Glendale, nestled between Los Angeles and the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains, boasts a diverse culinary landscape shaped by its multicultural population, Armenian heritage, and proximity to LA’s food innovation.
The city’s pizza scene reflects this rich tapestry—combining old-world techniques, fusion flavors, and California freshness.
Here are the five best pizza places in Glendale for 2025, each offering a unique slice of local flavor.
1. Zeke’s Pizza
A beloved Glendale institution for over three decades, Zeke’s Pizza has perfected the art of the neighborhood pizzeria.
Their hand-tossed, medium-thick crust strikes the ideal balance between chewy interior and crisp bottom, while their signature sauce—slightly sweet with hints of basil and garlic—has remained unchanged since opening day.
What truly distinguishes Zeke’s is their commitment to generous toppings and unexpected combinations that reflect Glendale’s diverse community.
The “Mediterranean” pizza, topped with feta, olives, artichoke hearts, and a sprinkle of za’atar, pays homage to the city’s Middle Eastern influences.
Meanwhile, the “Zeke’s Special” loads traditional pepperoni, sausage, and vegetables on a foundation of their exceptional cheese blend.
The unpretentious dining room, with its vintage photographs of Glendale throughout the decades, creates a sense of community and history.
Regular customers—many who have been visiting since childhood—appreciate that the founding family still oversees daily operations, ensuring consistent quality and the warm, personal service that defines Zeke’s experience.
2. DeSano Pizza Bakery
For authentic Neapolitan pizza certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, DeSano Pizza Bakery is Glendale’s premier destination.
Their massive wood-burning ovens, imported directly from Italy, reach temperatures exceeding 900°F to create the distinctive leopard-spotted crust with a tender, airy interior that defines true Neapolitan style.
Every ingredient adheres to traditional standards—San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella made daily, Caputo 00 flour, and even water with mineral content adjusted to match Naples’ water profile.
3. Samira’s Cafe & Pizzeria
Representing Glendale’s significant Armenian influence, Samira’s has pioneered a distinctive fusion approach that blends traditional pizza techniques with Eastern Mediterranean flavors.
Their signature “Lahmajun Pizza” reimagines the classic Armenian flatbread as a pizza—featuring a thin, crispy crust topped with seasoned ground beef, minced vegetables, and spices.
The “Zaatar & Cheese” offers a vegetarian alternative with the aromatic herb blend beloved throughout the Levant.
4. 786 Degrees Pizza
A multiple award-winning artisan pizzeria, 786 Degrees has elevated Glendale’s pizza scene with its globally inspired wood-fired creations.
Named for the temperature of their custom-built oven, this innovative spot begins with Napoletana-style technique as a foundation, then incorporates international flavor profiles to create truly unique pies.
The “El Chapo” features chorizo, jalapeños, and Mexican street corn, while the “Bombay Tikka Masala” reimagines the classic Indian dish in pizza form.
5. Tompkins Square Bar & Grill
Named after the famous New York City park, Tompkins Square brings authentic East Coast pizza culture to Glendale.
Their large, foldable slices with the perfect ratio of sauce to cheese capture the essence of NYC pizza—thin, crispy yet pliable, with just enough structure to hold abundant toppings.
Available both by the slice and as 18-inch pies, their pizza has developed a cult following among East Coast transplants and locals alike.
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