Pupatella
5104 Wilson Blvd, Arlington, VA, 22205
Pupatella Menu
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Visit below restaurant in Arlington for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Arlington for healthy meals suggestion.
Visit below restaurant in Arlington for healthy meals suggestion.
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Address :
5104 Wilson Blvd
Arlington, VA, 22205 - Phone (571) 312-7230
- Website https://www.pupatella.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Tue
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Lunch, Dinner
Parking : Street, Private Lot
Bike Parking : No
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 : Free
Has TV : No
Dogs Allowed : No
Waiter Service : No
Caters : No
Categories
Pizza
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.
Italian Cuisine
The immense popularity of Italian cuisine globally isn't unknown. You can find an Italian Pizzeria around every corner of almost every city in the United States. Not to forget that in every house, people enjoy mac and cheese as comfort food. But it would be wrong to believe that Italian food starts with pizza and ends with good pasta as this Mediterranean country has much more to offer other than these two dishes. In Italian Cuisine, there is a high use of fresh tomatoes, all kinds of herbs, great quality of cheese, all types of meat, seafood and fresh handmade pasta. Many find it hard to believe that Italians have been making noodles long back.
Italian and Greek cuisines are always mistaken to be same, but they are poles apart. The primary difference between the two cuisines is the use of cheese in most of the Italian dishes. Italians love to cultivate their own cheese and process them as per their food requirement. It is believed that some cheese is so expensive that cheese producers secure them in lockers.
If you are bored eating the same old pasta or pizza, you can try some of the authentic Italian dishes like Risotto, Polenta, Ribollita, Lasagna, Fiorentina Steak, Bottarga, Ossobuco, Carbonara, Focaccia, Arancini and Supplì. Another item which Italians love to relish every morning is a good cup of Italian Coffee. Once you taste a freshly brewed cup of Italian Coffee, you might not visit Starbucks ever again. Authentic Italian food is made with heart and soul, so go find a restaurant where you can relish Italian cuisine in your city.
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Newton N.
Unfortunately, I think Pupatella is a huge hit or miss. Or according to the lady I spoke to on the phone from Pupatella, a complete utter miss. The last time we had Pupatella was a few months ago. The pizza was GREAT as popularly commented. However, we went to Pupatella a couple days ago and did some carry-out. You know, when you have faith in a place like Pupatella, you don't feel the need to humiliate yourself by checking the condition of the food before you leave. So we left, got home, and we opened our boxes to big disappointment. 70-80% of both our pizzas were burnt. And I don't mean slightly burnt, I mean really burnt. It looked burnt AND it tasted burnt. We have ordered from Pupatella many times in the past and have never experienced this! I called and spoke to a lady who said, "I'm sorry you were disappointed with our pizza but that is what Neapolitan pizza is. It's suppose to be a little burnt. I can give you a refund, but you need to bring back the pizzas uneaten." Sorry lady, but I'm not driving up to an hour during rush hour to get a refund for possibly one of the worst tasting pizzas I have ever seen and tasted. I stopped eating Domino's and Pizza Hut years ago but even THEY did not mess up pizza like this! Furthermore, I travel to Italy often and I have been to Naples and have tried authentic Neapolitan pizza and it never comes out THIS BURNT! It was already bad that the pizzas tasted and looked so burnt, but the lady's attitude and demeanor on the phone just totally burned this place into the ground for me. For those who order carry-out, I would CHECK your pizzas before leaving! Supposedly, according to the female employee, Neapolitan pizza is always "a little burnt" so if you like the taste of varying amounts of char on your food, this place may be perfect for you. Really disappointed in this place. Pictures attached so that you can see some of the burnt pieces. These are not even the worst pictures -- some of the slices were literally covered in black at the bottoms. Really gross and a complete shame.
(1)E S.
Very popular spot. You order at the counter and take a seat. Don't be turned off by the line. It moves quickly. There were many delicious sounding pizza varieties. I ordered a Diavola (spicy salami, fresh mozzarella, basil) for $11. Neapolitan style thin crust for one. Delicious. I also ordered the side salad for $4, which was nothing special. House chianti was a nice accompaniment.
(4)Yuvia M.
There are two cuisines I fancy myself an expert: Mexican food (see other reviews and last nme) and Neapolitan Pizza. Every city I visit or live in, I must find the best Neapolitan Pizza in town andI will be loyal to such place above all others (in that city). Pupatella is that place in DC. I almost find it insulting that other reviews compare it to Two Amy's which I think is atrocious. The dough at Pupatella is tasty and very crispy in the corners but has that softness that a Neapolitan Pizza should have. The sauce is sweet but never over powering and the quality of their cheese is top notch. Splurge a little and try the buffalo mozzarella. It does make a difference. I usually make my own pizza, prosciutto or pancetta with garlic. My husband is quite obsessed with the fried calzone which is always oozing when you cut into it. I love that they serve Dolci gelato since I think this local Gelato shop is outsanding and one of the most authentic I've had outside of Italy. Last year I was lucky enough to take a long trip across Italy and you bet your ass I tried pizza everywhere I went. I am being completely honest when I say, Pupatella is one of the best pizza's I've had and not just in the U.S.
(5)Anna W.
Loved this pizza!!! Came here after a Lacrosse game with my daughter and we had a great brussel sprouts and green apple appetizer and pizza. She had the peperoni and I had the pie with prosciutto. Both were delicious, the only drawback is that the kids size is the adult size recommended for 2 kids, but what if you only got one kid??? Do you try to find another kid just to go to Pupatella? Their pizza is best fresh so although we did take home her leftovers they were just ok, I guess to her they were fine :-) We also had gelato and man that was AWESOME as well. The hazelnut is divine. Small space and really poor parking. We were lucky to come 5 minutes before the dinner rush and snagged a seat, but they could have designed the layout better. The parking is also bad, so you may need to park at the ample parking lot of Safeway across the street. Still worth it though!
(5)Melissa H.
I have always really really liked Pupatella's pizza, but after eating there last night, I felt it was my duty as a human being to tell others about what I have found. I could go on and on about the incomparable deliciousness of the pizza, or the fact that their arancini are even better than 2 Amy's, but I would waste way too much time in not telling you about their frakkin' FRIED CALZONE. Is it gluttonous to actually revere a food so much that it's bordering on obsessive worship? If so, call me a glutton baby! If you are still reading this review, you should immediately slap yourself across the face for not having already started heading down to Pupatella to have the fried calzone! The fried dough is light and non-greasy. The inside is gooey, melty, meaty, saucy, cheesy joy, like nothing you have ever experienced. I am not even normally a huge fan of calzones, but It is better than any pizza I have ever eaten. I realize what I just wrote may be sacrilege, but I am willing to shout it from the rooftops if I have to. If you are hungry, just make sure you order as soon as you sit down, because the calzone takes about 30 minutes and isn't for take-out. The wait is well worth it. Perfection has its price.
(5)James D.
Don't understand the hype. It's good, not great. Service was okay, pizza was okay, price was okay. Atmosphere is charming, but not exactly a nice place. Just okay for me.
(3)Tim M.
