Southern California is officially home to some of the world’s best pizza, according to the annual rankings from 50 Top Pizza. This year, two local establishments earned coveted spots on the global list, with one Los Angeles favorite tying for a top-five position.
Pizzeria Sei in Los Angeles landed at an impressive number five, sharing the ranking with a San Francisco institution. Further south, Truly Pizza in Dana Point also made the cut, securing the number 26 spot among the world's elite pizzerias. These rankings come from anonymous inspectors who meticulously judge everything from crust precision and wait times to beverage programs, making the recognition particularly significant.
For those in Los Angeles, Pizzeria Sei has quickly become known for its precise Tokyo-style pizza. Judges from 50 Top Pizza highlighted the establishment’s modern, minimalist space, where the open kitchen and countertop design keep the oven at the center of attention. The technical skill extends to the highly hydrated dough, which undergoes a prolonged fermentation process to produce a base that is light, airy, yet distinctly crispy. Inspectors specifically praised the chefs' ability to balance high-quality Italian ingredients with subtle Japanese influences. The experience is rounded out by expert waitstaff and a curated wine pairing program, which the judges noted elevates the entire concept.
Pizzeria Sei shares its number five spot with Tony's Pizza Napoletana, a historic establishment in San Francisco's North Beach. While not a Southern California locale, its high ranking provides context for the caliber of pizza Pizzeria Sei is competing with. Tony Gemignani’s restaurant, built on thirty years of expertise, was dubbed an “essential global pilgrimage” by the judges. It boasts seven distinct ovens, each crafting one of eleven different regional pizza styles. Inspectors lauded Gemignani's “relentless passion” and “masterclass techniques,” noting that despite the intense precision and high demand, the service remains smooth and the atmosphere consistently warm and family-friendly.
Meanwhile, down in Orange County, Truly Pizza in Dana Point carved out its own unique place on the list at number 26. This SoCal gem offers a distinctive multi-level, outdoor dining experience, framed by citrus trees and a Mediterranean atmosphere. Beyond elegant starters such as burrata and the Spagnola salad, the judges specifically “raved about” Truly Pizza's dual menu options, allowing diners to choose between both square and round pizzas, showcasing a versatile approach to the classic dish.
The recognition for Pizzeria Sei and Truly Pizza underscores Southern California’s growing reputation as a destination for world-class pizza. These establishments, already celebrated local standouts, demonstrate a compelling combination of deep technical precision, diverse culinary styles, and inviting dining atmospheres. For residents who appreciate a truly exceptional pie, these global rankings are a clear sign that some of the best pizza on the planet is not just thriving on the West Coast, but right here in our backyard.
