Massimo Pizza - Costa Mesa Rating: (5/5) Sometimes you want an artisan, wood-fired, ultra-balanced pizza. And sometimes... you just want a massive, unapologetic, cheesy beast of a pie. Massimo nails that second category so perfectly that it feels almost therapeutic. We ordered an XL pepperoni + sausage with extra cheese, and the thing that stood out immediately is that Massimo actually understands what extra cheese is supposed to mean. Most chains toss on maybe 25-50% more, and it barely changes anything. Here, they layer it so thick that the slices almost fuse together into one glorious sheet of bubbling mozzarella. You lift a slice and it stretches -- heavy, gooey, satisfying -- exactly the way you hope it will. Flavor-wise, it hits all the buttons. The pepperoni brings salt and crisp edges, the sausage has that savory punch, and yes -- it's a grease bomb in the best possible way. If greasy pizza isn't your thing, this might not be the spot. But if you embrace a good greasy pizza, whether you're recovering from a long night or just craving comfort food, this place delivers. What really surprised me was how well the sauce balances everything. It has enough acidity to cut through all that cheese, meat, and oil, keeping each bite from feeling heavy. Instead of being overwhelmed, you just want another slice. And another. I also grabbed a side of alfredo sauce for crust dipping, and it was fantastic -- creamy, rich, and basically turned the leftover crust into its own bonus meal. This isn't a dainty pizza. It isn't pretending to be health food. It's bold, salty, cheesy, greasy, and absolutely delicious -- exactly the kind of pie you daydream about when someone says, "Let's just order pizza tonight." Final verdict: Massimo doesn't just do "extra cheese" -- they commit to it. Big flavors, heavy slices, great sauce balance, and total satisfaction. For this style of pizza, it hits the spot every single time. 5/5 -- an easy must-order. If you want clean, delicate pizza... look elsewhere. If you want pizza that tastes like pure comfort -- this is your place. read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - XL Sausage, Pepperoni, Extra Cheese - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Admittedly, I didn't know this restaurant existed walking up, and it was a spur of the moment decision after I discovered the nearby 17th Street Deli was already closed (3pm). So, pizza or pasta? I needed something in my stomach before a wine tasting at Hi-Time Wine Cellars afterwards. Definitely need food for that! I was in a hunt for lasagne, so I asked and the lady who took my order gave it a seal of approval. I was also eyeing the house specials, or a build your own option. Pizzas looked good on the neighboring tables, so that's probably my next time choice. I grabbed a comfortable booth and waited a bit. The lasagne came out piping hot with that lovely browned cheese top. I decided to avoid adding anything else except black pepper, which revealed it's flavorful as-is. Anyhow, I like the casual atmosphere, and the clientele seemed to be regulars on a Saturday afternoon. Very nice! read more

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Friendly welcoming staff. Seemed like a chill place to hangout and get food. I came in simply wanting an Italian sandwich. Got the large "Mafia" sandwich. It was friggin' huge. more than enough for me and my girl to share. The meats were good and I liked the vinagrette they used If I lived closer, I would definitely come by more often to try more of their food read more

Best pizza. Family atmosphere. Friendly service. Accepts cash! Sandwiches and sides are amazing. read more

Let's just start with the food--because wow! We came with a bigger group, which meant I got to sample a little bit of everything (the best way to do it, right?). The extra-large pizza was absolutely perfect--crispy crust, just the right amount of sauce, and toppings that tasted super fresh. The meatball sandwich? Served on bread that somehow managed to be soft and crunchy at the same time (basically sandwich perfection). The Greek salad was crisp, refreshing, and full of flavor, and the Capicollo sandwich brought that salty-savory punch I didn't know I needed until I tried it. The staff here deserves a shout-out--seriously some of the friendliest and most welcoming people I've met. You feel like family the second you walk in. Bonus points for the easy parking situation--because who wants to circle the block when you're craving pizza? Massimo's hits all the marks: delicious food, great vibes, and people who genuinely care about their customers. Definitely adding this to my "go-to" list! read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - Pizza was so good - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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These guys have the best food. Very friendly and helpful. The wait time to get your food isn't very long.