If you're reading this review, then you probably are wondering by such a weirdly named place has such good reviews. I lived down the street from this place for a year without noticing it. I thought it was an Indian food joint, but I am very glad I finally came around to their Neopolitan pizza ways. You pay $11-$14 for a personal pizza (you can split one if you're on a diet or not too hungry) and enjoy EVERY bite. The ingredients are fresh and delicious and the crust is brick oven charred giving it that delicious smoky flavor. However, the pie itself does not have a crispy crust, so it is not like NY style pizza at all. I think the simple buffalo mozarella and margehrita pizzas are the best, but I have yet to try one that disappoints. One tip - order your pizza over the phone prior to going there because they take forever to make the pies. However, you cannot order ahead on weekends but if it is during the week and you're impatient like me, it is a must.
(5)Jenny S.
What more can I add? Great pizza! One pizza can be plenty for two people to share, depending on how hungry you are. The house red wine is great.
(5)Anita M.
A little slice of Italy. We are regulars here!
(5)Jefferson C.
I love this pizza place. The food is great, service is wonderful, and it has a homey feel to it that's very nice. My only wish is that they would expand, it's a little cramped. Location is great (right off the Bluemont trail) and I love that there isn't 15 TVs blaring like the douchy sportsbar's in Ballston.
(4)Sarina F.
My go to place. The pizza and toppings have a taste, it's piping hot, it is in a size perfect for personal consumption, what more could you want? My Puppatella wisdom: quality of the crust holds up better when eating it immediately at the restaurant, as opposed to take out, and watch out for craving this on a lazy Sunday, there will be no Puppatella for you.
(5)Christine C.
My favorite pizza joint in DC! Usually we split 3 pizzas between 4 if us. Prosciutto and fig is to die for!
(5)Soly Z.
Pizza was good, but the fontina cheese used to make the white pizzas made the entree super salty. I wouldn't have minded the saltiness as much, if there were fountain drinks available to purchase. A refill would have been nice. Instead, they sell mini diet coke bottles for ants from 1934, when a serving was 8 oz. A trip to the 7-11 next door after eating solved this problem. I know it's not their fault, but there was a family there with 2 girls, who were screaming. Why are some people allowed to take their heathen children out in public? These kids were like 5 years old too - totally within the age range where parents can control their actions, or at least lock them in the car if they won't stfu.
(3)sarah s.
Awesome. I had a mix of fried appetizers- arancini, mozzarella balls, and potato croquette. Loved the arancini! My hubby had the DOC margherita pizza- it was excellent. So simple, yet so perfect. Really tasty. I had the meatball and ricotta pizza, also very good. But not as good as the margherita- that was perfection. Wish this place was in my hood.
(5)Kris G.
Where do I begin to talk about how amazing this restaurant is. I went to DC for my birthday because I wanted a historically chic birthday extravaganza and wanted to see some cherry blossoms (took pictures of some Japanese flowers instead of the cherry blossoms...oh well next time I'll have to google image the flower!). Anyway after our adventures in DC from museum to museum we were so exhausted that we decided to find places to eat in Arlington and thanks to Yelp and amazing reviews we discovered Pupatella!!!! Now as a Jersey boy and really close to amazingly epic pizza in NYC I have to big amazingly big ups to Enzo and the staff @ Pupatella. The pizza was out of this world!!! I don't think I've ever had such an amazing crust. Think, light, fluffy (I'm drooling!). The sauce...omg...the sauce was light and flavorful so homemade and I know about homemade sauce (I'm like an adopted Sicilian). We had the prosciutto arugula pizza, Daviola, and Ham & Mushroom pizzas plus the frittura sampler. You'd think we were feeding an army, but not it was just my birthday dinner! And to top it all off, we had a nutella pizza. Soooo for the friends that know me, know that if you put a giant jar of nutella in my face, I'm going to eat it and empty the jar in one sitting (clearly I'm obsessed). Well when you put that delicious crust and slather beautiful slabs of nutella on it and add some apples...ooooh goodness can't you just taste it!?! Absolutely the best birthday dinner in a very long time and I'm so glad for Arlington that they have such a great authentic pizza place and completely jelly that I don't have it here in Jersey! Until next time Enzo and crew. 20 cheers for Pupatella!!!!
(5)Danielle L.
The pizza is just amazing. The atmosphere is great. I have no complaints! The sausage aranchini appetizer is awesome as well. You just have to try this place... And then continue to go back.
(5)Cory R.
My friend took me here the first week I moved to NOVA and I am so glad he did. The food is delicious. I got the Arancini with Sausage as an appetizer and it was incredible. For my pizza, I got the Chorizo and it was also incredible. I recommend the Chorizo pizza. I have been back to Pupatella two other times since and I have gotten the same thing each time. A tad bit pricey, but you definitely get what you pay for. The ingredients are awesome, and it's a nice atmosphere. I will continue to go here!
(5)Krystal B.
Amazing!! My coworker introduced this place to me and now we visit at least twice a month. I went to Italy last fall and of course had their pizza. Pupatella is like I was back in Naples. If you haven't tried it, you must. Plus they give you the option of buying wine, gelatos, and Italian drinks. Buying a coke in the glass bottle makes me smile. Simply delicious.
(5)Nicholas T.
The hipster hats and sunglasses (really?) on the chefs were a bit much, but it reminded me of the guys in Italy trying too hard to impress, so it was sort of cheesy in an authentically Italian way. Whatever, they could walk around in dresses for all I care as long as they keep making pizza that tastes so good. Authentic style, fresh ingredients, perfect crust. Not to mention solid craft beer selections and gelato. I've been here twice and now my Roman wife is jealous. I'll be back.
(5)Maria E.
Amazing real Napoletana Pizza. Appetizers also delicious. Good selection of beer and great dessert. Fridays and Saturdays evening can get very crowded, therefore, your wait could long, so don't go on those days super hungry. This long way is actually posted on their website and is totally worth it!
(5)Meagan B.
Haters gonna hate, but I refuse to hear them! This place is everything you have ever dreamed of. Ok maybe one downside is the self service. Anyways, get in line watch them make the good stuff get to the register and order something with burata and the meatball and the margharita and also order the caprese. I promise, it is the caprese of my dreams. It is olive oil and crispy bread and tomatoes and basil and a hunk of cheese for only $10 bucks! Also get the sprouts they are great. Little known fact they have a back patio. They also have gelato. Fig and mascarpone. Yup I'm into it. Finally, while it is self service, everyone who works there is extremely friendly and helpful, once I came for dinner and it was super packed and really hot inside and my blood sugar was low and I thought I was going to faint and they helped me outside for fresh air and gave me the cookies from gelato. I go here once a week and have never been disappointed.
(5)Russell C.
I was in the mood for a good pizza and was a bit tired of Lost Dog Cafe. I stumbled upon this place via Yelp, and was I pleasantly surprised. I ordered the Margarita pizza, the best I've had in years. I can't wait to go again and try a different pizza!
(4)Rizzo B.
Best pizza in greater metro DC area. Beware--long lines weekend evenings. Very good beer selection, and discounts on the wine.
(5)Jennifer B.
