Good breads, biscotti's...Food is so-so for the price. Friendly employees.
(3)
James S.
Good pizza for a good price. Try the olives.
(4)
Ray T.
Darn good thin crust pizza. Great anti pasta.
(5)
Dr Kathleen H.
The best thin pizza south of NJ. Crisp crust, great sauce and good mozzarella, not the cheap oily stuff. Totally worth the price for a slice...the the Italian sandwich is wonderful but watch out sometimes one of the guys warms the bread..which means that it is stale...but other than that...if you want a great slice...or pie this is the place
(4)
Jane D.
I ordered the Eggplant Parmesan hot sub and it was out of this world. Thick gooey cheese and perfectly prepared eggplant served in a roll that was shoved in a pizza oven, heated to perfection and served piping hot. I see the rave reviews about their pizza, but their pizza has never appealed to me because they have it all in the display window and half of the examples looked dried up and not appealing in the least. They do have some really good looking panini type sandwiches prepared and ready for the flat grill. The service is spotty-- sometimes you get a really helpful nice guy, and sometimes you get the guy with major 'tude. I don't know what the deal is with that, but if you can overlook it and just focus on the food it is a recommended try.
(4)
Lexi C.
I love the pizza but I avoid this place like the plague due to the grumpy counter person. I should go back though since maybe it was just her. I have had co workers go pick up a pizza and it is always delicious. I drive by and think, I should go in today. It's just that she so sucked the joy out of it the first time. I was about 3rd in line so I had to listen to her treat the people in front of me the same way she treated me. I will update once I go back. Since one reviewer said they actually tell them to go somewhere else when they are too busy, I doubt they care how I feel about their service. Maybe I won't go back.
(3)
Sammie B.
Always Delicious!!! We got a few "different" slices this last time and they were awesome!! One was bacon and eggs and the other was eggplant and ricotta.
(5)
Matthew T.
I just do not get what the big deal is about this place. I think I just don't like their style of pizza. I've always liked "fuller, chewy" crust and not the crisp kind this places puts out. I guess It must be an east coast thing. Throw in the surly help and what is to like? Tried getting some cheese and meats here once and that was an adventure in hair pulling. Kind of like going to the soup nazi, "NO prosciutto for you!!!!!"
(2)
Jordan M.
If you're into thin crust this is the best pizza in town. Not usually a big white pizza fan but when I'm here it's a must.
(5)
Robbie C.
Will start with the positives-thin New York style pizza that tasted good, although a bit on the crispy side. Customer service is non existent and I'm a New Yorker that has experienced loads of the real deal pizzerias where tony and guido treat you like family. Not here. Forgettabout it! I asked the dude what kind of calzones he had and he proceeds to rip each one open with his finger and mumble some ingredients. Really? They looked old and sad. I asked if they had a restroom and was handed a gas station type of key and told its outside. Is this a pizza place or do I get an oil change? The condiments on the table looked like they had seen better days. Dirty dining would have a field day here! Was passing through and won't be back even for decent tasting pizza.
(3)
Kristin V.
Terrible. Lived in NJ/NY area all my life..so i don't know what all the others are talking about. All the pizza looked hours old. Disgueted.
(1)
Anthony A.
This place SUCKS! You walk in the door and it deceives you with its authentic jersey Italian decor, but the pizza blows and the service is the worst it can possibly be. Very unorganized. Never again!
(1)
Geno K.
Man I was so excited when we walked into this place. It just had the look of a place where you're about to get the best slab of pizza you've ever had. It looked authentically Italian without being cheesy. But when I took that first bite, my only thought was... really? It was just bland and forgettable. It wasn't the worst pizza I had, but it was no better than any chain pizza.
(2)
Liz M.
Good pizza, but greasy. Super thin crust was nice, and if you like your pie saturated in oils then this is the place to come! Usually I like a bit less because I feel a bit queasy after otherwise, but it was good pizza regardless. You're looking at about $20 a pie here. But there pies are big, so it's well worth it. 2 ppl will have left overs and 3 or 4 people will be comfortably full. Though it doesn't look like they have a restroom, they do, just ask.
(3)
Mike R.
This place used to be great but I think ownership has shifted hands. The pizza sits around behind the glass for God only knows how long and gets saugy. The ingredients are cheap and the people are rude! Two thumbs down!
