San Mateo's Best Pizza [Updated 2025]

In my quest to find the perfect slice, I’ve sampled a diverse range of pizzas from twelve distinct pizzerias around town. Each spot offers its own unique twist on this beloved dish, from classic margheritas to quirky gourmet creations.

I’ve tasted everything from thin-crust to deep-dish, and I can’t wait to share my top recommendations with you. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, I hope my insights will help you discover your new favorite pizza place in San Mateo. Let’s dive into the delicious world of pizza!

Rise Woodfire San Mateo

Highlights
Warm and welcoming interior
Quick and friendly service
Great indoor/outdoor vibe
Delicious Brunch and date pizzas
Fresh, crispy Italian Chopped salad

Rise Woodfire San Mateo is a delightful gem where each visit feels like a warm invitation to indulge. As soon as I stepped inside, I was greeted by a cozy yet chic atmosphere that strikes the perfect balance between casual and elegant. The energetic vibe, paired with quick and friendly service, instantly puts you at ease—you'll feel like a regular here in no time!

Now, let’s talk pizza: I was immediately captivated by their brunch pizza options. The combination of flavors danced on my taste buds, and I savored every bite. They truly understand the art of marrying fresh ingredients with that delightful woodfire essence. And if you're in the mood for something lighter, their Italian Chopped Salad was a refreshing contrast, boasting fresh greens that only enhanced the overall experience.

What sets Rise apart is not just the pizza, but the holistic experience—enjoying your meal in the inviting indoor-outdoor space is simply exhilarating. Each visit feels special and makes for a perfect spot for a memorable date night. Rise Woodfire has certainly earned its place as one of the best pizzerias in San Mateo, and I can't wait to return! 🍕

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Bizza (San Mateo)

Highlights
Clean and well-maintained restaurant
Efficient and friendly staff
Fantastic “White House” pizza
Impressive “Brotherly Love” pizza
Ample parking available

Bizza in San Mateo is a hidden gem that left me craving more with each bite! The moment I stepped into the clean and well-maintained restaurant, I felt an inviting atmosphere that set the stage for a delightful culinary adventure. The efficient and friendly staff greeted me with warm smiles and quick service, which made the whole experience enjoyable right from the start.

Now, let’s talk about the pizza! Their standout creation, the “White House” pizza, is a true masterpiece. With its creamy base and a symphony of cheeses, every slice was a delightful blend of flavors that danced on my palate. Equally impressive was the “Brotherly Love” pizza, which perfectly balanced savory toppings and a tangy sauce. If you’re looking for that ideal combination of flavors, this pie will certainly deliver!

Oh, and did I mention the ample parking available? It made my visit even more convenient! If you’re in the vicinity and craving a delicious slice, Bizza is a must-try. I can’t wait to return for another round of their unforgettable pizzas!

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PJ's Pizza Co.

Highlights
Friendly and welcoming staff
Fresh, delicious thin crust
Pet friendly environment
Excellent party catering
Timely delivery and service

As I stepped into PJ's Pizza Co., I was immediately greeted by the friendly and welcoming staff, setting the tone for what would be a delightful culinary adventure. The atmosphere was casual and inviting, perfect for both solo diners and families alike.

Now, onto the pizza! I opted for their thin crust, and let me tell you, it was nothing short of heavenly. Each bite was a balance of crispy perfection with fresh toppings that burst with flavor. The ingredients tasted incredibly fresh, showcasing a dedication to quality that is often lacking in busy pizza joints.

What really charmed me was their pet-friendly environment; I was joined by a couple of four-legged friends who enjoyed a few pizza crust scraps (included with each order!).

I also learned that PJ's offers excellent party catering, making it a perfect choice for events. The service was quick and timely, ensuring that my pizza arrived fresh and hot, just the way I love it.

In a town brimming with pizza options, PJ's Pizza Co. has certainly carved out a slice of my heart, and I can't wait to return for more!

