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Ronan
Master Critic Reviews (12 Lists)
Ronan
8.7
Ronan is a chef-driven Italian restaurant on Melrose known for wood-fired pizzas and seasonal share plates in a lively, design-forward space. It blends high-level technique with an energetic dining room ideal for date nights. The kitchen delivers consistent execution validated by professional recognition.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita pizza, Sweet Cheeks pizza, Seasonal arancini
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Wood-fired pizzas and share plates executed with high culinary technique.
Who should go: Diners wanting a chef-driven date night.
When to visit: Evenings for peak energy and pizza oven performance.
What to order: Margherita pizza, Sweet Cheeks pizza, arancini.
Insider tip: The patio offers the best mix of ambiance and noise control.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Metered street parking along Melrose and nearby side streets; it fills quickly after 6pm, so rideshare is common.
Dress code: Smart casual; most guests lean stylish given the Melrose crowd, but jeans and a nice top are perfectly appropriate.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially indoors; the patio has better conversation clarity.
Weekend wait: 35–60 minutes without a reservation depending on peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable; Ronan is dinner-focused and typically opens late afternoon.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Many options, including pizzas, salads, and seasonal vegetable dishes.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; certain pizzas can be modified and several starters are plant-based.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free crust is available on request and several share plates are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the combination of wood-fired food, warm lighting, and energetic-but-not-chaotic ambiance creates a comfortable first-date environment.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Sometimes; walk-ins are accepted, but waits can stretch on weekends. Arriving before 6:30pm improves your chances significantly.
Is it kid-friendly? Not particularly; the crowd skews adult and evening-focused, though well-behaved older kids may be fine early in the night.
Best For
Better for: High-quality wood-fired pizzas, share plates, and a lively date-night atmosphere with strong culinary execution.
Skip if: You want a quiet, low-noise dinner, extensive vegan choices, or fast counter-service pizza.
Ronan
8.6
Ronan is a wood-fired, Neapolitan-leaning pizza and share-plates restaurant where a string-lit patio and natural wine list make it a reliable date-night move. Couples share margherita and Spicy Chomper pies, then split a French dip–inspired calzone and cocktails that lean more serious than sugary.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Spicy Chomper Pizza, Philippe-Style French Dip Calzone
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Serious pizza and seasonal plates served in a rustic-chic room with a glowing patio.
Who should go: Pizza lovers who still want a polished, cocktail-forward date night.
When to visit: Weeknights for a calmer vibe, weekends for buzzier energy.
What to order: Margherita Pizza, Spicy Chomper, French Dip Calzone.
Insider tip: Book an outdoor table and plan to share at least one pizza and one non-pizza plate for the best range of the menu.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose and the surrounding residential blocks is possible but tight during peak hours; no valet. Plan extra time or use rideshare on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual—most guests lean stylish but relaxed. Jeans are fine, but pair with something polished for date night.
Noise level: Moderate. Indoor tables can get lively during peak hours, but the patio offers easier conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: N/A — Ronan is dinner-only; early weeknights generally have minimal waits before 7pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—several pizzas and vegetable-forward small plates work well.
Vegan options: Limited but doable; a couple of share plates and salads fit the bill, though most pizzas require modification.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pizza crust is available; some small plates are naturally GF. Cross-contact possible due to the wood-fired oven.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The patio lighting, shareable menu, and polished-but-relaxed vibe make it an ideal spot for comfortable conversation without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes if you arrive early (before 6:30pm) or on a weeknight. Weekends fill up quickly—expect a wait if you walk in after peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Not especially—Ronan skews date-night and groups. Older kids who enjoy pizza will be fine, but it’s not geared toward families with young children.
Best For
Better for: High-quality Neapolitan-style pizzas paired with cocktails and a design-forward patio—ideal for dates and groups wanting a more elevated pizza experience.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional Italian, a quiet dining room, or extensive vegan options. Alternatives may fit those needs better.
Ronan
8.6
Ronan is a family-run, Michelin-recognized pizzeria and Italian spot where wood-fired Neapolitan pies and seasonal plates land on a string-lit patio. The outdoor space feels as central as the dining room, making it a go-to for pizza-focused date nights and small group dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Spicy Chomper Pizza, Charred Broccolini
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Hand-stretched Neapolitan pizzas and seasonal plates served on one of the neighborhood’s more charming patios.