(1)
M R.
Not sure why people love this place. It's meeeh. The pizza took a long time to be ready, it was dry and it tasted off. Not impressed at all. Won't be back!
(1)
Jack M.
Finally a place that tastes similar to the pizza I'm used to from living in NJ. I tried the Sicilian pizza and it was delicious! The desserts were also tasty as I took home some cannolis and a tiramisu which happens to be my favorite dessert. Overall this place made me feel like I walked into a little Italian restaurant like I would have back home
(4)
Matthew B.
It'd be easier to list the things that went right, than things that went wrong...but there weren't any. I call up to order takeout for me and my guests. They take my order and ask "Is there anything else?" and I reply with "Nope." and they say "Thanks, bye." and hangup. No estimated time, no order number, no subtotal. Ok, so I get there and they "lost my order, but remember me ordering" which I had called in a good 30 minutes (not knowing when my order would be ready.) beforehand. Thus, making me have to wait 20 minutes while they make it on the fly. I had ordered a salad with no onions and while watching them make it I see they start putting onions on. No biggie, so I just went up and told her that I ordered it without onions. Instead of making a new salad I watch her just pick the onions out instead. This wouldn't have been "that" big of a problem besides for the fact that I had someone allergic to onions. After they finally get my order ready, I hand them a coupon from them. After 5 minutes of the workers discussing it, they tell me they can't accept it. They said it would be valid for any of there locations, EXCEPT this one. There was absolutely NOTHING on the coupon saying this or any type of reason to believe it wouldn't be honored. I just said whatever as they still charged me full price, as I just wanted to get home and eat. I drive 5 minutes home and begin eating immediately and to no surprise I still find remains of onion and the pizza was cool. What terrific service!!!!
(1)
Kevin K.
Horrible service! Waited an hour only to find my pizza was not even in oven! No apologies & refused to talk to me.... Never been treated so rudely! Avoid this place!
(1)
Tim W.
So far the best Pizza I've had in Sarasota......can't wait to go back!!!
(5)
Linda Ann R.
Fantastic and consistent plus my NY and European friends feel right at home! It's ambience is good and outside dining is great in the winter! Whether for pizza, calzone or great sandwiches this ace is an inexpensive and satisfying choice!
(5)
Francesco C.
For a great Downtown Sarasota location I expected a better lunch experience! I'm not impressed with this location! First of all, there's no management. Everyone was ordering a slice of pizza in mixed orders! You walk up to the counter before someone walks in and they get service first by requesting something from the pizza maker and not the counter person. It is clearly disorganized to say the least! I order two slices of pizza and two drinks and it cost me $12.35!! What are you telling me Il Panificio your pizzas made of gold?? Sure it may taste better than frozen pizzas but I'm sorry, not $4.75 a slice plus the sodas!!! You can certainly get the same or even better quality pizza down the street and for a full size pizza for what I paid for just two slices here! The counter person had trouble keeping up with payments!! She took a man's debt card and charged him for what I think another person's order!! And btw - this is supposed to be an Italian Bakery establishment, right? Where's the zeppole? Don't you know it's an Italian tradition to sell zeppole during Saint Joseph's Day? Shame... shame Panificio!! I'm sorry but I would not step in here without change! I don't mean a Barack Obama change - I mean "for the better" change!
(1)
Mikey S.
For Sarasota, I wouldn't waste your time anywhere else concerning pizza.. The pizza is thin crust with corn meal on the bottom to give it that crisp taste! The cheese and sauce is nice and they offer a lot of cool things like italian sodas, desserts and more. Buy by the slice or grab a whole pie. Many toppings are pre made on slices. They give it a 2-5 minute heat up in the over and you are on your way. Although it is kind of a big deli, there is room and a few tall/stand-up tables with stools. Nice to have a slice and watch their big screen to see the news or daily stocks. The staff is nice and it is right in the heart of downtown.
(5)
Cristiane S.
I stopped at this place for a quick lunch with my family and we loved it. The staff was friendly and helpful. The pizza had a thin and crispy crust and the toppings were fresh and tasty. My sister ordered the gluten-free option and also approved it.
(5)
Mike J.
