0 Followers
Pirro’s Pizzeria
Master Critic Reviews (7 Lists)
Pirro’s Pizzeria
8.0
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Quick Bites Champions
Neighborhood fixture dating to 1954 known for hand-spun pies, Sicilian squares, and a classic red-sauce menu. People come for nostalgic flavors, fair prices, and reliable takeout on busy evenings.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sicilian Square Pizza, Pirro’s Special Combo Pie, Garlic Bread
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Decades-strong pizzeria with hand-spun pies and Sicilian trays.
Who should go: Families and classic pizza loyalists
When to visit: Early evening before peak delivery rush
What to order: Sicilian square, combo pie, garlic bread
Insider tip: Call ahead—counter pick-up is faster than third-party apps.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval and side streets is generally available but fills up around dinnertime. No dedicated lot or valet service.
Dress code: Casual and family-friendly—jeans, hoodies, and ballcaps are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate to lively, especially on weekends when families dine in; still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 15–25 minutes for a table; longer for large groups or takeout during peak rush.
Weekday lunch: No wait for dine-in; quick counter service for slices and sandwiches.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several pizzas, pastas, and salads can be made vegetarian.
Vegan options: Limited—cheese-free red-sauce pies or veggie pastas are possible on request, but no vegan cheese.
Gluten-free options: No official gluten-free crust; diners with mild sensitivity sometimes order salads or pasta without bread.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a low-pressure, nostalgic hangout than a formal date—great if your date appreciates old-school charm and hearty pizza.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Pirro’s doesn’t take reservations, but tables turn quickly. Call ahead for takeout to skip the short wait.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—families with young kids are common. High chairs available and staff are used to family groups.
Best For
Better for: Classic pizza lovers and families wanting reliable, nostalgic Italian-American comfort.
Skip if: You’re after craft toppings, wood-fired crusts, or a romantic ambiance—try Gold Mirror or Fiorella instead.
Pirro’s Pizzeria
8.3
Neighborhood sit-down pizzeria serving classic pies and red-sauce staples since 1954. Families and longtime Parkside regulars lean on it for comfortable booths and old-school flavors.
Must-Try Dishes:
Pirro’s Special (loaded combo), Margherita, Sausage & Peppers Pie
Scores:
Value: 7.6
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.9
What makes it special: Time-tested Parkside institution with classic pies and red-sauce comfort.
Who should go: Families and nostalgia-driven pizza fans
When to visit: Early dinner on weekends for easiest seating
What to order: Pirro’s Special; margherita; sausage & peppers
Insider tip: Portions run big—split a large and add a salad.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval and nearby side streets is generally available but can fill up during peak dinner hours. No dedicated lot or valet service.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable—jeans, sweaters, and family-dinner attire are the norm.
Noise level: Moderate to lively during dinner hours; expect conversation hum from families and groups but still easy to talk.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes without a reservation, especially between 6–7:30pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; immediate seating common.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—several meatless pizzas and pasta dishes like margherita, veggie combo, and cheese ravioli.
Vegan options: Limited—can customize a pizza without cheese or request veggie toppings, but no vegan cheese offered.
Gluten-free options: Gluten-free crust available upon request, prepared in a shared kitchen (not suitable for severe allergies).
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for casual, low-pressure dates where comfort matters more than ambience. Cozy booths and nostalgic energy make it feel genuine, not fancy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Pirro’s is walk-in friendly. Expect a short wait on weekends; call ahead for large groups to ensure a table.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—high chairs available, family booths, and staff used to accommodating children. Ideal for families with kids under 12.
Best For
Better for: Classic Italian-American comfort and large family portions—great for nostalgic pizza nights and multi-generational groups.
Skip if: You’re after artisanal thin-crust pies, craft cocktails, or a romantic modern atmosphere—try a newer pizzeria instead.
Pirro’s Pizzeria
7.6
Taraval mainstay (since 1954) serving classic round pies and Sicilian squares with a neighborhood bar energy. Casual service and late weekend hours suit unpretentious date nights built around sharable pizza and a drink.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sicilian Square 'Pirro's Special', Pepperoni & Mushroom Pie, Meatball Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.2
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.7
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 6.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.1
What makes it special: Long-running Sunset pizzeria with beloved Sicilian squares and neighborhood feel.
Who should go: Casual couples who want pizza and drinks
When to visit: Fri–Sat after 8pm for a livelier vibe
What to order: Pirro’s Special Sicilian, house combo pie, garlic bread
Insider tip: Call ahead for Sicilian—bakes longer and sells out late.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval and nearby side streets; can be tight on weekends after 7pm but generally manageable with a short walk.
Dress code: Casual; jeans and sneakers are fine—most guests come relaxed after work or from the beach.
Noise level: Moderate – background chatter and music but still easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes during peak hours, especially for larger groups.
Weekday lunch: No wait; quick seating and faster service flow.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several veggie pies and pasta options are available.
Vegan options: Limited – can request cheeseless pizza or simple veggie sides.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated crust; best to call ahead as cross-contact is likely.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, if you want an easygoing, nostalgic setting without pressure. Shared Sicilian slices and local beer create a relaxed first-date energy.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes – it’s first-come, first-served. Arrive before 7pm or closer to 9pm to avoid the main dinner rush.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes – families are common early evenings. Booster seats available; kids’ pizza and pasta portions offered.
Best For
Better for: Old-school, shareable pizza nights and casual date vibes with a touch of history.
Skip if: You’re after fine dining or extensive wine service—Pirro’s is more laid-back neighborhood comfort than special-occasion destination.
Pirro’s Pizzeria
8.1
Legacy Taraval pizzeria serving hand-spun pies and old-school Sicilian recipes. Friendly staff and roomy tables make it an easy choice for families and birthday dinners.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sicilian Square Cheese Pizza, Pirro’s Special (sausage, peppers, onions), Garlic Bread with Cheese
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.3
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: Legacy Business with Taraval roots and hand-spun Sicilian pies.
