We love Al's New York Cafe in Costa Mesa. They make great NY pizza and have a great sandwich and pasta menu. The place is small so there is not a lot of seating, but you can get it to go. That is what we tend to do. The service is super fast and friendly. They know the menu well. The entire staff is just super nice. You will be comfortable there. We called in our order and it was ready when we got there. I love their meatballs and the lasagna is so good. They also have great spaghetti and it all comes with garlic bread, which is loaded with garlic. What we really love here as well are their cold sandwiches. Most subs are not great, but not at Al's. They know how to make them and the small size is perfect. As to their pizza, it is just great. We love their white pizza and always get that to go. read more

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One of the best pizza places around. I've been coming here for over 20 years. The lasagna here is so amazing they only make it on Wednesdays and Fridays, but today I came for the pepperoni slice. This thing was huge too. Big New York style slice with a thin crust, loaded with melted cheese and a bunch of pepperoni all over the top. The pepperoni had that greasy crispy edge to it and the cheese had that perfect stretchy melt when you pull a bite away. You can see the oil sitting right on top which honestly is exactly how a good pepperoni slice should look. The crust was soft in the middle with a little crisp on the bottom so it folded perfectly when eating it. Simple pizza done right. No fancy stuff, just a really good classic pepperoni slice from a place that's been consistent every time I've gone there. Al, you rock! read more

Al's New York Cafe - Slice of pepperoni pizza - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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This was a great spot. My son really enjoyed the pizza--and he's pretty picky when it comes to pizza, so that says a lot. My mom and I ordered cold sandwiches, and even though we got a small, the portion was huge. The only downside was the seating. There wasn't much available, and the only place we could sit was outside, where there was a lot of foot traffic. That said, the pizza and customer service were both excellent, which definitely made up for it. read more

So good, I went twice in a day!! Found this place around Lunch & wad impressed by the Menu. I felt like I wad in a NY Italian Deli. Pizza, sandwiches, pasta.... The staff was friendly, they gave me a description of several items, and even gave me a brief history on their establishment and the area. After trying the Hot Roast Beef Supreme Sandwich, I came back after work to order the #4 NY Special Pizza. The Pizza dough was legit, like how I remember in NY. Not thick and doughy, but thin. I can't wait to come back and try their pasta! I had a Large Pizza (14 inch) NY Special & Hot Roast Beef Supreme Sandwich read more

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Stopped by for lunch and was pleasantly surprised. The pizza was fresh, flavorful, and cooked perfectly, while the sandwiches were packed with quality ingredients and generous portions. Friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere make this a spot I'll definitely visit again. read more

It has been about two years since we last visited from San Diego. The initial time we ordered takeout here we were so impressed and knew we would visit again when in Costa Mesa. So here we go again. I was greeted by Jake who was extremely courteous and professional. I ordered the NYC Special and a meatball sub. The order was completed in 10 minutes and Jake set us up with accessories for eating in our hotel room. Jake is an outstanding representative for your business. So the service was exceptional, now let's get to the food. The NYC Pizza was very plentiful with delicious toppings. The Meatball Sub Sandwich-large portion , favorable large meatball covered with cheese and Marinara Sauce, oh and the bread was perfect to hold all these things together. So in conclusion: THANK YOU read more

