If El Cajon has a culinary soul, it’s found in its pizza joints. Here, in this sun-baked East County enclave, you’ll find wood-fired Neapolitan pies worthy of a food critic’s praise just down the street from cash-only spots where the only topping that matters is loyalty. This list celebrates that glorious range—and serves up the very best slices in town.
Wing Street
$$ | (619) 440-7722 | WEBSITE
Wing Street runs a convenient pizza operation perfect for a quick dinner or casual family meal. The restaurant is located near Vons and a meal here can be as quick as 20 minutes with their delivery. Our favorite order is the $18 family-sized Detroit-style pizza, which comes with a good variety to satisfy everyone. For those with a bottomless pit for a stomach, get the extra-large combo—it comes with multiple pizzas and sides for $28.
And if you come during the lunch rush, the helpful staff keeps things moving smoothly. There’s a bit of an oily pizza situation happening sometimes, but this spot has proven to be the most reliable (and satisfying) pizza deal of them all.
Marechiaro’s 2nd Street
$ | (619) 442-9889 | WEBSITE
Like Goldilocks and her porridge, it can be hard to find a pizza place that’s “just right”—one that hits that sweet spot between greasy and gourmet, suspiciously cheap and give-your-accountant-a-heart-attack expensive. But Marechiaro’s 2nd Street in El Cajon walks that line perfectly. It’s not cheap, but the large specialty pizzas come in under $30 (at least before drinks, tax, and tip), and that’s a lot better than most family-owned Italian spots in San Diego.
But the big reason we love this place is because every slice of pizza, lasagna, or tortellini carbonara that’s laid in front of us just gets better and better, like a well-paced family dinner starring generations of regulars.
King Market Pizza
$ | (619) 442-7897 | WEBSITE
The cheese pizza, ‘works’ pizza, and Italian sandwich you’ll find here are much better than one might expect from a place with such mixed service reviews. There are some solid options at King Market Pizza from categories they do well (and they aren’t cutting corners). Prioritize the cheese pizza from the pizza selection (get the classic) and the Italian sandwich from the deli section (get it with light mustard and mayo). Should you come to this local establishment for a special occasion dinner?
No. But it’s highly useful for hungry locals and neighborhood regulars during their casual weeknight meals.
Rogers Pizzerolo Italian grill
$ | (619) 230-5455 | WEBSITE
Rogers Pizzerolo Italian grill is a family-run spot tucked away in a strip mall, and walking in feels like stepping into a considerably more relaxed version of a classic Italian-American neighborhood joint. There are some very satisfying things at this casual restaurant, especially pizza. We really like their white pizza with pepperoni and the spinach and ricotta stromboli, handheld stuffed dough that comes with a side of fresh salad. The indoor restaurant is also BYOB with no corkage fee.
Franco’s Giant Pizza
$ | (619) 579-5797 | WEBSITE
There is no pizza joint in El Cajon quite like Franco’s Giant Pizza—and not just because the area lacks the authentic neighborhood spots of many larger cities. It just has that rare combination of handmade quality, contagious comfort, and a welcoming vibe sure to quickly become your regular haunt. The cozy atmosphere left over from years of family operation makes Franco’s feel lived-in like a favorite hoodie, and the whole place hums with the energy of a community gathering spot.
The overall feeling of Franco’s speaks to this restaurant’s roots as a local favorite, when it was just neighbors coming together for slices and one-of-a-kind comfort food.
Ace New York Giant Pizza
$ | (619) 701-6677 | WEBSITE
There is no other pizza in El Cajon like Ace New York Giant Pizza’s thin-crust, flavor-packed pies. Which is why we’ve spent the last few months making it our regular spot. The clean dining room does a heartfelt impression of a classic New York-style joint: comfortable booths, homey lighting, and a chill vibe. The thin-crust veggie pie is a great choice if you’re into authentic New York-style pizza. All the pizzas are perfect for crust-lovers.
The thin base holds up beautifully under generous toppings. The chicken Alfredo is equally delicious, and the buffalo wings come well-dipped in sauce and are satisfyingly large. The staff provides exceptional service, going above and beyond to ensure every pie arrives hot and every experience feels special.