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Mr Pizza Man San Mateo

Highlights
Late delivery issues
Good cheese pizza
Soggy fish and chips
Kind and welcoming staff
Unique crust texture

Mr Pizza Man San Mateo offers a delightful pizza experience with its own unique flair. Upon stepping into the cozy eatery, I was greeted by a kind and welcoming staff that immediately set a friendly tone for my visit. As I perused the menu, my eyes were drawn to their signature cheese pizza, which is highly regarded among locals.

When the pizza arrived, I was eager to dig in. The crust texture was unlike any I had encountered before: a perfect balance of crunch and chewiness. Each slice was generously topped with gooey, melted cheese that left me yearning for more. However, my experience was not without its hiccups. The soggy fish and chips on the menu made me question my order choices, as they paled in comparison to the star of the show.

While I faced a slight delay in delivery, it was clear that the passion and craft behind Mr Pizza Man's pizza made it worth the wait. In summary, if you're on the hunt for a delightful pizza experience in San Mateo, Mr Pizza Man should definitely be on your list—just remember to steer clear of the fish! 🍕

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Rainbow Pizza

Highlights
Authentic aroma experience
Loaded with fresh ingredients
Amazing customer service
Delicious all meat pizza
Dense, cheesy slices

Rainbow Pizza in San Mateo is a slice of heaven that I was eager to dive into. From the moment I stepped inside, I was welcomed by an authentic aroma experience that instantly transported me to culinary bliss. The staff greeted me with an enthusiasm that was infectious, showcasing their amazing customer service.

I decided to indulge in their all-meat pizza, and let me tell you—this pie is a carnivore’s dream! Each slice is loaded with fresh ingredients that speak volumes about the quality of their offerings. The combination of juicy meats perfectly complemented the mellow, gooey cheese that stretches with every bite, making for dense, cheesy slices that are both satisfying and delightful.

What impressed me even more was the harmonious balance of flavors. Each topping was carefully chosen, and the freshness shone through in every piece. I left Rainbow Pizza feeling delighted and slightly guilty for not having discovered it sooner. If you're serious about finding the best pizza in San Mateo, look no further! Rainbow Pizza has set a new standard that I will be longing for again soon.

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Pausa Bar & Cookery

Highlights
Excellent butchers board
Upscale yet approachable vibe
Fresh and flavorful cuisine
Great atmosphere
Outstanding drinks

Pausa Bar & Cookery in San Mateo is a delightful gem that fuses upscale elegance with an incredibly approachable vibe. As I settled into the warm ambiance, I was instantly swept away by the tantalizing offerings on the menu, promising a fresh and flavorful experience.

The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly their pizza, which strikes a perfect balance between craft and comfort. With a crispy, yet chewy crust that could stand up to any gourmet topping, my palate danced with joy as the rich flavors melded beautifully. Each bite was a symphony of aroma and taste, underscored by the quality of their ingredients.

To complement the pizza, I couldn’t resist indulging in their excellent butcher's board — a feast for the eyes and the taste buds alike! The drinks menu is equally impressive, with several standout options that enhance the dining experience.

Dining at Pausa is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary retreat. If you find yourself in San Mateo, this splendid eatery deserves a spot on your must-visit list for an extraordinary pizza adventure. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

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Sapore Express

Highlights
Exceptional service
Fresh and flavorful dishes
Quick and attentive service
Memorable dining experience
Tasty desserts available

When it comes to finding the best pizza in San Mateo, Sapore Express deserves a special mention. My recent visit to this charming eatery was nothing short of delightful! From the moment I walked in, I was greeted with exceptional service, setting the tone for an enjoyable meal.

The menu features a variety of fresh and flavorful dishes, each crafted to perfection. I couldn’t resist trying their signature pizza, which arrived with a golden crust that was both crispy and chewy—just the way I like it! Toppings were generously applied and bursting with freshness, making each bite a celebration of flavor.

One of the standout aspects of Sapore Express is the speed of their service. I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly my order arrived, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice quality for efficiency. This place knows how to deliver a memorable dining experience!

