When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Esco's New York Style Pizza
Why Esco's New York Style Pizza is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Esco's New York Style Pizza in Los Angeles is a top destination for anyone looking to enjoy an authentic New York-style pizza experience far from the Big Apple. Located on West Pico Boulevard, the pizzeria draws pizza lovers with its gigantic, crispy slices that boast perfect cheese-to-sauce balance and a well-crafted dough known for its golden undercarriage and foldable texture. The ambiance adds to the experience with a cleverly designed interior that includes a NYC subway car replica adorned with old-school graffiti, providing a unique and immersive dining atmosphere. Whether meeting friends for a casual meal or grabbing a quick lunch or dinner, Esco's welcoming and inclusive environment makes it a great place to gather, share stories, and indulge in some of the best pizza in Los Angeles. Popular menu highlights include the standout white pie praised for its cheese, the hot honey pepperoni with ricotta dollop, and a vegan slice option catering to diverse tastes. Efficient service with curbside pickup convenience makes dining easy and accessible.
Here's what people think of Esco's New York Style Pizza
As of recent, Esco's New York Style Pizza holds a 4.7-star rating based on 358 reviews.
User reviews of Esco's New York Style Pizza consistently highlight the quality of the pizza, especially lauding the cheese, dough, and authentic New York slice style. Positive feedback often centers on the generous slice sizes, crispy yet foldable crust, perfect sauce distribution, and the delicious variety of toppings such as the hot honey pepperoni and white pie. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly and attentive staff, the inviting ambiance featuring NYC subway decor, and the inclusive community vibe that the owners foster. The place is also noted for being fairly priced and providing ample seating both indoors and outdoors. Negative comments, though sparse compared to the overwhelmingly positive reviews, mention a few minor issues such as occasional dryness in the crust or pizzas being served a little hot enough to burn initially. One odd review that lowered some average ratings was due to a mistaken identity, confusing this pizzeria with an unrelated airport location. Overall, the reviews paint Esco's as a highly recommended spot, trusted for its authentic New York style pizza and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors craving a true East Coast slice in Los Angeles.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Dea Lylith
The pizza was amazing! It was like being back in New York again. The owner was so nice and I loved all the new pizzas he came up with. My favorite was the pepperoni and ricotta with hot honey. Definitely going to be my new pizza spot!
Susie & James Cassel
We flew into LA this morning and wanted to grab lunch before heading north out of town. We did a google search for the best thin crust pizza in LA. Esco’s came up first, so we hopped in the rental and drove straight over. We were SO glad we did! The pizza was delicious…that crust! It had just the protective amount of crispiness and was rich in flavor. Esco was warm and inviting. He made us feel welcome - real gem of a guy. Now we just wish he’d open a store in Dallas where we live!
Tiffany Benz
This place was a letdown. The photos don’t represent what’s current. We expected a cool restaurant like the photos from what previous customers have posted. It’s moved locations entirely. We decided to eat in the trunk of the car. Pizza was okay. $40 for just a large average pizza seems insane. The toppings were good and the pizza was hot, but the crust was oddly chewy. The garlic knots seemed fresh!
David
Finding new places to eat is something I truly enjoy doing. Finding a new place to eat that makes great food is even better. Esco's Pizza is making some of the best pizza in town. Right on the corner of Pico and La Brea, the pizza here will make you think you were in New York. But I can't take the credit for finding this hidden gem, that goes to my fiancé for suggesting we try it.
Magno Portilla
The best margherita slice in LA? Absolutely yes! It is simple and not bombarded with a lot of nonsense. It is a true New York pizza joint. Coming from Queens is great to see another NYer bringing some much needed flavor to LA. I also tried his white slice, regular cheese slice, garlic knots that were delicious. My other favorite items were the knot filled with nutella and the sausage and pepperoni calzone. If you're from any of the five boroughs you would like the outside and the inside with the colors from New York, blue and orange. The customer service is excellent.
