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Pizzana Silver Lake
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
Pizzana Silver Lake
8.6
Michelin Bib Gourmand Neo-Neapolitan pizzeria by Sprinkles founders and Naples-born pizzaiolo Daniele Uditi features 64-year-old Italian starter slow dough fermented for two days. The Silver Lake location imports stone-ground flour, San Marzano tomatoes, and fior di latte mozzarella from Italy, creating distinctive pliable crusts singed perfectly with creative toppings like Cacio e Pepe pizza earning critical acclaim.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e Pepe Pizza, Neo Margherita, Corbarina with Squash Blossom
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized Neo-Neapolitan pizza with 64-year-old Italian starter imported ingredients
Who should go: Pizza aficionados seeking elevated Neapolitan with creative twists
When to visit: Happy hour Monday-Friday 4-6pm for 50% off wine/beer
What to order: Cacio e Pepe pizza, Neo Margherita, any squash blossom seasonal special
Insider tip: Gluten-free and vegan options available with same quality Italian imports
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, moderately difficult. Sunset Junction lot 2 blocks away ($8 flat). Easier before 6pm.
Dress code: Elevated casual - nice jeans and button-down works, but you'll see cocktail attire on dates
Noise level: Moderate buzz - can hold conversation but not whisper-quiet. Livelier after 7pm.
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation Friday/Saturday after 6:30pm. Reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 15 minutes Tuesday-Thursday lunch service
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - multiple pizzas plus appetizers like burrata, salads, and seasonal vegetable sides
Vegan options: Yes - vegan mozzarella available for any pizza, cashew-based ricotta for select options
Gluten-free options: Yes - dedicated gluten-free crust with same Italian ingredients and preparation quality
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - romantic lighting without being too intimate, conversation-friendly noise level, and shareable pizzas create natural interaction. The Michelin recognition gives it impressive credibility without stuffiness.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possible but risky for dinner. Best bet: arrive right at 5pm opening or try the bar seating (first-come basis). Weekday lunch is your safest walk-in window. Friday/Saturday dinner without reservation means 60+ minute waits.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for early dinner (before 7pm) - they have high chairs and simple margherita pizzas kids love. The elevated atmosphere means well-behaved children ages 5+ fit best. Not ideal for toddlers during prime dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Pizzana beats competitors on: superior crust quality from the 64-year starter, authentic Italian imported ingredients, creative elevated toppings (Cacio e Pepe pizza), and date-worthy ambiance while maintaining approachability. The gluten-free/vegan options match quality of regular menu unlike most pizzerias.
Skip if: Choose elsewhere if you want: traditional NYC-style slices, quick casual counter service, family-style large format dining, or budget pizza under $20/person. Also skip if you prefer quieter intimate settings - this has energetic neighborhood buzz.
