Go NOW and get a slice. Now for the review. I'm a new resident of Ventura and my current quest is to find a bass player for my band, Savassa. (It's new so you won't find it.) On my morning walks I chanced upon a coffee shop/wine and beer bar (interesting business model) called Sips as I walked to the gym and engaged the barista, Destiny, in a lively conversation. She recommended that I talk to Travis, who is the owner of Backbench Pizza citing her belief that he was plugged into the metal/Rock scene here in Ventura. Mental note added. Today, after stopping at Sans Souci (aka "the sewer", "the sewer is my church", etc...) to seek to network in my quest to find a 4/5 string bass master, the most pleasant bartender, Moriah, walked me out of the bar and pointed out that Backbench was "right there". I didn't see it at first, even though I was standing almost right in front of it, but Google said I was on top of it. Luckily I was able to locate it by simply walking in the direction of the soft blue moving triangular projection provided by our corporate overlords. I asked for Travis at the counter, assuring the counter service that he was not in trouble. (side bar: the same woman who was working the counter was someone I had briefly met in Sips and I took note, at the time, that she had an actual physical book, as if to read in public, but I digress). Travis appeared and after establishing rapport, filled me in on various resources that might satisfy my musical needs. I must confess that the operation is stark in terms of design but WHO CARES when you have the best pizza on the west coast? I purchased a fresh slice of pepperoni, mostly out of politeness, but quickly expanded my field of perception to note the books on fermentation and making sourdough lying casually on a shelf behind the register. One does well to notice the details. Suddenly, I had the distinct spiritual sense to recognize that what I was about to eat was going to be worth breaking my rigid "macro-nutrient" diet. I will not describe the taste/texture/quality here. It is one of those things that must be experienced. Truly a masterful pizza executed by someone who has a zeal for all things food, especially pizza. My compliments, sir. read more

So happy to have found this place-- I was craving a pizza, and as a vegan, choices are pretty limited. I really appreciated how when they didn't have vegan slices readily available, they made an entire fresh pizza to accommodate my request. AND no added charge to make it vegan! The pizza was everything I hoped for and more, and I will absolutely be back to order a full sized pizza. Back Bench, please don't change! read more

Back Bench Pizza - Vegan pizza slice - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

Back Bench pizza is a newer pizza spot in Ventura and a bit of a hidden gem. It's located on Main Street and they sell both whole pizzas and slices which is perfect if you just want to grab a slice for yourself or have different tastes than the people you're with. They always have their plain cheese with spinach as a staple and you can opt in to add some various toppings for an up charge. I believe they switch out their special flavors monthly, usually 2 different ones. A couple months ago they had a 2 spicy flavors which wasn't my favorite since I can't handle my heat, but my most recent visit they had this potato and pesto pizza which was absolutely to die for. I'm a sucker for pesto so maybe I'm a bit biased but I would definitely go back for that or to see what other new flavors they have in the future. The service is good, usually not too busy so they are pretty quick. They did not yet have any slices of the pesto pizza yet when I last went so they made a whole fresh pizza once we ordered which took about 15-20 minutes. They allow friendly well-behaved dogs. It's pretty small inside, only about 4 tables or so but there's benches throughout Main Street if you want to sit outside. Overall great experience every time and I'm looking forward to my next visit! read more

Back Bench Pizza - Cheese pizza with spinach - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

See all

Favorite pizza place of all time. Me and my boyfriend have gone here so many times since they opened. Totally worth the price and both their basic and unique flavors are delicious. read more

Happened upon this little spot. You know it's going to be good when there's no flashy sign and slices ready to go at the counter. My toddler was hungry so we popped in hoping for a slice and was not disappointed. So so good! Nice and thin with the perfect amount of sauce to cheese ratio. When in Ventura again looking for pie or a nibble we will be returning. Owner was nice and service was quick. read more

Back Bench Pizza - Slice to-go - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

See all

There is a nasty septic smell inside the establishment. I'm assuming there's a leak somewhere and it's getting out to the dining area. Management please handle this asap.We definitely could not eat inside so we sat outside. Pizza was descent. read more

Whoa!!!! Now this is my kind of pizza. Thin with a bit of crisp. Great ratio of sauce and cheese. You aren't gonna get a dump of either but an immaculate ratio to offer a delicious even bite from tip to crust. Flavorful, great bites all the way. No flop slice. My style of pizza. But holy moly is the price gonna throw you back. Basic pie is 26 and then toppings can range from 4 to 7 dollars. Will I be back despite the price. ABSOLUTELY!!! Stand up benches outside but get a lot of sun. There are two umbrellas on either side of the bar top outside. Seating inside but a bit muggy. Basic menu. But what is there is great. read more

