La Val's Pizza

La Val’s Pizza, located at 1834 Euclid Ave in Berkeley, California, is a beloved institution that has been serving the community since 1977 at its current location, with roots tracing back to 1951. Known primarily as a pizza and Italian restaurant, La Val’s has become a favorite spot for students and locals alike, offering a welcoming atmosphere where quality food and a sense of community come together. Its proximity to the University of California, Berkeley, makes it a popular destination for students seeking affordable, satisfying meals, especially its signature pizza paired with a cold beer.

The restaurant’s history is deeply intertwined with Berkeley’s cultural and social fabric. Founded by Milton LaGrave and Joe Valencia—whose names combine to form “La Val’s”—the original establishment began on College Avenue before expanding to the Euclid Avenue location. Over the decades, La Val’s has maintained its reputation for serving handmade, high-quality pizzas, pastas, sandwiches, salads, and calzones, all at prices accessible to the student population and the wider community. The menu also caters to diverse dietary preferences, offering gluten-free crusts and plant-based cheese options, reflecting a modern approach to traditional Italian fare.

Beyond its culinary offerings, La Val’s is notable for its unique basement playhouse, a 60-seat venue known as La Val’s Subterranean. This space has a rich artistic legacy, having hosted various theater companies such as Shotgun Players, Impact Theatre, and currently Theatre Lunatico. The basement venue adds a cultural dimension to the restaurant, making it not just a place to eat but a hub for local arts and performances. This blend of food and culture has helped La Val’s maintain its status as a community cornerstone in Berkeley.

The ambiance of La Val’s is casual and inviting, featuring vintage concert posters, a pool table, and a pinball machine, which contribute to its laid-back vibe. This environment, combined with its long-standing tradition of quality and affordability, has made it a fixture for generations of Berkeley residents and students. The restaurant also offers a full range of beverages, including local brews on tap, complementing its menu and enhancing the dining experience.

La Val’s commitment to the community extends beyond its food and entertainment. It has been a steadfast presence through Berkeley’s evolving landscape, adapting to changing tastes while preserving the essence that has made it a local favorite. The restaurant’s longevity and continued popularity are testaments to its ability to balance tradition with innovation, serving as a gathering place where people can enjoy good food, good company, and cultural enrichment.

For those seeking a quintessential Berkeley dining experience, La Val’s Pizza offers more than just a meal—it provides a connection to the city’s history, culture, and vibrant community life. Whether stopping by for a quick slice, enjoying a full dinner, or attending a performance in the basement playhouse, visitors can expect a warm welcome and a taste of Berkeley’s enduring spirit. For reservations or inquiries, La Val’s can be reached at +1 510-540-9333.