Gianni’s Pizza
725 Lighthouse Ave., Monterey (831) 649-1500, giannispizzamonterey.com
Gianni’s pizzas are made of the same ingredients as most other pizzas: dough, cheese, sauce, meat, veggies, herbs. It’s hard to say what makes it come together in such a way that these pies stand out and keep people coming back. But the first clue that you’re in for a special pie is the aroma upon entering the place – it’s warm, bready and savory. The next is in how long they’ve been around: since 1974. That kind of longevity tells you a lot. And the fact that they name their pizzas – Meat-zilla, Big Wheel, Andy’s Southwest Chicken – tells you that they have distinct character and are well worth remembering.