Who should go: Pizza lovers who still want a polished night out.
When to visit: Evenings just after sunset when the patio lights kick in.
What to order: Margherita, Spicy Chomper, and Charred Broccolini to share.
Insider tip: Request patio seating when reserving—those tables are the first to go on nice nights.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose and nearby residential blocks is possible but tight after 6pm; no valet, so plan a few extra minutes to circle.
Dress code: Smart casual; most guests lean polished but jeans and a nice top fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate; the patio has lively energy but conversations at normal volume are still doable.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Rarely a wait; immediate seating is common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection — several pizzas and share plates can be made or already come vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited but possible — a couple of starters and customizable pizzas; confirm cheese substitutions.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pizza crust available upon request; cross-contamination possible due to wood-fired oven.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the string-lit patio and shareable plates create a relaxed but polished environment ideal for a low-pressure first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, but expect to wait during peak dinner hours. Walk-ins have better luck early evenings or later nights; patio seating fills quickest.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — early evenings are especially welcoming. Kids tend to do well with the pizza-heavy menu, though late-night crowds skew more adult.
Best For
Better for: A more polished, ingredient-driven take on Neapolitan pizza with a patio that feels like part of the experience, ideal for groups and date nights.
Skip if: You want ultra-thin, Roman-style pies or a quiet, intimate dining room — Ronan leans lively and patio-forward.
Ronan
8.6
Ronan is a wood-fired pizzeria and seasonal Italian spot where Neapolitan-style pies, charred vegetables, and spritzes land on a lively front patio along Melrose. The outdoor tables are dog-friendly and draw both neighborhood regulars and destination diners looking for serious pizza with a relaxed, design-forward atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Spicy Chomper Pizza, Charred Broccolini
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Serious wood-fired pizza and seasonal plates on a lively, dog-friendly patio.
Who should go: Pizza lovers who still want a polished night out.
When to visit: Evenings just after sunset when the patio lights up.
What to order: Margherita, Spicy Chomper, and Charred Broccolini.
Insider tip: Ask for a sidewalk-adjacent patio table so your dog has extra space.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Melrose can be tight after 6pm; some metered spots open up closer to dinner turnover. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual; diners lean stylish but relaxed. Jeans and a nice top fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate—lively patio energy with some music, but you can still hold a conversation comfortably.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes without a reservation, longer during peak 7–8pm windows.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, though patio fills up quickly on warmer days.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pizzas, salads, and vegetable-driven small plates are vegetarian-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited—some vegetable dishes can be modified, but pizzas generally contain dairy.
Gluten-free options: Yes—gluten-free pizza dough is available on request; cross-contamination is possible due to the wood-fired oven.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Ronan’s design-forward patio, warm lighting, and shareable plates make it an easy, low-pressure spot with enough buzz to avoid awkward silences.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes—walk-ins are usually accommodated if you're flexible with patio vs. indoor seating, though expect a wait on weekend evenings.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for ages 6+—the patio is casual and energetic, and the pizza-focused menu works well for families. Strollers can be tricky during peak times due to tight patio spacing.
Best For
Better for: A polished but relaxed pizza night with seasonal sides and a genuinely dog-friendly patio—ideal for groups or dates who want quality without fuss.
Skip if: You want a quiet meal, extensive vegan options, or a traditional Italian menu heavy on pastas and entrées.
Ronan
8.5
Ronan is a wood-fired pizzeria and seasonal Italian spot from chef Daniel Cutler where Neapolitan-style pies, vegetable plates, and spritzes land in a dim, design-forward room with a compact patio. Its inclusion in the Michelin Guide and focus on playful, market-driven cooking make it a go-to for pizza-focused date nights and industry dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita or Spicy Chomper pizza, Charred Broccolini, Seasonal crudo or vegetable small plate
Scores:
Value: 6.7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: A Michelin Guide–listed, wood-fired pizzeria where playful Italian plates share the spotlight with serious cocktails.
Who should go: Pizza lovers who still want a polished, chef-driven night out.
When to visit: Evenings just after sunset when the patio and dining room fill in.