This place is absolutely amazing. From the moment I walked in, it was clear this is a favorite among locals, takeout orders were nonstop, people were constantly coming and going, and nearly every seat in the restaurant was filled. The food was authentic and delicious. I built my own pasta, choosing fettuccine with pink sauce (a marinara and Alfredo blend) and chicken, served with garlic bread. I left my plate completely clean, every bite was that good. Everyone at our table was beyond satisfied and couldn't stop raving about the pizza and pasta. The service was true Italian hospitality, they make you feel like family and genuinely take care of you. We were in town for a half marathon, yet they treated us with the same warmth and attention they give their regulars. Eddie especially stood out. He took the time to personally connect with our table, stopping by a few times to chat, and did the same with neighboring tables. It's those little personal touches that make all the difference and turn visitors into loyal fans. I can absolutely see why this place is always busy. Wishing them nothing but success, and I can't wait to come back next time I'm in town. Cheers, my friends, keep crushing it. read more

A local friend took us to this hidden gem for lunch, and wow--it did not disappoint! The place was buzzingwith middle and high schoolers on e-bikes, which basically says, "this spot is a must-try!" :) It was so hard to choose what to eat with all the yummy options! I finally went with the lunch special: cheese pizza, salad, and soda for $12. The salad had fresh mozzarella and cute little garnishes. I couldn't decide on a dressing, so the cashier suggested a side of vinaigrette... and OMG, it was so good! The restaurant is cozy, comfy, and chill, and the staff were super sweet. You bus your own table when you're done, which adds to the laid-back charm. Can't wait to come back and try the pasta, sandwiches, or one of their dine-in specials next time! read more

Stop here every time we're in the area. Small hole in the wall spot, few booths and TVs. Staff always wears soccer jerseys and re very friendly. Salads were excellent as well as pizza. Everything came out quickly and the whole family enjoyed their meal. read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Was looking for a local family run pizza place in town and came across Massimos. The range of options you can choose for your pizza and pasta is incredible, but the actual taste and quality is even more incredible. And they were playing the Angels game on the TV's. Definitely my new fave pizza place. read more

Their pizzas are top-notch, with fresh, high-quality ingredients and a crust that's the perfect balance of crispy and chewy. The subs are packed with flavor, especially the meatball sub, which is a total crowd-pleaser. And don't get me started on their pink pasta--don't know the exact recipe, but that creamy, tangy sauce is absolutely addictive and a must-try. Everything here screams quality, and it's no wonder this place is a local gem! Service is always on point and fast they have a great team here. I like the set up plenty of place to sit. The TVs and the sport decor set and cozy felling. Highly recommend this place read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - Me trying to figure out what to order - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

My wife and I went to this pizza and pasta place. That's very close to our house and we're very pleasantly surprised when we walked in, the service was great. We did wait upon arrival a little bit like 15 minutes, but that means that pizza was fresh and it was some of the best pizza I've had in the area so how do you recommend this place? It's tucked in a corner so make sure you don't miss it when you arrive! read more

Just visiting area for Sugar Plum Craft Fair at OC Fair grounds. Found this on YELP and we liked they had Pizza by the slice with a salad! Perfect! Service was good, small front booths & Tables are available with lots of TV's for Sports. Enjoyed it very much and good price for food received. read more

We got into town late, hit the beach for night swimming and wanted pizza- we called massimos and asked if they could cook us up a pizza even tho it was near closing time- they were so nice and threw the pie in the oven, we arrived minutes later and was greeted with a smile and they were so nice!! Cutest restaurant, family place, old school booths. The pizza was piping hot, cooked to perfection, tasted great. Would recommend this place, they have all kinds of Italian options, also beers, soft drinks etc read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - Massimos is the place to be - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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My daughter found it and it was AMAZING!!!! Eddie one of the owners had my order ready when I arrived the Cannolis were being made fresh as I walked in the door! My friend who's Italian and I was surprising after 11 years at his rehab center was shocked to see me and when he bit into his Chicken Parmigiana Sandwich he rolled his eyes in contentment I felt the same when I first bit my Meatball hero!ALL LEGIT!!! Will definitely return!!! New York Style Pizza the owners from Brooklyn so for those that love NEW YORK STYLE ITALIAN this is the place for you!!! TV's to view Sports!!! Once again A MUST VISIT AND THEY SERVE COCA-COLA PRODUCTS!!! What else do you need!!!! Tell your friends!!!! Their ratings only 4.8 should be a definite 5.0 read more

