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ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Pizza in Sherman Oaks
Best Pizza in Sherman Oaks
Master Critic Review
Joe's Pizza
7.8
Sicilian-born Joe Vitale brings his 1980s New York training to a no-frills Valley strip mall, turning out thin-crust slices with the kind of fold-and-walk credibility that NY transplants actually co-sign. The late-night hours and by-the-slice pricing make it a reliable default when you want real pizza fast and cheap, though the 15% one-star rate suggests the occasional off night keeps it from locking in full consistency.
Must-Try Dishes:
NY Style Cheese Slice, Pepperoni Slice, Sicilian Slice
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Sicilian-born owner Joe Vitale trained in NYC in the '80s and brings authentic New York-style thin-crust slices to the Valley
Who should go: NY slice purists and late-night pizza seekers
When to visit: Late night Thursday–Saturday, open until midnight
What to order: Start with a plain cheese slice to judge the crust, add a Sicilian for contrast, garlic knots on the side
Insider tip: The Sicilian slice draws from owner Joe Vitale's family recipes from Palermo — it's a different style than the NY slices
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small shared strip-mall lot (suite C22 in a multi-tenant complex)—can fill up fast; street parking on Ventura Blvd as backup
Weekend wait: Slices are instant; whole pies can take around 20 minutes
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Veggie slice with red peppers, onions, olives, mushrooms, basil, and fresh mozzarella; multiple non-meat whole pies available
Vegan options: Vegan cheese available as a topping option
Gluten-free options: Cauliflower crust made with gluten-free flour available
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? No — this is a no-frills, counter-service pizza shop with basic seating (black stacking chairs, maroon tabletops) and a bustling grab-and-go vibe. Great for a casual late-night slice together, but not the place for intimate conversation or romantic ambiance. Better suited for a fun, low-pressure hangout than a first impression dinner.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — this is a walk-in, counter-service spot. No reservations needed or taken. Order at the counter, grab a seat. During peak dinner hours and weekends there may be a short wait for a table to open up, but turnover is fast since most people are eating a quick slice, not lingering.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — the casual, no-fuss atmosphere is naturally kid-friendly. Pizza by the slice is easy for little ones, prices are low, and the noise level is forgiving. It's a quick in-and-out meal rather than a sit-down affair, which works well with short attention spans. Best for all ages. High chairs available — call to confirm.
Is it good for groups? Manageable for small groups of 4-6 who don't mind a casual counter-service setup. You can grab a couple of whole pies and push tables together. Not ideal for large parties over 6 — seating is limited with small tables, no private rooms, and no group reservation system. For bigger gatherings, plan for some people standing or eating in shifts.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — outdoor seating is available. Details on whether it's covered or heated are not confirmed online — call ahead at (818) 646-0033 if weather is a concern.
Best For
Better for: A fast, cheap NY-style slice—grab-and-go counter service with slices from $3.50, open until midnight Thu-Sat
Skip if: You want a sit-down dining experience—this is a counter-service slice shop, not a table-service restaurant
Hours
Monday11am - 10:50pm
Tuesday11am - 10:50pm
Wednesday11am - 10:50pm
Thursday11am - 11:45pm
Friday11am - 11:45pm
Saturday11am - 11:45pm
Sunday11am - 10:50pm