Mike L.
Yelp
Although it doesn't seem to happen nearly as often as it used, there was a long stretch there where Goat Hill Pizza used to come up at nearly every turn. Whether it be while randomly poking around on Yelp, at the recommendation of fellow Yelpers, or just during random conversations with friends, it almost felt like the world was trying to get me to finally check this place out for myself. Not that I really needed much coercing; getting me to try a potentially delicious pizza place is akin to asking, "hey, would you like to go on a date with a model?". Uhh...yes. Yes, I would.
Now, while there's a wealth of pizza joints sprinkled all around this side of The City (West Portal, Portola, Parkside, Sunset), I have to admit that none of them are all that amazing. Plenty of convenient, neighborhood spots, but nothing that would really rank among the best that SF has to offer. Given that, as well as the looks of the menu, it's no wonder that Goat Hill ranks so highly among my friends who live out this way. From their classic combinations to their more unique varieties, there are a ton of different options to choose from. All of which, might I add, sounded delicious.
-- LARGE HALF & HALF PIZZA...$29.75
---- SPECIAL COMBINATION - Salami, Pepperoni, Italian Sausage, Ground Beef, Mushrooms, Green Bell Peppers, Green Onions, Black Olives, and Garlic
---- PORKEY PIE - Bacon, Roasted Garlic, Red Onion, and Garlic Cream Sauce
(https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/goat-hill-pizza-san-francisco-6?select=COGLGLwGWugnfGkAii8s5g)
Both of these were really good, but, of the two, I liked the Porkey Pie just a bit better. I loved the mix of toppings on the Special Combination, especially how it had four different meats!), but I really liked how unique the Porkey Pie was and how well everything complemented each other.
-- X-LARGE HALF & HALF PIZZA....$34.45
---- MEAT LOVERS - Mozzarella, Salami, Sausage and Pepperoni
---- PORKEY PIE - Bacon, Roasted Garlic, Red Onion, and Garlic Cream Sauce
(https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/goat-hill-pizza-san-francisco-6?select=g775Z5QTrslN9IQD1W8jRA)
Did I mention that I liked the Porky Pie? It's impressive how flavorful it is considering how few ingredients it has (it's so garlicky and the sauce is great!). As for the Meat Lovers, it's fairly standard, but the quality of the meats were great. In particular, the sausage they use is delicious!
-- X-LARGE HALF & HALF PIZZA...$41.08
---- SPECIAL COMBINATION - Salami, Pepperoni, Italian Sausage, Ground Beef, Mushrooms, Green Bell Peppers, Green Onions, Black Olives, and Garlic
---- CUSTOM PIZZA with Ham, Mushroom, Sausage, and Garlic Cream Sauce
(https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/goat-hill-pizza-san-francisco-6?select=3HK0Bi3a1PamPui-2AgxnQ)
This may not have been the most exciting pairing (though the Special Combo was just as good), but I was curious about their DIY option. And I have to say, I was impressed! Sure, it tasted good, but the best part was how they don't skimp - it came loaded with toppings!
In addition to their use of quality ingredients (and how generous they are with them), the other signature aspect of Goat Hill's pizzas is their sourdough crust. It's certainly not that traditional, but it works really well (and is very San Francisco). Not only does it add that familiar yeasty flavor to every bite, but the texture and consistency is perfect - not super dense/thick, yet not so thin as to fall apart from the oil and sauces. Also, along with the great pizzas, I thought it was worth mentioning that the staff here is terrific; attentive and very friendly (I've done takeout, as well as dined in).
Since my last visit here came before the shelter in place orders were set into place (we're saving lives, people!), I can't say what the experience is like at this point. However, the next time I decide to venture out for something different than my cooking at home, or to satisfy that pizza craving, it's a pretty safe bet that I'll be coming here. After all, I've got to do my part to make sure my new go-to pizza place on this side of the city survives this pandemic!