Absolutely loved my visit to Massimo Pizza in Costa Mesa! The staff and management were incredibly friendly--genuinely some of the best service I've had in a long time. They sure know how to make their guests feel so welcome. I came for the pizza but stayed for the sweets--the baklava in particular was dangerously good. I told myself I wouldn't indulge, but it was impossible to resist. My mouth was literally watering, and the kind-hearted owner saw it happen (blush) and generously offered me a slice on the house! That little act of generosity (and that ridiculously good baklava) sealed the deal. I'll definitely be back! read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - Do yourself a favor and have a slice or two - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Not a bad way to start the year off! With most places closed on New Year's Day, options were slim. We settled on pizza since most pizza places are open still on this national holiday. We found Massimos Pizza and Pasta on door dash and then quickly flipped to Yelp to check the reviews. I saw that the reviews were mostly good, and decided to take a chance. I ordered the veggie pizza with Alfredo sauce instead of marinara sauce. The pizza was cheesy and delicious. The toppings were fresh. The pizza dough was alright. That could be better. Nothing compares to freshly baked vegan pizza dough. But for regular pizza crust, it was alright. It would have been better with a butter crust or garlic- any flavor. The crust and dough were bland to me. We had to really use the ranch to dunk the pizza in it. With the ranch for dipping, it took this pizza up to a 8/10. Without the ranch we are talking more like 7/10. read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - Pizza - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Had lunch here today. I had the lunch special slice with salad. The salad was fresh and delicious, huge, couldn't even finish it. Pizza slice was great! I grew up in NY, I know pizza. The crust was both soft and crisp, the way it's supposed to be. My mother had the gluten free pizza. I tried a bite. It was delicious and had a crispy bottom. I love the decor. Reminded me of a local New York pizza shop. Not sure if it was the owner, but I told him how much we enjoyed lunch and he told me they've been in business for 44 years. The walls are decorated with local high school sports teams. I love that they support the community. I will definitely be back. read more

I'm a pizza lover guru and pizza snob. I've eaten pizza all over and it's now time to review yet another pizza joint. I got 3 slices. A pepperoni, sausage and Salami. The Sausage slice was small compared to the other two. As far as taste goes all three were on point. I just feel it's a tad overpriced for 1 topping slices. $4.25 a slice. And they're not that big. But the quality is there. Crispy and not skimpy on the toppings which I appreciate. What I think is lacking is the service. They didn't give me any grated Parmesan cheese or crushed red pepper on my order. Plus they charge $1.00 for ranch which I think is lame and unnecessary. My favorite pizza shops all give ranch out for free as a gesture and "service" (Laventinas, Sergeant Pepperonis). I know food costs have gone up and inflation and all but with slices already that pricy it should be included. Love the large TV's they have inside as well as the cleanliness of the restaurant. read more

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Some of the best pizza you can find by the beach. We stop here almost every time we go to the beach. The location has indoor and outdoor seating and a large selection of food. Repeat customers and we will be back again soon. read more

This is not my first review but it's been awhile. If you're in the area I highly recommend! The pizza is absolutely amazing! I would definitely say it's quality pizza! It's actually my favorite of all time. read more

I ordered a large pizza half cheese only and half of their special. A friend of mine recommended it. It took 20 minutes for it to be picked up. The guy at the reg was very nice. The pizza was very delish, too! I highly recommend! Thank you! read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - Their Pizza Box - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Great food, ambience, and family run. The pizza is on point, and the salads are very fresh.