Pizzana Silver Lake
8.6
Master pizzaiolo Daniele Uditi's Neo-Neapolitan concept uses 64-year-old Italian starter for slow-fermented dough, San Marzano tomatoes grown exclusively for Pizzana, and fior di latte mozzarella shipped from Italy. The Cacio e Pepe and vodka-based pies showcase California ingredients meeting Naples tradition in a hip Silver Lake space.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e Pepe Pizza, Diavola, Neo Margherita
Scores:
Value: 7.4
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Sprinkles Cupcakes founders' upscale pizza concept with imported Italian ingredients
Who should go: Date night diners seeking elevated Neapolitan with California sensibility
When to visit: Happy hour weekdays 4-6pm for half-off wine and beer
What to order: Cacio e pepe, diavola with honey, tiramisu
Insider tip: Gluten-free and vegan options exceed typical accommodation quality
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only, challenging after 7pm on weekends. Arrive early or use rideshare. Sunset Junction lot 2 blocks away ($8 flat rate)
Dress code: Elevated casual - dark jeans and nice top works, but you'll see plenty in dresses and button-downs. Skip athleisure
Noise level: Moderate buzz - can have intimate conversation but not quiet. High ceilings amplify energy during peak hours
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation after 7pm. Reservations book out 2-3 weeks for prime slots
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 15 minutes. Lunch service Tuesday-Friday only
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 8+ pizza options plus starters. Burrata, mushroom, and seasonal veggie pizzas rival the meat options
Vegan options: Yes - house-made cashew mozzarella available on any pizza, plus marinara-based options. Quality exceeds typical vegan accommodations
Gluten-free options: Yes - separate gluten-free crust made in-house, prepared in dedicated area. Among the best GF pizza crusts in LA
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice. Upscale enough to impress but casual enough to be comfortable. Moderate noise allows conversation, shareable format encourages interaction, and the Instagram-worthy space gives you something to discuss if conversation lags. Request a table over bar seating for more intimate setting
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch or happy hour (4-6pm) - yes, usually fine. Weekend dinner - very difficult. Your best bet: arrive right at 5pm opening or try the bar for walk-in seating. Download Resy and check day-of cancellations around 3-4pm
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for dinner (kids 6+) - they'll eat the pizza and space tolerates family energy. Not ideal for toddlers due to noise level and trendy crowd. No kids menu but portions are shareable. Earlier dinner (5:30-6:30pm) is most family-appropriate timing
How many pizzas should we order? Plan 1 pizza per person if hungry, or 1 pizza per 1.5 people if ordering appetizers. The 12-inch pies are 6 slices. Start with 2-3 pizzas for a couple to share variety - you can always add more
Is it worth the price vs. regular pizza? If you appreciate craft ingredients and technique - absolutely. The 64-year starter, imported mozzarella, and San Marzano tomatoes create noticeably superior flavor. At $20-26/pizza it's priced like upscale dining but delivers genuine quality, not just hype. Skip if you just want a quick slice
Best For
Better for: Choose Pizzana when you want elevated Neapolitan with California creativity in a scene-y atmosphere. The ingredient quality, gluten-free/vegan execution, and date-night vibe beat traditional pizzerias. Best for special occasions when you want both substance and style
Skip if: Choose elsewhere if you want: authentic Neapolitan simplicity (try Apollonia's), cheaper neighborhood pizza (Garage Pizza), quieter conversation space, or immediate walk-in seating on weekends. Also skip if you're anti-scene or prefer old-school red sauce Italian
Pizzana Silver Lake
8.6
Master pizzaiolo Daniele Uditi's Neo-Neapolitan pies feature slow-fermented dough aged 48 hours and imported Italian ingredients from Naples. The welcoming space accommodates families with room for strollers, while the Cacio e Pepe and vegan options demonstrate sophisticated technique with approachable flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e Pepe Pizza, Neo Margherita, Vegan Funghi
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Authentic Naples ingredients with 48-hour fermented dough from award-winning pizzaiolo
Who should go: Pizza enthusiasts seeking elevated Neapolitan style with California flair
When to visit: Weekend lunch when families fill the bright dining room
What to order: Cacio e Pepe, Neo Margherita, Caesar salad
Insider tip: Happy hour offers 50% off beer and wine Monday-Friday 4-6pm
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - moderately difficult. Sunset Junction area fills up evenings/weekends. Plan 10-15 min to find a spot within 2 blocks.
Dress code: Casual California - jeans and nice top works perfectly. Locals come straight from yoga or dressed up from brunch.
Noise level: Lively but conversational - can hear across the table. Energetic family atmosphere peaks weekend lunch, quieter weekday evenings.
Weekend wait: 30-45 min without reservation Friday/Saturday after 6:30pm. Reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait Monday-Thursday lunch. Walk-ins usually seated within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 40% of menu is vegetarian. Standout Cacio e Pepe and multiple veggie-forward pizzas beyond basic Margherita.
Vegan options: Yes - dedicated vegan cheese available for any pizza. Vegan Margherita uses house-made cashew mozzarella that actually melts.
