visit: Order 40 minutes ahead or dine Wednesday-Sunday for fresh pies
What to order: Deep dish sausage & mushroom, suppli, California caprese with avocado
Insider tip: The building housed Italian businesses since the 1920s, carrying Echo Park food history
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking available on Sunset and side streets, typically easy to find except Friday/Saturday evenings
Dress code: Casual neighborhood spot - jeans, t-shirts, come as you are
Noise level: Moderate - busy bakery/cafe atmosphere but conversation-friendly
Weekend wait: 45-60 min for deep dish (must be pre-ordered), minimal seating wait
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, but deep dish still requires 40-minute bake time
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple pasta dishes, pizzas without meat, caprese salads
Vegan options: Limited - can modify some dishes but not a strong vegan destination
Gluten-free options: No - deep dish relies on cornmeal crust, pasta is traditional wheat
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 2nd or 3rd date when you're comfortable being casual. The 40-minute wait for deep dish requires commitment, and sharing a massive pie creates a relaxed vibe rather than trying-to-impress energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - it's primarily a walk-in bakery/cafe with counter service. But call ahead to order deep dish (40-minute bake time) so it's ready when you arrive.
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - casual atmosphere, hearty portions kids love, and deep dish pizza feels like a special occasion. Perfect for ages 5+ who can handle the wait.
How authentic is the Chicago deep dish? Legitimately authentic - recipes from a Chicago native, vintage pans forged in Chicago, proper 2-inch cornmeal crust with hand-crushed tomatoes. This isn't California's interpretation, it's the real deal transplanted.
Can I just grab a quick lunch? Yes if you skip the deep dish - they have pasta, sandwiches, and bakery items ready to go. Deep dish requires 40 minutes minimum, so plan accordingly.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Chicago deep dish without flying to the Midwest, family gatherings where generous portions matter more than Instagram aesthetics, neighborhood comfort dining with historic Echo Park character
Skip if: You're in a hurry (40-minute deep dish wait), want trendy/upscale Italian instead of old-school comfort, need extensive vegan/gluten-free options, or prefer thin-crust Neapolitan-style pizza
Masa of Echo Park
7.9
Family-owned bakery and cafe specializing in authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza with traditional cornmeal crust, alongside Italian-American comfort food and an eclectic menu spanning paninis, crepes, and meatloaf. The colorful dining room features art-lined walls and festive atmosphere, making it a neighborhood favorite for diverse occasions from date nights to family gatherings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicago Deep-Dish Traditional Pizza, Manchego Salad, Artichoke Dip with Garlic Bread
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza in LA with 45-minute fresh-baked perfection
Who should go: Pizza enthusiasts and groups seeking variety beyond traditional Italian
When to visit: Weekend brunch or weeknight dinner, allowing 45 minutes for deep-dish
What to order: Deep-dish traditional, manchego salad, suppli, croissant bread pudding
Insider tip: Free public parking across the street on Sundays; order deep-dish first thing
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free public parking lot across the street (Sundays only), street parking typically available on residential streets within 1-2 blocks, metered spots on Sunset Boulevard
Dress code: Casual neighborhood spot - jeans and t-shirt perfectly fine, no need to dress up
Noise level: Moderate to lively - can hold conversation but expect family energy and bustling cafe atmosphere
Weekend wait: 20-30 minutes typical for walk-ins, 45+ minutes during peak brunch hours (10am-1pm Saturday/Sunday)
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait - usually seated within 10 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - multiple pasta dishes, salads, crepes, and vegetarian deep-dish options available
Vegan options: Limited but workable - salads can be modified, some pasta dishes adaptable without cheese
Gluten-free options: Challenging - deep-dish uses signature cornmeal crust, but gluten-free pasta available for some dishes
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual early dates than formal romantic dinners - the lively family atmosphere and 45-minute deep-dish wait create relaxed conversation opportunities, but lack the intimate ambiance of traditional date night spots
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes for weekday dinners and lunches with minimal wait, but weekend brunch requires either early arrival (before 10am) or expect 30-45 minute wait - reservations recommended Friday-Sunday
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely kid-friendly - family-owned with welcoming atmosphere, diverse menu beyond pizza (crepes, paninis), colorful decor, and forgiving noise level makes it ideal for all ages
Best For
Better for: Authentic Chicago-style deep-dish in LA, eclectic menu variety for groups with different tastes, casual neighborhood vibes, brunch options, family gatherings where you need something for everyone
Skip if: You want quick service (deep-dish requires 45 minutes), seeking intimate romantic atmosphere, looking for traditional upscale Italian, need extensive vegan/gluten-free options, or prefer Neapolitan-style pizza
Masa of Echo Park
8.3
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Birthday & Celebration Central
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Since 2004, Rob Rowe and Rhonda Reynolds have served LA's most authentic Chicago deep-dish pizza with buttery cornmeal crust, inverted construction putting cheese first, and three-inch towering structure that requires utensils. The family-owned bakery café makes everything from scratch daily, including vegan options with Teese mozzarella imported from Chicago Vegan Foods.
Must-Try Dishes:
Traditional Deep Dish with Sausage & Mushroom, Vegan Deep Dish, Chocolate Almond Croissant Bread Pudding
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: LA's most authentic Chicago deep-dish with 20+ years history and inverted construction
Who should go: Chicago natives, families, and anyone craving hearty deep-dish
When to visit: Call ahead—deep dish requires 45 minutes to bake
What to order: Traditional with sausage/mushroom, order when halfway to restaurant to minimize wait
Insider tip: The chocolate almond croissant bread pudding is worth saving room for
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Sunset Blvd and side streets - easier during weekday lunch, competitive evenings/weekends. Small public lot at Echo Park Ave & Sunset.
