Massimo's Pizza serves up family-owned, warm slices in Huntington Beach

HUNTINGTON BEACH, Calif. (KABC) -- It is National Pizza Month, so where better to go than Massimo's Pizza, located in Huntington Beach.

The restaurant is a family-owned community favorite that's been serving up fresh slices since 1989.

"Here I am, still here after 36 years," co-owner Al Djokaj said.

The menu showcases pizzas with all your favorite toppings, plenty of pastas and meatball subs.

Djokaj and co-owner Fado Djokovic said they owe their success to their Orange County community.

"We know a lot of people by name when they walk in, and we know their kids' names," Djokovic said. "We see kids grow up in this community."

Loyal customers kept the spot's doors open and the lights on during the COVID-19 pandemic.

"We always try to be a warm welcome at Massimo's, and they really, really help us in tough times," Djokaj said.

Hungry patrons can order a full pie in one of four sizes or grab a slice.

The New Yorker is their best seller, topped with pepperoni, Italian stracciatella cheese and drizzled with hot honey.

Just this month, DoorDash celebrated the top 50 pizza spots based on thousands of customer reviews, and Massimo's Pizza made the list.

"I want to say thank you to the community because without them, we wouldn't be here," Djokovic said. "I think if we didn't have our locals, we wouldn't be here right now."

And a special thank you to their super fan Johnny, who told his parents he doesn't want pizza from anywhere else.

"Johnny will not eat pizza anywhere else besides Massimo's," Djokovic said. "He will not, it's funny. He's the greatest little kid, too."

Massimo's Pizza is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and is located at 22311 Brookhurst St. #103, in Huntington Beach.

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