Gluten-free options: Limited - no gluten-free crust option. Caesar salad can be modified. Better GF options at Pizzeria Mozza nearby.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes - perfect casual-impressive balance. Bright, welcoming space takes pressure off, while Naples pedigree and 48-hour dough gives you something interesting to discuss. Sit at bar for easy conversation or snag a corner table. Avoid peak weekend dinner when families dominate.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Hit or miss depending on timing. Best walk-in windows: weekday lunch (11:30am-1pm), early dinner before 6pm, or late after 8:30pm. Weekend dinner without reservation means 30-45 min wait. Bar seating is first-come and moves faster.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly, especially weekend lunch when families dominate. Spacious layout accommodates strollers, high chairs readily available. Simple Margherita appeals to picky eaters while adventurous kids can try quality ingredients. Gets louder with family energy - choose early weeknight if seeking quieter kids' dinner.
How does the $30pp compare to other upscale pizza spots? Mid-high for LA pizza but reflects authentic technique. You're paying for 48-hour fermentation, Naples-imported ingredients, and award-winning pizzaiolo's expertise. Comparable to Pizzeria Mozza but more casual atmosphere. Better value than Gjelina with larger portions.
Is the happy hour worth it? Absolutely - 50% off wine and beer (Mon-Fri 4-6pm) is exceptional value in Silver Lake. Pair discounted drinks with full-price pizza to stretch budget. Bar seating fills quickly after 4:30pm, arrive right at 4pm for best selection.
Best For
Better for: Choose Pizzana when you want authentic Neapolitan technique without stuffiness - ideal for families, casual dates, or groups who appreciate craft but don't want white tablecloths. The 48-hour dough and Naples ingredients deliver pizzeria-quality at neighborhood prices. Superior vegan options vs. competitors.
Skip if: Looking for NY-style or Roman pizza (try Tomato Pie instead). Want quiet, romantic atmosphere on weekends (too family-heavy). Need extensive non-pizza options for picky eaters. Seeking late-night scene (kitchen closes 9:30pm weeknights). Have celiac disease requiring GF crust (head to Pizzeria Mozza).
Pizzana Silver Lake
8.5
Master pizzaiolo Daniele Uditi reimagines Neapolitan tradition with consciously sourced California ingredients and slow-fermented dough proofed for two days. Mozzarella ships fresh from Italy while San Marzano tomatoes grow exclusively for Pizzana in the Naples countryside, creating Neo-Neapolitan pies that balance tradition with unexpected California flair in a modern, accessible space with gluten-free and vegan options.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio e Pepe Pizza, Neo Margherita, Creste alla Vodka Pasta
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.6
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Two-day fermented dough with imported Italian ingredients from Naples itself
Who should go: Families wanting upscale pizza with dietary accommodations (gluten-free, vegan)
When to visit: Happy hour weekdays 4-6pm for 50% off wine and pizza specials
What to order: Cacio e pepe pizza, neo margherita, chocolate cake dessert
Insider tip: Stroller-friendly when not crowded, with room to maneuver in the dining area
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - moderately difficult. Sunset Boulevard nearby has metered spots. Arrive 10-15 minutes early or use rideshare.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual - jeans and nice tops work perfectly. It's LA-trendy but family-friendly, so no pressure to dress up.
Noise level: Moderate to lively - you can hold conversation but expect bustling energy during peak times. Not ideal for intimate quiet dining.
Weekend wait: 45-75 minutes without reservation Friday-Saturday after 6pm. Reservations strongly recommended.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait, usually seated within 10-15 minutes. Weekday dinners fill up but move faster than weekends.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent options - multiple vegetarian pizzas plus salads and appetizers. The cacio e pepe pizza is vegetarian and a signature dish.
Vegan options: Yes - vegan mozzarella available for any pizza, plus vegan pizza options on menu. They take it seriously.
