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North Beach Pizza
Master Critic Reviews (10 Lists)
North Beach Pizza
7.6
Classic San Francisco pie shop’s Mission Street outpost turning out hefty, shareable pizzas plus a lineup of pastas and salads. Booth seating and steady service make it a low-key, no-pretense date night.
Must-Try Dishes:
Combo special pizza, Spaghetti with meatballs, Eggplant parmigiana
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Big, shareable pies with a full pasta menu under one roof.
Who should go: Couples wanting hearty portions
When to visit: After 8pm to avoid family rush
What to order: Combo pie; spaghetti & meatballs; eggplant parm
Insider tip: Half-and-half pizzas let you split preferences without upcharge.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is metered and limited along Mission Street; easier to find spots on nearby residential side streets after 7pm.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual — jeans and a nice top fit right in; no need to dress up unless it’s a special occasion.
Noise level: Moderate — you can hold a conversation without shouting, though it can get lively during peak dinner hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation; quicker for takeout.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk-ins are seated promptly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — multiple pasta and pizza options like Margherita, primavera, and eggplant parm.
Vegan options: Limited — can customize pizza without cheese or order salads sans dressing.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free crust available upon request, though prepared in shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — it’s relaxed and unpretentious, perfect for a comfortable, low-pressure dinner with good food and easy conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially on weekdays after 8pm. On weekends, calling ahead for a table is smart if you’re planning to dine between 6–8pm.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — families frequent early dinner hours, and staff are accommodating with high chairs and kid-size pizza portions.
Best For
Better for: Large portions and old-school San Francisco pizza nostalgia make it better for comfort-focused, unfussy date nights.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale ambiance or craft cocktails — this is more about hearty food and easy company than fine dining.
North Beach Pizza
7.7
Vibes:
Business Lunch Power Players
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Excelsior outpost of a local SF classic offering hefty slice-or-pie lunches plus salads and sandwiches. Casual dining room and reliable timing make it workable for low-key business meetups.
Must-Try Dishes:
Combo Pie, Meatball Sub, Caesar Salad
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 7.6
Atmosphere: 6.4
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Local classic with fast lunch turns and shareable portions.
Who should go: Teams splitting pies and salads
When to visit: 12–1pm; order at counter for speed
What to order: Combo Pie; Meatball Sub; Caesar Salad
Insider tip: Call ahead for whole-pie timing to hit your meeting window.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Mission Street with 1-hour meters; easier availability on nearby residential blocks before noon.
Dress code: Casual; office attire or jeans both fine for lunch meetings.
Noise level: Moderate during lunch rush; quiet enough for team conversation at booths.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes if dining in during evening rush; takeout faster.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait before 12:15pm; peaks briefly around 12:30.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - several pizza, salad, and pasta options.
Vegan options: Limited - can customize pizzas without cheese; no dedicated vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free crust; salads are safe options.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? More functional than romantic; better suited for casual or working lunches than first-date ambiance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. Walk-ins welcome for lunch; rarely a wait unless large group during peak hour.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes. Booster seats available; menu appeals to families with large portions and friendly staff.
Best For
Better for: Quick, shareable business lunches and casual group meals without pretension.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale ambiance or gluten-free dining options.
North Beach Pizza
7.8
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Casual, family-friendly pizzeria known for shareable pies, pastas, and salads with dependable timing. Large tables and straightforward service make it easy for groups and weeknight dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Fettuccine Alfredo, Garlic Knots
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Straightforward pies and pastas sized for sharing at fair prices.
Who should go: Families and teams splitting hearty portions
When to visit: Early evenings 5–6:30pm to beat the dinner rush
What to order: Margherita pie, garlic knots, fettuccine Alfredo
Insider tip: Order a half-baked pie to finish at home for crispier crust.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Mission Street and nearby residential blocks; can be tight after 6pm on weekends.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans, tees, and family-night attire are perfectly fine.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during dinner rush; fine for family chatter but not ideal for quiet conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes during peak hours, especially for large groups.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; quick seating available.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—many pizzas and pastas can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—ask for cheeseless veggie pie or marinara pasta.