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Al's New York Café - A True New York Pizza Gem in Costa Mesa My husband has been telling me about Al's New York Café forever. We finally had an appointment in Newport Beach, and he asked the most dangerous question: "Are you craving pizza?" Which, for me, is always a YES -- especially if it's New York-style. I ordered my usual test order: a plain cheese slice (the real way to tell if a pizza place is legit) and a meatball sub. One bite of that cheese pizza and I swear, I was back in New York. Perfect thin crust with that slight chew, just the right amount of sauce, gooey cheese -- this is the kind of pizza I've been hunting for in Southern California for years. Al's absolutely passed my "plain cheese test" with flying colors. And the meatball sub? Wow. The bread was fresh and crunchy on the outside, soft inside, and the meatballs were tender, flavorful, and clearly homemade. This wasn't just a good meatball sub -- it was the kind you think about days later. The vibe in this place is just as good as the food. You can tell Al's is a neighborhood favorite. There were regulars coming in who the staff greeted by name -- some told us they eat there almost every day! And Al himself was there, shaking hands, checking on tables, making sure everyone was happy. That same care shows in his food and in his team -- the staff was just as friendly and welcoming when we ordered. By the time I was halfway through my sandwich, my husband had tried a bite of my pizza, and his eyes lit up like a kid on Christmas morning LOL. Next thing I know, he's ordering a whole pizza to go -- which we demolished later. Al's New York Café is more than just pizza -- it's a slice of New York in the heart of Costa Mesa. Fresh, authentic, flavorful, and full of heart. If you're a pizza lover (or a meatball sub lover), run, don't walk. read more

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I've been going to this place for years and it never disappoints! Pizza, pasta, garlic bread. I have tried it all and it's all delicious. Great portions. They are the type of business, that is you forget to order ranch with your pizza. They don't buckle and dime you and the just give it to you. I love when a company cares about their customers aren't penny pinchers. Small things like this bring customers back! read more

Al's New York Cafe - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Something is off. Al's NY always had super large thin crust and foldable slices. I've been ordering here for 20 years. I got a large with a bunch of toppings that were obviously just placed on top of the pie for the last few minutes of cooking. Even the flavor is off.. maybe it was just an off day read more

Ordered a 12" sausage and black olives, after driving home, keeping it warm for 15-20 mins, only to open up the box to find mushrooms and black olives. UGH also way to many black olives ! I am done with this joint. Plenty of other places in CM, and Newport read more

This pizza is the best! Iris at least as good as Pizza I have had in NYC, which I loved. I live two hours away, but every time I visit my mom in Newport BeachI get so excited to order Al's and we usually order lots of it because I want to eat it every day and it warms up so easily. My mom and sister order the cauliflower crust and my husband, daughter and I prefer the original. I haven't tried their sandwiches and calzone yet, because the pizza is too good not to order. The service is always great, and fast. When we have it delivered I always shocked by how fast they arrive. An excellent pie with great service! THANK YOU! read more

Hands down one of the best pizza place in OC area! Their NY special had fresh garlic and their combination pizza had tons of toppings. Both were flavor galore and will not disappoint!!! As someone who enjoys NY pizza this place is definitely a must if you are in the area. The crust could have been a bit thinner but the toppings, flavors and friendly team members made up for it. Their pizzas were not oily as well which was great. Lots of parking, very friendly team members, awesome pizzas! What else could you ask for? The place is not big, only few seats and tables outside and few stools inside but this place is a must! If you are in the area and craving pizzas, sandwich or pastas!!! Don't pass this place! read more

Al's New York Cafe - Menu - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

My friends and I have eaten here every Saturday for over 30 years - Oh It's Good. 12:30 to 2:00. read more

Tried this place for dinner and it was pretty good overall. The pepperoni pizza had a crispy crust, plenty of cheese, and flavorful pepperoni with just the right amount of spice. Service was friendly and the food came out quickly. Definitely worth checking out if you're craving pizza. read more

I had the 2 slices of pepperoni with drink for $9 lunch special. It was decent. I thought the crust was too flat and cracker-like. The cheese was also creamier than any NY pizza I've had. Not sure if they mix in some other type of cheese. Same complaint I had years ago that they have iced tea but don't carry artificial sweetener. Last time they told me to go get some at 7-11! I will say that the young guy in charge was much friendlier than those I encountered several times, years ago. I still prefer Johnnys in CDM, but I continue trying others to see if they can beat it. read more

Legit NY style pizza that serves killer sandwiches. They get their sandwich bread from famed C'est si Bon!!! That's their secret to awesome sandwiches. The Hot Roast beef with avocado, grilled onions and peppers was extremely good. Jake recommended this sando, and he was really helpful--he's a huge asset to Al's cafe. Jake was also super nice to all customers including a homeless lady asking for food. Jake deserves a big raise Their NY pizza was excellent: the cheese blend and tomato sauce were on point, although the dough however did flop-over it still tasted great. This is as close to NY pizza as you can get (I've eaten alot on the east coast when I attended school there...). read more

