August 10, 2011

In the Neighborhood: Pizza in Clarendon

I adore pizza, and given the opportunity, I would probably eat it far more often than is appropriate.  I also love trying out the ever-increasingly pizza options in the DC area.  There isn't really a "DC-style" pizza, and instead we have a pretty good representation of all different styles - New York style, Neopolitan, California style...and New Haven Style!

Last weekend we (finally!) went to Pete's New Haven Style Apizza in Clarendon (they also have locations in Columbia Heights and Friendship Heights), and I was seriously impressed.  I think it is the closest thing to an old-school pizza parlor that I have seen in a while.  You order at the counter, take a number, and find a table.  There is not much in the way of ambiance (if it's nice out, eat outside  - perfect for people-watching!), but the pizza was pretty darn good. 

We had the Elm City pizza (white pizza, fontina cheese, grilled chicken, sauteed wild mushrooms, and caramelized onions), and it was delicious.  The toppings were incredibly fresh (and applied in appropriate amounts - they were not overwhelming), and the pizza was just fantastic.  The crust is thin and crispy, but the handle (is there another name for that?) is still deliciously soft in the middle - just the way I like it.  It is a little dangerous though, since thin crust + a moderate amount of toppings = I don't want to stop eating!

Pete's only offers 18 inch pizzas (you can order specialty pies or pick your own toppings), which are pretty massive.  They could easily serve four people - or leave you with lots of leftovers.  Speaking of leftovers, their take-away boxes actually have directions for reheating the pizza properly - in a covered skillet over medium/low heat (so the crust stays crispy!).  They also serve pasta, paninis, and salads, so you could easily go with a big group and find something for everyone.

If you are in the mood for seriously good pizza in a super-casual environment, Pete's is the place for you!  I know I will be back!

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