Gluten-free options: Available—gluten-free crust option upon request, though cross-contact possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for romance—better suited for casual or group meetups. Lighting and ambiance are more functional than cozy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, walk-ins are common. Call ahead for groups of six or more to avoid a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—high chairs available, friendly staff, and forgiving noise level make it ideal for kids ages 3 and up.
Best For
Better for: Group dinners, pizza nights, and family gatherings needing fast service and predictable favorites.
Skip if: You’re seeking upscale Italian fare, quiet ambiance, or inventive chef-driven menus.
North Beach Pizza
7.9
Local mini-chain founded in 1982 known for hand-tossed thin crust and Chicago-style deep dish. This Excelsior outpost handles groups with large tables and dependable timing for weeknight dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Deep dish combination, Margherita thin crust, Garlic knots
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Mix of thin crust and deep dish with long Bay Area pedigree.
Who should go: Groups splitting shareable pies and pastas
When to visit: Early evenings 5–6:30pm to beat the rush
What to order: Deep dish combo; Margherita; garlic knots
Insider tip: Order a half-baked pie to finish at home for crisper crust.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Mission Street and nearby residential blocks; moderately available before 6:30pm but tight during dinner hours. No dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual attire is fine—jeans, T-shirts, and hoodies fit right in. Families and groups often come straight from neighborhood errands or kids’ events.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially on weekends when large tables fill up. You can carry a conversation but expect background chatter and pizza oven bustle.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak hours between 6–8pm; takeout and delivery remain quicker options.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; steady traffic from locals and delivery orders but tables turn quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple meat-free pizzas, salads, and pastas clearly marked on the menu.
Vegan options: Limited – marinara base and veggie toppings available, but cheese substitutes are not standard.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free crust available upon request; prepared separately but in a shared kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual meetups than formal dates. The lively family atmosphere and shared pies make it relaxed but not romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – they operate mostly on walk-ins. Early arrivals before 6pm on weekends secure quicker seating; larger parties may wait longer.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. High chairs and booster seats are available, portions are shareable, and servers are patient with families. Best for ages 3 and up.
Best For
Better for: Ideal for groups wanting hearty portions and both thin and deep-dish styles without heading downtown. Service is consistent and pacing dependable.
Skip if: Skip if you’re seeking gourmet toppings, romantic ambiance, or a quiet dining room—this is more about comfort and community than refinement.
North Beach Pizza
8.1
Local group’s Excelsior outpost baking hearty, sauce-forward pies and late slices to around 10pm. A dependable option for classic combos and thicker-crust styles.
Must-Try Dishes:
North Beach Special (pepperoni, sausage, olives, peppers), Sicilian square, Garlic chicken
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Classic SF pizzeria lineage with a well-stocked slice counter.
Who should go: Classic combo slice fans
When to visit: 9–10pm for fresh bakes and short lines
What to order: North Beach Special, Sicilian square, garlic chicken
Insider tip: Request well-done for extra char on thicker pies.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Mission and nearby side streets; can be competitive after 7pm but usually manageable within a block or two.
Dress code: Casual—hoodies, jeans, and everyday wear all fit in fine.
Noise level: Moderate—steady background music and conversation but easy enough to talk without raising your voice.
Weekend wait: Typically 15–25 minutes for dine-in around 8–9pm; takeout slices move faster.
Weekday lunch: No wait; counter service is immediate with slices ready.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple meatless pies and build-your-own options.
Vegan options: Limited—no vegan cheese by default, but veggie-only toppings available.
Gluten-free options: Yes—available as a separate crust option on whole pies only.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual meet-up than a formal first date—relaxed setting, quick service, and shareable pizzas make it low pressure.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—it's first-come, first-served; tables turn quickly even during busier hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—booths and big pies make it family-appropriate; kids will find plenty of familiar toppings.
Best For
Better for: Classic, sauce-heavy pies and consistent slices when others nearby close earlier.
Skip if: You’re after late-night delivery past 10pm or a thinner-crust, Neapolitan-style pizza.
North Beach Pizza
8.2
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Quick Bites Champions
Long-running local mini-chain’s Excelsior shop turning out classic, hearty pies with generous toppings and reliable delivery. Go for New York–style rounds or the thick Sicilian square when you need substance over flash.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sicilian Square (thick crust), North Beach Combo (sausage, peppers, olives), Garlic & Clam pie
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Big-flavor combo pies and a true thick Sicilian option served daily.