What to order: Spicy Chomper pizza, Charred Broccolini, a seasonal small plate.
Insider tip: If you’re flexible on timing, early bar seats are one of the best ways to dodge peak reservations.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mostly street parking along Melrose and adjacent residential blocks; expect limited availability after 6pm. No valet. Give yourself extra time on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning stylish; jeans are fine if paired with something polished. Many guests dress up a bit for the scene.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is doable inside but easier on the patio.
Weekend wait: 35–60 minutes without a reservation, especially during peak 7–9pm slots.
Weekday lunch: Closed for lunch; dinner only, so early evenings on weekdays usually have minimal wait if you walk in before 6:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Very accommodating—several pizzas, starters, and vegetable-driven plates are already vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—some vegetable sides can be modified but most pizzas and pastas rely on dairy.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free crust available for pizzas; note that it’s prepared in a shared kitchen environment.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, shareable plates, and a stylish but relaxed vibe make it a strong first-date choice, especially if your date appreciates chef-driven pizza.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes if you arrive early; bar seats are the most reliable walk-in option. Peak weekend hours almost always require a wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—early evenings work for families and pizza is an easy sell, but the room gets louder and more adult-oriented as the night progresses. Best for kids 8+.
Best For
Better for: Creative, wood-fired pizzas and seasonal small plates in a design-forward setting with stronger cocktails and polish than most neighborhood pizzerias.
Skip if: You want a quiet dinner, extensive vegan options, or a quick, casual slice shop experience—this is more of a full evening out.
Ronan
8.3
Ronan is a family-run, wood-fired pizzeria and seasonal Italian spot from chef Daniel Cutler and Caitlin Cutler, turning out Neapolitan-ish pies and market-driven small plates on Melrose. The MICHELIN Guide–listed dining room and patio feel equally suited to date night, cocktails at the bar, or sharing a few pizzas with friends.
Must-Try Dishes:
Spicy Chomper pizza, Squash blossom fritti, Nancy’s chopped salad
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Wood-fired pizzas and seasonal plates with a laid-back Melrose vibe.
Who should go: Pizza lovers who still want cocktails and atmosphere.
When to visit: Prime dinner hours when the patio and bar are buzzing.
What to order: Spicy Chomper pizza, squash blossom fritti, Caesar.
Insider tip: Grab a bar seat and ask about off-menu pies or nightly seasonal specials.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose and nearby residential blocks is possible but competitive after 6pm; limited metered spots turn over most often. No valet.
Dress code: Smart casual; jeans and sneakers are fine, but most diners lean slightly polished for date night.
Noise level: Moderate-buzzy indoors with music and bar energy; easier patio conversation depending on crowd size.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes for walk-ins; the bar is usually the quickest path to a seat.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable (dinner-focused restaurant); early weekday evenings typically have minimal waits.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—multiple pizzas, salads, and seasonal small plates can be built into a full meal.
Vegan options: Limited but possible; some vegetable dishes can be modified, though pizzas rely heavily on cheese.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pizza dough is available; staff can guide you on the safest choices.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—Ronan balances lively energy with enough intimacy to talk, and the shareable menu makes ordering feel natural.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes—especially if you arrive early or are flexible with bar or patio seating. Peak weekend hours may require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy pizza and can handle a louder dinner environment; no dedicated kids menu or space.
Best For
Better for: Creative wood-fired pies, seasonal small plates, and a neighborhood feel that’s more polished than casual slice shops but more relaxed than full-scale trattorias.
Skip if: You want ultra-traditional Neapolitan pizza, extremely quiet dining, or a broad vegan menu.
Ronan
8.7
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
Ronan is a wood-fired pizzeria and Italian-inspired dining room on Melrose where creative pies, seasonal small plates, and a relaxed but polished room work well for families with older kids. The kitchen leans into playful, richly flavored pizzas like Sweet Cheeks alongside salads and shared plates that keep both adults and kids interested.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sweet Cheeks Pizza (guanciale & cacio e pepe honey), Spicy Chomper Pizza, Caesar Salad
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.6
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Serious wood-fired pizza and shared plates in a buzzy, family-welcoming space.
Who should go: Families who love inventive pizza and shareable plates.
When to visit: Early evening before the dinner rush for easier seating.
