05/20/24 by Zack Saadioui
Embark on a culinary journey through one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in San Francisco. The Mission District, renowned for its eclectic spirit and cultural richness, also serves as a haven for pizza lovers. From New York-style thin crusts to inventive California twists, the pizzerias in Mission offer something to satisfy every palate. Let’s explore the top pizza destinations in this lively San Francisco neighborhood.
After a move from Mission to North Beach, Flour + Water Pizzeria remains a stalwart in serving upscale pizza varieties. The space, originally a pasta powerhouse, now cooks up pizzas with both classic and innovative toppings. Some standout menu highlights include the smoky eggplant and the unforgettable bone marrow pizza, which combines horseradish and cacio e pepe for a bold flavor profile.
Located also in the Mission, PizzaHacker offers a truly artisanal experience, perfecting the fine balance between charred sourdough bases and fresh, local ingredients. One of their crowd-pleasers is the 'Yo Vinny!' topped with marinated onions, soppressata picante, and a drizzle of honey for a sweet and spicy sensation. Make sure not to miss their newly added Detroit-ish style square pies.
Pizzetta 211 is a quaint and tiny establishment that stands out for its commitment to seasonal toppings and perfect crust. This venue in the nearby Richmond area is a favorite for those who appreciate a rotation of ingredients that highlight the best of what’s in season. The weekly rotating selection ensures that every visit feels like a unique culinary experience.
Arizmendi on Valencia is part of a worker-owned cooperative known both for its ethos and its pizza. With a sourdough base and toppings that maximize fresh, organic, and local produce, they offer a pizza menu that changes daily. This spot doesn't deliver, but the unique flavors and community-driven atmosphere make it worth a visit.
While not located exactly in the Mission District, no list of top pizza spots would be complete without mentioning Tony’s Pizza Napoletana. Venture a little out to North Beach to indulge in the pizza-making artistry of Tony Gemignani. From classic Neapolitan pizzas to rare styles like the coal-fired, New Yorker pizza, Tony’s place is a pilgrimage site for pizza aficionados.
Blending Mexican flavors with Italian classics, La Taqueria Pizzeria offers a creative twist on traditional pizzas. Try their taco pizza for a fusion of cultures that satisfies with every bite.
Known for their thick, Detroit-style square pizzas, the Square Pie Guys master the art of crispy crust with indulgent toppings. Working out of SOMA, close to the Mission, they deliver to the area, ensuring that residents don’t miss out on their pepperoni cups and zesty sauces. Although a bit pricier, their unique style and hearty servings are worth every penny.
Pies of a different sort, but worth mentioning for those with a sweet tooth looking to conclude their savory meal with something sweet, Mission Pie crafts some of the best pastries in town. Locally sourced ingredients make their pies a community favorite.
The Mission District in San Francisco celebrates diversity not just through its people and its arts, but also through its food. With every corner offering a new taste to discover, pizza lovers can revel in the range of styles from classic cuts to inventive new-age recipes that make up the neighborhood’s vibrant pizza scene. Whether you are an aficionado of thin crust, a lover of sourdough bases, or someone who appreciates a rich repository of toppings, the Mission’s pizzerias cater to all with an unpretentious love for baked dough and delicious toppings. Dive into any of the spots listed above and you’re in for a delightful dining experience, quintessential to San Francisco’s eclectic culinary landscape.