See all

Stoked to have finally tried this place. Never knew it was right next to the movie theater. It was legit NY style pizza. I'm serious. It tasted as it should with the crispy bottom and thin pie. The crust was amazing also, crunchy but soft like a pillow. We ended up ordering a whole pie for 4 people. Pepperoni with Calabrian chili oil and hot honey. Pretty dangerous combination. Didn't take too long to make and we found a nice table inside. The guy making the pizza was very friendly and made us all feel welcome. The lady behind the counter was super nice and helped us figure out exactly what we wanted. Happy that I have finally found this hidden gem. We will be back! read more

Back Bench Pizza - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

Update got refunded finally but still no apology on the rudeness/name calling also got blocked on top of it all dont even care at this point just want to let you guys know the owner isn't a nice or even decent guy and just saying wouldn't trust someone of that manner with my food. read more

Back Bench Pizza - Proof unfortunately - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

Best pizza in town, best pizza crew in town and if you don't get it you're just not with it and weak and you're still bitter your hacky sack tricks didn't get you laid in high school sorry those are just the rules Anyways check out this cool pic I took when I went and had their sausage and broccolini pizza shit was DANK read more

Back Bench Pizza - Dank pizza - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

Walking into this place feels like stepping into a tiny boutique that accidentally got taken over by a 90s rock playlist and a dentist's waiting room aesthetic. White walls, music, and the smell of genuinely great pizza in the air. Sadly, ordering that pizza feels like you're interrupting a very important staff meeting about not wanting to sell pizza. The vibe leans heavily toward uninviting. No fountain drinks, no water cups, just bottled beverages like you're at an airport kiosk. After you finally place your order, settle in. You're looking at a solid 45 minutes to an hour before your pizza makes its grand entrance. While we waited, a staff member walked up and slapped a "sold out" sign on the door. It was 5:45. They close at 9. We then watched the live theater of confused customers being turned away mid-evening. Bold strategy. Now, the pizza. Credit where it's due. The dough is legit. Sourdough crust that actually tastes like something, nicely baked, good sauce, and a thin, almost cracker-like profile. This is not your thick, floppy slice situation. It's crisp, light, and honestly pretty enjoyable. Is it perfect? No. Is it better than your average chain pizza? Absolutely. Just be prepared to feel slightly unwanted while acquiring it. read more

Back Bench Pizza - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

See all

We decided to try this place after a friend recommended it, and it didn't disappoint. The pizza's sourdough crust has a great crunch and flavor that pairs perfectly so well with the sauce. We went with pepperoni and mushrooms for toppings, and they complemented each other. The sauce isn't the typical sweet marinara you usually find around Ventura County, which is rare but honestly my preference for sauce.The owner was also really kind to talk to us a little bit about his journey with his establishment. read more

Back Bench Pizza - Pizza with mushrooms and pepperoni - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

I was curious about this pizzeria in Ventura and the wife and I decided to try it. We started off with a couple of slices and were pleasantly surprised. I decided to order a full pie to go. Great flavor and crisp. The staff is friendly and will definitely return. read more

Back Bench Pizza - Cheese and Tomato Pie - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

The employees are really nice.The pizza is delicious! The crunchy crust, premium cheese and sauce is perfect. You have to try this place! I highly recommend Backbench for a NY style pizza One of the best I've ever had! read more

Back Bench Pizza - Cheese Pizza!!! 10 out of 10 - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

Legit maybe the best slice of pizza I've ever had. Ever. And I've had em all. Quite the random drop in.

First time here. Came here at 5p opening. Plenty of seats by. Ordered a large pizza for dine in. Mult tickets before use. Had to wait an about 30 minutes for our pizza. It was worth the wait. Sauce is very flavorful, crust is thin and crunchy. read more

Back Bench Pizza - Outside - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

See all

This was my second time here and I am absolutely astonished again. This is a true hidden gem of Ventura and one of the best pizza places in Ventura County and perhaps SoCal! The pizza is just so clean. The thin crust is what makes it so special, as it has such an amazing crunch and holds its shape. The ingredients don't overpower each other. There is a perfect amount of cheese and tomato sauce - it's light enough to taste the toppings while creating a simple taste that is just absolutely delicious. This is what a pizza should be. Simple ingredients with a simple taste. The pizza speaks for itself. We also ordered chocolate chip cookies. They weren't warm but still delicious and somehow still so gooey. I would recommend, especially if you go early in the day and see him taking it out of the oven. We came around 12:15 pm. The restaurant is a one man show. Its just one guy making the pizzas and taking the orders. It's a small place and a hole in the wall here in downtown Ventura. There's not even a sign on the building, just a neon pizza icon on the window. I've tried to go here a couple times at night closer to closing time but they're always sold out! I hope this place expands!! It's too good to just be a hole in the wall! read more

