As we all know, Italy is nowhere close to Central California. However, classic Sicilian pizza is well-loved in Merced, and residents often opt for Italian dishes over any other type of cuisine. The preference of Merced locals for Sicilian pizza is for a couple of reasons. They adore its thick buttery crust covered with fresh, traditional tomato sauce and topped with their own choice of meats, veggies, and cheeses, but also because it provides a quick glimpse into Italian culture. In addition to this famous pizza, authentic Italian pasta is also a popular option in Merced restaurants.

While Sicilian Pizza is the most sought-after pizza in this region, another popular type of pizza that Merced locals seem to resort to is the world-famous New York-style pizza. Delicious, perfectly cooked pepperoni on top of a bubbly mozzarella and cheddar mix, resting on a bed of smooth and savory tomato sauce and a thin, hand-tossed crust. You can’t go wrong with this type of pizza, and Merced residents know it. New York-style pizza is served traditionally, by the slice, in many pizza restaurants in all of Merced.

Best Delivery Pizza in Merced

Open since 1978, Mountain Mike’s Pizza has been cooking the best pizza in Merced for ages, according to locals. Their pizza is popular in the area thanks to their freshly-made dough, rolled daily, real whole milk mozzarella cheese, and some of the most exquisite meats. If you are a pepperoni lover, then this restaurant is right up your alley, as the bestseller on their menu is the legendary Pepperoni Pizza. In case you also enjoy veggies on your pizza, you can try ordering The Everest Pizza or their Mt. Veggiemore Pizza.

On the other hand, if you prefer chicken wings, you should definitely try Mountain Mike’s Sweet Chili Wings, Masterpiece BBQ Wings, or Honey Garlic Wings. After an order of their wings, Mountain Mike’s customers consistently rave about the taste. The buffet here is another unique choice. It’s excellent value for money, and you can sample a variety of items.

Best Takeout Pizza in Merced

Famous for their very diverse menu and birthday pizzas, Pizza Guys is always a go-to for takeout pizza in Merced. Their ingredients are all fresh and perfectly cooked every time, and their staff is calm, polite, and respectful to all customers. Moreover, their menu offers vegan options, specialty gluten-free pizza, and even dairy-free options. There’s really something for everyone, even the pickiest eaters, at Pizza Guys. Fan favorites here include the Impossible Beef BBQ Pizza, Tuscan Garlic Chicken Pizza, and their delicious appetizers, including Cheezee Jalapeno Bread and calzones.

Whether you are on a diet or having a cheat day, Pizza Guys have the perfect meal for you. While their salad selection is very diverse, using only fresh, vitamin-rich produce and healthy dressings, their pasta is incredibly creamy, cheesy, and comforting. You’ll be satisfied with every bite no matter what you choose to order.

Best Pizza Near Merced

Atwater

Taking its name from a wheat farmer who was one of the largest landowners in the area in the 1800s, Atwater is now home to a huge variety of Italian pizzerias. Tary Boscolo’s Pizzeria & Italian Restaurant is sure to satisfy any pizza or pasta craving, as they specialize in original Sicilian pizza and authentic pasta.

Their restaurant is simple, designed following old Italian traditions, making any Italian feel at home. If you plan on having a date night out or a family dinner, Tary Boscolo’s pizzeria is the place to be!

Livingston

Are you in the Livingston area and want to enjoy Chicago-style thin-crust pizza? Then you should try Geneo’s Pizza, 15 minutes northwest of Merced.

Geneo’s Pizza has been around for decades and is still thriving up to this day, thanks to their restaurant’s cozy, relaxing atmosphere and excellent customer service. The Super Special Pizza with five different kinds of meat and assorted veggies is fantastic if you’re in town. The difference with this pizza is that they add chili strips for a little bit of heat.

Los Banos

Located in the San Joaquin Valley, Los Banos is famous not only for its agriculture but also because it is situated on the Mexican border. If you live in this area and want to give a small business a try, then Little Diamond’s Pizza will genuinely amaze you.

Diners swear by their pizza, claiming the sauce to topping ratio is just perfect and that their deals are always great. Little Diamond’s popular dishes are the Mexican Pizza, the Combination Pizza, the classic Pepperoni Pizza, and the various stromboli.