Decent Pizza - Rude humans. I called to order take out and the guy was really rude. He said, "look, it's really busy here" and mumbled some stuff then hung up on me. I picked up three pizzas for $60. The plain and the meat pizza were decent, but super oily. The Sicilian was awful - it reminded me of something you'd get in a middle school cafeteria.
(2)
Michael G.
Awesome!
(4)
John D.
Great Italian salad but the Everything pizza was very greasy. The crust was nice and thin but seemed almost deep fried due to the amount of oil used. The jury's still out.
(3)
Roger H.
The eggplant parm sub was inedible. I REALLY began to think that it was made with fried shoe leather. The server, cook guy made no effort to accommodate me. He just blamed it on the front office . A bad experience and a total jerk behind the counter. He should be fired along with whomever prepares their eggplant.
(1)
Carol C.
Best thin pizza in town! White pizza with sweet Italian sausage and ricotta is out of this world! Each slice is $4, a bit pricey but you get what you pay for and it's totally worth it!
(5)
Lea T.
My favorite thin crust pizza in the Sarasota area. Stop in and pick up a pie- there isn't much indoor seating unless you don't mind sitting outside. Also offers a variety of Italian products giving the place a market type atmosphere. Seems to close a little earlier than desired but that goes along with the rest of Main Street
(4)
Jim Z.
Tried the $4.00 Sicilian pizza. Was bland at best. Very little flavor and surprisingly bad. Regular pizza here is better, or at least it was.
(1)
Chris V.
Very oily, bland and no balance in crust-sauce-cheese ratio. Very disappointing as I've heard the gulf gate location is good-don't waste your time on main st. The young kid there is so Rude and acts inconvenienced by the business. The other guy there just as miserable. No one smiles, says hello or thank you even for the tip. Not very clean either. The worst business on main st!!
(1)
Scott O.
Best pizza in sarasota. The people that complain about rudeness don't understand the way this place works. It's fast paced you order and you get out of the way and enjoy your excellent pizza. No substitutions just great pizza. Their way or the highway
(5)
Robert G.
Nice place. quick service. Good pizza. they do a good thin crust. my only thing i would change is how long they cook it. its a little crispy but lots of people prefer that. i will definitely eat here the next time i am in sarasota.
(4)
Scott C.
I think that when we talk about New York pizza what we really mean is New Jersey pizza, and the best New Jersey pizza is what you are going to get at Il Panificio. I have lived in Sarasota for ten years. The first three years I was here I think I tried every pizza place in town, including Bradenton, (shudder). When I finally got to Il Panificio I knew my New Jersey pizza requirements had been found. Best Jersey pizza in town, hands down, game over.
(5)
Thomas P.
They really can bake at this place. Amazing sandwich bread and nice thin pizza crust. Huge portions if that's what floats your boat. Ambiance seems to be going for Brooklyn hole-in-the-wall pizza joint, which definitely works. It's kind of on the awkward part of main street that's not really near any of the other attractions, but it's a great lunch place and they've always treated me well.
(4)
Liz D.
Pizza is such tricky dish, even though it's relatively basic. There are so many people that want different things from this culinary treat. For me, I am always on the search for the thin crust pizza with great sauce. I found it here. I love how they have about 20 condiments on the table for you, which include italian seasoning, red pepper, cayenne, the container with giant holes to deliver fresh parmesan cheese... I got the eggplant and ricotta cheese slice. It was awesome. What is not to like about zesty tomato sauce and fresh ricotta? Hands down best pizza in Sarasota if you like thin crust authentic Italian style pizza. I have tried them all by now. Yep - Panificio does my heart good.
(5)
G. K.
Amazing thin crispy crust! I come back over and over. Staff is great (the guy who complained needs help himself).
(5)
Coty S.
The pizza is amazing! Mostly because of the crust, which is super thin, light, and crispy around the edges. I have lived in NYC 3 times and this pizza is comparable if not better because the crust does no overpower the toppings. No one just wants mostly bread. The cheese is high quality and very flavorful, as well as the toppings. Located on Main St. in downtown Sarasota in what appears to be an old gas station, the place is mostly all counter. There are a few high top tables and some outdoor seating. The employees can be quite rude, especially when they are busy. We usually call a pizza order in and pick it up, and sometimes they tell us that they are too busy to make a pizza for us and to go elsewhere. Interesting considering they are a pizza place. But, the food is worth it, if they will make it for you.
(4)
Krista R.