Sigh. I really wanted to like this place. A friend suggested we try this place in a quest for good pizza. When we arrived, we stood just inside the door at the "Please wait to be seated" sign. Through the archway into the adjoining room we saw several staff walking back and forth, but no one came out to seat us. After a couple minutes I walked up to the counter and had to ask if someone could seat us. We were sat in the dinning room, which I understand is new. We both asked for water and to see a beer list, if they had one. Our waitress brought back luke-warm glasses of water with no ice. I had to ask twice what kind of beer they had before getting a list. We both ordered a beer and perused the menu. Our waitress returned, with one beer for my friend - and no beer for me, in forming me the beer I ordered wasn't cool yet. Annoying, but not the end of the world I ordered another beer and again requested a glass of ice for my water. We also went ahead and ordered - Bruschetta, Crostini, and Panzarotti as well as a Classica pizza for me and Calabrese for my friend. Finally I get my beer - but still don't have silverware, ice for my water, or cold glasses for our two bottled beer. It wasn't until our appetizers were brought out that a different server asked if we'd like cold glasses for our beers and I asked for a third time for ice for my water. The appetizers were good, but not amazing. I thought the crostini was the best of the three. The panzarotti - while claiming to have prosciutto in it, lacked flavor and as far as I could tell, it lacked meat too. I got my ice for my water and boy did I need it. It was incredibly hot on the room. I asked our server if it were possible to turn down the AC and she informed me that there wasn't AC in that room. Um - what? You sat us in 90 degree weather in a room without AC? No wonder we were so hot. Our pizza came out just as we finished appetizers, so at least we didn't sit in our own sweat for too long. My friend enjoyed her pizza. Mine was just meh. I didn't particularly care for the sauce, it was a little watery. The mozzarella and basil were good, but honestly its hard to screw up those two ingredients. I will say this - the crust was good, better than most. All and all, my experience was stymied by poor service, disorganization, and over-heating. Would I come back? If I lived closer I might do carry-out. Unfortunately the poor service and hot dinning room will prevent me from making another trip.
(2)Steven B.
ENZO "the pizza chef" has truly mastered the art of pizza. Nice hip place with tasty pizza's and a good selection on beer. Just got back from eating pizza in Florence, Italy for a week and this is probably the closest pizza you will get to that in Virginia. Trust me, I eat a lot of pizza. ENZO wont disappoint. Cheers! Just went back......mmmmmm.....so good.....had to give it another star, where's the sixth star when you need it?
(5)Marina R.
I hate pretty much every pizza place out there. I can't stand the red sauce most of those places put on their pizza, the tasteless cheese. Pupatella is not like those places. Their pizza is FRESH. The cheese is creamy, their red sauce is great, their white sauce is AMAZING. I love the panna prosciutto pizza. The margherita is great as well ( gotta love the fresh basil, yummy). My husband loves the diavola. Panzarotti is divine. And their gellato is pretty good. I love pistachio gellato but I have a hard time find a great one, they have it. From your starter to the desert they have it all :)
(5)Angela N.
I went here for a low-key birthday dinner because I'd been wanting to try it. Glad I did! I had the Tomato Artichoke pizza. My friend had the Margherita DOC. Both had delicious flavors and the crust, although thin, wasn't crunchy. Absolute perfection in the Italian style, with the wood-fired oven taste to boot! Why four stars and not five? The restaurant itself doesn't have much in the way of decor. It's also fairly small and I had some trouble manuvering around larger parties. The outdoor patio is a nice alternative to eating inside, if the weather's fair. Puppatella is less expensive than their Italian-style, thin-crust pizza compatriots (notably Piola and 2 Amy's) and it makes quality pizza with fresh ingredients. I wouldn't mind going back for another pie, and maybe to try some of their gelato.
(4)Pui Ying S.
There is no wait service and you order at the cashier and wait for the order to come up. This helps keep prices low and the food is amazing. The risotto balls are still the best ones I have had in this area and they are much larger than when they were at the cart. The pizzas were chewy and delicious, and perfect to eat with a fork and knife. This is authentic stuff. Wine - they had a special where a bottle is $10 off if you buy two pizzas. My bottle was $10 bucks. You cannot beat this deal at all. 5 stars!
(5)Jennifer S.
Well I've been there many, many more times since my initial review and I am indeed a fan. In fact, it is one of three places I favor most in Arlington. Nuff said.
(4)Jose P.
I used to visit Naples pretty often in the 1990's, I have to say it is the best Pizza Napolitana I have eaten in a long time. Last time we had dinner at Pupatella I had the Prosciutto and Figs pizza and it was superb.
(5)Alex S.
the BEST authentic italian pizza in the NOVA area. i lived in italy and when i eat pupatella's pizza, i swear i can close my eyes and pretend im there again. the wait for dinner on friday/saturday nights is long but it is COMPLETELY worth it.
(5)JasonJennifer S.
Best traditional Pizza in the area(Not NY style). 2Amy's is a close second. This type of pizza has to be eaten on site. It does not reheat or travel well.
(5)Sunny K.
I tell all my friends from NY to check this place out. Been to Italy and this place brings back the same vibe. Must eat there to get the best crust experience. Try their specials, my wife loves the wine combos.
(5)Ryan F.
I had this on my 'to do' list for over a year, and lo and behold I was takin my lady friend out for some food. Per usual, her indecisiveness was frustrating, and driving all around DC looking to park sounded miserable. I checked out my 'to do' list and found Pupatella, what a damn good thing. Absolutely delicious pizza, and solid beer collection. We'll be back.
(5)Benny R.
Pupatella is my favorite pizza destination in the DC area, and I love everything from the delicious margherita pizza to my personal favorite with mushrooms and pepperoni to the excellent assortment of Gelato, donuts, and appetizers. Pupatella outshines the plethora of 'upscale' pizza places in the area (two amys, redrocks, pizzeria paradiso, etc...), and I actually don't mind the lack of formal dining area and enjoy having a more relaxed alternative.
(5)Chris Z.
This place rocks, and they just expanded their menu. The new sandwiches are solid. I'd recommend the meatball sandwich as it's one of the best meatball subs I've ever had. You can't go wrong with their pizza as well.
(5)Davide M.
I had the chance to come back here once more yesterday with a French colleague. We had a real margherita which was perfect and a mushroom pizza that impressed my friend. Sfogliatella was good but not super-tuper extraordinary like the ones in naples. I believe there was cinnamom added to it. Again: you have to like the soft-style of the Pizza alla Napoletana and consider that there is not so much space in the restaurant itself because it's very small. Quality of food once again magnificent.
(5)Clara L.
No idea why it took me so long to finally get my butt over to Pupatella, but boy am I glad I did. Sure it takes a good 35 min between ordering and eating, but it was so worth it. I got a pizza with sausage, caramelized onions and pepperoni. Delish! Can't wait to go back and try other pizzas on their menu.
(5)Alyssa W.
Fried mozzarella balls are the best. I could eat a million of them!
(4)Michelle L.
I am a huge pizza lover, and my co workers always tease me about my love for pizza, french fries, and burgers. But Pupatella is one of my favorite go to pizza places. Their cuisine isnt any ordinary pizza, its brick oven, fresh toppings, healthy, non-greasy, and delightful. I always get the same thing because I will never get old.. their Chorizo and the Margarita.. ...AMAZING :)
(5)Chimay A.
Delicious pizza!
(5)Julia H.