See all

The pizzas were light and crispy. The white pizza had a pleasant sweetness from the figs, while the pepperoni slice added a savory contrast. Together, they made the perfect combination. I was hoping to add burrata to one of my slices, but they ran out. The server recommended ricotta instead, which turned out to be a great substitute. read more

Back Bench Pizza - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

Back Bench probably has the best NY style pizza in Ventura County. It's thin, perfectly crisp, and flavorful. The ratio of cheese to sauce and toppings is spot on. There are a few tables inside to sit at but not a ton of seating. As others have mentioned, the service is kind of off-putting. There was one person in the shop, and he did not seem enthused to be there. He can make a great pizza, I'll give him that. He wasn't rude, but he was not friendly. I'd still go back for the pie, but I'd make sure to have my order dialed in and not expect a conversation or even a smile. read more

Back Bench Pizza - Half Pepperoni and Half Cheese - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

The Best Pizza in Ventura County? Quite Possibly! Back Bench Pizza is an unassuming, by-the-slice sourdough pizza spot that seriously deserves a long line out the door. I walked in and decided to try a slice of their spicy peach - a truly unique combination that I've never encountered on a pizza before. And wow, it worked! The crust was perfectly thin, and the sweetness of the peaches and honey, balanced with creamy ricotta, elevated it to another level. If you're a local or a tourist exploring Main Street in Ventura, this is definitely worth a try. My only minor suggestion is the lack of a water station. I asked for a glass of water, and never got it. I didn't want to bother the person at register and ask again because she looked busy. It would be really convenient if they had a self-serve option. read more

Back Bench Pizza - Spicy peach pizza - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

I have been missing good pizza since I moved to Southern California from CT. I thankfully found this shop. This is not Toppers. This is a real pizza. read more

Pizza is 10/10! Was able to get a slice of the kale sausage and spicy cauliflower before it sold out! Both pizzas had a nice balance in flavor with a crispy/chewy crust. Couldn't tell you which one I enjoyed more, they were both really solid! What I was thrown off by was the service. There was only one person working so it took quite a while to order slices because he was also making the pizzas. Guessing he was the owner? He somehow made us feel shameful for asking for a slice of pepperoni without us knowing it was sold out. Not the best place to dine in. They have several tables but it is pretty silent with no particular vibe. Just white painted walls lol. Curious what it would be like to takeout a whole pizza. Might be a better experience so we wouldn't have to interact with the owner. Pizza's great though, probably one of the best slices that I've had in Ventura! read more

Back Bench Pizza - Spicy cauliflower and kale sausage slices - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

The pizza was perfect. Well balanced between sauce and cheese. Crust has a wonderful crunch. The owner was very pleasant! Do fortunate to have a great local pizza play. read more

Wow! This is definitely a hidden gem in downtown Ventura! They are located next to the movie theater where the old Ben & Jerry use to be. The pizza was so good and the employees were so kind and very helpful when trying to decide. We actually have been wanting to try them for a while so happy we finally tried it. We definitely will be back! read more

See all

Delicious pizza! Friendly staff. Good music. But seriously, the pizza is top notch made with fresh premium ingredients, an in-house sourdough crust, and love! Now I'm happy and full. Thanks Back Bench! read more

Back Bench Pizza - Plain pie. Was too good to be photographed whole! - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

We love everything about this place. The music, the vibe, the chef - the pizza is truly excellent and so different from anything else you'll find in the area. It's special! The fact they offer a bitchin vegan pizza that is so incredibly good - is unbelievable. Vegan sausage and kale all the way and some vegan ranch we are in heaven! Thank you please never stop! read more

Back Bench Pizza - Vegan pies - kale sausage & mushroom peps - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

This pizza is so good. My wife and I were walking past it and just popped in to grab a water but then decided to try the pizza. We couldn't believe how good it was. It's so low key and under the radar but so top notch. It was surprising how good it was for just stumbling upon it. The pizza is thin, crispy, light, flavorful, and great simple ingredients. Not too much cheese, not too greasy. Good sauce. Nice sourdough. Love how they had the pecorino and basil on top. It's honestly perfect. Highly recommend. read more

Back Bench Pizza - Light, thin, crispy. So good. - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

Tried this new pizza place that just opened on Main Street. At first I didn't see any signage so I was kinda confused. I even got more confused when I saw the menu on the board. The service was slow, maybe because they just opened the store but I was there at 11:45 and I didn't get my pizza 30 minutes after. I wished they made the pizzas before they opened to accommodate customers who only have 30 minutes lunch break and who only wants a slice or two. Anyway, I ordered 2 slices I've never had in my life and they are plain slice with pesto and kale& sausage pizza. They were both good!!! Each slice is about $6 and I think I can eat 3. Anyway, I also asked for a glass of tap water and OMG! It tasted awful. One thing I would suggest to the owner/staff is try to be pleasant. When I was asking about the menu, The staff seemed irritated. Be friendly - you'll get more customers that way. read more