My boyfriend and I treated ourselves to a beach day at Crystal Cove and found this spot. 10/10 would come back again. We ordered pasta and pizza. The pasta was saucy (I like saucy past). The pizza was so delicious I couldn't help but eat it while it was fresh out the oven. You need to come here read more

They have the best pizza and they actually make a great manicotti, my favorite Italian dish. Not everyone makes it, and if they do, it's usually not that good. read more

Great pizza!! I love the fact they have Halal options. Always such tasty pizzas and amazing service. I ordered pizza ahead of Time for a lunch gathering and it was ready on time. Will always be a fan! read more

Everything is just perfect and made the way you want. Good staff and good stuff :) Always welcoming and smiling faces, clean and delicious. read more

Massimos pizza is the best been going there for years ,their garlic cheese bread is one of a kind and the staff is always friendly and efficient, was also impressed with how clean it was I highly recommend. read more

Love this place. I'd my go to for east coast style subs in the Costa Mesa/ Newport area of 17th Street. They serve beer and have sports on the flat screen TV's. Their pasta dishes are great and my go to is the ham & cheese or roast beef sub. read more

If I'm going to consume the calories of pizza, I want the best--and Massimo's delivers. With so many pizza options out there, it's hard to stand out, but Massimo's truly does. The quality of ingredients is excellent and always tastes fresh. The crust is perfectly cooked--never soggy--and full of flavor. One of the best parts for us is that they offer an outstanding gluten-free crust, which is a game changer for my husband. It's rare to find a place that does gluten-free so well without sacrificing taste or texture. The service is warm and welcoming--it's a family-owned restaurant, and you can feel the care they put into everything. Highly recommend giving Massimo's a try. It's our go-to pizza spot! read more

Always consistently good! Been a customer for decades and never have a bad pizza. We go straight up NY style pepperoni! Prices and staff are awesome too! Try Massimo's. you won't regret it. read more

I just want to Massimos Pizza is the best in Orange county. The service is tops. We love this place.

Super yummy pizza and the fantastic salad is just that! Fantastic ranch dressing also

Good food, friendly people, quick service. Good for kids. Very informal. Reasonable prices.

Want great food? Come here. Great price and taste. Every day they have daily specials so you get to try out every thing. Wings are a must! Amazing customer service here. DoorDash prices are a little crazy so make sure to come in. read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - This is criminal. Over THIRTY DOLLARS FOR 12 wings. Am I the only one who thinks this is crazy? - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Dine-in specials are offered every day except for Sunday. There are multiple TVs so it's a great place to watch sports. If the parking lot in front is busy, there is additional parking behind the plaza by Pinkley Park. There are four beers on tap currently: Chapman Crafted IPA, Chapman Crafted pilsner, Golden Road Brewing Mango Cart Wheat Ale, and Beach Cruizer Brewing Inc. American Honey Ale. read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - Pastrami Pizza - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Great place, they offer halal pepperoni pizza option!! They are so friendly and polite read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - halal pepperoni pizza - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

We ordered bbq chicken wings, a meatball sub, and garlic bread: BBQ chicken wings: 1 star - they were badly burnt - and not that grilled charred taste but that microwaved for 20 minutes instead of 20 seconds burnt taste. It was awful and once they had burned it like that, however it happened, they should have made a new batch instead of just adding barbecue sauce over it and having it be delivered anyway. Meatball sub 2.5 - 3 stars: I like that they use all beef to make their meatballs and the cheese was light, but without paying for extra marinara, as others have stated, it would be too dry. It also needed more flavor. Garlic bread 3 to 3.5 stars: This was the only "good" part of the meal. The bread was buttery and tasty. Not really too garlicky but it's how I like it. The bread could have also been softer - it kinda tasted like it was left out for the day - but the meatball sub bread was similar. Overall, this is a 2.5 star eatery and we wouldn't order from here again. read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - Meatball Sub - surprisingly dry - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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Maybe an off night but Pizza tasted like the box and lasagna had no flavor.. I'm not a complainer I'm just posting with the hopes that the owner sees this so they can tune it up read more

Ordered from here to try something new and saw the good reviews on Yelp. Didn't see the hype- tasted just like a pizza from Pizza Hut except way greasier which I'm not into. Service was simple, we picked up. For a $20+ pizza, I'll stick to pit fire pizza read more

Massimos Pizza and Pasta - Pepperoni Pizza - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California