Pupatella is the greatest pizza place in Arlington! The pizza is unique in its Neapolitan style compared to most other kinds of pizza places you would find in Arlington; not to mention how it is baked to perfection for just the right taste combinations. The real treat of going here is getting to watch your own pizza being made. The chefs at work right in front of your eyes makes for a great experience, as well as an energetic and lively atmosphere. The small restaurant is cute and authentic in looks, and the new addition complements these features in addition to creating more much needed space. Come here and it will be an experience you will not forget!
(5)Tom M.
Wow, the pizza was really excellent. I stopped by for lunch. They apologized for the slow service but it absolutely was not slow in my opinion. One of the best pizzas I have ever eaten. Awesome!
(5)Juli C.
I've read great things about this place so when my husband texted me that he wanted pizza for dinner I thought I would give it a try. If you like Domino's or Papa Johns - this is not the place for you. Because, they make real PIZZA! We tried 5 different ones (we invited our neighbors to dinner). I loved the grilled eggplant, red pepper pizza. The pepperoni was also a winner. My neighbor liked the ham, artichoke pizza. We ordered two caprese salads which came with a beautiful ball of Burrata (creamy fresh mozzarella cheese). If you haven't had Burrata, you haven't had fresh mozzarella. And, you certainly can't compare the fresh mozzarella Puppatella puts on their pizza with the salty, stringy stuff that comes on the chain's pizzas. The place was packed when I got there at 7:00 - you order at the counter and either wait if you're taking out, or grab a table. If you're on a first date, or want a romantic setting, look elsewhere - this place is uber family-friendly so there's lots of laughter of little children. Being in North Arlington, there are the occasional quirky diners - like the older gentleman enjoying a glass of red wine over ice (?). The staff is friendly and helpful. I waited no more than 15 minutes for my large order and it came out hot and smelling like Italian heaven! This place really needs a bigger space with better parking. I parked across the street at Safeway (that store never has many visitors). Having owned a restaurant in Arlington, it's hard to get the county to grant you more seating as they base that on the parking spaces (go figure)! Of course, if you're a big chain (Cheesecake Factory, etc.), Arlington county will grant you whatever number of seats you want - revenue!!! Ok, I'll get off my soapbox about that. Anyway, give Pupatella a try if you like fresh, authentic, brick oven hot, yummy pizza. If not, dial Pizza Hut!
(5)D K.
Best Pizza in Virginia. Nuff Said. Strongly recommend the Onion and sausage pizza. The meatballs are an awesome appetizer. Brussel sprouts are great. word of caution. Parking is tight. I've always found a spot but I can see why people have complained about it. You also have to bus your own tables which i think is actually charming in a way. I appreciate the low maintenance feel of this place as they could have easily decided to make the restaurant more upscale. If you like pizza... Don't miss out on this place!
(5)Steven S.
We were recommended to visit this place and based on our fellow foodies credentials, we figured it had to be good. Glad we found it. Beware of the pizza place across the street, though I'm not sure if that is good or not, I'm sure its not the same. The drink selection is good, however if you are thirsty, you could run up a large bill very quickly, there are no free refills here on any of the bought drinks. There is tap water in a pitcher on a table, so you should be able to manage. We ordered two different types of pizzas. The prosciutto w/ arugula was very tasty. They put the arugula on afterwards, so you don't have to worry about welted greens. The parmesan gently melts on top. The prosciutto definitely gives off a nice hint of saltiness (could become a problem if you don't like the tap water). The spicy salami w/ kalamata olives was also very delightful. The sauce and the crust on both pizzas was just right. You can tell the ingredients are top notch, and that there is a little bit of love in these pizzas. For the price, this place is a steal. You can definitely spend a lot more money receiving pizza that isn't half as good as this is. The atmosphere is cool, and the people are friendly. You can tell they care about what they are creating, and actually encourage foodies to visit (even have a call out on the flyer on the wall). Though the drink thing could become an issue, the only real negative I saw is that I ever moved away from this neighborhood...
(4)Bob G.
Based on other reviews I am guessing my experience is atypical. I ordered a pizza and it was one of the worst non-chain pizzas I've ever had. The crust was thin, tough, soggy and burnt. The pizza wasn't cut all the way through to the edges which made it hard (impossible) to tear apart. The pizza was about 2" too big for the box (could explain the thin crust) so it folded over at the edges. The sauce was almost non-existent and had very little flavor. The only reason I gave two stars rather than one is that the cheese was very tasty--had a nice sweet creamy taste. I will probably give them one more chance to get it right...
(2)David D.
My experience started out as an easy 4.5 star review--our antipasti were incredible. The burrata was stellar--some of the best I've tasted stateside or in Italy--served alongside solidly trustworthy prosciutto (though it is impossible to find anything as divine as that available in your everyday Italian grocers back here in the US), biting arugula and fresh pomodorini. The brussel sprouts were cooked to a delicate crisp and pleasantly--albeit unexpectedly--paired with uber-tangy apple slices which poached in balsamic. The atmosphere feels exactly as you'd find back in Italy--unpretentious with a line snaking to the cash register. Beer and wine in a cooler and the pizzaiolo faithfully working his magic nearby. Unfortunately, his magic wasn't quite to my pleasing. I ordered the classic margherita and was excited by the first glance at its lightly charred edges and what looked to be appropriate proportions of basil, mozzarella di bufala and tomato sauce. On closer glance, though, I spotted little white flecks scattered across the pie. Deal-breaker! At first I though it might be a little flour or cornmeal but a few bites in it was clear that the pizzaiolo had scattered grana all over the pie. This is disturbing because not only does the menu description make absolutely no mention of grana but the punchy saltiness overshadowed the delicate tang I had been eagerly anticipating from the mozzarella di bufala. The rest of the toppings--when discernible from beneath the taste of grana--were all spot-on fresh and delicious, but the pizza on a whole really suffered from the added grana. In contrast to the overly-salty toppings, I found the pizza dough lacking in salt. Just as importantly, the cooking consistency wasn't quite up to snuff with what I was expecting. I would urge the pizzaiolo to crank the heat up on the oven about 50-100 degrees. The amount of external charring was just about perfect but I found the dough just a bit more soggy in the middle compared to many other Neapolitan pizzas I've enjoyed. Nevertheless, I would heartily recommend this place to folks in the area. I'm not sure I would make the trek out from the District but if in the area, it's definitely worth a shot. I like what these folks are doing; the Neapolitan pizza should be dislodged from its precious perch as some sort of bourgeois culinary affair. I appreciate the proletariat approach the restaurant tastes. Still, $12 for a pie is no small sum and I should leave satisfied; the key to satisfaction here lies in using a few simple ingredients masterfully and clearly these folks are well on their way to doing just that.
(3)Trena B.
