Best Vegan Pizza Oakland & Berkeley: Top 12 Spots to Try

Looking for the best vegan pizza in Oakland and Berkeley? These East Bay hotspots serve up everything from cashew cheese-covered deep-dish pies to Detroit-style slices with plant-based sausage. Whether you're strictly vegan or just vegan-curious, you'll find cheesy, saucy, cruelty-free options at both fully vegan and vegan-friendly pizzerias across these flavor-packed cities. We’ve got you covered with the top locations, unique topping combos, and insider ordering tips so you can satisfy your next vegan pizza craving with confidence.

Top Vegan Pizzerias in Oakland

Oakland has emerged as one of the Bay Area's most vibrant hubs for plant-based cuisine, and the city’s vegan pizza scene is no exception. Whether you're looking for wood-fired pies, inventive topping combinations, or fully plant-based menus, these top vegan pizzerias in Oakland deliver flavor and creativity.

Timeless Coffee (Piedmont Avenue)

Although primarily known as a vegan bakery and coffeehouse, Timeless Coffee on Piedmont Avenue also offers a selection of savory items, including vegan pizza by the slice. Their pizza options rotate frequently, often featuring seasonal vegetables, house-made vegan cheeses, and unique sauces. With a fully vegan kitchen, it's a reliable stop for those seeking cruelty-free comfort food in a casual setting.

Highlights:

• 100% vegan establishment
• Creative, rotating pizza flavors
• Great spot for pairing pizza with vegan desserts and espresso

The Butcher’s Son (Nearby in Berkeley)

While technically located in Berkeley, The Butcher’s Son is a key player in the East Bay’s plant-based pizza scene and is only a short drive from Oakland. Known for its hearty, deli-style vegan food, this spot offers thick, cheesy vegan pizzas with house-made meats and dairy-free cheeses. The pizzeria side of their operation includes Sicilian-style square slices and decadent topping combinations.

Highlights:

• House-made vegan meats and cheeses
• Sicilian-style, thick-cut slices
• Great for takeout or casual dining

Zachary’s Chicago Pizza (Rockridge)

Zachary’s is an East Bay institution, and while not an entirely vegan establishment, they offer vegan deep-dish and thin-crust options that have garnered a loyal following. Their vegan deep-dish features a cornmeal crust, chunky tomato sauce, and Daiya vegan cheese, with a customizable array of vegetable toppings. Be sure to specify vegan when ordering.

Highlights:

• Vegan options available for both deep-dish and thin-crust
• Customizable toppings
• Great for groups with mixed dietary preferences

Sliver Pizzeria (Downtown Oakland)

Sliver Pizzeria focuses on simple, fresh ingredient combinations, offering one type of vegetarian pizza per day. While not exclusively vegan, they always have a vegan option available upon request. Their pizzas are known for their flavorful crusts and creative toppings, often incorporating locally sourced produce.

Highlights:

• Daily rotating pizza selection
• Vegan version always available upon request
• Locally sourced, high-quality ingredients

Vegan Mob (Lake Merritt Area)

Vegan Mob is a Black-owned vegan soul food restaurant that has recently expanded into offering vegan pizza. Known for its bold flavors and generous portions, Vegan Mob’s pizzas are loaded with plant-based meats, BBQ sauces, and dairy-free cheeses. It’s a must-visit for fans of fusion-style dishes and comfort food.

Highlights:

• Soul food-inspired vegan pizza
• Generous portions and bold flavors
• Black-owned and community-focused business

Square Pie Guys (Uptown Oakland)

Square Pie Guys is a Detroit-style pizza joint that has gained popularity for its thick, airy crust and crispy edges. While not entirely vegan, they offer a fully plant-based pizza made with Impossible sausage, vegan mozzarella, and a flavorful tomato sauce. Their vegan options are clearly marked and well-executed, making them a solid choice for mixed-diet groups.

Highlights:

• Vegan Detroit-style pizza available
• High-quality ingredients and modern branding
• Great option for takeout in Uptown Oakland

Vegan Pizza Tips in Oakland

• Many non-vegan pizzerias offer plant-based cheese or crust options; always ask!
• Local delivery platforms like Caviar, DoorDash, and Grubhub often allow filtering for vegan options.
• Instagram accounts like @eastbayvegan and @oaklandveganeats regularly post updates on new vegan pizza offerings in the area.

  Berkeley's Best Vegan Pizza Destinations

Berkeley is a haven for plant-based eaters, and its vegan pizza scene is no exception. Whether you're craving a classic margherita with cashew mozzarella or a bold pie loaded with seasonal veggies and house-made vegan sausage, the city offers a range of pizzerias that cater to every taste. Below are some of the top destinations for vegan pizza in Berkeley.

