Upper Crust Pizza in Soquel

Taste That Is Timeless

By CJ

It’s not news that the offerings at Upper Crust Pizza and Pasta at the corner of Winkle and Soquel are popular with the locals. An archeologist in Sardinia found the ancient remains of flattened bread (Pizza!?) from the first millennium BC that also was apparently a hit with the locals; proof that good taste keeps people coming back!

Ernesto Chavez has watched with confidence as this popularity continues here on the coast of California. When he took over the business in 2004 there was no question that with his hand-tossed, made to order pizzas this reputation would continue. Ernesto’s passion for pizza is contagious and his commitment to fresh ingredients and attention to culinary details provide his customers the quality they enjoy.

The menu is diverse and unique. The deep-dish square pizza in the Sicilian tradition is the basis of Upper Crust’s fame, and is their signature offering! Those craving the thin crust round pizza won’t be disappointed; Ernesto and his staff are ready to satisfy their preference. In addition to the meat toppings are the hand chopped vegetable and fruit toppings – tomatoes, pineapple, mushrooms, olives, artichoke hearts, and of course garlic, to name a few – make for a quality that is truly mouth watering. Also available is gluten-free pizza cooked in its own special pan never used by other dough.

Beyond pizzas there’s a large menu of temptation. Ernesto has become the king of the meatball sandwich. And then there is his now famous Philly Cheese Steak Sub. It’s not unusual for the lead person on a hard-working crew to call in their order for the team’s lunch or dinner with confidence that the order will be ready when they arrive for pickup. It’s a boss’s way to keep his or her crew well nourished and happy, a sure formula for success.

For those wanting a lighter meal, perhaps a pasta salad or a trip straight to the salad bar with all its choices and dressings is in order — or perhaps a bowl of hearty soup with your favorite pizza slice is just the ticket. Deserts are available as well.

At Upper Crust, a mural, created by Jeannie Collins in 1995 is the focal point of the dining area. This is where parties for all occasions, especially birthdays, fill the air with celebration and laughter. Families are invited to decorate and exchange gifts while they enjoy the comfortable relaxed atmosphere and the friendly staff.

Neighbors and families from the local school districts appreciate that not only does Ernesto and his staff know their names, but he also supports local high school teams. Often sports teams and clubs will come in for a pizza after a game or meeting. The staff at Upper Crust honors education and Ernesto helps the schools and encourages the students.

As a family man, he enjoys having his daughter and sons join the Upper Crust team on a part time basis while they continue their education.

When Ernesto began at Upper Crust as a dishwasher in his youth, his interest was sparked by the conscientiousness of the owners. He soon learned the prep work, the recipes, the dough skills and about the business. Sharon and Joe Carollo, who still own and operate Upper Crust on the West side, recognized his ambition and encouraged him every step of the way. It was Ernesto’s wife Ana that began a savings plan for their future and when the opportunity to take over the location at the corner of Winkle and Soquel Drive presented itself, they were ready. Theirs is a story that makes you feel good all over.

“I appreciate everyone who supports small business like ours,” said Ernesto, “We do the best we can to keep our customers satisfied.”

Upper Crust Pizza and Pasta has lunch specials daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Dine-in evening specials from 5 to 9 p.m. which includes Monday night free order of “Hot Wings” with an order of $25.00 or more, the “All you can eat pizza” on Tuesdays, “All you can eat Spaghetti” on Wednesdays, while delicious baby back ribs on Thursdays are a all treats you won’t want to miss.

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Upper Crust Pizza and Pasta 2501 Soquel Dr, Santa Cruz is open Sunday through Thursday 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. For take out or delivery call 476 2333.