Here visiting from Ohio and must say the pizza was by far above all the best. Very fresh, price was right and the cannoli was a must have! The staff was beyond friendly and overall atmosphere was very welcoming. We will def. be back!!!
(5)
Jim H.
I've visited this place a number of times. The pizza is good but the help is rude and miserable. I think, they think it's New York cool. The pizza's not THAT good. I won't be back.
(1)
Bob B.
Back again---and the pizza remains tops while the Fox News continues to make for new lows in a million ways. Would be 5 stars otherwise. There are comments about the people working there being rude--I think they are intense. They run a tight ship and keep a lot of balls in the air. I've never had an unpleasant conversation or moment personally beyond the Fox dribble albeit there are times when I've felt I better know what I'm asking for--and ask quickly.
(4)
Nikki K.
consistent. classical. italian. pizza.
(4)
Matthew G.
I would take a bullet for just one more slice of their pizza. Or, if that failed, I'd pay asking price. The chef at the restaurant I work at took me there one day and I have been dreaming about the day when I can hitchhike back there for another slice.
(4)
Zenide R.
SO GOOD! I love popping in here when I'm downtown at the movies or walking around the marina . . . I have to have that incredible thin crust pizza - and the subs are decent, too. Lots of times, I find some other random thing to eat or cook with - damn impulse buying!
(4)
Sandy S.
Damn tasty pizza. We always make at least one pilgrimage when in Sarasota.
(4)
Kate E.
Yummy pizza. The people who work here are very friendly, esp. the elderly owner, who loves the ladies, if you know what I'm saying.
(4)
Sean D.
The best thin crust in town hands down. They have a great outdoor seating area to grab a slice and enjoy downtown.
(4)
David B.
Haven't had anything I didn't like. Great selection of gourmet pizzas and panninis. Also a great place to find some wine or hard-to-find italian ingredients for your own creations.
(4)
John R.
When I found this place I thought my long wait to find the perfect pizza was over. It doesnt withstand the test of time though. Ive been going there for a while and have grown sick of it but its still one of the better places to eat pizza inthe sarasota area
(4)
beryl l.
One of the best pizza places in SRQ. They have some amazing white pizza!
(4)
Andrew J.
I don't know why people like Panificio. The pizza is old, sitting out for hours, the prices are high and the staff are always rude. And I can never say the name right.
(2)
Mimi C.
their thin-crust pizza is the best i've ever tasted - it is so nice & crispy! we ordered their 20" white pizza w/our choice of toppings & a caesar salad (the latter was nothing special). wish we could have tried their espresso, but their machine was shut down for the day.
(5)
Eric L.
Premium casual Italian food in a great location at an excellent price. The toppings and salads are fresh, authentic, and delicious and the patio seating makes for a relaxed meal (if you're not getting takeout). Il Panificio has efficient, though not always friendly, service and a unique atmosphere. Those with simpler minds and palates and thicker wallets may prefer Cafe Epicure, but every true Sarasotan knows that Il Panificio is the number one pizza spot in town.
(5)
Emily G.
Best pizza in town! Service is slow, location is cramped and parking is limited but it's well worth it because the pizza is amazing!
(4)
Kristi P.
Nice place, very friendly. I liked all the different choices for toppings. Unfortunately I did not enjoy their pizza. I'm a new York style kinda gal. I also like flat bread style. This was something sorta in-between with crunch. I felt like I was eating a greasy cracker with toppings. I was expecting something really tasty with all the topping choices. It really wasn't. No flavor, needed salt, sauce was mediocre. I swear they had dumped a whole bottle of olive oil on the pizza. Lots of my friends enjoy this place so I guess my review is just a personal choice. Try it for yourself and let me know! Bring your pocket book though... This pizza wasn't expensive, but it certainly wasn't cheap!
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : Yes Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
Pizza is a famous Italian dish savored around the world. The entire credit for the popularity of Pizza in the United States goes to the chain of pizzerias all over the country. While the base and the texture of Pizza remains same across the globe, it's the toppings that differs from country to country. In the United States, you will find the top pizzerias serving pizzas with the toppings of mainly beef, bacon, chicken, ham, and sausage for the non-vegetarians. Other than these famous meat options, Pizzas with veg toppings such as mushrooms, pepperonis, garlic, tomatoes, spinach, etc. are also famous in most restaurants in the United States.