I don't normally bother to review places that have a ton of reviews already, but I must urge everyone not to fill up on pizza so as to save room for gelato. The decor is funky, with cute sayings everywhere, including the bathroom. Although I will say it looked like a frozen yogurt joint, somehow, with the color scheme and pop art. The pizza oven is beautiful and the chef is authentically Italian. My dining companion and I ordered eggplant risotto balls to start. An order is two risotto balls. They are quite large, maybe golf ball sized. I don't like rice and I found this delicious. Not alone worth the hike from Ballston, but delicious. If you ordered an order for yourself, you wouldn't have much room for pizza. Then came the pizzas. I ordered the Real Margherita and it was lovely. Thin crust, crisp and brown but not burned, beautiful light hand with the fresh-tasting sauce, and of course the real buffalo mozzarella cheese. It was delicious. And I loved that they had olive oil available for dipping the ends of the crusts into (well, I don't know if that's why they had olive oil, but that's what we did). I love dessert and I especially love gelato, so I had to linger over the case before we left to make sure I really didn't have room. When I saw that they had fig and mascarpone gelato, I just had to get some. I love figs and they are underutilized in the States. I must do my part to support the consumption of figs. I ordered the small, which is actually not that small. I took my first bite and holy cow this is the best gelato I have ever had, including in Italy. I cannot even describe to you how creamy and buttery (sounds gross in ice cream but not here) this was, with lots of real fig in every bite. I ate it all the way on the walk to Ballston where we caught a cab. I still had a third of it left, so I saved it for the next day. Even though it had partially melted and refrozen it was just as delicious the second day. Truly, all the ice cream and gelato you've had before is but a pale shadow cast on a cave wall by firelight compared to Pupatella's fig and mascarpone gelato.
(5)Erin W.
Nom. Salads and pizzas get my 100% approval. Only down side was the fried risotto balls - a fantastic idea but each one is way too big - makes for grease overload.
(4)Beth L.
The food is very good here. I had the caprese salad and the margherita pizza. The salad was excellent, especially the tomotoes. The pizza was a little too charred but was very good. The toppings were very fresh. Seating is limited. The line stretches through the restaurant. Parking is limited, too.
(4)Caroline S.
I pretty much go here multiple times a week. It's amazing! My family and I have been fans since they first opened, and it's been so surreal watching it grow over the past few months. The staff, most of whom are relatives/siblings of Enzo and Anastasia (The husband and wife owners), are lovely and always fun to talk to. It's clear from the get go that they take their food seriously and strive to create the best authentic Italian dishes. Some people have complained about the store being closed a few days a week, on Sundays and Mondays if I remember. About a year ago the owners gave birth to their first child, Vincent (whose face used to adorned their original carry out pizza boxes). They take several days off a week in order to spend time with their son, which I see as perfectly respectable. I hope that Arlington continues to support this growing family more in the future!
(5)Katie R.
i almost don't want to write this so it doesn't get even more crowded... but the pizza here is to.die.for. affordable, casual and delicious!!!
(5)Ben J.
This place transcends arguments over pizza preferences/regional pride. Ordered Arancini 1 w/ sausage and peas. Delicious, rice was crisped instead of breaded the way I've usually encountered arancini. At $4 for 2, a must-have. Pizza had chewy crust, wouldn't call it a thin crust, but couldn't support the weight of the toppings. Sauce was stand-out good. Customer service was great. Line-up, pay-first ordering. At one point, one of the pizza chefs noticed burned spots on my girlfriend's pizza, called over the cashier, who then approached us and almost begged to replace the pizza. We agreed, and the new and improved version was at our table within about three minutes. Atmosphere was very European, but not in a swanky or pretentious way. It felt just like an everyday European pizza restaurant, which was pretty interesting, since I don't think it was necessarily planned. Total tab for an order of arancini, 2 pizzas, and 2 glasses of wine was just under $40.
(5)Casey N.
Ever since my first Neapolitan pizza at 2Amy's, i've always believed my search for pizza(in America) was over. That is! until i find out about this little place tucked away in an obscured shopping center in Arlington. Pupatella offer the same quality as 2Amy's does, without the fluff. Their pizzas are simple, yet complex in taste. And as the cheese burns the roof of my mouth, 2Amy's is a distance memory. Their ingredients are fresh as they come, and their espresso gelato makes me shed a tear of joy.
(5)Chris M.
Pupatella is such a fun spot. It's perfect for a Saturday night when you and your girl don't feel like leaving the 'burbs, but you don't feel like staying home either. 4.5 stars: Tasty, fresh pizza. Great service / friendly staff. Good laid-back vibe, well-designed space with nice tunes to set the mood. Hell, they've even got gelato! Happy dining!
(4)Mike B.
Incredible neapolitan style pizza, this is my go to recommendation for great pizza in the DC area..
(5)Chris B.
Tried it again. Much better. they have a special brussel sprouts sauteed in balsamic with apples. worth going for just for that.
(4)joe b.
Best Pizza in the DC, VA, MD area
(5)Philip Y.
So this place is supposed to have the best pizza ever for the money. Maybe so. However, they DO NOT sell pizza for lunch during weekdays. Well, they sell one type of pizza, deep fried pizza. You heard that correctly folks - the entire crust is deep fried. Sounds really heavy for lunch during a weekday (for those us that has to work for living) you say. Sounds disgusting you say. I thought the same. I asked the front girl if it was heavy and/or greasy. She told me "no" with a facial expression that said "you're an idiot for even suggesting that a deep-fried pizza would be heavy and greasy. We're pizza experts and we make great pizza no matter what." Well, so we got the pizza. It looked nasty. Then we looked at it from the bottom - it looked much worse. But we we ate it because we were hungry and also paid like 11 bucks for it. We go through 2 slices then felt like throwing up. My work quality suffered that day as did my stomach. They should really have a sign on their website saying they don't sell pizza during weekday lunch.
(1)Dylan R.
Can NOT believe how excellent this place is. Enzo and Anastasia, please keep up the great work. I was finally pushed into going to this place by a cousin of mine after at least a year of being bugged about it. All I can say is man, do I regret not listening the first time. The brick oven, made with Vesuvian ash was imported piece-by-piece, and it must have been worth the wait to open. I'll run you through my night, sip by sip, dish by dish. First, the beer, along with the selection of sodas and waters in the cooler is exceptional. Filled with rare treats, and priced reasonably, do yourself a favor and grab a beer while you wait. Sip in pleasure as you smell and see other people's food come out, it will give you an idea of what you've been missing all along by not having been to this restaurant yet. Also, for the outdoor eating crowd (like myself), there is a secluded patio area that just opened up, and it's worth a look. Nice place to grab a bite on a nice day. Next, my pizza. I had the Mushroom (white pizza): (via their website) White garlic sauce, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, brie cheese & truffle oil $11 If that ingredient list doesn't make your mouth water, then good food is lost on you, stick to Subway. This was truly, without fear of overstatement, the finest Neapolitan pizza I have ever had. Bar none. Game over. Pillowy in the middle, the HIGHEST quality flour and perfectly apportioned ingredients, all made for an absolutely outstanding pizza. There is not enough praise I can heap on this place and its pizza. Absolutely PERFECT. As further testament to the quality of the food, I was full, but it was my last night in town, so I HAD to get something else to complete my experience. The veggie arrancini were ordered by my cousin to supplement the meal at hand. Full disclosure: I detest eggplant, and I've tried it in every way imaginable. The arrancini will forever be notched in my mind as the exceptions to the rule. Absolutely beautiful, you have to try this stuff! I then ordered the veggie panini as my second meal-yes, I paid for this in the gym, but it was worth it- topped with roasted red peppers, sautéed mushrooms, spinach and fontina.$8. This, while not purely transcendental as the pizza, was outstanding too. I haven't had a better panini. Really. Worth every penny of my money and every second of my time, this restaurant will be a mainstay on my future trips to Washington, and I cannot wait to go back! Thanks Anastasia, and thanks to the crew who made the food, you all were top notch and earned the praise of a grateful customer.
