Pizzeria Avanti - Santa Cruz

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 visiting this restaurant every Friday night for the past seven years (except during Covid). The dishes may seem deceptively simple, but they are made with excellent local ingredients and are full of flavor. The staff and the owner provide friendly and attentive service, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. It's a casual spot that’s perfect for families. While the wine selection is small, it still offers a great variety. This place is truly a gem!

Definitely one of my favorite pizzas in Santa Cruz. It is hard to get authentic Italian pizza like this, unless you are in a larger city. Great place for a stop for a fast and cost-effective meal. Your hot gourmet olive plates are incredible with pizza.

Wonderful experience in Pizzeria Avanti we shared the butter salad with beet salad, then split the lasagna and the chicken fusilli. We had more than enough leftovers the next day! Excellent wine, great staff, always a pleasure to dine here.