Who should go: Hungry groups and classic-style slice seekers
When to visit: Evenings after 7pm for quickest pickup and delivery
What to order: Sicilian square, North Beach Combo, garlic & clam
Insider tip: Ask for a well-done bake for extra edge crisp on the Sicilian.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available on Mission Street and nearby residential blocks; tends to fill up after 7pm but turnover is steady from takeout pickups.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans and hoodies fit right in; no need to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate—TVs and delivery calls add background noise, but conversation stays easy at tables.
Weekend wait: 20–35 minutes for pickup or a table during peak hours 6–8pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; call-ahead orders ready in about 15 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple meatless pies like Margherita, Veggie, and Mushroom are reliable staples.
Vegan options: Limited—can omit cheese or bring your own dairy-free option; no vegan cheese offered in-house.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free crust; cross-contact likely, so not ideal for strict gluten-free diets.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual hangouts than romantic first dates—expect big portions and a lively, no-frills setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Even during dinner rush, turnover is quick thanks to heavy takeout traffic.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—plenty of booth seating, family-sized pies, and a relaxed vibe make it great for kids of all ages.
Best For
Better for: Large, hearty pizzas with generous toppings and true Sicilian squares—ideal for groups or big appetites.
Skip if: You’re after artisanal or wood-fired pies; this is old-school, hearty comfort more than trend-driven pizza craft.
North Beach Pizza
7.8
Excelsior outpost of the local mini-group known for big pies and classic wings. It’s a dependable pick for casual happy hour bites with TVs and quick pickup.
Must-Try Dishes:
Buffalo Wings, Garlic Parmesan Wings, Spicy BBQ Wings
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Affordable wing trays that travel well for game nights.
Who should go: Takeout fans and budget groups
When to visit: Late afternoon for happy-hour pricing and shorter waits
What to order: Half Buffalo/half garlic-parm; side ranch; Sicilian slice
Insider tip: Ask for a well-done bake on wings for extra edge crisp.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available along Mission Street and nearby residential blocks, though it fills up quickly after 6pm; no dedicated lot or valet service.
Dress code: Casual — jeans, jerseys, and laid-back attire are totally fine; it’s a come-as-you-are neighborhood spot.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — expect game-day chatter and TVs but still manageable for casual conversation.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes during early dinner hours; takeout orders ready in about 20 minutes.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; walk-ins and pickups move fast.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — several pizzas, salads, and sides are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited — can customize pizza with no cheese and veggie toppings.
Gluten-free options: Partial — gluten-free crusts available for small pizzas, but wings share fryers.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal date, but fine for a casual hangout where low-key energy and shared food work well.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, it’s walk-in friendly. Tables turn quickly and takeout is always an option if it’s busy.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — it’s family-oriented with booths, TV distractions, and shareable menu options for kids.
Best For
Better for: Quicker takeout, wallet-friendly group bites, and solid wings for game nights compared to pricier sports bars nearby.
Skip if: You’re seeking craft cocktails, trendy decor, or elevated small plates — it’s more about hearty value than ambiance.
North Beach Pizza
7.9
Long-running pizzeria in the Excelsior with hearty, classic pies and casual patio seating. Families and groups come for generous portions, reliable bakes, and easygoing service that works for weeknights or game-day slices.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Sicilian-Style Pepperoni, House Calzone
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.7
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 7.6
What makes it special: Casual outdoor seating with classic, crowd-pleasing pies.
Who should go: Families and pizza traditionalists
When to visit: Early evenings and weekends before peak rush
What to order: Margherita, Sicilian pepperoni, build-your-own calzone
Insider tip: Ask for a well-done bake for crispier crust on the patio.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is generally available along Mission Street and nearby residential blocks, but can fill quickly during dinner hours; no dedicated lot or valet.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and T-shirts are fine, though a light jacket is useful for patio dining.
Noise level: Moderate—conversations are easy on the patio though indoor dining can get lively on weekends.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes during peak hours; call ahead for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; quick seating indoors or outside.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple vegetarian pizzas, pastas, and salads are available.
