The Gourmet Pizza Shoppe in Redlands and Yucaipa/Calimesa describes itself as the best pizza in the Inland Empire. This is a bold claim, backed up by their ”Best Pizza” award five years in a row by Inland Empire Magazine. With this much talk about such a classic dining option with plenty of competition, we had to decide for ourselves.
The Gourmet Pizza Shoppe opened in 1998 inside what is now over a building over 100 years old. The staff aim to provide a unique and high quality product, using only the highest quality and freshest ingredients. Indeed, the toppings are plentiful and creative. What sets this place apart from many competitors is the expansive menu of pre-customized pizzas with ingredient combinations that you won’t find anywhere in the world. Some of the interesting ingredients included various Mexican hot sauces and asian plum sauce- items not coming to Dominoes or Pizza Hut anytime soon. The various pizza crusts are great, with healthy wheat crust and thin crust being our favorites.
Located in Redlands, home to Hangar 24 Brewery, the craft beer selection is expansive, with the full Hangar lineup offered as well as Stone, Backalley, Rogue, Karl Strauss and many others. Numerous wines are also offered, as well as R.C. Cola on tap. The only downside is that this is not a late night hangout, with closing time at 9 p.m. at the latest.
Happy hour is daily from 3-6 p.m. with $1 off beer and 1/2 off appetizers. Numerous coupons are available on their website.
The verdict? The Gourmet Pizza Shoppe lives up to its reputation as the best pizza in the Inland Empire. If there is better, we haven’t found it.
The Gourmet Pizza Shoppe in Redlands: 120 E. State St., Redlands. (909) 792-3313. Monday-Saturday: 11AM-9PM. Sunday 12PM-8PM
The Gourmet Pizza Shoppe in Yucaipa/Calimesa: 13661 Calimesa Blvd., Yucaipa. (909) 795-8000. Monday-Thursday: 11AM-8PM. Friday-Saturday: 11AM-9PM. Sunday 12PM-8PM
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