How to reach Esco's New York Style Pizza
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Why Esco's New York Style Pizza may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Esco's New York Style Pizza with your friends? If you're searching for the perfect spot to gather a group, Esco's offers an unbeatable combination of fantastic food, lively atmosphere, and a sense of communal joy that makes sharing moments with friends and family genuinely memorable. The star of the show here is, of course, their authentic New York–style pizza, which boasts a crispy crust, balanced sauce, and generous toppings that transport you straight to the Big Apple with every bite. Beyond the delicious food, the ambiance is designed to evoke the spirit and energy of New York City itself, complete with NYC subway art and even a subway train replica inside the venue, creating a fun, immersive environment perfect for group selfies and memories. The staff’s warm and friendly service enhances the experience by making everyone feel welcome, whether you’re dining in or grabbing food for a casual meetup. With a solid 4.7-star rating across hundreds of reviews, it’s clear that Esco’s consistently delivers both in quality and experience, making it an excellent rallying point for friends and family seeking not just food but connection and fun.
What activities can a group enjoy at Esco's New York Style Pizza? First and foremost, indulging in their giant, foldable New York–style pizza slices is a shared ritual that unites everyone over a tasty experience. The menu features a variety of options including classic pepperoni, the ever-popular hot honey pepperoni with ricotta, vegan slices, and creative specials like buffalo chicken pizza that add flair and satisfy diverse palates. This variety ensures that every group member finds something to enjoy, no matter their preference or dietary needs. Besides food, the setting itself invites interactive experiences such as taking pictures on the subway train installation or against colorful NYC-style graffiti murals, providing fantastic photo ops that double as fun activities. The interior’s vibrant design and spacious seating—with both indoor tables and outdoor options—foster a relaxed atmosphere ideal for conversations, celebrations, or casual hangouts. Whether your group enjoys playing games, sharing food, or simply catching up over great pizza slices, Esco’s has the space and vibe that support all these group-friendly activities effortlessly.
Why is Esco's New York Style Pizza perfect for a group meetup? The venue’s layout balances intimacy and space, accommodating small to medium-sized groups comfortably without feeling cramped. Its clean, inviting environment ensures that guests feel comfortable spending extended time together, whether for birthday parties, casual reunions, or weekend gatherings. Service at Esco’s stands out with a reputation for being quick, friendly, and attentive, so groups can expect efficient service even during busy times without sacrificing personal attention. This efficiency lets groups avoid long waits, keeping the mood upbeat and the gathering flowing smoothly. Additionally, pricing is reasonable, especially considering the generous size of the pizza slices—perfect for budget-conscious groups that want a satisfying meal without breaking the bank. The staff’s willingness to explain the menu and offer recommendations adds a personalized touch, enhancing the overall experience. Ultimately, Esco's is not just a pizzeria; it's a social hub where food and fun intersect beautifully, making it a prime destination for hosting memorable group meetups.
How does the atmosphere at Esco's contribute to a great group experience? The ambiance is a major draw, designed to channel New York City's iconic street vibe right into Los Angeles, which elevates any gathering from ordinary to special. The subway cart seating and surrounding murals create an immersive backdrop that's both nostalgic and visually captivating, offering guests a unique setting that sparks conversation and excitement. The clean and modern environment amplifies the comfort level, allowing groups to feel at ease whether they come to eat, chat, or take photos. This lively yet relaxed atmosphere encourages guests to linger, enhancing the social aspect of the meetup. Sound levels are moderate, meaning groups can converse comfortably without having to shout over loud music or crowd noise. For those wanting a touch of classic NYC energy but in a welcoming and less hectic environment, Esco’s strikes an excellent balance, making meetups feel both energetic and intimate.
What makes the food quality at Esco’s exceptional for group dining? The pizzas are crafted with authentic New York flair, featuring a crust that offers the perfect crunch underneath while staying chewy and foldable—a hallmark of true NY style pizza. This attention to dough quality is paired with a well-balanced sauce that complements but never overpowers the toppings. Cheese melts beautifully, and toppings like pepperoni or specialized selections such as buffalo chicken or vegan-friendly slices show a commitment to variety and quality. This dedication to authenticity not only satisfies pizza aficionados but also converts casual diners into repeat customers. Furthermore, the portions are generous, ideal for sharing and creating a communal dining experience where everyone can try different flavors. The combination of taste, texture, and topping options makes dining at Esco’s an interactive and gratifying sensation that enhances group gatherings by turning meals into shared culinary adventures.