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Let me tell, this fucken guy! Doesn't need a medal, he needs a Michelin star! The service forgotboutit, the food Forgetboutit . I showed in the piss pouring rain and he says , get the #4 with jalapeños and here's a discount and a drink. Can you believe this guy, this a fucken hero! The ambiance is just what a pizza place needs, rotation of people coming in and out and the business is well! Whites, Mexicans African Americans , come one come all and try this spot! If you haven't , then your pizza places is not competing with this spot. Get a pie and listen to the sound advice the cashier tells you. 10/10. Don't forget it! The people champ! read more

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Our first time. We got the large chicken (#5) pizza to go. Everything was great. Lots of veggies with big chunks of chicken. Fresh and delicious. Would go back again soon. read more

Long time customer- LOVE the Greek salad and pizza- the best! Just had the lasagna- only available Weds/Friday. It tastes like someone's mom/nonna made it with love! read more

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Really guys? Third time here and it was burnt. 4 pm on a Sunday. Not busy. Last time I did delivery and ranch never made it. I guess when I order pick up I need to not only check the toppings, but also the crust. Lame. read more

Al's New York Cafe - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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The best pizza in the OC! Sugo can try but that New York style is the best. I come from hills of yorba just for the pizza. You can get this pizza and overlook the marina 5 min away. read more

Reminds me of my good old NY pizza. Will be coming back for more. Big slices. Great prices. Yum Yum Yum. Trust. It's a hidden gem in Newport. read more

Went to Al's New York Cafe to get a couple of slices of Pepperoni Pizza, and they did not disappoint. The thin crust New York style pizza is my favorite slice of pizza when ordering and this here is made fresh. The sauce really gets a taste of the herbs inside making is pack a better punch of flavor then normal chain locations. The wait within was quick too, waited only about 2 minutes for the 2 slices to come out. The crust I will say was a little too crispy but nothing to really bring down the food. The interior and atmosphere also feels cozy, like a late 90's pizza shop you'll see in movies. Overall very satisfied with this place and I definitely will order from here again! read more

So nice I ate there twice. My daughter had an event just down the street so saw New York cafe and had to try. Absolutely loved the hot sandwiches, the portions are generous you can share. The next day went back for a chicken Cesar salad and a roast beef sandwich which my wife and I shared. FYI, we had leftover food which I am looking forward to eating the next day at work. Didn't have to wait long, food is made fresh. Definitely a must if you are in the area. read more

Ordered two 14" pies. They were fresh, delicious, and made with LOVE! True New York pizza! I'll be back every week until I taste everything on their menu. Next up: Al's homemade meatballs!! Can't wait...") read more

I love their pizza! The NYC special is soooo bomb I haven't been able to stray away since trying it! I recommend picking it up yourself rather than delivery to avoid steaming in the box leads to a slightly soggy middle. I promise you will love it !!! read more

Al's New York Cafe - #4 NYC Special - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

If you haven't met Al, you're missing out on one of Costa Mesa's true hidden gems!! For over 30 years, Al's New York Cafe has been serving up the kind of food that makes you feel like you've stumbled upon something special, and it's clear why this place has such a loyal following! Al's is where you go when you're craving that perfect slice of New York-style pizza. My pick: the NYC Special, piled high with sausage and pepperoni... just like you'd expect from a classic New York pizzeria, but right here in OC. But it doesn't stop at pizza. The deli sandwiches are a standout too. Their classic pastrami is piled so high, you'll wonder how you're going to take the first bite (hint: just dive in and don't worry about it). Also, LOVE that they offer pizza by-the-slice options, perfect for those days when you just need a quick fix! Al's is truly the kind of place where you walk in as a customer but leave feeling like a regular. This place is superb!!! read more

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Best NY pizza around. I only get cheese and it never disappoints. Be sure to eat it hot, that's when it is at its best, but it's great cold too! read more

