Insider Pages Reviews for Pizzaiolo

4 Stars: Great pizza and good atmosphere (by Jennifer M.)

Jennifer M. — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 04:44:00 GMT

I came here on a first date once and had a terrific time. It's pretty small, but people stand around in the front with wine waiting for their tables. They have a small menu. If I were a food snob, I'd call it "well-edited." The service is friendly. To be honest, I prefer a greasy pizza place with draft beer, but this is a good spot for a more romantic but still casual dinner.

3 Stars: Nice wood fired pizza (by Catherine T.)

Catherine T. — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 15:13:00 GMT

I was told a few times I have to try their pizza, that its the best in the area, I finally did, and it wasnt as good as I expected, but still the Naples thin crust margarita pizza was nice (through the crust but unevenly cooked), there wasnt enough variety on their menu to entice me to give it another try.

3 Stars: Expectations too high (by Christine W.)

Christine W. — Fri, 05 Dec 2008 22:51:00 GMT

Almost everyone who Ive talked to in the East Bay swears by Pizzaiolo and tells me that it is either their favorite restaurant or favorite Italian restaurant. I am clearly missing something..The menu is unique, it changes daily. Unless you are well versed in the language of Italian cuisine, the menu is difficult to understand with entrees including Puntarella salad, Chicories with pork rillette, Pappardelle and Cardoon. I found myself either unable to understand the menu items or unwilling to try pickled watermelon radishes, and was extremely discouraged that my waiter wasnt the least bit helpful, shrugging off my questions about the menu and seemed uninterested in serving students, whom obviously is not the target audience of this restaurant. My BF and I finally decided on ordering the meatballs and margherita pizza, both which were flavorful but extremely small in portion size. The desserts were quite pleasing however I was overall disappointed in Pizzaiolos limited menu, small portions, unhelpful staff and expensive price tags. We left the meal spending about $50 and were both hungry. Despite this, I will say that Pizzaiolo has a great location and a very fun and trendy atmosphere, perfect for young adults to go with their friends. Other down sides- parking is impossible, without a reservation dont plan on eating there, and I wouldnt consider it to be kid friendly.

5 Stars: Best ever! Come with a Large group and share! (by Nicole K.)

Nicole K. — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 13:58:00 GMT

Their wood over pizzas are to DIE for!! Come with a large party so you can order one of everything and share slices (the menu changes daily). Their appetizers and dessert are awesome too--always so fresh. And the price is very reasonable.