(5)Zac G.
Went here with my pops on a random mid-week night. Maybe the best pizza I've ever eaten. I had heard this place was good, but never before have I taken a bite of pizza and said "Holy sh**" out loud. Their mozzarella and sauce are better than anyone out there in my oppinion. Most of the patrons there actually went over and shook hands with the chef and thanked him. Sent my good friend here. She thought is wasn't very good. I'm still mad at her to this day.
(5)Brandon F.
I read about this place online and liked their FB page. I love pizza. I love Naples style pizza from the brick oven most. I was really looking forward to this. When I found them I couldn't find parking. They have maybe 8 spaces. So I had to circle a few times and finally parked illegally in the Safeway parking lot across the street. When I got in the place was packed. So I waited in line for 10 minutes to place an order. The tables seem to close together. Also the self serve refrigerators were right beside the waiting line so people were constantly trying to go through you to get their beer or whatever. Finally when I got to the head of the line I was told 45 minutes wait. Naples style pizza only takes 90 seconds to cook because the wood fire brick oven is very very hot. I said 45 minutes is too long. So they said 25. I was already here so I might as well wait. The pies coming out of the oven looked delicious so I wanted to try one too. I wasn't able to have more then 4 toppings. I don't know why. That really sucked. But anyways I said ok. So I sat down in the waiting area where strangers had to share tables. It was very Bohemian in a cafeteria way. It seemed like they were trying too hard to be trendy and cool. It's not NYC, its Arlington, VA. And not even a good part of Arlington. So finally my buzzer went off and I went to the take out section of the counter to pick up my pizza. It looked small and since I was a new customer I asked the pizza maker if this was a large? He responds condescendingly "It's all one size MAN" He was wearing a bright yellow Italian soccer jersey, sunglasses (even though it was 8PM and indoors) , and a hipster hat. He obviously thought he was too cool for me, and too cool for everyone else too. I got the impression that the staff thought they were rock stars and everyone else were groupies. As if we were lucky just to be allowed to eat there. Kind of the vibe you get a a pretentious nightclub. I was like "wow" that was a trip. Ok..so let me drive home and try this pizza from this "special" place. I got home and shared it with my family. None of us were impressed. It had sausage that was more like ground beef cut into tiny bits. The pepperoni was dried out and tasteless. I love pepperoni. What a let down. Even Papa John's pepperoni was superior. The sauce wasn't very tasty as well. All I liked was the dough. This place was a complete let down. I would never come hear again. There is another place called pizzeriaorzo in Falls Church that I want to try. I walked by and they had staff in uniforms like an Italian restaurant. It had a nice atmosphere. It was packed and had a waiting list so I didn't go inside. But I will return to Orzo because from the reviews it seems like the right place. These egotistical little businesses need to learn that not only is the food important, so is the atmosphere and attitude. The attitude was bad at Pupatella. And btw, what an AWFUL name to have for a restaurant! It does not translate well into English lol. It's kind of gross to be honest. It doesn't matter if the food is good. To have an enjoyable dining experience a person needs a certain amount of space and low noise level. If you have people bumping into your table and you have to self serve then there is no difference between McDonald's and Pupatella. Except McDonald's has better customer service. To wrap this up, SKIP Pupatella and go to Orzo. There is a fabulous Naples style pizzeria in Sterling/Cascades called Don Corleone's. Amazing pizza. Fresh ingredients, fresh everything. The sause is amazing. It comes in a few sizes. There large is very large. One slice is 10" x 12" in size. The crust is to die for. And they have drive up service. Infact I just ate there an hour ago.
(2)Rob S.
The best (only) pizza in Arlington! Awesome ingredients straight from the source - Naples. All of the pizzas are good, the salads are good, and the beer selection is good. I recommend the margherita DOC, chorizo, sausage & onion, or the prosciutto arugula pizzas. The arancini are great too. Wash it down with that fresh San Pellegrino Aranciata.
(5)Matty W.
Really simple, really good pizzas. If you're used to going to Dominos or Pizza Hut, you might be disappointed by the prices at Pupatella. But the ingredients are great, the crust is thin and soft, and the toppings are delicious. And one pizza should be enough. WHen I went there was a special for fried Brussels sprouts topped with cooked apples and some kind of balsamic glaze. So good.
(5)Angela G.
Too legit. Too legit to quit. (Hay! Hay! Sorry, I couldn't help myself) We came here upon the strong suggestion of a friend who said that the first time she tried this place, she ate there for dinner three nights in a row. 'Nuff said. We arrived to barely eek into a parking space and a long line that just barely fit into the establishment. Uh oh. Still, we dug our heels in and stuck it out - turns out that although it's a sit-down restaurant, you order at the counter located in the middle of the railroad style restaurant. This gives you ample time to peruse the menus floating down the line and ogle the owner, Enzo, and his staff whip up pizza after pizza and delicately slide them into the technicolored mosaic oven that he brought to America from Naples. They're not f'in around, kids. By the time we get to the counter to order, we are starving. We pretty much ordered every fried item on the menu (minus the zucchini blossoms which were sold out - I could have wept!), a couple salads and a pizza each, plus two bottles of wine to share. We were worried about finding seating for the 5 of us, but remarkably, by the time you order, tables clear and all is right with the world. The food comes out of the kitchen as its ready, so this is a perfect place to share. Favorites were the heirloom tomatoes with burrata special, expertly fried sausage arancini with peas, the Calabrese with killer white anchovies and of course the Margherita DOC. The pizza crusts are blistered black from the oven and perfectly chewy, the kind of pizza I miss from eating my way through Italy. We finished the meal with scoops of gelato from the ice cream counter, and I decided to make out with a cup of creamy fig gelato that literally brought tears to my eyes. Really love this place, the relaxed vibe and the killer service and am thoroughly looking forward to returning.
(4)Mac O.