To top it all off, I indulged in a tasty dessert that was the perfect sweet ending to my meal. If you’re on the hunt for a pizza that combines great taste and fantastic service, look no further than Sapore Express!

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Suavecito Birria & Tacos

Highlights
Favorite quesabirria in town
Juicy flavorful meat
Extra cheese option available
Delicious fresh guacamole
Worthwhile pricing

When I first stepped into Suavecito Birria & Tacos, I anticipated the usual tacos, but what jumped out at me was their intriguing take on pizza—specifically, their quesabirria. It's a unique spin that blends the classic flavors of Mexican cuisine with the cheese-loving tendencies of pizza enthusiasts.

The quesabirria is a revelation; the juicy, flavorful meat practically dances on your palate. They offer an option to add extra cheese, which is a delightful touch for those who cannot resist the pull of melty goodness. And let's not forget about the fresh guacamole—it’s a must-have side that compliments the richness of the birria beautifully.

What really stood out was the worthwhile pricing. In a food landscape where gourmet often means exorbitant, Suavecito offers an inviting menu that won’t break the bank. I left with a smile, fully satisfied and craving my next visit. Though it's not your traditional pizza by any means, Suavecito Birria & Tacos proves that sometimes, the best pizza is found in the most unexpected places. So, pizza lovers, don’t miss this one!

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Rise Pizzeria

Highlights
Delicious hand-crafted pizzas
Attentive and friendly service
Convenient location
Great outdoor seating
Enjoyable burrata

Rise Pizzeria is a delightful gem tucked away in San Mateo, where pizza is elevated to an art form. With their hand-crafted pizzas, each bite feels like a taste of heaven. I was particularly captivated by their burrata, which added a creamy touch to the classic pie, making it rich and luscious.

The atmosphere is equally inviting—there's a great balance of outdoor seating that beckons you to linger over your meal while enjoying the lovely Californian breeze. Every staff member I encountered was not just attentive but radiated a warmth that made me feel like a valued guest. It’s refreshing to see such dedication to service alongside the culinary excellence.

And let’s talk about convenience—Rise has a central location that makes it an ideal stop for a quick but satisfying meal. Whether you are meeting friends or just indulging in a solo pizza affair, Rise Pizzeria has everything you need for a successful outing. If you find yourself in San Mateo, treat your taste buds to a visit here; they deserve it! 🍕

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Mateo Pizza Restaurant

At Mateo Pizza Restaurant, I was greeted by an inviting atmosphere that instantly made me feel at home. Their classic Margherita dazzled my taste buds with its perfect balance of tangy tomato sauce and creamy mozzarella, all atop a beautifully charred crust. The generous basil garnish added a delightful freshness, making each bite a joyous celebration of flavor. A definite standout was their pepperoni pizza, where the crispy, spicy slices nestled cozily into the gooey cheese. If you're on the hunt for pizza that feels like a warm hug, look no further—Mateo is where cravings meet deliciousness!

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Curry Pizza House San Mateo

Curry Pizza House San Mateo offers a delightful twist on traditional pizza that truly ignites the taste buds. Their curry-infused pies are a culinary adventure, blending classic flavors with a hint of spice. I savored the Tikka Masala Chicken Pizza, where the savory sauce paired perfectly with fresh toppings. The crust was satisfyingly crisp yet chewy, providing an ideal base for the bold flavors. The fusion concept is both daring and delicious, proving that pizza can indeed embrace the unexpected. If you're ready for a slice that's out of the ordinary, this spot is definitely worth a visit! 🍕✨

Aldo's Pizza

Aldo's Pizza has truly outdone itself! As I stepped into this charming locale, the aroma of freshly baked dough greeted me like an old friend. I opted for their classic pepperoni pie, and oh, the tender, chewy crust was a revelation! Each slice boasted a delightful balance of savory sauce blended perfectly with generous toppings. The cheese was gloriously melted, stretching just enough to entice. With a cozy ambiance and friendly staff, Aldo's is a delightful destination for pizza enthusiasts like myself. If you find yourself in San Mateo, don’t miss out on this gem! 🍕✨