Marechiaro’s Italian Restaurant
$ | (619) 561-6580 | WEBSITE
Marechiaro’s Italian Restaurant is a family-friendly spot in El Cajon where you can enjoy a satisfying Italian meal for about $15 per person. Your options include delicious Torpedo and Works pizza, eggplant parmesan, sausage subs, antipasto salad, lemon chicken with pasta, and lasagna. It’s all great, but before you leave, take advantage of the accommodating service that handles dietary restrictions like dairy intolerance with ease.
The wait staff is always friendly and professional, making guests feel welcome in the cozy, well-lit dining room. Parking is available in a small lot in front, a bigger lot in back, or along the street, though a short walk is often worth it for the consistently enjoyable experience.
Shinar’s Pizza Market
$ | (619) 562-4905 | WEBSITE
Shinar’s Pizza Market is a bustling pizza joint where you can get some very generous portions of pies you won’t find done this well anywhere else in the area. The wide menu includes everything from boneless wings to New York-style slices—but you should focus on their signature pizzas, like the classic pepperoni special. It comes on a large tray with perfectly melted cheese, crispy pepperoni cups, and a tender crust that folds just right.
There’s no shortage of convenience in the restaurant, which is attached to a well-stocked liquor store you’ll want to browse and grab a six-pack from. Please do. Instead of just pizza, order the boneless wings for an appetizer—a saucy and crispy treat that puts frozen snacks to shame.
New York Giant Pizza
$ | (619) 444-2123 | WEBSITE
The staff at this family-owned pizzeria have a knack for knowing when you’re on the last bite of your slice. The New York-style pizzas, chicken tenders, and fries are all delicious, and there’s a mountain of mozzarella with crusts golden enough to see your reflection in. Place an order for a family dinner at a booth, or pull up to the curb for a couple of pies (served in generously large boxes) before a game.
But it’s probably best not to make firm commitments after—New York Giant Pizza is so satisfying you’ll just want to stay put.
Corner Deli & PIzza
$ | (619) 445-6002 | WEBSITE
Corner Deli & Pizza is a grab-and-go spot that is one of our favorite places in the entire Sycuan casino. It went through some updates recently, and has settled into its convenient location just off the gaming floor. But all you need to know is that it’s still a great option for a reliably delicious meal. The outstanding items include things like the always-perfect pepperoni pizza and the customizable slices with crushed chili peppers and grated parmesan.
Plus, it’s just a really pleasant place to hang out and have a casual bite with a free self-serve soda from the fountain.
Little Caesars Pizza
$ | (619) 660-5500 | WEBSITE
If you want pizza somewhere that delivery is considered a luxury, then Little Caesars is a solid choice. The place isn’t super fancy, but it’s reliable enough to work for a night when you don’t want to cook. Or you can always swing by for a quick pickup during a busy week for a more casual vibe. Either way, come for the very good pizza. The classic pepperoni is around $10 for a medium, but very worth it.
If you want to keep the tab down, order the ‘Extra Most Best Cheese’ pizza, which tastes great and will help you leave full.
Pizza Xpress
$ | (619) 442-8800 | WEBSITE
Since opening, this spot has been the best place for pizza in El Cajon—where you can watch families, hungry college students, and the occasional delivery driver all come and go in the course of a meal. It’s still a great choice because it’s affordable, straightforward, and one of the few pizza joints in the area where you won’t be surrounded by $30 artisan pies and people who arrived via foodie pilgrimage.
Start with some garlic cheese bread, pay attention to the daily deals, and if you’re craving pepperoni, you know what to do.
Mamma Rosa Italian Restaurant
$ | (619) 442-0231 | WEBSITE
Mamma Rosa’s looks like a typical family restaurant, but it excels over every detail of its handmade pasta. Almost the entire menu is made to order, including the gnocchi with blush sauce, spinach-stuffed shells, and that rare handmade pasta. They’re open daily for dinner, and it’s worth stopping by for the lasagna (they have vegetarian options), fettuccine, and fresh bread. Just look for the warm brick building with green awnings.
They have a few tables near the window, but (especially during busy evenings) we prefer sitting in the cozy dining room, where you can watch them preparing dishes like they’re crafting family recipes passed down through generations.
Bambinos Pizzeria & Deli #4
$ | (619) 444-2222 | WEBSITE
Bambinos Pizzeria & Deli #4 is basically a local pizza joint—in the best possible way. The pizzeria specializes in meat lovers pizza loaded right out of the oven and served with pepperoni, sausage, and their signature blend of cheeses. That’s good, but our favorite pizza here is the Mediterranean pizza with fresh toppings, a garlicky sauce, and a perfect crust.