The Butcher’s Son

Despite its name, The Butcher’s Son is a fully vegan Italian-American deli known for its indulgent comfort food. Their vegan pizza offerings rotate, but you can often find thick, cheesy slices with creative toppings like vegan pepperoni, jalapeños, and garlic butter crust. Their house-made vegan meats and cheeses elevate their pies to a must-try status.

• Location: 1954 University Ave, Berkeley
• Highlights: House-made vegan meats and cheeses, deep-dish style pizza
• Best For: Hearty, indulgent slices

Sliver Pizzeria

Sliver Pizzeria is a local favorite with a strong commitment to using fresh, local ingredients. While not exclusively vegan, they offer a daily rotating vegetarian pizza that can be made vegan upon request by excluding cheese. What makes Sliver stand out is its focus on a single daily pizza, ensuring quality and consistency.

• Location: Multiple locations in Berkeley
• Highlights: Daily rotating menu, fresh seasonal toppings
• Best For: Quick slices with a gourmet touch

Zachary’s Chicago Pizza

A Berkeley institution since the 1980s, Zachary’s is famous for its deep-dish stuffed pizza. While not a fully vegan establishment, they offer a build-your-own vegan deep-dish or thin-crust pizza with Daiya cheese and a variety of veggie toppings. The hearty crust and rich tomato sauce make it a satisfying choice for plant-based eaters.

• Location: 1853 Solano Ave, Berkeley
• Highlights: Vegan deep-dish option, customizable toppings
• Best For: Classic Chicago-style vegan pizza

Emilia’s Pizzeria

Tiny but mighty, Emilia’s is known for its New York-style thin-crust pizzas and cult following. Though the menu is limited, vegan options are available by request, and they offer high-quality ingredients with a focus on flavor. Vegan customers can opt for a cheeseless pie or bring their own vegan cheese to be added.

• Location: 2995 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley
• Highlights: Thin-crust, made-to-order pies
• Best For: Minimalist, high-quality vegan pizza

Artichoke Basille’s Pizza

Located just outside of Berkeley in nearby Emeryville, Artichoke Basille’s is part of a larger chain known for its hearty slices. While their standard menu is not vegan, they offer several vegan-friendly options and are open to customizations. Their large slices and bold flavors make it worth the short trip.

• Location: 3785 Emery St, Emeryville
• Highlights: Oversized slices, customizable orders
• Best For: Late-night vegan pizza cravings

Pizza Moda

Pizza Moda offers a more upscale pizza experience with a focus on local, organic ingredients. They provide vegan mozzarella and a range of plant-based toppings, including roasted garlic, wild mushrooms, and arugula. Their cozy atmosphere and wine selection make it a great choice for date nights or casual dinners.

• Location: 1401 University Ave, Berkeley
• Highlights: Vegan cheese, artisan toppings, dine-in ambiance
• Best For: Elevated vegan pizza experience

Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub

With a laid-back vibe and a solid vegan menu, Lanesplitter is a longtime favorite among locals. They offer vegan cheese and a variety of veggie toppings, plus hearty salads and craft beers. Their thin-crust pizzas are ideal for sharing, and the relaxed pub atmosphere makes it popular with students and families alike.

• Location: 2033 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley
• Highlights: Vegan cheese, pub-style setting
• Best For: Group outings and casual dining

Source References

• The Butcher’s Son – Official Website
• Sliver Pizzeria – Menu & Locations
• Zachary’s Chicago Pizza – Vegan Options
• Emilia’s Pizzeria – Yelp Page
• Artichoke Basille’s Pizza – Emeryville
• Pizza Moda – Menu
• Lanesplitter Pizza – Menu & Locations

  Menu Highlights and Specialties

Signature Vegan Pizzas

Berkeley and the surrounding East Bay area are home to an impressive selection of signature vegan pizzas that cater to a variety of tastes. Many local pizzerias offer thoughtfully crafted plant-based pies that go beyond the standard veggie toppings.

• The Butcher’s Son in Berkeley is renowned for its indulgent vegan comfort food, and their pizza menu reflects that. A standout is the "Buffalo Chicken Ranch" pizza, made with house-made seitan chicken, spicy buffalo sauce, and creamy vegan ranch, all atop a chewy, flavorful crust.
• Timeless Coffee in Oakland offers a rotating menu of vegan pizzas that often feature inventive toppings like cashew mozzarella, smoked tempeh, and seasonal vegetables.
• Zachary’s Chicago Pizza in Oakland and Berkeley, while not exclusively vegan, provides a hearty deep-dish vegan option with a chunky tomato sauce, mushrooms, and dairy-free cheese upon request.

