Pizzeria Avanti - Santa Cruz

A wonderful little restaurant! I've been visiting for years.

I absolutely love this place! I haven't been here in years, but the experience and the high-quality food are just as great as I remember.

This is a cozy little spot for dining. If you're in the mood for a light, thin-crust pizza with minimal cheese, this place might be just what you're looking for. I've been here several times because of its convenient location, and I appreciate their light crust, which is thin with a slightly crunchy exterior. Their specialty is caramelized onions, which adds a unique flavor. For vegetarians, there are a few options; I usually choose the arugula topping since it's not commonly found in mainstream pizzerias. However, they could afford to be a bit more generous with the toppings. I was misled by the photo on their website, as the actual serving had just a very thin layer of arugula, making it hard to taste. Additionally, I think their prices could be more reasonable.

We've been dining here every Friday night for the past seven years (except during Covid). The menu may seem simple, but the locally sourced pastas and pizzas are outstanding in flavor. The staff and owner provide friendly and attentive service, creating a welcoming atmosphere. It's a casual place that's perfect for families, with a small but excellent wine selection. Truly a hidden gem!

This is definitely one of my favorite pizza spots in Santa Cruz. It's hard to find authentic Italian pizza like this outside of larger cities. It's a great place to grab a quick and affordable meal. Their warm gourmet olive plate pairs perfectly with the pizza!