What to order: Sweet Cheeks pizza, Spicy Chomper, Caesar salad.
Insider tip: Ask for a corner table or patio seat if you want a bit more room with kids.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Melrose and neighborhood side streets is the main option; it can get tight after 6pm but typically opens up a few blocks south toward Beverly.
Dress code: Casual but put-together; most guests wear jeans, tees, and light layers, though a slightly dressier look fits the Melrose crowd.
Noise level: Moderate—lively buzz from the dining room and open kitchen, but you can still hold conversations without shouting.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait since lunch is quieter and more neighborhood-driven.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong vegetarian coverage with multiple pizzas, salads, and seasonal vegetable plates.
Vegan options: Moderate—some veg-forward items can be modified, but only a couple of true vegan-ready dishes.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pizza crust is available; several salads and small plates are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you’re aiming for something casual, lively, and shareable. The energetic room and creative pizzas make it fun, though it’s not ideal if you want a quiet, intimate setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Typically yes—early evenings or late slots are easiest. Walk-ins on weekends may face a wait, but the host stand manages the list efficiently.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for families with older kids or teens. The space is compact, so strollers can be tricky, but the menu works well for adventurous younger diners.
Best For
Better for: Creative wood-fired pizzas, trendier ambiance, and seasonal small plates that appeal to both adults and kids looking for something beyond basic cheese-and-pepperoni.
Skip if: You want very quiet dining, need wide stroller-friendly space, or prefer a more traditional red-sauce Italian experience.
Ronan
8.9
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Trendy Table Hotspots
Ronan is a wood-fired pizzeria and seasonal Italian spot on Melrose where Neapolitan-style pies, shareable plates, and a compact kids-welcoming dining room work well for families with older kids. Parents get serious cocktails and a deep wine list while the menu keeps things fun with playful pizzas and vegetable-driven sides.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sweet Cheeks pizza, Spicy Chomper pizza, Wood-fired seasonal vegetable plates
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 7.1
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Michelin-recognized wood-fired pizzas with a family-welcoming, buzzier dining room.
Who should go: Families who like creative pizza and shareable plates.
When to visit: Early evening before the main dinner rush hits.
What to order: Sweet Cheeks pizza, Spicy Chomper, seasonal vegetable plates.
Insider tip: Ask for half-and-half pizzas to keep both kids and adults happy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose and surrounding residential blocks is the main option; it’s manageable before 6pm but becomes competitive during peak dinner hours. No valet service.
Dress code: Casual but polished — jeans, tees, and light layers are all fine, but many guests lean slightly trendy given the Melrose location.
Noise level: Moderate to loud once the room fills; early evenings are more conversation-friendly, but prime-time service brings a lively pizza-night buzz.
Weekend wait: Plan for 30–45 minutes without a reservation, especially between 6:30–8:30pm.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; for early weekday dinners, wait times are typically minimal if you arrive before 6pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection — several pizzas, vegetable plates, and salads are designed with vegetarians in mind.
Vegan options: Limited — a couple of vegetable dishes can be modified, but pizzas generally require cheese.
Gluten-free options: Yes — gluten-free pizza crust available on request; cross-contact is possible due to the wood-fired oven.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes for casual-but-fun dates — the buzzing room, cocktails, and wood-fired pizzas create a lively vibe. However, it’s not ideal if you want quiet conversation during peak hours.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes if you arrive on the early side. Walk-ins before 6pm are usually seated quickly, but prime weekend hours may require a short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for kids 8 and up — the space is compact and better suited for older kids who enjoy trying creative pizzas. Highchairs and stroller space are limited.
Best For
Better for: Creative wood-fired pizzas, shareable seasonal plates, and a buzzier, more adult-friendly family vibe than most neighborhood pizzerias.
Skip if: You need very quiet dining, vegan-heavy menus, or ample space for toddlers and strollers — nearby casual spots may be easier for younger families.
Ronan
8.2
Ronan is a chef-driven, wood-fired pizzeria and seasonal share-plates spot where Neapolitan-style pies, vegetable dishes, and cocktails anchor a string-lit patio and industrial-chic dining room. It’s ideal for couples who want a modern, slightly buzzy date-night without going full white-tablecloth.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sweet Cheeks Pizza, House Caesar Salad, Seasonal Vegetable Plates
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 9.3
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: A Michelin-recognized, family-run pizzeria where creative pies meet craft cocktails.