Gluten-free options: Yes - dedicated gluten-free crust available for all pizzas. Prepared with awareness of cross-contamination.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, but better for 2nd or 3rd date. The energy is lively and approachable rather than romantic and intimate. Great if you want impressive food without stuffiness, but noise level might make deep conversation challenging on busy nights.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekday lunch or early dinner (before 5:30pm) - yes, usually fine. Weekend dinner or Friday night - very difficult. Try the bar area for walk-ins, or hit happy hour (4-6pm weekdays) when it's less slammed.
Is it kid-friendly? Very kid-friendly, especially for upscale dining. Stroller-accessible when not packed, accommodating staff, and kids love the pizza. Best for ages 3+ who can sit through a meal. Avoid peak weekend dinner if you want a relaxed experience with little ones.
How does it compare to regular Neapolitan pizza? More California-creative than strict Neapolitan. The technique is traditional (wood-fired, 48-hour dough), but flavors are bolder and more experimental. If you want pure Naples authenticity, this isn't it. If you want elevated pizza that respects tradition but isn't bound by it, this is perfect.
Is it worth the price? Yes, if you value ingredient quality and craft. Pizzas run $18-25, which is high but justified by imported Italian ingredients and expert technique. Happy hour (50% off pizza and wine 4-6pm weekdays) makes it exceptional value. Not cheap eats, but not fine dining prices either.
Best For
Better for: Best-in-class Neo-Neapolitan pizza with dietary accommodations (gluten-free/vegan) that don't feel like compromises. Beats competitors on ingredient sourcing and fermentation technique while maintaining accessibility for families. The happy hour deal is unbeatable for quality-to-price ratio.
Skip if: You want quiet romantic ambiance, traditional red-sauce Italian-American comfort food, or quick casual pizza. If you're looking for $10 pizza or old-school checkered tablecloth vibes, go elsewhere. Also skip if you hate trendy scenes - this place attracts the Instagram crowd.
Pizzana Silver Lake
8.6
Master Pizzaiolo Daniele Uditi brings Neapolitan tradition to Silver Lake with slow-fermented dough aged 48 hours, San Marzano tomatoes grown exclusively for Pizzana in Naples, and fior di latte shipped fresh from Italy. Since 2017, this Michelin Bib Gourmand recipient has earned spots on 50 Top Pizza's world rankings while serving Hulu's "Best in Dough" judge's signature creations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Neo Margherita, Cacio e Pepe Pizza, Diavola with Hot Honey
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: World-ranked Neapolitan pizza from Michelin Bib Gourmand pizzaiolo using imported Italian ingredients
Who should go: Neapolitan pizza enthusiasts and special occasion diners
When to visit: Weekday happy hour 4-6pm for 50% off wine and pizza specials
What to order: Neo Margherita showcases technique, Cacio e Pepe for creativity, Vodka pizza for richness
Insider tip: The caprese appetizer with heirloom tomatoes consistently gets rave reviews
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - challenging after 5pm. Arrive 15 minutes early or use lot on Sunset Blvd (2 blocks, $8)
Dress code: Casual elevated - nice jeans and button-down work, sneakers fine but keep it polished
Noise level: Lively but conversational - can hear across table, gets louder after 7pm on weekends
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation after 7pm, book ahead strongly recommended
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 10-15 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 8+ pizza options plus salads and appetizers, meatless combinations shine
Vegan options: Limited - vegan cheese available but only 2 pizzas work well, salads better bet
Gluten-free options: Yes - dedicated gluten-free crust available for any pizza, cooked on separate stone
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Excellent choice - dim lighting and intimate booths create romance without stuffiness, sharing pizzas encourages interaction, and the 48-hour dough fermentation gives you something interesting to discuss. Skip Friday/Saturday nights when it's too loud.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Hit-or-miss. Weekday lunch and early weeknight dinners (before 6:30pm) usually work. Weekend dinners are booked solid - make reservation 1-2 weeks out. Bar seating is first-come and your best walk-in bet.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for ages 8+ - sophisticated atmosphere but welcoming to well-behaved children. Simple Margherita appeals to picky eaters. Before 6pm is quietest. High chairs available but tight spacing between tables.