Irrespective of your locality, you will find a variety of different restaurants in your cities offering pizzas of all different types. Pizza is hot favorite among people of all ages in the United States. A large size pizza is enough to feed a family of 3 or 4 at large. Pizza is also the most preferred food whenever a group of friends is hanging out together. Pizza gained popularity in the United States after the American soldiers stationed in Italy returned from World War II.
Over the years, different pizzerias in the United States have developed their own respective regional variations. Pizza gained popularity as the iconic dish in the United States in the second half of the 20th century. Whether you prefer thin or thick crust pizza, you can find a pizza of your preference at the best pizza restaurants in your city.
Greg U.
Good breads, biscotti's...Food is so-so for the price. Friendly employees.
(3)James S.
Good pizza for a good price. Try the olives.
(4)Ray T.
Darn good thin crust pizza. Great anti pasta.
(5)Dr Kathleen H.
The best thin pizza south of NJ. Crisp crust, great sauce and good mozzarella, not the cheap oily stuff. Totally worth the price for a slice...the the Italian sandwich is wonderful but watch out sometimes one of the guys warms the bread..which means that it is stale...but other than that...if you want a great slice...or pie this is the place
(4)Jane D.
I ordered the Eggplant Parmesan hot sub and it was out of this world. Thick gooey cheese and perfectly prepared eggplant served in a roll that was shoved in a pizza oven, heated to perfection and served piping hot. I see the rave reviews about their pizza, but their pizza has never appealed to me because they have it all in the display window and half of the examples looked dried up and not appealing in the least. They do have some really good looking panini type sandwiches prepared and ready for the flat grill. The service is spotty-- sometimes you get a really helpful nice guy, and sometimes you get the guy with major 'tude. I don't know what the deal is with that, but if you can overlook it and just focus on the food it is a recommended try.
(4)Lexi C.
I love the pizza but I avoid this place like the plague due to the grumpy counter person. I should go back though since maybe it was just her. I have had co workers go pick up a pizza and it is always delicious. I drive by and think, I should go in today. It's just that she so sucked the joy out of it the first time. I was about 3rd in line so I had to listen to her treat the people in front of me the same way she treated me. I will update once I go back. Since one reviewer said they actually tell them to go somewhere else when they are too busy, I doubt they care how I feel about their service. Maybe I won't go back.
(3)Sammie B.
Always Delicious!!! We got a few "different" slices this last time and they were awesome!! One was bacon and eggs and the other was eggplant and ricotta.
(5)Matthew T.
I just do not get what the big deal is about this place. I think I just don't like their style of pizza. I've always liked "fuller, chewy" crust and not the crisp kind this places puts out. I guess It must be an east coast thing. Throw in the surly help and what is to like? Tried getting some cheese and meats here once and that was an adventure in hair pulling. Kind of like going to the soup nazi, "NO prosciutto for you!!!!!"
(2)Jordan M.
If you're into thin crust this is the best pizza in town. Not usually a big white pizza fan but when I'm here it's a must.
(5)Robbie C.
Will start with the positives-thin New York style pizza that tasted good, although a bit on the crispy side. Customer service is non existent and I'm a New Yorker that has experienced loads of the real deal pizzerias where tony and guido treat you like family. Not here. Forgettabout it! I asked the dude what kind of calzones he had and he proceeds to rip each one open with his finger and mumble some ingredients. Really? They looked old and sad. I asked if they had a restroom and was handed a gas station type of key and told its outside. Is this a pizza place or do I get an oil change? The condiments on the table looked like they had seen better days. Dirty dining would have a field day here! Was passing through and won't be back even for decent tasting pizza.
(3)Kristin V.
Terrible. Lived in NJ/NY area all my life..so i don't know what all the others are talking about. All the pizza looked hours old. Disgueted.
(1)Anthony A.
This place SUCKS! You walk in the door and it deceives you with its authentic jersey Italian decor, but the pizza blows and the service is the worst it can possibly be. Very unorganized. Never again!
(1)Geno K.
Man I was so excited when we walked into this place. It just had the look of a place where you're about to get the best slab of pizza you've ever had. It looked authentically Italian without being cheesy. But when I took that first bite, my only thought was... really? It was just bland and forgettable. It wasn't the worst pizza I had, but it was no better than any chain pizza.
