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ZipPicks Awards
Best Family Friendly Pizza in Santa Monica
Best Wings in Santa Monica
Master Critic Review
Santa Monica Pizza Kitchen
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
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Over 40 years in the same location with multi-generational loyal following
Who should go: Families seeking reliable neighborhood pizza
When to visit: Lunch for quick service and value
What to order: Original cheese, BBQ chicken, Caesar with their famous dressing
Insider tip: Their Caesar dressing is legendary—ask for extra on the side
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking on Wilshire and side streets, usually available except peak dinner hours (6-8pm). Small lot in back for 8-10 cars.
Dress code: Ultra-casual - gym clothes, beach wear, whatever. This is a neighborhood pizza spot, not a scene.
Noise level: Moderate - busy family atmosphere but you can easily hold conversation. Gets livelier during weekend dinners.
Weekend wait: 15-25 min for tables during peak (6-8pm), takeout orders 20-30 min
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait, quick turnover. Pizza ready in 12-15 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - all pizzas available with veggie toppings, plus salads. The Caesar is a standout.
Vegan options: Limited - can do marinara pizzas without cheese, basic salads without dressing. Not their specialty.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free crust option. Salads are your only bet here.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you're going for ultra-casual and low-pressure. Better for early relationship comfort food dates than trying to impress. The family atmosphere is warm but not romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes - they don't take reservations. It's first-come, first-served. Weekday lunch and early dinners (before 6pm) are easiest. Weekend prime time expect a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - this is peak family pizza territory. High chairs available, staff is patient, other kids around so yours won't stand out. They've been serving local families for 40+ years for a reason.
Best For
Better for: Reliable neighborhood comfort and value over 4+ decades. When you want zero pretension, consistent execution, and that Caesar dressing that locals won't shut up about. Best for families who want a spot they can return to weekly without drama or breaking the bank.
Skip if: You want craft Neapolitan pizza, trendy toppings, or an Instagram-worthy experience. If you're chasing cutting-edge pizza innovation or need gluten-free options, look elsewhere. This is old-school NY-style done right, not pizza as art project.
Hours
Monday11am - 9pm
Tuesday11am - 9pm
Wednesday11am - 9pm
Thursday11am - 9pm
Friday11am - 9:30pm
Saturday11am - 9:30pm
Sunday11am - 9pm