Back Bench Pizza - I took a bite of the pizza with pesto and the other one is kale & sausage. I love both of them - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

Truly goated spot. My crew and I got the spicy vodka sausage pizza.... brother, do not sleep on that one. Owner is great and really has perfected his craft. Good morals and care for community also, which you tend to see businesses shy away from. Don't be a loser, eat pizza here. 10/10 no notes. read more

The owner is an Ahole We weren't happy with the service is one of the employees. Instead of having the owner to apologize when we brought it up to him. He made us feel like we were in the wrong. The pizza was done incorrectly. The employee was super rude. The pizza was OK tasting. This place is completely overrated! Don't spend your money here!!! read more

I came here on a whim with my son. They sell by the slice so I figured what the hell, we'll have a few slices and head out. First off, they close for an hour in the afternoon. No problem, but when they opened, they didn't have any slices available. At all. So we ordered and waited 20 minutes for two slices. To their credit, hey it's fresh, so not a big deal. The pizza really is pretty good. I'd say probably above average. But that's not what calls attention to itself. The young girl that's the cashier is as quiet as a mouse. Almost literally, you can barely hear her. And she's nice enough, but she's really not that warm or welcoming, and that matches the restaurant itself and the other owner who was in the kitchen, baking the pizzas. He has this stone faced, rigid demeanor. You can literally see him through the window and he plainly looks like he doesn't want to be there. And then there's the restaurant itself; 90% of it is blank, white featureless walls. I think I saw two framed graphics way up near the top and I couldn't even see what they were. The menu is this white pin lettering that's a bit difficult to read and set up in the most bland, lifeless, sort of way. The whole place just has this lifeless, clinical, unwelcoming vibe; even with the raw, wooden wobbly furniture. To their credit, the place does seem pretty clean and a lot of places aren't, but if the owners themselves don't seem glad to be there, and aren't anymore welcoming than the place itself is, then why would anyone else want to be there? read more

Discovered this lovely spot today. Talk about a solid slice of pizza. Stopped by today and was HIGHLY IMPRESSED with this joint. Walking by, you don't see any signs of pizza until your right by the entrance where you will see a neon pizza slice. Place was empty when I came by around 5:15pm. Located in a super cute art deco building, this spot has a lot of cute ambiance. Menu is very simple and limited. Prices aren't too bad. In my honest opinion, the pizza is worth every penny. THE QUALITY IS SUBERB. Taste is explosive and packs a punch. The dough/crust is great. Overall very pleased with my slice today. Spent $5 bucks on the slice too. If your walking along Main and craving a snack or your hungry, keep them in mind. Such a good bite, you defenitly won't regret it. Make sure to support this local buisness, thanks Back Bench Pizza. Till next time. read more

See all

10/10 recommend! I've heard the lore of Back Bench pizza and while out and about went full big back and had to grab a slice because when the light is on the pizza is slinging! We lucked out with only pepperoni left so they grabbed a couple slices threw em in for a quick warm up, sprinkled the slices with some fresh shaved parm and it was in our hands. At first bite the crisp of the thin crust just catches you instantly and makes you go wow! The flavor packed punch of the sauce has your pallet hitting every sensation! It's light yet satisfying and even more so it's crave worthy because after one slice you already want another! It rivals some of the best pizza give had including spot in NYC ! read more

See all

Best pizza hands down in Ventura and near by area! The staff is always nice and the atmosphere is perfect for friends or families, good music is always playing. They also offer vegan versions of their pizza. The caeser salad and olives are a favorite addition. read more

GOATed spot high key one of the best pizzas I've ever had in my entire life. I'm fat, you can trust me. Friendly staff and I got exactly what I wanted. Old school vibes but in a best possible way. read more

Best pizza in town by far! Killer slices, great music, and affordable! They get busy so dont expect to have it right away, but its worth the wait. Treat this place like a omakase sushi place. Trust what Travis makes, it will always be excellent. Dont be lame and you'll have an excellent experience at backbench. read more

Back Bench Pizza - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

I'm addicted!! Best pizza this side of NY! Thin crust, perfect delicate flavorful crust, fresh tomato sauce. Doesn't get any better than this! read more

The best pizza in Ventura!! His specials are always very good. Love that he changes them every month. Also, the cookies he makes are incredible. read more

You might miss this underrated spot if you aren't looking. Sold by the slice pizza that is always delicious! The owner is sweet and helpful! It's always hard to choose what to get! He changes the pizzas monthly! read more

Back Bench Pizza - Pizza Near Me - Ventura, California

See all

PERFECT thin crust pizza. The sauce is exceptional! Best pizza in Ventura, hands down!