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De La Nonna
Master Critic Reviews (6 Lists)
De La Nonna
8.0
A casual Arts District wine bar built around Roman-leaning pinsa, crisp focaccia sandwiches, and natural bottles. The vibe is social and unfussy, with a menu that’s light enough for aperitivo but solid for a full meal. A newer neighborhood staple that’s more about hang time than formality.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pinsa Romana (seasonal), Whipped Eggplant Dip & Focaccia, Focaccia Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 7.8
Consistency: 7.9
Food Quality: 8.1
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Natural wine aperitivo spot with standout pinsa in the Arts District.
Who should go: Wine-forward groups and casual date nights.
When to visit: Late afternoon into evening for aperitivo energy.
What to order: Pinsa, eggplant dip, focaccia sandwich.
Insider tip: Hit happy hour for half-off bottles.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is the norm in this stretch of the Arts District—metered spots fill up fast after 6pm, but there’s usually space a few blocks out. No valet.
Dress code: Casual but intentional—arts-district chic. Jeans and a nice top fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially outdoors. Conversations are doable but expect social buzz during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 30–45 minutes for walk-ins during prime hours, especially if you want the patio.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; late afternoon aperitivo hour fills up more quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong coverage—several dips, salads, and vegetarian pinsa options.
Vegan options: Limited—mostly select starters and modifications; ask staff for guidance.
Gluten-free options: Not ideal for strict gluten-free; pinsa dough contains wheat and alternatives are limited.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something fun and low-pressure. The natural wine and outdoor tables create an easy, social energy without feeling formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—walk-ins are common. Aim for early evening or later-night windows to avoid peak aperitivo waits.
Is it kid-friendly? More adult-leaning due to the wine bar vibe, but older kids are fine on the patio. No dedicated kids menu.
Best For
Better for: Aperitivo-style hangs, natural wine, and lighter, crisp Roman-style pinsa that works equally for snacking or a casual full meal.
Skip if: You want formal Italian dining, heavier pastas, or a quieter, white-tablecloth experience—other Arts District Italian spots fit that lane better.
De La Nonna
8.5
De La Nonna specializes in pan-style pizzas with airy, focaccia-like crusts topped in thoughtful combinations and served alongside seasonal vegetables and natural-leaning wines. Since opening in the Arts District it has become a go-to for shareable pies and casual date-night energy.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sausage & Peppers pan pizza, Margherita pan pizza, Market vegetable plates
Scores:
Value: 7
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 9
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Pan-style pizzas with long-fermented dough and a low-key wine-bar feel.
Who should go: Couples and small groups who share pies and bottles.
When to visit: Golden hour for patio seats and smoother kitchen pacing.
What to order: Sausage and peppers pie, a seasonal veg pie, soft-serve dessert.
Insider tip: Start with a salad or veg plate so the meal doesn’t feel too heavy.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in the Arts District; expect to circle. Paid lots on adjacent blocks (near Mateo St. and Willow St.) usually have space during dinner hours.
Dress code: Smart casual. Most guests lean stylish but relaxed—jeans, button-downs, and casual dresses all fit the scene.
Noise level: Moderate. You can hold a conversation at a normal volume, though peak weekend energy brings a lively buzz.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for patio seating.
Weekday lunch: Minimal wait; often seated immediately or within 10 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options—several pizzas and most starter plates skew veg-friendly.
Vegan options: Limited. Some vegetable starters work, but pizzas require modifications and may not satisfy strict vegans.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free crust available on request, but quantities are limited and cross-contact is possible due to the open kitchen.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The warm lighting, shareable pies, and wine-forward menu create an easy, conversational setting without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—especially early evening or weekday nights. Walk-ins should expect a short wait during prime weekend hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids who enjoy pizza and relaxed patio dining. Not ideal for toddlers due to tight walkways and a more adult-oriented vibe.
Best For
Better for: Pan-style pizzas with airy, focaccia-like crusts and a more refined, wine-bar-adjacent atmosphere than most casual pie shops.
Skip if: You prefer thin-crust, New York–style slices or want a quick, grab-and-go pizza experience.
