Seattle-born MOTO Pizza is set to bring its thick, square slices and inventive toppings to San Diego, with two new shops on the way in Little Italy and at UC San Diego. The company lists a Little Italy opening in May 2026 and a UCSD outpost slated for fall 2026, marking MOTO's first full-service locations in the city and extending the chain's West Coast push after festival and stadium partnerships.
Where and what to expect
According to MOTO, the Little Italy shop is planned for 550 W Date St, Suite B, with a May 2026 opening on the books, while a UCSD location at 2910 La Jolla Village Drive is expected in fall 2026. Both spots are set to offer dine-in service, outdoor seating, beer and wine, and the brand's MOTO Swirl ice cream. The locations page also notes other California expansions, including a San Clemente opening.
Menu and neighborhood fit
As reported by What Now San Diego, the menu will center on thick square slices such as The All In, Beef Adobo and Mr. Pig, along with a vegan Plant pie, salads, sides and rotating MOTO Swirl desserts. Slices are listed in solo and shareable sizes, and the company highlights partnerships with local food artisans and suppliers.
How Moto grew
MOTO was founded by Lee Kindell and Nancy Gambin during the pandemic out of a tiny West Seattle space, and the owners have since turned it into a regional name. Eater Seattle detailed the pair's pivot from hostel operators to pizzeria owners, while Axios noted MOTO's concession presence at T-Mobile Park and the BNP Paribas Open.
Not to be confused with Mr. Moto
San Diego diners should know that MOTO, the Seattle brand, is distinct from the long-running local Mr. Moto Pizza chain. UTC expansion coverage underscored the potential for name confusion between the two concepts.
MOTO invites fans to sign up for opening updates, and visitors can check the site for official timing and menu details as May approaches. We will track confirmations from the company and local officials as the openings draw closer.