House-Made Vegan Cheese and Meats

A defining feature of many East Bay vegan pizzerias is the use of house-made vegan cheeses and meats. These artisanal ingredients set the local vegan pizza scene apart, offering both texture and flavor that rival traditional pizzas.

• Pizzerias like Cheese Board Collective in Berkeley, a worker-owned cooperative, often experiment with nut-based cheeses and fresh produce. While not exclusively vegan, they frequently offer vegan-friendly pies with unique flavor profiles such as roasted root vegetables and cilantro-lime sauces.
• Plant-Based Pizza in Oakland specializes in vegan comfort food, with their own range of dairy-free cheeses made from coconut, soy, or cashews, and mock meats like vegan pepperoni and sausage.

Crust Options and Gluten-Free Varieties

Many establishments in Berkeley and Oakland understand the importance of accommodating dietary restrictions alongside veganism. As a result, customers can find a range of crust options, including gluten-free and whole grain.

• Sliver Pizzeria, with locations in both Berkeley and Oakland, offers thin-crust pies that are naturally vegan and topped with fresh, locally sourced produce. While their menu rotates daily, they often feature gluten-free crusts and dairy-free cheese options.
• Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub provides gluten-free crusts and has vegan cheese readily available, allowing for easy customization of any menu item.

Popular Topping Combinations

The East Bay vegan pizza scene thrives on creativity, and that’s evident in the topping combinations offered by local pizzerias. Some popular combinations include:

• Roasted garlic, kale, and cashew ricotta
• BBQ jackfruit, red onion, and vegan cheddar
• Artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and almond feta
• Pesto, heirloom tomatoes, and vegan parmesan

These combinations not only highlight the diversity of plant-based ingredients but also reflect the region’s emphasis on fresh, locally sourced produce.

Weekly Specials and Seasonal Offerings

Many vegan-friendly pizzerias in Berkeley and Oakland rotate their menus based on seasonal availability and customer demand. For example:

• Cheese Board Collective is famous for offering a single pizza variety each day, often including a vegan option that reflects the season’s best ingredients.
• Timeless Coffee and The Butcher’s Son frequently update their pizza offerings with special limited-time flavors, such as pumpkin alfredo for autumn or grilled corn and basil in the summer months.

These rotating specials encourage repeat visits and allow diners to experience new flavor profiles throughout the year.

Ordering and Accessibility

One of the most appealing aspects of the vegan pizza scene in the Berkeley and Oakland area is how accessible and easy it is to enjoy, whether you're dining in, grabbing takeout, or ordering delivery. Many of the top vegan-friendly pizzerias in the region have embraced modern ordering systems, making it simple for customers to get their favorite plant-based pies with minimal hassle.

Online Ordering Platforms

Most vegan-friendly pizzerias in Berkeley and Oakland offer convenient online ordering through their websites or third-party platforms like DoorDash, Grubhub, Uber Eats, and Postmates. Restaurants such as The Butcher’s Son and Zachary’s Chicago Pizza allow customers to customize their orders online, offering full control over crusts, sauces, toppings, and vegan cheese options. These platforms often include allergen information and allow users to filter for vegan or gluten-free preferences.

In-Person and Phone Orders

For those who prefer the traditional route, nearly all establishments still accommodate walk-in and phone orders. Popular spots like Sliver Pizzeria and Pizza Moda maintain efficient in-person service, often with counter staff familiar with vegan-specific requests. This is especially useful for customers with specific dietary needs or questions about ingredients.

Delivery and Takeout Options

Delivery is widely available throughout Berkeley, Oakland, and surrounding neighborhoods. Vegan pizza lovers can enjoy selections from standout locations like Timeless Coffee (offering vegan pizza slices as part of their menu) and Hot Italian in Emeryville, which features creative vegan options and reliable delivery service. Many restaurants also offer contactless pickup and curbside services, making takeout a convenient and safe option.

Accessibility for All Diets

Accessibility extends beyond ordering to include dietary accommodations. Berkeley’s vegan pizza scene is particularly inclusive, with most restaurants offering gluten-free crust options, nut-free cheeses, and soy-free toppings. For example, Lanesplitter Pizza & Pub offers Daiya vegan cheese and a variety of vegetable toppings, while also providing gluten-free crusts upon request. This flexibility ensures that individuals with food sensitivities or allergies can still enjoy a satisfying vegan pizza experience.

Late-Night and Fast-Casual Options

For night owls or those seeking a quick bite, several pizzerias keep late hours and offer fast-casual service. Sliver Pizzeria, known for its rotating daily vegetarian pizza (always with a vegan option), often stays open until late, making it a go-to for students and locals alike. Similarly, Pieology in downtown Berkeley offers a fast-casual, build-your-own experience with vegan meats and cheeses in a quick-service environment.