De La Nonna
8.3
Born as a 2020 pop-up and opened in the Arts District in 2021, De La Nonna turns naturally leavened, focaccia-like squares into late-night-friendly pies backed by natural wine and cocktails. String lights, a lively patio, and market-driven toppings make it the spot when you want pizza that feels equal parts dinner destination and pre-game.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nonna pepperoni square, Market pie with seasonal toppings, White pie with roasted fennel and pesto
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Sicilian-style square pies with farmers-market toppings and patio energy.
Who should go: Groups or dates wanting lively, design-forward pizza nights.
When to visit: Friday and Saturday nights when the room and patio buzz.
What to order: Nonna pepperoni, market pie, white fennel-and-pesto pie.
Insider tip: Use the late-night slice window Fridays and Saturdays for quick grab-and-go.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in the Arts District after 6pm; expect to circle. Nearby paid lots along Traction Ave and E 3rd St usually have space for $8–$15.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but most guests lean polished thanks to the cocktail and natural-wine vibe.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak hours—conversation is doable but expect a buzzy patio and lively dining room.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation, especially after 7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: No lunch service; early weekday dinners before 6:30pm typically have minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options—several pies and starters lean veggie-forward, including seasonal market toppings.
Vegan options: Limited—can modify some pizzas by holding cheese, but no fully dedicated vegan pie.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free dough is not offered; salads and sides provide the safest alternatives.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The patio lighting, shareable pizzas, and natural-wine list create an easy, upbeat backdrop that feels fun without being overly formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—arrive early (before 6:30pm) or go late. For peak weekend hours, expect a wait or use the slice window if you're flexible.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat—kids are welcome, but the space skews adult with cocktails, high energy, and later hours. Best suited for older kids comfortable with lively dining rooms.
Best For
Better for: Design-forward vibes, natural wine, and focaccia-like square pies that feel more artisanal and shareable than classic slice shops.
Skip if: You want traditional thin-crust or New York–style pizza, a quiet dinner, or a spot with strong gluten-free or vegan pizza options.
De La Nonna
8.5
De La Nonna serves thick-crusted, focaccia-like square pies with long-fermented dough, bright toppings, and a cheery, retro dining room in the Arts District. It operates in the sweet spot between casual counter-service and sit-down hangout, where a couple of pizzas and spritzes still feel approachable compared to full-on special-occasion spots.
Must-Try Dishes:
Roasted Mushroom Pizza, Pepperoni Square, Market Seasonal Pie
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Sicilian-inspired square pies built on 55-hour dough in a lively Arts District room.
Who should go: Pizza fans wanting fun sit-down nights without white tablecloths
When to visit: Evenings Thursday–Saturday when the room and patio buzz
What to order: Roasted Mushroom, Pepperoni square, a rotating market pie
Insider tip: Split two different pies and ask for them half-and-half on one tray to sample more combinations.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Traction Ave and neighboring blocks is available but fills quickly after 6pm; several paid lots sit within a 2–3 minute walk.
Dress code: Casual-to-smart casual; elevated enough for a date but relaxed enough for jeans and a nice top.
Noise level: Moderate; lively music and conversation but still workable for dates or small groups.
Weekend wait: 30–50 minutes without a reservation, especially 7–8:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically minimal wait; quick seating unless a large group arrives.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection: multiple veggie-forward pies plus salads and small plates.
Vegan options: Limited; a few customizable options but no dedicated vegan cheese program.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free crust; salads and small plates offer alternatives but pizza options are limited.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The warm lighting, retro design, and shareable square pies make it a relaxed but still impressive choice for a casual date night.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually, yes—especially for smaller parties—but expect a wait on Thursday–Saturday evenings. Showing up early or sitting on the patio increases your chances.
Is it kid-friendly? Reasonably kid-friendly before 7pm; the space is casual and the pizzas are shareable. After peak dinner hours it skews more adult/social.
Best For
Better for: Group-friendly nights where you want creative toppings, thick-crust pies, and a lively Arts District setting without feeling overly formal.
Skip if: You want thin-crust Neapolitan-style pizza, gluten-free crusts, or a quiet, intimate dining room.
De La Nonna
8.4
De La Nonna serves long-fermented, focaccia-like square pies and Italian-ish snacks in a bright Arts District space with a bar that runs its own happy hour window. Discounted slices, spritzes, and a few shareable plates make it an easy meeting point before a night of gallery hopping or brewery stops nearby.