4.5 stars. The date on my Pupatella bookmark in Yelp reads "07/06/10." Yelp friends have been singing its praises for a year now. It's a darling of the Yelposphere. And I swear: I've been meaning to get here for ages. But it took a Capitol-Hill-dwelling coworker, of all people, to get me here in the end. "Hey, you ever been to Pupatella?" she asked one day out of the blue. "We should go, it's *ah-may-zing*. My friend Enzo owns it. We went to high school together in Italy." Two days later she was introducing me to the consummately Italian Enzo Algarme (think fedora, Versace glasses, and cerulean Adidas track pants) behind the counter at Pupatella. The man makes a damn fine pizza. One of, if not *the* best I've had the pleasure of putting in my pie-hole. Five-stars all.the.way. In fact, Pupatella is certified by the Verace Pizza Napoletana Association which "safeguards and promotes the culture of the real artisan Neapolitan pizza," so you know this operation is legit. And though only a couple of the pizzas turned out here are actually considered *true* Neapolitan, Pupatella certainly deserves the accolades. It's fascinating to watch Enzo shape and form the dough, artfully adorn it with toppings, and stretch the oven-ready discs onto peels. This pie just about blows my pizza-mind. I swooned over the fantastically earthy and satisfying Mushroom, a white pie with sautéed 'shrooms, truffle oil, and brie. It was a battle with myself to leave a piece to bring home for husband to try. And I brought back a couple more whole 'zas, too, not wanting to deprive him of the Pupatella experience...okay, so that was the guise, but it was really so *I* could sample more varieties. We loved the Real Margherita with buffalo mozz, basil, and olive oil, and its pleasantly salty, almost meaty notes. And the garlic roasted tomatoes on the Tomato Artichoke lent a sweet and smoky bite that made it another winner. The pizza is definitely better consumed fresh out of the oven at Pupatella, but it held up fairly well for carry-out, too. The sauces and toppings are fabulous, but it's the crust that's the star of the entire, glorious show at Pupatella. Pizzas only spend a minute in the oak wood-burning oven, rendering a sticky, chewy, blistered and barely charred crust I could eat all on its own. It makes for a manageably floppy slice, perfect for folding in half. And while Pupatella pies are technically single serve (really, I could kill two in a sitting), it's nice to share a couple. Plus, wines by the bottle are $10 off if you buy two 'zas. Finish off your meal with an espresso whipped with Nutella, and you're on culinary Cloud 9...made out of fluffy pizza dough. Five star pizza, five star experience. But parking is extremely limited (use the Safeway lot across the street if Pupatella's is full), seating is a hot commodity, and pies are a lot pricier than "big-box" pizza places ($9 up to $14 for some of the specials). These 'zas are absolutely worth the dash across Wilson and a few extra bucks, tho.
(4)R R.
The best margherita pizza, period. The fried arancini is also awesome.
(5)B.B S.
Hands down the best pizza I've had in the US. I got the mushroom white pizza which was out-of-this-world delicious, with deep mushroom flavor and garlic on rich cheese, all on perfectly crisp and chewy handmade crust. My friend had the margherita pizza which was salty, sweet, and creamy with big basil leaves. Order at the counter, and try a beer on tap or wine, or a nice Italian lemon soda. We will definitely be back!
(5)Tiffany W.
Billed as having a brick oven made from Mt. Vesuvius's volcanic ash and using traditional Napoli-style dough, this should be as authentically Neapolitan as it gets right? So forget your preferences for a Chicago deep-dish or NY-style thin crust, this is one good pizza that will leave you satisfied and won't give you heartburn. We ordered two red pizzas: Proscuitto w/ Arugula - I love proscuitto and arugula, so this was a sure winner. The dough + red sauce + mozzarella + basil was baked first, then the proscuitto + arugula + freshly-shaved parm on top after with a spritz of olive oil. Sausage - Homemade sausage + carmelized onions + red sauce all baked together. Great for sausage fans. What sets this place apart is the way they make the pizza -- thrown in the brick oven for only 1 minute at a high temp. It quickly toasts the crust to perfection and melts the cheese without overcooking the toppings. Unlike American pizzas, they don't overload the cheese (sorry cheese-lovers!). In fact, they don't overload anything so what you're left with is a simple, refreshing pizza with quality ingredients.
(4)S O.
This is some of the BEST pizza I've tasted. They make it fresh to order. The place itself is pretty cute (think pizza version of a coffee house). I personally don't like thin, crispy crust and this crust is perfect. Although I wouldn't call it thick crust it is somewhat chewy, which I love and the sauce is delicious! One con is they are closed on Sunday and Monday, which happens to be my two days off from work. But that being said all else is amazing!
(5)Jordan W.
We've recently moved to the area and this is really the first quality pizza joint we've tried. And it is a solid 4 stars. Their crust is unlike any other I've tried, which isn't saying much but it's definitely a texture all it's own. Light, airy, not very chewy. Don't get me wrong, completely opposite crusts can be just as delicious but this is a nice break from that. I've tried the Real Margherita and the Spanish Chorizo. Both are amazing by the fact that you can easily taste all of the elements in the pizza but yet they still all come together wonderfully. As far as apps go, we've only tried the Arancini (awesome) and the Marinated Seafood Salad special (also, quite good). Try the Sfogliatelle, it's a little pricey for the size but from what I've read that goes into making it, it's probably worth it. The taste was great, pastry stuffed with ricotta cheese and candied oranges. Yep.
(4)D R.
Very good pizza. The dough comes deliciously charred, with the crust like the softest soft pretzel you've ever had. A single 10" pizza is 4 slices and plenty for one person (maybe with a slice to spare). Small but respectable beer selections.
(4)S D.
Pupatella is unbelievably good. It is truly authentic Napolitano pizza. On top of that, it is truly authentic Italian. On a Friday night I tried to order a pizza over the phone. No one picked up. I went down there and the place was packed. I asked the lady at the counter why no one answered the phone and she said--"We're too busy." If you've ever lived in Italy for even a week you will understand how quintessentially Italian that answer is. The Real Margarita DOC is in a class by itself. They also have great seasonal Italian appetizers like fried zucchini flowers and arancini. It's hard to get a table so if you are more than two people, take out is probably your best option.
(5)RL C.
This place is well worth a trip. Small pizzas, great dough, quality ingredients. prosciutto and arugula is my recommendation. The bruschetta is amazing, though they don't serve as much now as they used to. The gelato is also good but the beer selection is very poor. Then again, it's a pizzeria not a bar.
(4)Andy B.
This place is amazing, apparently a couple of guys from naples moved into town and are rocking everyones world with with authentic wood fired pizzas. i have been there 3 times now and it is consistently delicious. the first time i went i got burrata pizza with tomatoes, pine nuts, and olive oil and a pizza with pepperoni and ricotta. it was so good i could not deviate from that order that next two times i went. i dont know if every day is burrata day or i just got lucky the three times i went. eat outside if you can, the front is way too bright with fluorescent lighting.
(5)Kristin K.
Pure. Pizza. Perfection. Nothing more needs to be said.
(5)Judy C.
Based on the unassuming look of this place, one would never expect their pizzas to be so bold, tasty, and cooked to perfection. Gene and I started off dinner with the Arancini (crispy risotto balls with sausage and cheese), which were just so-so. But the pizzas came out and WOW, as a fan of white pizzas, I was more than impressed by their White Mushroom. It was just PACKED with flavor. A soft, chewy and floppy crust makes for easy folding and definitely holds its own merit. Pupatella knows how to build a great neapolitan pizza. Their gelato is a great finish and comes in perfectly-sized portions - their pistacio is one of the best I've had. Expect: limited parking and due to the nature of fresh pizza cooked to order, a little bit of a wait. A great bargain on ~$10 a pie, which is incredibly filling.
(5)Ryan M.
Not too shabby! Probably didn't quite live up to the 4.5 star hype (more like a 3.8), but excellent meal. Pros: great pizza, great fresh ingredients. Neopolitan pizza was delicious. Salads were fantastic. Cons: parking is difficult, seating/lighting are very uncomfortable, and layout of line throughout restaurant is a bit disturbing. Avoid the high-top plastic seats, you'll slide off.
(4)Grand Y.