My family has ordered Pizza from Al's over the last several years and have always loved them!! I just ordered the pink sauce pasta dish w/meatballs and it was OUTSTANDING! Jake helped me with my order and what he recommended was terrific. A huge portion, enough for 3 people and every bite was great. Can't wait for the next few days of leftovers read more

It's been years since I've been back to Al's and I'm glad that I did. The fresh face lift creates the ambiance of a modern NY Deli, it was bustling with customers and greetings and smiles. The service was attentive and prompt once I made it through the line and we were lucky enough to score a table outside. The food = comfort the sauce was zesty the crust had the perfect crunch on the outside and was soft and fluffy inside with generous amounts of cheese. The ziti helped me cover two emotions completely happy and a little guilty because I've been pretty consistent on my diet until that meal. Cheat day paradise lol. So delicious. To top it off, as we were leaving the owner 'The Al' cane out to check on us, thank us, and welcomed us back. We'll be taking him up on his offer! read more

Al's New York Cafe - The owner is awesome... came out to thank us and let us take a photo with him - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Great delivery from Grubhub. Pizza arrived intact & warm! Ordered the NYC special pizza. The cheese was delicious as it stretched with each bite. Yum. However, as a NY/NJ native, still not quite NY style pizza. Pizza was a bit too thick. Make it thinner and I think it'll be perfect. Crust was good. Flavors were good. Would still return to try their Buffalo chicken pizza. Good effort but it's so tough to find real NY style pizza in SoCal. read more

Al's New York Cafe - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

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SO GENEROUS! Usually places skimp on the toppings but they covered my pizza with pepperoni and filled my antipasto salad to the brim! It's nice that they give both ranch and Italian dressing with their salad as well. This was my first time door dashing from them and I just became a regular customer! read more

Gave them a try for lunch for OC Pizza week. Dang they had some good pizza! Jake gave exceptional service. He is extremely friendly and hospitable. We will definitely be back. 10/10 pizza! read more

I have been going to Al's for pretty much 25 years now and it's still as amazing as day one. The owner is an awesome guy and makes you feel part of his family. Every time I go in it's nice to see how he's doing and how the business is. The pizza is amazing truly tastes like you are in a New York pizzeria. Pizza has great flop and the sauce is amazing. The best thing on the menu is the AL's square which used to be on the secret menu but now it is on the menu. It's a white pizza topped with garlic and parmesan, cut into squares and you get red sauce to dip it in on the side. Each Christmas my family gets lasagna for the entire party and it is always the first thing finished. They were able to make some additions to the place after covid, but still has that ma and pop shop vibe. This place is my families favorite fell good spot. Thanks Al. read more

This place has been here for a long time and I come here for my pepperoni cravings and I love their thin crust pizzas.

Amazing pizza would definitely order again have not been disappointed once always on time at a great price

Wow !!! Go Here for Great tasting Pizza. I'm never disappointed. Delishioso !!! Everything here is Tasty read more

The food was delicious! My partner is vegetarian and I am not, we ordered the chicken Parmesan pasta and asked for the sauce and chicken on the side so I could share with a vegetarian, and not only did they accommodate us, but they also included a free side salad as an extra as well as bread sticks. The quality in their ingredients is obvious, and the veggie pizza had a delicious variety of veggies including eggplant. We didn't dine in, but the customer service was still amazing, the owner himself was extremely welcoming and pleasant. We will definitely return next time we are in town! read more

Al's New York Cafe - #2. Fresh Veggie #7. Chicken Parmesan - Pizza Near Me - Costa Mesa, California

Pizza was very good and Jake and Raul are very friendly and helpful. Will definitely be back to try the lasagna. They also have a TV so I stayed and watched playoff football. Love this place read more

Als is wonderful. They are kind and accommodating and always willing to go above and beyond for you. Their food is delicious, well priced and they have a great variety. When you walk in, you are always greeted with a smile and their delivery is quick and they always have a great attitude if you want amazing pizza, delicious pasta, and awesome salads. This is your place. read more