Price and Affordability

While artisan vegan pizzas can be priced higher due to premium ingredients, many places offer reasonably priced options. Slice-focused spots like Arizmendi Bakery in Oakland provide high-quality vegan slices at affordable prices, often under $5. Chain locations such as Blaze Pizza and MOD Pizza also cater to budget-conscious diners, offering customizable vegan pies for under $10.

Reservation and Wait Times

Most vegan pizza establishments in Berkeley and Oakland operate on a first-come, first-served basis, especially smaller pizzerias and fast-casual spots. However, some larger or more popular sit-down restaurants like Zachary’s may accept reservations during peak hours. To avoid long waits, especially on weekends, it's recommended to order ahead online or call in advance.

In summary, ordering vegan pizza in Berkeley and Oakland is a seamless and inclusive experience. With multiple ordering methods, dietary accommodations, and widespread delivery services, the region stands out as a model of accessibility for plant-based dining.

Customer Experience

Atmosphere and Ambiance

The customer experience at vegan pizza spots in Berkeley and the surrounding areas is often shaped by the laid-back, community-focused vibe that defines much of the East Bay. Establishments like The Butcher’s Son in Berkeley and Vegan Mob in Oakland are known for their casual, welcoming environments that cater to a wide demographic—from college students to families and long-time plant-based eaters. Many vegan pizza places emphasize sustainability not only in their ingredients but also in their decor, using recycled materials and eco-friendly packaging to align their values with those of their patrons.

Service Quality

Service at most vegan pizza restaurants in the Berkeley-Oakland area is generally friendly, efficient, and knowledgeable. Staff are typically well-versed in vegan ingredients and dietary restrictions, making them a valuable resource for first-time vegan diners or those with specific allergy concerns. At establishments like Sliver Pizzeria, customers regularly praise the attentiveness and speed of service, especially during peak hours. Online reviews frequently highlight the staff’s willingness to accommodate special dietary needs and customize orders.

Menu Clarity and Customization

A common highlight in customer feedback is the clarity of vegan options on the menu. Restaurants like Zachary’s Chicago Pizza and Cheese Board Collective clearly label vegan items and often provide detailed descriptions of ingredients. This transparency builds trust and makes it easier for customers to make informed choices. Many spots allow for significant customization, such as choosing from gluten-free crusts, nut-free cheese alternatives, or protein-rich toppings like tempeh and tofu, which enhances the overall dining experience.

Online Ordering and Delivery

With the rise of food delivery platforms, the convenience of ordering vegan pizza in Berkeley and Oakland has improved dramatically. Most vegan pizzerias are listed on services like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub, offering both delivery and pickup options. Customers appreciate the ease of using these platforms to access detailed menus, track orders in real-time, and leave feedback. Establishments like Lanesplitter Pizza have adapted well to digital trends, maintaining high ratings for responsiveness and accuracy in fulfilling online orders.

Customer Reviews and Community Engagement

Customer reviews are a significant component of the vegan pizza experience in Berkeley. Sites like Yelp and Google Reviews provide candid insights into food quality, portion sizes, and overall satisfaction. Many local pizzerias actively engage with their customer base through social media, promoting new menu items, soliciting feedback, and highlighting community events. This level of interaction fosters loyalty and creates a sense of community around these establishments.

Wait Times and Peak Hours

During peak dining hours, especially on weekends or around university events, some vegan pizza spots can get quite busy. Places like Cheese Board Collective often have long lines, but customers note that the wait is typically worth it due to the rotating menu of unique, high-quality vegan pizzas. Some pizzerias mitigate wait times by offering online reservations or call-ahead orders, improving the customer experience significantly.

Accessibility and Inclusivity

Berkeley’s vegan pizza scene is notably inclusive, with many establishments making efforts to accommodate various dietary needs and preferences. Vegan, gluten-free, soy-free, and nut-free options are widely available. Locations are also generally wheelchair accessible and often designed with family-friendly seating, making them welcoming to a broad audience.

Whether you're craving a decadent deep-dish loaded with vegan sausage or a light, veggie-loaded slice with cashew ricotta, Oakland and Berkeley offer some of the nation’s best plant-based pizza experiences. From fully vegan institutions to creative vegetarian-friendly joints, the East Bay’s pizza scene hits every flavor and dietary preference. Grab your next slice from one of these top-rated spots and taste why the East Bay is the epicenter of vegan pizza innovation. Ready to order? Choose a spot from our curated list and dig in guilt-free!