Who should go: Couples who share plates and care about natural wine.
When to visit: Hit the first seating or later slots after peak rush.
What to order: Sweet Cheeks pizza, Caesar salad, seasonal veggie plates.
Insider tip: Ask about off-menu specials and split a pizza plus a couple of small plates.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose and nearby residential blocks is feasible but competitive after 7pm; no valet. Plan a few extra minutes to circle or use a rideshare if arriving during peak dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual leaning trendy; think elevated denim, casual dresses, or a polished button-down. Guests often dress stylishly without being formal.
Noise level: Moderate to lively. You can hold a conversation across a two-top, but the buzz increases after 8pm, especially on the patio.
Weekend wait: Expect 30–60 minutes without a reservation during peak hours, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: N/A — Ronan is dinner-focused; for early-evening weekday dinners, waits are usually minimal before 6:30pm.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options — several pizzas and seasonal vegetable plates cater well to vegetarians.
Vegan options: Limited but doable — a couple of shareable vegetable dishes and customizable pizzas depending on the night.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free crust available for most pizzas; the kitchen is careful but not a fully separate prep space.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the buzz, cocktails, and share-plate format create a fun, natural rhythm for conversation. It’s lively but not overwhelming, and the patio lighting adds a warm, date-friendly atmosphere.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, but with strategy. Walk-ins are easiest early (before 6:30pm) or later in the evening after the main rush. Parties of two have the best luck; larger groups should book ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — it’s more of an adult-leaning spot, but well-behaved older kids or teens will be fine. No dedicated kids’ menu, and peak hours can feel too loud or tightly packed for younger children.
Best For
Better for: Creative wood-fired pizzas, natural wine, and a buzzy, modern vibe that still feels intimate enough for dates. Great for couples who want craft cocktails and a stylish patio without formal dining.
Skip if: You want a quiet, candlelit Italian dinner, a fully gluten-free or vegan-focused menu, or very traditional red-sauce classics. This is more chef-driven and contemporary than old-school.
Ronan
8.8
Ronan is a chef-driven, wood-fired pizzeria and cocktail bar where naturally leavened pies share the table with seasonal small plates and a serious wine program. It functions as a full night out spot rather than a simple slice joint, with reservations, patio seating, and a polished yet relaxed Melrose energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sweet Fennel Sausage Pizza, Seasonal Margherita Pizza, Truffle Arancini
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Wood-fired pizzas meet chef-y small plates and a strong bar program.
Who should go: Date-night couples and small groups who care about ingredients.
When to visit: Prime weekend dinner slots for peak buzz and bar energy.
What to order: Sweet fennel sausage pie, seasonal margherita, truffle arancini.
Insider tip: Sit on the patio for the best mix of people-watching and noise levels.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose is limited; expect to circle during peak hours. Metered spots on side streets are your best bet, and rideshare is common on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual. Most guests lean stylish but relaxed—think elevated denim, casual dresses, and button-downs.
Noise level: Moderate to lively. Conversation is doable at a table, but the indoor room gets energetic during primetime.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation depending on weather and patio demand.
Weekday lunch: N/A – Ronan does not operate as a lunch spot; early evening weekday arrivals typically have little to no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options—several pizzas and seasonal vegetable plates are built with vegetarians in mind.
Vegan options: Limited but possible; a few small plates work, but pizzas require modification. Best to ask the server.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free crust is available for most pizzas; cross-contact is possible due to the wood-fired oven.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The mix of shareable plates, craft cocktails, and warm lighting makes it an ideal choice for a slightly upscale but not overly formal first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes on weekdays if you arrive early. Weekends are reservation-heavy; walk-ins should expect a wait or aim for patio seating right at opening.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat. Early seatings work for families, but the vibe skews adult as the night goes on. No dedicated kids menu.
Best For
Better for: Inventive wood-fired pies, chef-driven small plates, and a polished cocktail experience—ideal when you want something more elevated than a classic pizzeria.
Skip if: You want fast-casual pizza, delivery-heavy convenience, or a quiet room; Ronan leans lively and crafted rather than quick or low-key.