Vegan options: Limited—custom veggie pies without cheese or simple pasta with marinara work for most diners.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free crust available on request; baked separately when possible.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for relaxed or second dates—casual patio vibe and shareable pies create an easygoing atmosphere but not a high-end setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are common; arrive before 6:30 pm on weekends to avoid the rush or call ahead for larger groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes—kids’ portions, booster seats, and quick service make it a dependable family pick, especially for early dinners.
Best For
Better for: Great for casual outdoor pizza nights with friends or family, offering larger portions and relaxed seating compared to trendier pizzerias.
Skip if: You’re seeking artisanal Neapolitan-style pies or fine-dining Italian service—this spot leans classic and informal.
North Beach Pizza
8.0
Neighborhood outpost of a Bay Area original serving hefty pies with classic Italian-American toppings. Popular with groups for its Sicilian squares and dependable delivery.
Must-Try Dishes:
North Beach Special (sausage, pepperoni, mushrooms), Margherita, Sicilian Thick-Crust Slice
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Beloved Bay Area pizzeria known for Sicilian squares and big flavors.
Who should go: Casual groups and slice hunters
When to visit: Early evening before the delivery rush
What to order: North Beach Special, Sicilian square, Margherita
Insider tip: Ask for light-well bake if you like extra-crisp edges.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is generally available on Mission Street and nearby residential blocks; expect moderate competition around dinner hours. No valet or dedicated lot.
Dress code: Completely casual—come as you are. Jeans, hoodies, and team gear are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially during family dinners and group gatherings; you can hold a conversation but expect background chatter.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes for a table; delivery orders can stretch to 45 minutes during rush hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; dine-in and takeout move quickly before 1pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – multiple veggie pies and pasta options like Margherita and pesto linguine.
Vegan options: Limited – can modify pizzas with no cheese; no dedicated vegan cheese.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free crust; cross-contact likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual, low-pressure outing than a romantic date. The vibe is friendly and unpretentious—ideal if you’re aiming for comfort over polish.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, walk-ins are the norm. Reservations aren’t needed, even for small groups, though calling ahead helps during peak weekend dinner hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Very much so. Booth seating, shareable pizzas, and a family-oriented crowd make it great for kids of all ages. High chairs available.
Best For
Better for: Large groups and neighborhood takeout orders looking for classic, hearty pizza without pretense.
Skip if: You’re seeking wood-fired Neapolitan-style pies or a fine-dining Italian experience—this is classic American-Italian comfort fare.
North Beach Pizza
8.2
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Long-running Excelsior outpost for hand-tossed pies and hefty Chicago-style deep dish. Locals lean on dependable delivery, big portions, and a sauce-forward style that’s been consistent since the ’80s.
Must-Try Dishes:
Clam & Garlic Thin Crust, North Beach Combo (sausage/pepperoni/peppers), Deep Dish Spinach & Mushroom
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Classic SF slice-and-deep-dish house with decades of continuity.
Who should go: Families and classic-style slice lovers
When to visit: Weeknights before 6:30pm or for late delivery
What to order: Clam & garlic thin crust; combo pie; deep dish spinach
Insider tip: Ask for extra-crisp bake on thin crust for better chew.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Mission and Geneva is usually available within a block or two, though spots fill up fast on weekend evenings.
Dress code: Casual—jeans, hoodies, and family-night attire fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate—TVs and chatter keep it lively but not overwhelming; easy for group conversation.
Weekend wait: 20–30 minutes for dine-in, longer for delivery during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; grab-and-go orders are quick.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—ample veggie pizzas and salads available.
Vegan options: Limited—can build a cheeseless pizza with veggie toppings.
Gluten-free options: Available upon request—gluten-free crust option, though not from a dedicated prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? It’s more family-pizzeria casual than romantic—best for a relaxed or nostalgic outing rather than a formal first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—reservations aren’t needed. Even on weekends, turnover is fast enough to find a table after a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—booths, high chairs, and a menu that keeps kids happy with pizza by the slice and simple pastas.
Best For
Better for: Dependable, family-style pizza nights and hearty delivery orders that feel like old-school SF comfort.
Skip if: You’re after wood-fired artisan pies or a quieter, date-night atmosphere—this spot leans hearty and casual.