
Apollonia's Pizzeria
RESTAURANT SUMMARY

Where uncompromising artisanship meets pizza perfection, Apollonia's Pizzeria Los Angeles has redefined the city's slice culture through founder Justin De Leon's obsessive dedication to craft. This Mid-Wilshire institution transforms humble ingredients into extraordinary experiences, earning recognition as one of the world's finest pizzerias.
Founded in 2012 by former fine art photographer Justin De Leon and his wife Linda, Apollonia's emerged from a passionate pursuit of pizza purity. De Leon's artistic eye and meticulous standards created a revolutionary approach: no delivery, no modifications, no compromises. This philosophy has cultivated a devoted following willing to queue for what many consider LA's definitive slice. The pizzeria's recent inclusion at #58 in the 2025 Best Pizza Awards in Milan, Italy, validates over a decade of relentless refinement and positions it among the world's elite pizza destinations.
The cuisine centers on two distinct styles executed with surgical precision. Their signature Detroit-style square slices feature sourdough bases crowned with crispy cheese frico edges that rise in dramatic 3D formations. The Crown Pizza exemplifies this technique, while the Acapulco Gold layers garlic, ricotta, mozzarella, pecorino, oregano, tomato, arugula, and truffle oil into a symphony of flavors. Traditional New York-style rounds showcase De Leon's East Coast influences, with the Wilshire Margherita and Mayor's Mistress (pepperoni and sausage) demonstrating masterful simplicity. The Pepperoni with Burrata and Mike's Hot Honey balances richness with heat, while the Viva La Vegan ensures plant-based diners experience the same artisanal excellence. Each pizza emerges from organic, locally-sourced ingredients, with daily recipe adjustments reflecting De Leon's perfectionist approach.
The 900-square-foot storefront embraces functional minimalism, with standing counters and limited seating creating an intimate, focused atmosphere. The open kitchen concept transforms pizza-making into performance art, allowing guests to witness the precise choreography behind each creation. Service remains deliberately streamlined—takeout and pickup dominate, with De Leon often personally overseeing operations. This hands-on approach ensures every pizza meets exacting standards while fostering genuine connections with LA's pizza cognoscenti.
Apollo's Pizzeria represents more than dining; it's a pilgrimage for serious pizza enthusiasts seeking Los Angeles fine dining elevated to artisanal heights. Reservations aren't accepted—arrival and patience reward the faithful with slices that justify every accolade. For those pursuing the best fine dining in Los Angeles through pizza's lens, Apollonia's delivers an unparalleled experience where craft, consistency, and community converge.
CHEF
Justin De Leon
ACCOLADES