Must-Try Dishes:
Roasted Mushroom Square Pie, Pepperoni Sicilian Square, Seasonal Veggie Square with 55-Hour Dough
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Thick, long-fermented square pies served alongside spritz-friendly happy hour deals in a casual Arts District room.
Who should go: Pizza fans wanting drinks and shareable squares before a night out
When to visit: Late afternoon into early evening for bar happy hour
What to order: Roasted Mushroom square, pepperoni square, a round of spritzes
Insider tip: Sit at the bar for the best shot at limited happy hour-only slice and drink specials.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking can be tight after 6pm; meter spots on 3rd/4th often open up before dinner. Several paid lots within a 1–3 minute walk typically run $6–12 in the evenings.
Dress code: Smart casual; Arts District chic is common. Jeans and sneakers are fine, but many guests lean slightly polished for happy hour meetups and early date nights.
Noise level: Moderate to lively; you can hold a conversation at a two-top, but bar seating gets louder during peak happy hour.
Weekend wait: Expect a 30–45 minute wait without a reservation, especially for groups. Bar seats turn faster.
Weekday lunch: Not applicable, as it operates primarily evenings; early weekday happy hour (4–6pm) typically has minimal wait.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection; several square pies and small plates lean naturally vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited; some snacks can be modified, but pies are cheese-forward. Best to ask the server for day-of modifications.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free dough; some salads and small plates are safe options, but pizza accommodations are limited.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes—its warm lighting, stylish room, and strong drink program give it a relaxed-but-special vibe. It works especially well for casual first dates where conversation and shared dishes are the focus.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually if you arrive right at the start of happy hour; prime hours after 6:30pm fill quickly. Bar seating is your best bet for walk-ins.
Is it kid-friendly? Somewhat; early evenings are fine for families, but the room skews adult as the night goes on. No dedicated kids menu, but shareable pizzas work well for older kids.
Best For
Better for: Great for groups wanting approachable but high-quality square pies with strong cocktails and a lively Arts District backdrop. Better bar energy and pre-night-out atmosphere than quieter sit-down Italian spots.
Skip if: If you want a quiet dinner, extensive vegan options, or traditional thin-crust Neapolitan pizza, choose a different Arts District restaurant.
De La Nonna
8.1
De La Nonna’s Arts District dining room and patio serve thick, focaccia-style Sicilian pizzas, salads, and veg plates in a relaxed room that feels equally built for date nights and family dinners. Since opening as a brick-and-mortar in 2021, it’s become a go-to for groups sharing pizzas, natural wine, and a few extra sides for the table.
Must-Try Dishes:
The Nonna Pack, White pizza, Roasted Mushroom pizza
Scores:
Value: 6.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8.7
Cultural Relevance: 8
What makes it special: Sicilian focaccia-style pizzas, shareable salads, and a laid-back Arts District patio that suits mixed-age groups.
Who should go: Families and friend groups who love sharing pizza and sides.
When to visit: Early evening or weekend lunch before the busiest peak.
What to order: The Nonna Pack, White pizza, Roasted Mushroom pizza.
Insider tip: Book an earlier reservation and ask for patio seating so kids can spread out while adults linger over wine and another pie.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Traction Ave and neighboring blocks is limited during peak Arts District hours; nearby paid lots typically run $8–$15 depending on the night.
Dress code: Casual to smart casual; most guests lean relaxed-but-stylish given the Arts District crowd.
Noise level: Moderate; the dining room has a lively hum, but the patio allows easier conversation for families and groups.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait or a short 5–10 minute queue.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options; several pizzas, salads, and small plates are naturally vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited but workable; some salads and vegetable plates can be made vegan—ask about modifications.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free diners can rely on salads and certain sides; gluten-free pizza availability may vary—confirm with the server.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes if you want something relaxed and stylish—its shareable pizzas and casual patio create an easygoing atmosphere without feeling too informal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often, yes—walk-ins are common, but peak weekend times fill fast. Arrive early or be willing to sit on the patio for the quickest turnaround.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for most ages; the patio is especially accommodating for younger kids, and the menu’s pizzas and sides are easy crowd-pleasers.
Best For
Better for: Group-friendly Sicilian-style pizzas, a relaxed Arts District vibe, and a patio that works equally well for families and friend groups.
Skip if: You want traditional thin-crust Neapolitan pies, ultra-quiet dining, or a menu with extensive vegan or gluten-free substitutions.