The third standout on their menu is the delicious and hearty pepperoni and sausage calzone, which is actually more like a folded pizza than a traditional calzone. That’s it—just a few classics on the menu—all pizza and all fast. It’s a perfect quick and affordable dinner option.
Chicago Pizza Company
$ | (619) 562-8900 | WEBSITE
During the day, people walk in and out of here lugging dense takeout boxes from Chicago Pizza Company, a neighborhood spot that operates with the same friendly energy all day long. But at night, it turns into a restaurant worthy of a fun weekend meal with friends who like to share massive deep dish pizzas while holding utensils.
After you eat great Chicago-style dishes like the Polish dog, beef sandwich, and the star deep dish pizza with its unique sweet tomato sauce, stay for some conversation and another slice. Just make sure to find a moment to appreciate the super-friendly service from staff like Nick, who make the dining experience even more enjoyable.
Domino’s Pizza
$ | (619) 442-9245 | WEBSITE
Not only does Domino’s Pizza offer some of the best service in El Cajon, but it’s casual enough to order from your couch in pajamas. The delivery drivers are professional, courteous, and knowledgeable, going above and beyond to ensure a smooth experience. That’s really why you should order from here (and why you shouldn’t worry about tipping confusion), but the pizza—with its good value for the price—is solid.
Round Table Pizza
$$ | (619) 670-1808 | WEBSITE
Round Table Pizza does reliable things with dough. You could feed a Little League team with their Large King Arthur, and the lunch buffet is fresher than a just-opened salad bar. This casual spot in Rancho San Diego is a great El Cajon lunch option (they have that buffet), but only if you’re not expecting fine dining. It takes some time to get your fountain drink refilled, which is handled with a smile (and shows it).
But those attentive staff checks and well-stocked buffet are worth staying an extra 10 minutes past your lunch break. Round Table Pizza is one of the area’s best pizza spots, and we feel bad for whoever tries to compete, because they’ve set the bar high.
Dolci Cafe Italiano
$$ | (619) 660-2011 | WEBSITE
Dolci Cafe Italiano is a fantastic family-style Italian restaurant, and where you want to go if the wait at other spots is too long. Their portions are generous yet well-balanced, and served with excellent attention to detail. Our favorite is the Penne Michaelangelo and Bruchetta Caprese, which comes with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil. The salmon salad is a must-try too.
It’s perfect for patio dining, but they also have wheelchair-accessible indoor seating where you can enjoy your meal with a glass of wine. The burrata appetizer and short rib pasta have also received praise, though some have noted issues with the Caprino pizza, mentioning undercooked crust and minimal toppings. Service can vary; while some guests have enjoyed attentive service, others felt that their waiters could have checked in more often.
Overall, it’s highly recommended for a great dining experience, despite being a bit pricey. There are vegetarian options available, like the vegetarian panini, and great desserts to finish off a wonderful meal.
Grandstand Pizza
$ | (619) 258-6888 | WEBSITE
We have never had a more satisfying pizza experience than the one at Grandstand Pizza, a friendly neighborhood spot in El Cajon. This is also why this place often fills up with regulars who keep coming back for the welcoming atmosphere and reliable food. The gluten-free pizza you’ll find here has a crust that’s perfectly crisp yet still tender when you customize it with alfredo sauce, chicken, and bacon.
The highlight of the menu, the Skybox pizza with its generous toppings and balanced flavors, makes us momentarily forget about any other pizza joint. There isn’t much to do here but enjoy your meal at a comfortable table or place a larger order for a local gathering. But that’s fine because this is a restaurant that deserves every bit of your appreciation for its tasty food and pleasant service from Gus, the friendly manager who remembers his customers.
Tasty Pizza
$ | (619) 447-4880 | WEBSITE
Tasty Pizza has a humble, no-frills attitude, a family-focused vibe, and loves to keep things simple and efficient. But it also takes its pizza very seriously, and this spot is quietly one of El Cajon’s most reliably satisfying pizzerias. If you want something consistently delicious on a crust, perhaps paired with a quick and easy meal, this is where you want to be.
The classic pepperoni pizza is as great as everyone says, but so are other straightforward choices like the cheese pizza and veggie pizza topped with fresh ingredients and served hot. Yes, Tasty Pizza is still the most practical place to be in El Cajon at 6pm on a weekday. But don’t forget about them next time you’re planning a family dinner or need a reliable takeout option.