Who should go: Families who love thick-crust pizza
When to visit: Early evening before weekend rush
What to order: Sicilian square, Pirro’s Special, garlic bread
Insider tip: Order Sicilian ahead—bakes longer than round pies.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking along Taraval and nearby side streets; fills quickly on weekends but usually manageable before 6pm.
Dress code: Casual and family-oriented—jeans, hoodies, and game-day gear all welcome.
Noise level: Lively during peak dinner hours with family chatter and kids’ birthdays, but still possible to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes without reservation during prime hours (6–8pm).
Weekday lunch: Usually immediate seating except for larger groups.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several pizza and pasta options without meat, including classic margherita and eggplant parm.
Vegan options: Limited – can customize veggie pies without cheese but no dedicated vegan cheese option.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free dough, but salads and select pasta dishes can be modified.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re aiming for casual comfort over romance—great for easygoing pizza nights but not a candlelit vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, they operate mostly on walk-ins. Arrive early on weekends or expect a short wait; large groups should call ahead.
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely—plenty of space for strollers, kids’ menu portions, and patient servers used to families with young children.
Best For
Better for: Large family dinners and nostalgic thick-crust pizza in a friendly, no-frills setting.
Skip if: You’re looking for craft cocktails, quiet ambience, or modern Italian fare.
Pirro’s Pizzeria
8.3
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Birthday & Celebration Central
Long-running Taraval standby serving hand-spun pies and old-school Italian-American comfort. Spacious tables and friendly pacing make it easy for family dinners and low-key celebrations.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sicilian Square Pie, Pirro’s Special (combo), Garlic Bread
Scores:
Value: 8.1
Service: 8.4
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Legacy Taraval pizzeria known for Sicilian squares and classic red-sauce dishes.
Who should go: Families celebrating casual birthdays
When to visit: Early evening on weekends for easiest seating
What to order: Sicilian square, Pirro’s Special, meatball parm
Insider tip: Order Sicilian ahead—it bakes longer than round pies.
Pirro’s Pizzeria
8.4
Since 1954, this Taraval standby turns out hand-spun pies, Sicilian squares, and red-sauce classics in a roomy dining room. It’s one of the few neighborhood options serving pizza until around 11–11:30pm on peak nights.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sicilian square, Pirro’s Special combo pie, Meatball parm
Scores:
Value: 7.8
Service: 8.3
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 9.1
What makes it special: Legacy pizzeria with later weekend hours and Sicilian pies.
Who should go: Families and groups craving classic pies
When to visit: Thu–Sat late evening for extended kitchen
What to order: Sicilian square, Pirro’s Special, meatball parm
Insider tip: Sicilian bakes longer—call ahead if you’re arriving late.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Taraval is generally available but can tighten after 7pm; no dedicated lot or valet service.
Dress code: Casual—locals come in jeans and hoodies after games or beach outings.
Noise level: Moderate—family chatter and sports on TV, but you can still hold a conversation easily.
Weekend wait: 20–40 minutes for dine-in during peak hours; quicker for takeout.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; immediate seating.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple veggie pizzas and pasta dishes available.
Vegan options: Limited—can request cheeseless pizzas or simple pasta with marinara.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free crust, though salads and sides offer alternatives.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for relaxed, low-pressure dates than romantic ones—think comfort food and nostalgia over candlelight.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—walk-ins are the norm. Arrive before 7:30pm on weekends to avoid the waitlist.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—ample seating, high chairs, and quick service make it easy for families with young kids.
Best For
Better for: Classic red-sauce comfort and late-night pizza cravings in a casual family setting.
Skip if: You’re seeking trendy thin-crust or upscale ambiance—this is old-school at heart.
Pirro’s Pizzeria
8.4
Vibes:
Family Friendly Favorites
Group Dining Gatherings
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Long-running Taraval standby (since 1954) turning out hand-spun pies and thick Sicilian squares in a roomy, old-school dining room. Reliable for family dinners with hearty portions and late-ish weekend hours.
Must-Try Dishes:
Sicilian square pizza, Pirro’s Special (loaded combo), Meatball parm sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 9.2
What makes it special: Sicilian pies and classic red-sauce comfort since 1954.
Who should go: Families and old-school pizza fans
When to visit: Thu–Sat evenings for extended hours
What to order: Sicilian square, Pirro’s Special, meatball parm
Insider tip: Sicilian takes longer—call ahead if arriving late.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free street parking along Taraval and nearby side streets; fills up after 6pm on weekends, so plan a short walk.
Dress code: Casual—jeans and sweaters fit right in; families often come straight from Little League or errands.
Noise level: Moderate—busy family chatter and background music, but you can hold a conversation across the table.
Weekend wait: 25–40 minutes during peak dinner rush, especially around 7pm.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait; walk right in and grab a booth.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—multiple veggie pizzas, salads, and pasta dishes available.
Vegan options: Limited—no vegan cheese, but can customize veggie pies without cheese.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free crust, but staff can accommodate light substitutions upon request.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better suited for a relaxed, low-pressure night than a formal date. Great if you bond over classic pizza and nostalgic charm.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Pirro’s runs on walk-ins. Arrive before 6:30pm on weekends to avoid a wait, especially for large groups.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely—high chairs, booster seats, and a patient staff make it an easy choice for families. Kids love the thick Sicilian slices.
Best For
Better for: Hearty, nostalgic Italian-American comfort in a roomy setting—perfect for families or groups who value tradition over trend.
Skip if: You’re seeking craft pies, vegan options, or a trendy wine bar setting—this is classic, not cutting-edge.