(2)Liz M.
Good pizza, but greasy. Super thin crust was nice, and if you like your pie saturated in oils then this is the place to come! Usually I like a bit less because I feel a bit queasy after otherwise, but it was good pizza regardless. You're looking at about $20 a pie here. But there pies are big, so it's well worth it. 2 ppl will have left overs and 3 or 4 people will be comfortably full. Though it doesn't look like they have a restroom, they do, just ask.
(3)Mike R.
This place used to be great but I think ownership has shifted hands. The pizza sits around behind the glass for God only knows how long and gets saugy. The ingredients are cheap and the people are rude! Two thumbs down!
(1)M R.
Not sure why people love this place. It's meeeh. The pizza took a long time to be ready, it was dry and it tasted off. Not impressed at all. Won't be back!
(1)Jack M.
Finally a place that tastes similar to the pizza I'm used to from living in NJ. I tried the Sicilian pizza and it was delicious! The desserts were also tasty as I took home some cannolis and a tiramisu which happens to be my favorite dessert. Overall this place made me feel like I walked into a little Italian restaurant like I would have back home
(4)Matthew B.
It'd be easier to list the things that went right, than things that went wrong...but there weren't any. I call up to order takeout for me and my guests. They take my order and ask "Is there anything else?" and I reply with "Nope." and they say "Thanks, bye." and hangup. No estimated time, no order number, no subtotal. Ok, so I get there and they "lost my order, but remember me ordering" which I had called in a good 30 minutes (not knowing when my order would be ready.) beforehand. Thus, making me have to wait 20 minutes while they make it on the fly. I had ordered a salad with no onions and while watching them make it I see they start putting onions on. No biggie, so I just went up and told her that I ordered it without onions. Instead of making a new salad I watch her just pick the onions out instead. This wouldn't have been "that" big of a problem besides for the fact that I had someone allergic to onions. After they finally get my order ready, I hand them a coupon from them. After 5 minutes of the workers discussing it, they tell me they can't accept it. They said it would be valid for any of there locations, EXCEPT this one. There was absolutely NOTHING on the coupon saying this or any type of reason to believe it wouldn't be honored. I just said whatever as they still charged me full price, as I just wanted to get home and eat. I drive 5 minutes home and begin eating immediately and to no surprise I still find remains of onion and the pizza was cool. What terrific service!!!!
(1)Kevin K.
Horrible service! Waited an hour only to find my pizza was not even in oven! No apologies & refused to talk to me.... Never been treated so rudely! Avoid this place!
(1)Tim W.
So far the best Pizza I've had in Sarasota......can't wait to go back!!!
(5)Linda Ann R.
Fantastic and consistent plus my NY and European friends feel right at home! It's ambience is good and outside dining is great in the winter! Whether for pizza, calzone or great sandwiches this ace is an inexpensive and satisfying choice!
(5)Francesco C.
For a great Downtown Sarasota location I expected a better lunch experience! I'm not impressed with this location! First of all, there's no management. Everyone was ordering a slice of pizza in mixed orders! You walk up to the counter before someone walks in and they get service first by requesting something from the pizza maker and not the counter person. It is clearly disorganized to say the least! I order two slices of pizza and two drinks and it cost me $12.35!! What are you telling me Il Panificio your pizzas made of gold?? Sure it may taste better than frozen pizzas but I'm sorry, not $4.75 a slice plus the sodas!!! You can certainly get the same or even better quality pizza down the street and for a full size pizza for what I paid for just two slices here! The counter person had trouble keeping up with payments!! She took a man's debt card and charged him for what I think another person's order!! And btw - this is supposed to be an Italian Bakery establishment, right? Where's the zeppole? Don't you know it's an Italian tradition to sell zeppole during Saint Joseph's Day? Shame... shame Panificio!! I'm sorry but I would not step in here without change! I don't mean a Barack Obama change - I mean "for the better" change!
(1)Mikey S.
For Sarasota, I wouldn't waste your time anywhere else concerning pizza.. The pizza is thin crust with corn meal on the bottom to give it that crisp taste! The cheese and sauce is nice and they offer a lot of cool things like italian sodas, desserts and more. Buy by the slice or grab a whole pie. Many toppings are pre made on slices. They give it a 2-5 minute heat up in the over and you are on your way. Although it is kind of a big deli, there is room and a few tall/stand-up tables with stools. Nice to have a slice and watch their big screen to see the news or daily stocks. The staff is nice and it is right in the heart of downtown.
