Best Pizza in Montecito (Updated Jan 2023)

I’ve been all around the world, sampling different kinds of pizza from some of the best shops in Italy and New York. But after trying eleven pizza places here in Montecito, I can confidently say that this city has its own unique tasty offerings.

In this article, I’ll be sharing my experiences at each place and giving you my take on who cooks up the best pie. So read on if you want to find out where to finally get your hands on the most delicious slice!

If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of California

#1 best pizza place in Santa Barbara - 4 Eggs & Pizza

#1 4 Eggs & Pizza

Open Hours
Monday: 10AM-8PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday: 10AM-8PM
Thursday: 10AM-8PM
Friday: 10AM-8PM
Saturday: 10AM-8PM
Sunday: 11:30AM-8PM

Benefits
  • Offers dessert
  • Has some vegetarian options
  • Serves alcohol
  • Has a kid’s menu


The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, making it the perfect spot to enjoy dinner with friends. The staff is friendly and helpful, so you’re always sure to get the best service.

But let’s talk about the pizza—that’s what I’m here for! This is some of the freshest and most flavorful pizza I’ve ever had. They use a unique combination of four different types of cheeses that give it an amazing depth of flavor. The crust is perfectly cooked and lightly crispy, not too hard or too soft, just right. They also have a variety of unique toppings that add additional layers of flavor, like their signature eggs pizza!

Overall, 4 Eggs & Pizza truly stands out as the best pizza in Montecito. If you’re looking for great tasting and unique pizzas that will make your taste buds go wild, then look no further than 4 Eggs & Pizza!

If you’re willing to go an extra 4 miles, you can get to 11 more pizza places in Goleta!

#1 best pizza place in Summerland - Rusty's Pizza Parlor

#2 Rusty’s Pizza Parlor

Open Hours
Monday: 11AM-11PM
Tuesday: 11AM-11PM
Wednesday: 11AM-11PM
Thursday: 11AM-11PM
Friday: 11AM-12AM
Saturday: 11AM-12AM
Sunday: 11AM-11PM

The atmosphere of Rusty’s is one of the best things about it. You walk in and you instantly feel like you’re part of a great pizza family, filled with laughing customers and the fresh smell of pizza pies cooking.

Rusty’s has a wide variety of pizzas, from classic pepperoni to bold new veggie combinations. I had the “Rocket” – an absolutely heavenly combination of spicy Italian sausage, roasted red peppers, onions, black olives – and let me tell you, it was outta this world! The crust was perfection – crispy on the outside yet still doughy on the inside. Honestly, after all my travels I feel confident in saying that Rusty’s Pizza Parlor makes some of the best pizza in Montecito!

#1 best pizza place in Santa Barbara - Bettina

#3 Bettina

Open Hours
Monday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4-8:30PM
Tuesday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4-8:30PM
Wednesday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4-8:30PM
Thursday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4-8:30PM
Friday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4-8:30PM
Saturday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4-8:30PM
Sunday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4-8:30PM

Benefits
  • Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
  • Offers dessert
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Has some vegetarian options


My recent visit to Bettina’s was a treat for my taste buds. The ambience is cozy and inviting, and the staff is friendly, making for an enjoyable dining experience.

The menu offers a wide selection of toppings, from classic Italian favorites to more eclectic choices like pineapple. I opted for the classic Margherita with extra cheese (of course!). The crust was perfectly cooked and flavorful, while the tomato sauce was tangy and fresh. As for the cheese – it melted in my mouth!

To top it off, all their dishes are cooked in an authentic, wood-fired oven – adding to the delicious flavor.

As a food critic, I take great pride in giving honest reviews and usually don’t give out compliments lightly…but I have to say — this pizza is definitely one of the best I’ve ever had! If you’re looking for some truly great pizza here in Montecito, you absolutely must dine at Bettina’s.

#1 best pizza place in Santa Barbara - Lucky Penny

#4 Lucky Penny

Open Hours
Monday: 11AM-9PM
Tuesday: 11AM-9PM
Wednesday: 11AM-9PM
Thursday: 11AM-9PM
Friday: 11AM-10PM
Saturday: 11AM-10PM
Sunday: 10AM-9PM

Benefits
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Offers dessert
  • Serves alcohol
  • Has some vegetarian options


I was somewhat skeptical upon arrival – it’s a small, unassuming place hidden away in a strip mall. But boy was I wrong! The pizza was unbelievable.

The crust had a perfect balance of crunchy and chewy, with just the right amount of seasoning. The toppings were fresh and flavorful, ranging from classic pepperoni to some of Montecito’s unique picks like roasted eggplant or artichoke hearts.