Good for large groups? Groups of 4-6 work well with advance notice. Parties of 8+ challenging due to layout - consider their other locations (Brentwood has private room). Call directly for groups over 6.
How long does dinner take? Plan 75-90 minutes. Pizzas arrive quickly (12-15 min after ordering) but pacing encourages lingering. Perfect for date nights, too fast if you want 2+ hour experience.
Best For
Better for: Choose Pizzana when you want world-class Neapolitan technique and imported ingredients that justify premium pricing - the leopard-spotted crust and authentic Italian flavor profile outperform casual competitors. Ideal when pizza quality matters more than value, or for special occasions where you want Michelin-recognized credentials.
Skip if: Skip if you prefer New York-style or thicker crusts, need budget-friendly options (pizzas $20-28), want quick casual service, or are feeding picky eaters who won't appreciate nuanced flavors. Also skip for large groups 8+ or if parking stress ruins your meal - other locations have better logistics.
Pizzana Silver Lake
8.1
Michelin Bib Gourmand pizzeria from Master Pizzaiolo Daniele Uditi serving Neapolitan-style pies with slow-fermented dough. San Marzano tomatoes grown exclusively for Pizzana and fresh Italian fior di latte create authentic Naples flavors in a chic, dimly-lit space.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cacio E Pepe Pizza, Neo Margherita, Sacrilegio Pizza
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Michelin Bib Gourmand with Naples-trained pizzaiolo and imported ingredients
Who should go: Pizza purists and date night diners
When to visit: Happy hour weekdays for discounted pizzas
What to order: Cacio e pepe pizza, margherita, tiramisu
Insider tip: Judge on Hulu's 'Best in Dough' pizza competition series
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only - competitive after 5pm. Sunset Junction lot 2 blocks away ($8 flat). Allow 10 min to find spot on weekends
Dress code: Elevated casual - dark jeans and nice tops work, but you'll see cocktail attire on date nights. Avoid gym wear
Noise level: Intimate conversation-friendly - wood-fired oven adds ambient buzz but doesn't overwhelm tables
Weekend wait: 60-90 min without reservation after 7pm. Bar seating first-come but fills by 6:30pm
Weekday lunch: Walk-ins usually seated within 15 min. Tuesday-Thursday after 8pm drops to 20-30 min
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Excellent - 6+ pizza options plus appetizers. Cacio e pepe pizza is signature vegetarian
Vegan options: Limited - marinara pizza available, can customize without cheese. Salads with modifications
Gluten-free options: No - dough fermentation is central to concept. Not recommended for celiac
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Ideal for first dates. Dimly-lit ambiance feels romantic without being stuffy, sharing pizzas creates natural interaction, and $40-60/person keeps it casual. Request booth seating when booking
Can I get a table without a reservation? Arrive right at 5pm opening or after 9pm on weeknights for best walk-in odds. Weekend walk-ins nearly impossible 6-9pm. Bar seating doesn't take reservations - queue by 6pm Friday/Saturday
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for ages 6+ who eat pizza - kids menu available. Gets loud enough to mask kid noise. Not ideal for toddlers given 45+ min waits and sophisticated crowd. High chairs available
How long does dinner take? Plan 75-90 minutes. Pizzas arrive 12-15 min after ordering (fresh from oven), but dessert and check can add time during peak hours
Is the happy hour worth it? Absolutely - $10 select pizzas weekdays 3-6pm (normally $18-22). Full menu available. Arrives less crowded than dinner service. Best deal in Silver Lake for quality
Best For
Better for: Naples-style purists who want authentic technique over trendy toppings. Date atmosphere superior to Roberta's/Triple Beam. Dough quality exceeds any LA chain
Skip if: You want creative/adventurous toppings (menu stays traditional), need guaranteed walk-in seating, or want full Italian menu beyond pizza/appetizers. Mozza offers more variety, Triple Beam better for groups