Gianni’s Pizza
725 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey (831) 649-1500, giannispizzamonterey.com
Before pizza got fancy, and before there were cheap, low-quality chains that delivered it, there were classic, delicious and affordable pizzerias like Gianni’s. A neighborhood staple in New Monterey since it opened in 1974, Gianni’s brings authenticity – the family recipes were brought to America more than 80 years ago from Palermo, Italy – without any pretense. Diners order at the counter, take a number, and find a table to wait eagerly for their cheesy, saucy redemption atop a pillowy crust.