Za Pizza — Restaurant in San Francisco

Why is it that the simple things in life can be some of the best things in life? Frills and hype don’t necessarily equal greatness.

We sure found that to be the case at “Za Pizza.” Either their pizza/people combo beckons you here or you simply pass right on by their humble establishment. I counted three tables and three barstools inside, two tables outside, and exactly one television. Yeah, if you’re here, you’re here strictly for the pizza and the people. Not a bad combo though, right?

This place just overflows with genuine local vibe, so no posers, please. Be real or be gone (my words, not theirs).

Our server was super friendly and provided great advice about an adventure we are planning for later on this trip (stay tuned!). While I was attempting to secure one of the aforementioned tables outside, he was apparently chatting it up with my wife inside. When he met me outside he said he didn’t realize the weather was so nice today and that I must have brought the nice weather with me from San Diego. When I asked how he knew where I am from he said, “Your daughter told me when I met her inside.” Yeah, I will literally NEVER live this down. 🤦‍♂️

As much as we enjoyed his company, we planned our visit mostly ‘cuz of the (piz)”Za.” That thin crust was just so light and seemed to nearly yield a “crunch” with each bite. We don’t often include pics of pizza crust, but felt compelled to do so this time.

Although we customized our “Za”, they also offer a set menu of pizza by the slice options if you’re in a hurry (or traveling solo).

Come for the crust, stay for the people (or vice versa). Just get here if you’re near Russian Hill.

And that’s…Henry’s...

1 star because the pizza is good. First time I came here was great service. This second, and last time my friends and I (4) were treated terribly. Walked to the man behind a register and he didn't regard us at all. Looked right past us. After 5min I asked if we order here. He said "at the register." there was another one. Waited a moment, another man asked for my friend's order and "for here or to go" there was no seating available so I said to go. Friend 1 replied "2 pepperoni" the man didn't hear and barked "what!?" (The place was loud) my friend repeated then I was sharply asked for my order, and then my 2nd friend. We were given our checks and I asked "we'd actually like to eat inside since a table opened up, if that's alright" The man replied "not normally. if someone comes in they're gonna want to sit down" and then looked away. Another employee followed up with "it causes confusion." We were confused because we are those people coming in wanting to sit! My 3rd friend stood there disregarded until after we all got our pizzas and he had to ask for service. I had to tell friend 1 who sat down already that we aren't allowed to eat here. We waited outside in the cold for friend 3 to get his pizza. Friend 3 filled us in on what happened inside: He got his pizza and was still waiting to pay. A customer behind friend 3 asked an employee if he could order. Employee said "you have to wait in line" (behind friend 3) then the employee asked friend 3 "what do you want" friend 3 replied "I want to pay for the pizza you gave me!" Paid and left. All confused and angry for the service...

Za Pizza was yielding a 4.5 when I stopped in. The place was full and everyone seemed to be enjoying their pie. I got a couple slices of pepperoni to go. I was surprised at how bad it was. I understand taste is subjective, but there is some consensus on what a good pie should be, this was not it. The under crust was thin and hard the whole way through. While it was not visibly burnt, it had no give or fold. Felt like cardboard. The end crust was tough and chewey, but not that soft chewey like a fresh piece of bread, rather the hard chewey associated with a baguette that's​ been left out for a couple days. The sauce and toppings were all average. Likey a canned sauce, and mass produced discount cheese and pepperoni.

I'd give this place a single star for the mediocre pie, but it wouldn't be fair of me to ignore the special vibe here. They had skateboards pinned to the wall and some really cool alternative art. Cool vibe, I couldn't help but feel that my patronage was supporting...