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Little Charli
Master Critic Review
Little Charli
8.3
Little Charli is a Roman-style pizzeria from pizzaiolo Salvatore Olivella, firing long-fermented pies in a wood-burning oven with a tight menu of pizzas and a few pastas. It’s intimate and low-lit enough for dates yet casual enough for a slice-and-wine night at the bar.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita pizza, Diablo pizza with hot honey, Nutella s’mores dessert pizza
Scores:
Value: 6.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.3
Cultural Relevance: 7.8
What makes it special: Wood-fired Roman pies with a short, focused menu and a reputation for excellent crust and fun toppings.
Who should go: Pizza-focused diners who still want a sit-down date setting.
When to visit: Evenings for full vibe; early week for easier seating.
What to order: Margherita, Diablo with hot honey, Nutella s’mores pizza.
Insider tip: The Diablo pizza pairs especially well with their hot honey—ask for extra on the side.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in the West Village; expect difficulty after 6pm. No valet. Paid garages are available within a 5–10 minute walk.
Dress code: Smart casual. Jeans are fine, but most guests lean slightly dressy due to the date-night vibe.
Noise level: Moderate. Music and oven activity create a lively backdrop, but you can comfortably hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 30–60 minutes without a reservation, depending on peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait; early evenings can have a short queue.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Solid options across pizzas and a couple of pastas; easy to dine vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—most pizzas rely on cheese; vegans may need to customize heavily.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free dough; best to check ahead if sensitivities are severe.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes. The low lighting, cozy layout, and wood-oven warmth create an intimate atmosphere without feeling too formal.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, especially early week or off-peak hours. Weekends require patience—bar seats are your best bet for quicker access.
Is it kid-friendly? Better for older kids or teens. Space is tight, and the vibe skews date-night, though well-behaved kids are welcomed.
Best For
Better for: A focused Roman-style pizza experience with standout crusts, a tight menu, and a date-friendly room that’s more intimate than larger pizzerias.
Skip if: You need extensive menu variety, vegan-friendly dining, or guaranteed walk-in seating during peak weekend hours.