(5)Cristiane S.
I stopped at this place for a quick lunch with my family and we loved it. The staff was friendly and helpful. The pizza had a thin and crispy crust and the toppings were fresh and tasty. My sister ordered the gluten-free option and also approved it.
(5)Mike J.
Decent Pizza - Rude humans. I called to order take out and the guy was really rude. He said, "look, it's really busy here" and mumbled some stuff then hung up on me. I picked up three pizzas for $60. The plain and the meat pizza were decent, but super oily. The Sicilian was awful - it reminded me of something you'd get in a middle school cafeteria.
(2)Michael G.
Awesome!
(4)John D.
Great Italian salad but the Everything pizza was very greasy. The crust was nice and thin but seemed almost deep fried due to the amount of oil used. The jury's still out.
(3)Roger H.
The eggplant parm sub was inedible. I REALLY began to think that it was made with fried shoe leather. The server, cook guy made no effort to accommodate me. He just blamed it on the front office . A bad experience and a total jerk behind the counter. He should be fired along with whomever prepares their eggplant.
(1)Carol C.
Best thin pizza in town! White pizza with sweet Italian sausage and ricotta is out of this world! Each slice is $4, a bit pricey but you get what you pay for and it's totally worth it!
(5)Lea T.
My favorite thin crust pizza in the Sarasota area. Stop in and pick up a pie- there isn't much indoor seating unless you don't mind sitting outside. Also offers a variety of Italian products giving the place a market type atmosphere. Seems to close a little earlier than desired but that goes along with the rest of Main Street
(4)Jim Z.
Tried the $4.00 Sicilian pizza. Was bland at best. Very little flavor and surprisingly bad. Regular pizza here is better, or at least it was.
(1)Chris V.
Very oily, bland and no balance in crust-sauce-cheese ratio. Very disappointing as I've heard the gulf gate location is good-don't waste your time on main st. The young kid there is so Rude and acts inconvenienced by the business. The other guy there just as miserable. No one smiles, says hello or thank you even for the tip. Not very clean either. The worst business on main st!!
(1)Scott O.
Best pizza in sarasota. The people that complain about rudeness don't understand the way this place works. It's fast paced you order and you get out of the way and enjoy your excellent pizza. No substitutions just great pizza. Their way or the highway
(5)Robert G.
Nice place. quick service. Good pizza. they do a good thin crust. my only thing i would change is how long they cook it. its a little crispy but lots of people prefer that. i will definitely eat here the next time i am in sarasota.
(4)Scott C.
I think that when we talk about New York pizza what we really mean is New Jersey pizza, and the best New Jersey pizza is what you are going to get at Il Panificio. I have lived in Sarasota for ten years. The first three years I was here I think I tried every pizza place in town, including Bradenton, (shudder). When I finally got to Il Panificio I knew my New Jersey pizza requirements had been found. Best Jersey pizza in town, hands down, game over.
(5)Thomas P.
They really can bake at this place. Amazing sandwich bread and nice thin pizza crust. Huge portions if that's what floats your boat. Ambiance seems to be going for Brooklyn hole-in-the-wall pizza joint, which definitely works. It's kind of on the awkward part of main street that's not really near any of the other attractions, but it's a great lunch place and they've always treated me well.
(4)Liz D.
Pizza is such tricky dish, even though it's relatively basic. There are so many people that want different things from this culinary treat. For me, I am always on the search for the thin crust pizza with great sauce. I found it here. I love how they have about 20 condiments on the table for you, which include italian seasoning, red pepper, cayenne, the container with giant holes to deliver fresh parmesan cheese... I got the eggplant and ricotta cheese slice. It was awesome. What is not to like about zesty tomato sauce and fresh ricotta? Hands down best pizza in Sarasota if you like thin crust authentic Italian style pizza. I have tried them all by now. Yep - Panificio does my heart good.
(5)G. K.
Amazing thin crispy crust! I come back over and over. Staff is great (the guy who complained needs help himself).
(5)Coty S.