Ronan
8.4
Ronan is a MICHELIN-listed, chef-driven Italian spot on Melrose balancing wood-fired pizzas, seasonal small plates, and a serious cocktail program in an intimate space. It works equally well for low-lit date nights and small birthday dinners that revolve around bottles of wine and shared pies.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, Sweet & Spicy Carrots, Calzone al Forno
Scores:
Value: 7.2
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.1
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: Wood-fired Italian cooking with cocktails in a MICHELIN-listed setting.
Who should go: Pizza obsessives and couples who care about cocktails.
When to visit: Later seatings for a livelier room and full dinner service.
What to order: Margherita pizza, roasted carrots, a shared calzone.
Insider tip: Plan to share a mix of pizzas and vegetables rather than ordering solo entrées.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose and nearby residential blocks is available but fills quickly; no dedicated lot. Expect to circle during peak hours.
Dress code: Smart casual with a slightly polished edge; stylish jeans and a nice top are common.
Noise level: Moderate to lively — energetic but still workable for date-night conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable — Ronan is dinner-only; early evening tends to have minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options — several pizzas, salads, and seasonal vegetable plates.
Vegan options: Limited — some items can be modified, but not a dedicated section.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pizza crust is available; many small plates are naturally gluten-free.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the dim lighting, polished cocktails, and shareable plates create an intimate, low-pressure atmosphere ideal for a first date.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Possibly — walk-ins are usually seated early evening or late night, but prime hours often require a wait. Bar seats are the best fallback.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat — the room skews adult and date-night, but older kids who enjoy pizza and small plates will be fine. No specific kid amenities.
Best For
Better for: Creative wood-fired pizzas, seasonal vegetable dishes, and a stronger cocktail program than most neighborhood Italian spots.
Skip if: You want a quiet, traditional Italian menu or a fully gluten-free/vegan dining experience.
Ronan
7.8
Ronan is a MICHELIN-listed wood-fired Italian spot on Melrose where Neapolitan-style pizzas, seasonal small plates, and cocktails can be built into a de facto chef’s tasting, especially when you let the kitchen send a progression. Since opening in 2018, it’s become a go-to for casually structured multi-course dinners built around shared pies like Sweet Cheeks and Spicy Chomper.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sweet Cheeks Pizza, Spicy Chomper Pizza, Truffle Arancini
Scores:
Value: 6.4
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 8.4
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 7.9
What makes it special: MICHELIN-listed, wood-fired Italian where shared courses mimic a relaxed tasting menu.
Who should go: Pizza lovers wanting chef-guided, shareable multi-course dinners.
When to visit: Busy weekend evenings for full patio energy and bar buzz.
What to order: Sweet Cheeks pizza, Spicy Chomper, truffle arancini.
Insider tip: For a tasting-style experience, ask staff to build a progression of antipasti, pizzas, and sides to share.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Melrose is limited, with metered spots until late; expect to circle during peak hours. Valet is occasionally offered during busy weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual; most guests lean stylish given the Melrose crowd. Jeans are fine, but pair with something polished.
Noise level: Moderate to lively—conversation is doable at smaller tables, but the patio and bar area can get energetic during weekend dinner.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: N/A — Ronan does not operate a standard weekday lunch service; early evening weekdays are typically easier with little or no wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection of vegetable-forward small plates and pizzas that work well in a shared format.
Vegan options: Limited but doable—ask about modifications; a few salads and vegetable dishes can be adapted.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free pizza dough is available, and several small plates are naturally gluten-free; notify staff for cross-contamination precautions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—dim lighting, a stylish crowd, and shareable plates create an easy, conversational flow without feeling overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes. Arrive early on weekends or target bar seating or the patio; otherwise expect a wait. Weeknights are significantly easier.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—older kids and teens who enjoy pizza and shared plates will do fine, but the vibe skews adult and energetic. No dedicated kids' menu.
Best For
Better for: Stylish, wood-fired Italian with a MICHELIN listing where you can build a flexible, shareable tasting format without the structure of a formal tasting menu.
Skip if: You want a quiet dining room, strict multi-course tasting progression, or broad vegan options—neighbors on Melrose may suit these needs better.