PIZZERIA LUIGI: BEST PIZZA ON THE WEST COAST

New Yorkers swear that their secret to a perfect crust is using water straight from the tap...I bought the story--that is, until I came across Pizzeria Luigi in San Diego. This slick character fresh from Italy disposes of the legend and makes his incredible crust using water straight from the BOTTLE.

My first rendezvous with this near-perfect pizza came last year after I saw it featured on TV. I found myself in San Diego and I needed to make the pilgrimage. After asking tons of people, no San Diegan had heard of the joint, so I took a few and went on the adventure.

Expectations were high as we spotted the unassuming storefront in a not-so-sexy part of town. It was 10 am on a Sunday morning and the line went out the door...I knew this was a great sign.

The perfect fusion between California-style toppings and New York-style crust, this delicate delight is thin, crispy, not oily, and uses only the freshest ingredients around. Choose from the case and find an array of gorgeous pies with multiple tasty toppings. Want an extra topping before it gets tossed into the oven for a pre-game warm up? Just ask and a friendly, hip, and tatted-up pizza artist will add it at no charge.

A nonexhaustive list of toppings for our kosher-friendly crowd includes fresh basil, sundried tomatoes, ricotta, pineapple, fresh heirloom tomatoes, and the list goes on and on.

My favorites: 1) a generous amount of sundried tomatoes, whole basil leaves, ricotta cheese and a sprinkle of Luigi's housemade pesto. 2) pineapple and pesto--unbelievable combo!

I have yet to come across another pizza that so beautifully brings together a simple yet perfect crust with fresh abundant toppings...

SPECIAL: 2 huge slices with a fountain drink: $5.50. (Wide array of imported beer as well)

One slice will have you wrestling with your pizza loyalty and craving Luigi's on the daily...

4.9 stars out of 5!

http://www.pizzerialuigi.com/

Check out their two locations:

Neighborhood: Golden Hill (amazing outdoor patio)
1137 25th St
(between B St & C St)
San Diego, CA 92102
(619) 233-3309

Neighborhood: North Park
2121 El Cajon Blvd
(between Alabama St & Mississippi St)
San Diego, CA 92104
(619) 294-9417