I’m also one to judge a pizza joint on its desserts, and Lucky Penny did not disappoint. They offer an amazing selection of cheesecakes and other treats that really hit the spot after a big slice of their famous pizza.

To sum it up, if you’re looking for the best pizza in Montecito, you’ve found it at Lucky Penny!

#1 best pizza place in Santa Barbara - Petrini's Italian Restaurant - Santa Barbara

#5 Petrini’s Italian Restaurant – Santa Barbara

Open Hours
Monday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Tuesday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Wednesday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Thursday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Friday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Saturday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Sunday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM

Benefits
  • Offers dessert
  • Serves alcohol
  • Has a kid’s menu

Downsides
  • No delivery


The atmosphere here is great – it’s the perfect spot for a date night, a family dinner, or to just hang with friends. They serve alcohol, have a kid’s menu, and offer dessert! What more could you ask for?

I sampled their pizza offerings while I was there, and they were simply outstanding. The crust was cooked to perfection, the sauce was flavorful and had just the right level of spice, and the toppings were fresh. I had a hard time deciding which one to order because they all looked so delicious!

The only downside is that Petrini’s doesn’t deliver – you’ll have to get your pie in-store or by takeout. But trust me when I say that it’s worth driving to Montecito for this pizza! In my experience, it’s some of the best pizza I’ve ever tasted.

#1 best pizza place in Santa Barbara - Honor Market

#6 Honor Market

Open Hours
Monday: 8AM-9PM
Tuesday: 8AM-9PM
Wednesday: 8AM-9PM
Thursday: 8AM-9PM
Friday: 8AM-9PM
Saturday: 8AM-9PM
Sunday: 8AM-9PM

I arrived at Honor Market armed with my latest pizza-tasting mission, keen to sample their offerings. As I stepped in through the door, I was welcomed by a warm and inviting atmosphere, along with delicious aromas that made my mouth water. The staff were friendly and attentive, helping me decide on the perfect pizza for me.

When it arrived at my table, I almost couldn’t believe how good it looked! The thin crust had been cooked to perfection and the toppings were fresh and plentiful. With every bite, I could taste all the flavors working together to create an incredible taste sensation. Everything about this pizza was exceptional – from the flavorful sauce to the crunchy cheese… it truly can be described as one of the best pizzas I have ever tasted!

The only downside of eating at Honor Market is that after my first visit there, I dread having to return home because it means having to go back to ordinary pizzas again! For anyone looking for truly amazing pizza in Montecito – look no further than Honor Market!

If you’re willing to go an extra 26 miles, you can get to 13 more pizza places in Ojai!

#1 best pizza place in Santa Barbara - Olio Pizzeria

#7 Olio Pizzeria

Open Hours
Monday: 4-9PM
Tuesday: 4-9PM
Wednesday: 4-9PM
Thursday: 4-9PM
Friday: 4-9:30PM
Saturday: 4-9:30PM
Sunday: 4-9PM

Benefits
  • Has insanely good dessert
  • Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
  • Has some vegetarian options
  • Nice tourist spot

Downsides
  • No delivery


I’m not sure if it’s the wood-fired oven or the quality of the ingredients, but each slice is an absolute masterpiece. Plus, they serve alcohol (and hard liquor!), so you can grab a few drinks to enjoy with your dinner.

For those looking for vegetarian options, Olio Pizzeria has something for you too! Their veggie topping combinations are out of this world. The salads are also a nice touch if you’re not in the mood for pizza.

If you think the pizza is good, just wait until you try the desserts! They have insanely good cakes and pastries. A definite must-try!

The only downside is that they don’t do delivery; however, that doesn’t keep me from making a special trip to Olio Pizzeria any chance I get. It’s definitely worth it! So, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Montecito, visit Olio Pizzeria and treat yourself to an unforgettable experience

#1 best pizza place in Santa Barbara - Taffy's Pizza

#8 Taffy’s Pizza

Open Hours
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: 11AM-9PM
Wednesday: 11AM-9PM
Thursday: 11AM-9PM
Friday: 11AM-9PM
Saturday: 11AM-9PM
Sunday: 11AM-9PM

Benefits
  • Serves alcohol
  • Offers dessert
  • Has some vegetarian options


I tasted all the different varieties of pizza Taffy’s offers, and each one was a delicious masterpiece. My personal favorite pizza was their classic cheese pizza. The blend of cheeses melted together in perfect harmony, creating a rich flavor that I haven’t experienced elsewhere.

Taffy’s also has some incredibly tasty specialty pizzas! Their Meat Lover’s Pie is loaded with sausage, pepperoni, and bacon – it’s a carnivore’s dream come true! And their creamy white Spinach & Garlic pie is to die for.

