Best Hidden Gems Heaven Pizza Restaurants in Santa Monica
5 hand-picked restaurants, critic-reviewed and ranked
Last Updated: February 2026
Our Top Pick
Rock 'N Pies
Rock 'n roll soundtrack meets serious wood-fired pizza technique
Notable Picks
#1
Rock 'N Pies
8.4
No-frills classic rock meets artisanal pizza at this late-night staple where wood-fired quality meets dive bar vibes. Six perfectly executed pizzas on the menu prove that sometimes less is more, especially when paired with craft beers and rock anthems.
Must-Try Dishes:
Appetite for Destruction Pizza, Margherita with Garlic Knots, Wood-Fired Wings
What Makes it Special: Rock 'n roll soundtrack meets serious wood-fired pizza technique
#2
Ghisallo
8.3
Ocean Park neighborhood staple serving both New York-style slices by day and Neapolitan-esque whole pies at dinner. Chef Casey Lane works with renowned baker Jyan Horwitz to perfect naturally leavened dough, creating blistered crusts that support creative toppings like nduja sausage with fermented honey.
Must-Try Dishes:
Funghi & Truffle Pizza, Calabrian Sausage, Margherita Slice
What Makes it Special: Dual dough approach offering both NY slices and Neapolitan pies from artisan bakers
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
Worthy Picks
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
7.5
Vibes:
Outdoor Dining Oasis
Hidden Gems Heaven
Family Friendly Favorites
Birthday & Celebration Central
Small beach-adjacent cafe overlooking an Olympic pool, offering gourmet pizzas alongside fresh salads and comfort food. Steps from the sand with both indoor seating and balcony dining, this venue doubles as an event space with catering services for gatherings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Cheese Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza, Mushroom Truffle
What Makes it Special: Poolside dining steps from the beach with surprising gourmet quality in casual setting