The pizza is amazing! Mostly because of the crust, which is super thin, light, and crispy around the edges. I have lived in NYC 3 times and this pizza is comparable if not better because the crust does no overpower the toppings. No one just wants mostly bread. The cheese is high quality and very flavorful, as well as the toppings. Located on Main St. in downtown Sarasota in what appears to be an old gas station, the place is mostly all counter. There are a few high top tables and some outdoor seating. The employees can be quite rude, especially when they are busy. We usually call a pizza order in and pick it up, and sometimes they tell us that they are too busy to make a pizza for us and to go elsewhere. Interesting considering they are a pizza place. But, the food is worth it, if they will make it for you.
(4)Krista R.
Here visiting from Ohio and must say the pizza was by far above all the best. Very fresh, price was right and the cannoli was a must have! The staff was beyond friendly and overall atmosphere was very welcoming. We will def. be back!!!
(5)Jim H.
I've visited this place a number of times. The pizza is good but the help is rude and miserable. I think, they think it's New York cool. The pizza's not THAT good. I won't be back.
(1)Bob B.
Back again---and the pizza remains tops while the Fox News continues to make for new lows in a million ways. Would be 5 stars otherwise. There are comments about the people working there being rude--I think they are intense. They run a tight ship and keep a lot of balls in the air. I've never had an unpleasant conversation or moment personally beyond the Fox dribble albeit there are times when I've felt I better know what I'm asking for--and ask quickly.
(4)Nikki K.
consistent. classical. italian. pizza.
(4)Matthew G.
I would take a bullet for just one more slice of their pizza. Or, if that failed, I'd pay asking price. The chef at the restaurant I work at took me there one day and I have been dreaming about the day when I can hitchhike back there for another slice.
(4)Zenide R.
SO GOOD! I love popping in here when I'm downtown at the movies or walking around the marina . . . I have to have that incredible thin crust pizza - and the subs are decent, too. Lots of times, I find some other random thing to eat or cook with - damn impulse buying!
(4)Sandy S.
Damn tasty pizza. We always make at least one pilgrimage when in Sarasota.
(4)Kate E.
Yummy pizza. The people who work here are very friendly, esp. the elderly owner, who loves the ladies, if you know what I'm saying.
(4)Sean D.
The best thin crust in town hands down. They have a great outdoor seating area to grab a slice and enjoy downtown.
(4)David B.
Haven't had anything I didn't like. Great selection of gourmet pizzas and panninis. Also a great place to find some wine or hard-to-find italian ingredients for your own creations.
(4)John R.
When I found this place I thought my long wait to find the perfect pizza was over. It doesnt withstand the test of time though. Ive been going there for a while and have grown sick of it but its still one of the better places to eat pizza inthe sarasota area
(4)beryl l.
One of the best pizza places in SRQ. They have some amazing white pizza!
(4)Andrew J.
I don't know why people like Panificio. The pizza is old, sitting out for hours, the prices are high and the staff are always rude. And I can never say the name right.
(2)Mimi C.
their thin-crust pizza is the best i've ever tasted - it is so nice & crispy! we ordered their 20" white pizza w/our choice of toppings & a caesar salad (the latter was nothing special). wish we could have tried their espresso, but their machine was shut down for the day.
(5)Eric L.
Premium casual Italian food in a great location at an excellent price. The toppings and salads are fresh, authentic, and delicious and the patio seating makes for a relaxed meal (if you're not getting takeout). Il Panificio has efficient, though not always friendly, service and a unique atmosphere. Those with simpler minds and palates and thicker wallets may prefer Cafe Epicure, but every true Sarasotan knows that Il Panificio is the number one pizza spot in town.
(5)Emily G.
Best pizza in town! Service is slow, location is cramped and parking is limited but it's well worth it because the pizza is amazing!
(4)Kristi P.
Nice place, very friendly. I liked all the different choices for toppings. Unfortunately I did not enjoy their pizza. I'm a new York style kinda gal. I also like flat bread style. This was something sorta in-between with crunch. I felt like I was eating a greasy cracker with toppings. I was expecting something really tasty with all the topping choices. It really wasn't. No flavor, needed salt, sauce was mediocre. I swear they had dumped a whole bottle of olive oil on the pizza. Lots of my friends enjoy this place so I guess my review is just a personal choice. Try it for yourself and let me know! Bring your pocket book though... This pizza wasn't expensive, but it certainly wasn't cheap!
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