The service at Taffy’s was also outstanding. All the staff were friendly and welcoming and took the extra time to make sure everything was absolutely perfect with our order. They even offered us complimentary drinks and appetizers while we waited!

All in all, Taffy’s Pizza is hands down some of the best pizza in Montecito. I would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for an amazing culinary experience. Bon Appetit!

#1 best pizza place in Santa Barbara - Cali-Forno Pizzeria

#9 Cali-Forno Pizzeria

Open Hours
Monday: 11AM-9PM
Tuesday: 11AM-9PM
Wednesday: 11AM-9PM
Thursday: 11AM-9PM
Friday: 11AM-10PM
Saturday: 11AM-10PM
Sunday: 11AM-9PM

Benefits
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Offers dessert
  • Serves alcohol
  • Has some vegetarian options


This restaurant did not disappoint. From the moment I stepped in, I noticed the delicious smell of pizza wafting through the air. The interior was bright, clean and inviting; a perfect setting for a delicious meal.

The pizzas at Cali-Forno Pizzeria come in all shapes and sizes – from traditional hand-tossed rounds to thick, deep dish pies. They also offer unique topping combinations such as spicy pepperoni and pineapple or black olives and roasted red peppers.

As for what really matters – the taste – let me just say this: Holy cow! I’ve eaten pizza all over the world, and Cali-Forno’s pies are definitely some of the best I’ve ever had. The crust was thick yet light and airy, with a crispy exterior that made my mouth water with anticipation when each bite passed my lips.

The cheese was gooey but not greasy, while the toppings were fresh and balanced perfectly against each other. In short, these pizzas were nothing short of heavenly!

If you’re looking for an amazing pizza experience right here in Montecito, then look no further than Cali-Forno Pizzeria – it’s simply one of the best pizzas I’ve ever had!

#1 best pizza place in Santa Barbara - Fatte's Pizza Santa Barbara

#10 Fatte’s Pizza Santa Barbara

Open Hours
Monday: 11AM-10PM
Tuesday: 11AM-10PM
Wednesday: 11AM-10PM
Thursday: 11AM-10PM
Friday: 11AM-11PM
Saturday: 11AM-11PM
Sunday: 11AM-10PM

The crust was perfect – crisp on the outside and soft in the middle, just how I like it. The pizza sauce had a nice balance of sweetness and acidity to complement the delicious toppings. And speaking of toppings, my favorite is their four-cheese blend which melts perfectly on top of every slice.

But what really sets Fatte’s Pizza apart from other places around here is their commitment to freshness. Their ingredients are locally sourced and never processed or frozen. That way, you always know that whatever you’re eating has been made with love and attention to detail.

I’d also be remiss if I didn’t mention the atmosphere at Fatte’s Pizza Santa Barbara. Friendly staff, cheerful decorations, and a comfortable ambiance make this place as inviting as it is delicious! If you’re ever in town looking for a slice of heaven – this is your spot!

#1 best pizza place in Santa Barbara - Via Vai Trattoria Pizzeria

#11 Via Vai Trattoria Pizzeria

Open Hours
Monday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Tuesday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Wednesday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Thursday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Friday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Saturday: 11:30AM-2:30PM,4:30-8:30PM
Sunday: 4:30-8:30PM

Benefits
  • Nice tourist spot
  • Serves alcohol
  • Offers dessert

Downsides
  • No delivery


The menu had a lot of creative offerings, some of which I hadn’t seen before, so that was definitely exciting. The atmosphere was relaxed and inviting, making it the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a delicious pizza. Oh, and did I mention they serve alcohol? I mean, what pizzeria experience would be complete without beer or wine?

But the real gem here is the pizza. It’s like no other pizza I’ve ever tasted – the crust is perfectly cooked and has just the right amount of char; the sauce is flavorful but not overwhelming; and they use only top-notch cheese. It must be Italian magic!

Unfortunately, there isn’t any delivery option from Via Vai Trattoria Pizzeria so you will have to visit in person to get it delivered straight from the oven. But don’t worry, it’s well worth it! And if you still have room for dessert afterwards – maybe some decadent tiramisu – then you’re in luck because they offer those too!

All in all, Via Vai Trattoria Pizzeria is well worth your time if you want some of the best pizza in Montecito (and trust me – it’s really worth a try!).

If you’re willing to go an extra 30 miles, you can get to 28 more pizza places in Ventura!

We will be happy to hear your thoughts

Leave a reply

Solve : *
18 × 23 =


Pizza Oven Radar