How does Esco's handle customer service to enhance group visits? The team at Esco’s is known for their friendliness and professionalism, providing clear explanations about the menu and recommending pizzas based on guests’ preferences. This personal engagement helps groups, especially those unfamiliar with New York–style pizza, to make informed choices and feel confident in their orders. The staff’s genuine hospitality fosters a welcoming atmosphere that encourages guests to linger and enjoy their time together. Even during busy periods, service remains attentive and efficient, reducing wait times which can be critical when managing larger parties. Positive reviews highlight staff members’ approachable demeanor and their responsive nature, which adds a layer of care that turns a simple pizza outing into a memorable social event. Such customer-centric service creates an environment where groups feel valued and eager to return, confirming Esco’s as a reliably excellent choice for hosting meetups.
What are the space and seating options available for groups at Esco's? Esco's New York Style Pizza offers a variety of seating arrangements tailored to accommodate different group sizes comfortably. The seating inside includes booths and tables, with an intimate yet well-spaced layout that’s perfect for groups of five or more who don’t mind sitting close but want a cozy environment. The highlight is their unique subway cart seating area, providing a fun and thematic spot ideal for smaller groups or couples that can add an extra NYC vibe to the gathering. Outside seating is available too, offering a more open-air environment with plenty of tables fit for larger parties or those who prefer an alfresco experience. This flexibility in seating enables groups to choose the setting that best fits their mood and needs—whether lively and social indoors or relaxed and casual outside. This adaptability to guest preferences makes hosting group events seamless and enjoyable at Esco’s.
How does Esco’s New York Style Pizza cater to diverse tastes in a group setting? Understanding that a group often has varying tastes and dietary requirements, Esco’s menu is thoughtfully crafted to accommodate a wide range of preferences. The presence of vegan slices on the menu ensures that plant-based eaters have delicious options beyond the usual cheese or meat toppings. For those who enjoy a bit of spice or bold flavors, the hot honey pepperoni slice with a ricotta dollop offers intrigue and balance. Classic options like pepperoni, margherita, and cheese also satisfy traditionalists and kids alike, making everyone in the group feel catered to. This variety allows groups to share and sample different pizzas, turning dining into a communal tasting experience. The balanced sauce-to-cheese ratio and well-made crust deliver consistently enjoyable slices, no matter the choice. This inclusiveness brings everyone to the table and enhances the social dining experience by turning it into a shared celebration of flavors.
How does the location and price point contribute to Esco's suitability for group meetups? Situated conveniently in Los Angeles, Esco’s New York Style Pizza enjoys accessibility that encourages groups to come together without hassle. Its location supports both local and visiting groups looking for an authentic NYC pizza experience without leaving the city. Pricing is reasonable, especially given the massive size and quality of the slices, making it a great choice for groups mindful of budgets but unwilling to compromise on taste or experience. The value offered encourages longer stays and multiple visits, vital for groups that prefer to spend extended time catching up or celebrating. Thus, Esco’s balances accessibility, affordability, and authenticity in a way that maximizes convenience and satisfaction for group dining scenarios.
What makes Esco's a standout choice for hosting parties and special occasions? Esco's New York Style Pizza transcends typical pizzerias by creating an atmosphere and menu that support celebratory and social events. Its blend of authentic food, unique NYC-themed decor, and attentive service ensures any party feels special and memorable. The spacious layout and flexible seating accommodate a wide range of event sizes, from small gatherings to larger birthday or reunion parties. Staff willingness to assist with special requests or menu explanations adds a personalized element to celebrations. Furthermore, the appealing visual backdrop of subway trains and murals doubles as an informal photo studio for party snapshots, embedding memories alongside delicious food. This makes Esco’s not just a place to eat but a comprehensive venue that enhances the group celebration experience with style, flavor, and warmth.
In conclusion, Esco's New York Style Pizza is a top-tier destination for meetups, combining mouth-watering, authentic pizza with a lively, welcoming environment that perfectly suits groups of friends or family. Whether you seek a casual hangout, a burger substitute rooted in New York culture, or a vibrant backdrop for your next party, Esco’s offers all this with professional service, affordable pricing, and a flair for the authentic. It’s a place where food, fun, and friendship intersect, making it an unbeatable rallying point for anyone wanting to create joyful shared experiences over great pizza.