Gourmet Pizza

by Katie Heffernan - Citysearch Contributor - 8,892 Reviews - 25 Lists

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Updated: November 04, 2009

There's no combination quite like the bread, the red and the cheese--but sometimes the thought of delivery (greasy-bottomed cardboard boxes, the awkwardness of the pajama-front-door-answer) is enough to make you give that sushi-deli-taco-express mart around the corner another shot. But before you do, remember this: There's another side to pizza-pie, one with wood-fired flavor, artisanal toppings and even plates and forks and knives. Read on to get a taste of five DC eateries serving pizzas with a little more sophistication and pizazz.

Artisanal Pizza

  1. 1 The Source
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    575 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20001 (map)

    Here's to pizza at its swankiest--and most devious. If you've wanted to rub shoulders with the big-wigs at Wolfgang Puck's downtown hot spot but couldn't stomach the bill, how about nibbling a goat cheese, sausage, leek and wild mushroom pizza ($19) from a prime seat in the scene-y lounge?

  2. 2 Coppi's
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    1414 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009 (map)

    Two passions keep this Logan Circle pizzeria going: Fausto Coppi, the Italian cycling superstar who looms over everyone’s meal from the walls, and something that bicycling represents--the sustainable lifestyle. This all-organic menu is locally sourced; the restaurant is wind-powered; and the oven cooks pies with wood fire. Try the Fungi di Busco, featuring Pennsylvania mushrooms, provolone and parsley ($16).

  3. 3 5 Star Rating: Highly Recommended Pizzeria Paradiso
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    2029 P St NW, Washington, DC 20036 (map)

    The rarity of a no-nonsense restaurant that still serves a gourmet meal is realized here--a casual, friendly and fast-as-you-want-it-to-be pizzeria with wood-fired combinations like the Siciliana with zucchini, eggplant, capers, garlic and pecorino ($13).

  4. 4 4.5 Star Rating: Recommended 2 Amys
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    3715 Macomb St NW, Washington, DC 20016 (map)

    Serving the only legitimate Neapolitan pies in the city, this institution is a no-brainer for any pizza-craver willing to put up with the wait and the noise. Most disturbances dissolve once artisan beers pour from the tap, and pies like the Norcia with salami, grilled peppers, fresh mozzarella and grana ($13) arrive.