When Joey Booterbaugh and Chloe Tran opened their tiny pizzeria in 2019, they transformed a former wine bar space into one of Orange County’s most beloved dining destinations.
Through artisanal sourdough pies and an unwavering commitment to quality, Folks has earned devoted fans who line up nightly at this wood-fired wonderland.
How Folks Pizzeria won local’s hearts
The dynamic duo behind Folks didn’t just serve pizza—they created a movement.
Chef Joey Booterbaugh left the fine dining scene in Los Angeles to pursue his passion for naturally leavened dough and fermentation, while partner Chloe Tran brought her vision of creating an artisanal restaurant celebrating California’s natural bounty.
Their timing couldn’t have been more challenging—opening just before the pandemic hit—but this twist of fate actually strengthened their foundation as they perfected their craft through takeout service.
The recognition came swiftly and decisively.
Orange County Register critic Brad Johnson named Folks one of the best pizzas in Orange County in 2020, praising the naturally leavened dough that’s “thin in the center and puffy around the outer edge” with a texture “more like sourdough” but “not sour.”
The accolades built momentum as food lovers discovered what makes Folks special: every pizza starts with higher-hydration sourdough that emerges from deck ovens with irregular bubbles and a darker-than-most cornicione. 📍
Food Highlights
- Fennel Sausage Pizza: California tomatoes meet mozzarella, pecorino, parmesan, basil, fennel pollen and garlic oil in this perfectly balanced red sauce masterpiece that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients and bold flavors 🍕
- Soppressata Pizza: This white pizza features provolone, castelvetrano olives, basil, and calabrian chili oil creating a sophisticated blend of creamy, briny, and spicy elements that dance across the naturally leavened crust
- Mushroom Pizza: A truffle lover’s dream with black truffle béchamel, roasted garlic, provolone, pecorino, thyme, and garlic oil delivering earthy richness that transforms simple fungi into pizza poetry
- Margherita Pizza: The classic foundation done right with fresh mozzarella, pecorino romano, basil, and extra virgin olive oil proving that sometimes perfection lies in simplicity executed flawlessly
- Brussels Sprouts Pizza: A seasonal sensation featuring sunchoke purée, taleggio, fontina, pecorino romano, fresh oregano, bacon and hazelnut salsa rustica that elevates humble vegetables to gourmet status
Atmosphere
Folks embraces its cozy chaos with infectious energy that makes every visit feel like a celebration.
The small dining room buzzes with conversation under colored string lights and kitschy decor, while the equally split indoor and outdoor seating ensures comfort year-round with heaters and blankets for chilly evenings.
dWalls covered with love notes from devoted customers tell the story of a restaurant that’s become more than just a dining spot—it’s a community gathering place where groups gather over trays of beautifully charred pizza.
The atmosphere perfectly balances casual comfort with artisanal excellence. ✨
Bottom Line
- Experience what many consider the best pizza in Southern California according to passionate food reviewers
- Taste naturally leavened sourdough crust with seasoning that’s just unmatched and imported Italian cheeses
- Enjoy Caesar salad that won awards with house-made dressing and marinated anchovies
- Join the nightly pizza party at this hidden gem that consistently earns rave reviews
- Support local artisans who celebrate California’s natural bounty through exceptional ingredients 🌟
Address: 2937 Bristol Street A102, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
📞 (714) 617-4888
🕔 Mon-Thu: 4 PM–9 PM, Fri: 3 PM–9:30 PM, Sat: 12 PM–9:30 PM, Sun: 12 PM–9 PM