Killer Pizza From Mars Ends Two Decade-Plus Run In San Diego's North County City Of Escondido

October 9, 2023

After 24 years in business, Killer Pizza From Mars has permanently shuttered its location in San Diego's North County city of Escondido. 

Brothers Steve and Dave Mizell opened the first location location of Killer Pizza From Mars in San Diego's North County city of Oceanside in 1997, offering a sports bar ambiance with an onsite arcade and a menu centered around California-style pizza. In 1999, the brothers launched the Escondido location within El Norte Parkway Plaza. During the course of its nearly three decade run, the restaurant has become a neighborhood favorite. 

After nearly a full year of internal drama, with ownership accusing various employees of wrong-doings, and vice versa, Killer Pizza From Mar has finally ended its run in Escondido. The restaurant has been randomly closed for periods throughout the year and people have been mudslinging online regarding the eatery's status. The original location of Killer Pizza From Mars remains open at 3772 Mission Avenue, Suite 126, in Oceanside, and since 2012, that branch has been operated by owner Jose Flores, who is not associated with the now-defunct Escondido branch. 

Killer Pizza From Mars sat at 1040 West El Norte Parkway in San Diego's North County community of Escondido.