Dress code: Casual - jeans, t-shirts, athleisure all standard. It's a neighborhood bakery café.
Noise level: Moderate to lively - family-friendly atmosphere with conversation-friendly acoustics but expect kid energy during peak times
Weekend wait: 45-60 min for deep-dish preparation (call ahead when leaving home), seating usually available but limited tables
Weekday lunch: 30-45 min for deep-dish (still call ahead), quicker for thin crust or bakery items, minimal seating wait
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - extensive options including classic veggie deep-dish with mushrooms, peppers, onions, spinach
Vegan options: Yes - authentic Chicago Teese mozzarella imported specifically for vegan deep-dish, made from scratch daily
Gluten-free options: No - cornmeal crust and bakery focus makes this challenging, not recommended for celiac
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 2nd or 3rd date - it's casual and requires utensils for messy eating. The 45-minute bake time means you'll need to fill conversation, which works if you're already comfortable together. Consider ordering thin crust if you want faster service.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Seating usually available but call ahead for your pizza order regardless. The 45-minute deep-dish bake time is the real constraint - order when you leave your house so it's ready when you arrive. Limited table space means weekend evenings might require short waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - it's a family-owned neighborhood spot since 2004. Kids love deep-dish pizza, there's bakery items to keep them occupied during the 45-min wait, and the casual atmosphere means parents can relax. High chairs available.
How big are the portions? Deep-dish pizzas are 3+ inches tall and extremely filling - one small serves 2-3 people easily, medium serves 3-4. First-timers consistently underestimate and over-order. Start smaller than you think.
What if I don't want to wait 45 minutes? Order thin crust instead (ready in 15-20 min) or grab bakery items/sandwiches for immediate service. But if you're coming for authentic Chicago deep-dish, the wait is non-negotiable - it's baked to order and that's what makes it right.
Best For
Better for: Most authentic Chicago-style deep-dish in LA with 20-year track record - beats competitors on crust execution (actual cornmeal butter crust, not imitation), inverted construction technique, and vegan authenticity (real Teese from Chicago). Family-owned consistency and from-scratch baking including desserts gives it soul chain competitors lack.
Skip if: You want fast pizza (go to Pizzana or Tomato Pie), prefer Neapolitan/NY-style thin crust as primary option, need guaranteed reservations for large groups (limited seating), or have gluten restrictions. Also skip if you're not willing to plan ahead - spontaneous drop-ins work poorly with 45-min bake times.
Masa of Echo Park
8.3
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Date Night Magic
Family Friendly Favorites
Birthday & Celebration Central
Family-owned Chicago deep dish specialist operating since 2004 in a historic 1922 building. Chicago native Rob Rowe crafts authentic Windy City-style deep dish requiring 45-minute bake time, alongside thin-crust pizzas, pastas, and the signature Masa Burger. Cozy, quirky atmosphere with mismatched vintage decor attracts diverse crowds from families to date nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Chicago Deep Dish Pizza, Suppli (Risotto Croquettes), Warm Croissant Bread Pudding
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: LA's longest-running authentic Chicago deep dish destination with 20+ year track record
Who should go: Midwesterners craving home and deep dish converts
When to visit: Weeknights to avoid weekend waits; order immediately upon arrival
What to order: Chicago deep dish (45-minute wait), suppli appetizers, artichoke dip
Insider tip: Small size feeds two hungry people; free parking across street on Sundays
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking available, including free lot across the street on Sundays. Weeknight parking generally easier than weekends.
Dress code: Casual - jeans and t-shirts perfectly acceptable. Think neighborhood pizza spot, not date night destination.
Noise level: Moderate to lively - cozy space fills with conversation but rarely overwhelming. Can hold normal conversation at your table.
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation, plus mandatory 45-minute deep dish bake time. Plan 90+ minutes total.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait for seating, but still 45-minute bake for deep dish. Thin crust available faster.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple options including veggie deep dish, pastas, and the popular artichoke dip appetizer
Vegan options: Limited - can accommodate with cheese substitutions but not a vegan-focused menu
Gluten-free options: No - deep dish crust is the star here and GF versions not available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for 3rd+ dates. The 45-minute wait creates awkward pressure on first meetings, and the casual quirky vibe works better once you're comfortable together. The deep dish sharing experience is intimate for established couples.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes on weeknights with 15-30 min wait. Weekends are riskier - expect 45+ min waits. Pro tip: order your deep dish immediately when you arrive, even before being seated, so it's baking during your wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - families are regulars here. Casual atmosphere means noisy kids fit right in. Warning: 45-minute pizza wait tests young patience, so order appetizers (suppli, artichoke dip) to bridge the gap.
How big are the deep dish pizzas? Deceptively filling - 'small' genuinely feeds 2 hungry adults. The thick crust and cheese density means one slice is more substantial than 2-3 thin crust slices. Most couples share a small plus appetizer.
Do they have anything besides deep dish? Yes - thin crust pizzas (faster), pastas, the signature Masa Burger, and appetizers. Thin crust is legit Chicago tavern-style if you're not committed to the 45-minute deep dish experience.
Best For
Better for: Authentic Chicago deep dish - this is LA's longest-running specialist with 20+ years perfecting the craft. Choose Masa over trendy pizza spots when you want the real Midwestern experience, not California's interpretation. Also better for casual family gatherings where ambiance matters less than food quality.
Skip if: You're in a hurry (45-min minimum), want trendy Instagram-worthy interiors, need extensive vegan/GF options, or prefer Neapolitan-style pizza. Also skip for awkward first dates where conversation gaps feel eternal during the long wait.