Northern California’s pizza-and-beer scene is as diverse as the region itself—stretching from farm towns and college hangouts to coastal hideaways and bustling city hubs. Whether you’re in search of a wood-fired masterpiece, a thick Chicago-inspired pie, or a slice meant to pair perfectly with a locally brewed IPA, NorCal has a spot ready to welcome you. Here’s your guide to the best places across the region to grab a pint and a pie.
In the 209: Modesto & Turlock
Pizza lovers in the Central Valley head straight for BC’s Pizza & Beer in Modesto, famous for its massive beer list—over 80 specialty bottles and 35 rotating drafts—paired with hearty, crowd-pleasing pizzas. A short drive away, Dust Bowl Brewery Taproom in Turlock brings craft beer culture front and center with its popular brews and surprisingly excellent pizza lineup. It’s a great place to meet friends, try new releases, and enjoy a slice fresh from the oven.
In the 408: San Jose & the South Bay
The South Bay excels in quality and consistency. Blue Line Pizza, with several NorCal locations, wins fans for its deep-dish and thin-crust options alongside a well-curated beer selection. Not far away, Hapa’s Brewing Company blends the energy of a local brewery with a pizza menu that complements their lineup of easy-drinking, super-fresh craft beers.
In the 415: San Francisco & Marin
No pizza tour is complete without Tony’s Pizza Napoletana, where award-winning pizzaiolo Tony Gemignani crafts authentic Neapolitan masterpieces using imported ingredients and traditional methods. Across the Golden Gate in Tam Junction, PizzaHacker/BagelMacher offers laid-back, wood-fired pies and one of the area’s best selections of craft beer on tap—best enjoyed in the outdoor beer garden.
In the 510: East Bay Favorites
In Berkeley, Jupiter has long been a hot spot thanks to its wood-fired pizzas, handcrafted beers, and beautiful brick courtyard atmosphere. Meanwhile, Porky’s Pizza Palace in Hayward serves hand-tossed, old-school pies with a large variety of craft beers—perfect for families, sports fans, and nostalgic pizza lovers alike.
In the 530: Chico & Beyond
College-town favorite The Pizza Guys keeps Chico locals happy with a lineup of unique pies and rotating craft beers. For a more traditional experience, Pete’s Pizza & Taphouse emphasizes local ingredients, hand-rolled dough, and stone-baked pizzas paired with a robust beer selection.
In the 650: Peninsula Eats
The Peninsula’s standout is State of Mind Public House & Pizzeria, with locations in Los Altos and Redwood City. Known for its creative pies and impressive beer menu, it’s a top pick for foodies and craft brew fans. New York Pizza in Palo Alto rounds out the local offerings with classic slices and a dependable list of beers perfect for casual dining.
In the 707: Wine Country, but for Beer (and Pizza!)
In Santa Rosa, Russian River Brewing Company is a must-visit. Known for Pliny the Elder and Pliny the Younger, the brewpub also serves standout pizzas that pair perfectly with their world-class beers. In Napa Valley, Pizzeria Tra Vigne delivers wood-fired favorites in a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with a solid beer selection to match.
In the 831: Monterey & Santa Cruz
Heirloom Pizza Co. in Monterey offers house-brewed craft beers, artisan pizzas, and an industrial-chic vibe inside a historic building. In Santa Cruz, Bookie’s Pizza, located inside the award-winning Sante Adairius Rustic Ales, gives guests the unique chance to enjoy exceptional pizza alongside some of the region’s most sought-after craft beer.
In the 916: Sacramento’s Best
Sacramento diners love OneSpeed, a neighborhood favorite serving gourmet pizzas and a thoughtful beer selection. Zelda’s Original Gourmet Pizza, known for its deep-dish pies and no-nonsense charm, remains a top pick for pairing a hearty slice with a cold beer.
In the 925: East Bay Classics
Walnut Creek’s Pinky’s Pizza & Pub brings sports-bar energy, an extensive beer lineup, and nostalgic pizza all under one roof. A local institution, Skipolini’s Pizza completes the list with its classic parlor vibe, generous portions, and cold beers that hit the spot every time.
From coastal craft breweries to iconic city pizzerias, Northern California proves that great pizza and great beer are meant to be together. Wherever you are in NorCal, a perfect pairing is never far away.