Given the hype on Yelp, and given how much I love pizza, I had really high expectations. Food was 3 stars. Value bumps it to 4. This place is small, and has a family-run feel, which I liked. We got the real margherita and the sausage pizza. $10 bucks off a bottle of wine with 2 pizzas, which was a good deal. So $50 got us 2 personal pizzas and a bottle of wine. But we like to eat, and eat a lot. And the pizzas just weren't that big or filling. My preference is still for Faccia Luna or Pete's a Haven.
(4)Steve N.
Small pizzeria just outside of walking distance from Ballston. Service was great and the pizza was the highlight. Took around 15-20 minutes to get the pies, so we had a fresh side salad of arugula, tomato, and kalamata olives with balsamic vinaigrette, which was outstanding as well. I've told my pizza loving friends to get over there for some eats and I'm already planning my revisit soon enough.
(5)Amanda S.
i can see why this place gets such praise. it's definitely deserved. on a rainy friday evening before supporting my bestie in a theater performance, it was decided that pupatella would be dinner. my dining companion and i arrived slightly after 530, and the narrow space was already filling up - particularly with couples and their young children. as it was good friday, we ordered the veggie arancini (stuffed with mozzarella and roasted eggplant) and two pizzas:: the real margherita doc (neapolitan buffalo mozzarella, basil, olive oil) and mushroom (white garlic sauce, sautéed mushrooms, garlic, brie, truffle oil). with the purchase of two pizzas, you get $10 off a bottle of wine, so why not? we chose a sicilian red and it paired quite well with our pizza. our arancini came out and while nice and hot, it just didn't do anything for me. the shell was hard but not crispy. the risotto was pretty forgettable. the eggplant was so-so. however, once the pizzas arrived, there was hardly any dinner talk. both of us were too busy stuffing our faces of the ooey-gooey goodness. since the two pizzas aren't particularly filling (and i fasted all day prior to this), we also got gelato. one cup had pistachio and hazelnut and one had espresso and double chocolate. the tiny cups will the perfect ending to a lovely dinner. though it only got busier and busier, we were never rushed out. the idea is to bus your own table, but if the employees are passing by and see empty plates, they'll take them for you. so nice! and if the veggie pizzas are that scrumptious, i can only imagine how good the meat-topped ones are. will be back sooner rather than later to find out!
(4)Erin A.
I love this place! Would eat here everyday if I could. Everyone that works there is so nice and everytime I go the food is excellent. Sometimes you have to wait a while but I am fine with waiting for good food!
(5)J D.
Went to Pupatella today for lunch. Atmosphere is very nice, colorful inside. You can see the pizza makers at work. Menu is a little small for my taste, wish they had a little more. Had the simple margarita pizza. Great personal size, excellent quality. Ill be sure to go back. Only down fall is parking is crap, there are literally 7 spots for 3 stores.
(4)Red B.
I was so happy to get such an awesome taste of Neapolitan pizza in the DC area. Upon the first bite into the pizza margherita, I was in love with it. The intense tomato flavor was perfect- vibrant, not sweet, not processed-tasting and the amount was just right so the pizza wasn't soggy or swimming in sauce. The crust was soft and light, not chewy like some of the other authentic Italian pizzerias in the area. Tasty quality toppings (fresh mozzarella and basil) were spread equally and liberally over the pizza. They have an amazing lunch special, where for $9 you get a pizza margherita, arugula & tomato salad and Italian soda (aranciata or limonata). This equates to getting an appetizer and drink for free as the margherita pizza by itself is $9. The decor was ok. For Arlington, it definitely wasn't cookie-cutter, but coming from DC, it's not anything different from a lot of restaurants there. One of the nicer touches was a mural of graffitti on the front wall. Thank god there weren't black and white photos of Italy all over the place. The place is fairly small, so I was surprised it listed capacity at 46. There's not a whole lot of parking, so it's probably better to go off-hours, or to walk from Ballston Metro. (At least 5 blocks.)
(5)Olga K.
This is best pizza I have ever had. My boyfriend who has lived in Italy for a year says this is the best pizza he has ever had. We come here every week and every single time the quality of the pizza, the taste, and the atmosphere just makes me want to come here every day. I usually get the white specialty pizza ($14) that has white sauce, fresh figs, fontina (which I sub for smoked mozzarella), prescuitto di parma, and a balsamic vinaigrette reduction. It is AMAZING! The restaurant is certified by the Verace Pizza Napoletana Association, which means they follow strict requirements that respect the tradition of the art of Neapolitan pizza making. They make all the pizzas in a wood burning over, use the highest quality ingredients, and you can really taste it. They fly in burrata (a special type of mozzarella) from Italy every thursday and cook with it on Firday and Saturday, which just shows that they are really committed to fresh, top-notch ingredients and they don't fudge it. The staff is really friendly as well, and the gelato is dilicious. One of my absolute most favorite restaurants of all time.
(5)Carrie M.
Excellent pizza, chill atmosphere, friendly staff. Can't wait to go back and try another pizza!
(4)Kristy R.
I LOVE this pizzeria and friggitoria!!! It reminds me of the brick oven pizza I had in Naples, Italy. All of the ingredients are fresh and delicious. I've dined here A LOT! You can create your own pizza and the toppings are similar to the selections you'd have in Italy. The beverage selection is the same. They carry authentic Italian brands. The staff is always friendly and they push out lots of FRESH pizzas! The ARANCINI (either one) is out of this world. I haven't had anything bad yet. Moving onto the gelato...they serve a good variety to top your dinner off! The only con about the place is the parking. I also wish the dining area were bigger. A lot of people are learning about this diamond in the rough and can make parking a challenge. Besides parking issues- I HIGHLY recommend this pizzeria! Go there and enjoy!
(5)joe w.
Tried the ricotta cheese and meat ball pizza. Salad 2: roasted tomato and baby spinach and onion and anchovy. Gelato comprising mint chocolate chip and hazelnut.
(5)Renita W.
Visited this place on a Wednesday, right at 5pm. Our plan of arriving early to avoid any parking issues or crowds paid off. We ordered the Classic Doc and the Chorizo pizzas. Both made my tummy smile! The sauce was great and the cheese had just enough melt (not to stringy, not to cream cheesy). Not sure if its the brick oven or the good dough, but the cooked pizza crust had a perfect balance of crunch and softness. We also tried the Hazelnut gelato... not bad. At $3.50... I'd pass unless you're craving something sweet at the end of your meal. Only downside... the drink selection was pretty poor. If you drink wine, you might appreciate their selection. But it would have been nice to have more non-alcoholic choices than bottled water or $2.50 fancy european delites. Overall: Standup pizza! Definetly the best neopolitan pizzarie I've had in the DC area. Its worth visiting.
(4)Molly L.
We tried Pupatella for the first time last weekend and loved it. We ordered the Classica and Capricciosa. Both were delicious. The doughnuts looked amazing but we were too full to try them. Definitely will be going back again, though, so maybe next time.
(5)Emmett P.
Fun! Colorful! Creative! Yummy! As a testament to how much I trust Yelp to find me good food, I went to this place without even really looking at the page, I just saw that it was nearby and highly rated. I actually just looked at it quickly and thought it was a pupuseria. So I have to gain my bearings a bit when I walked in and it was a euro-kitschy pizzeria. But, oh, how pleasantly surprised I was! OK, I got the daily side-dish special, which was a salad (?) of deep-fried brussel sprouts, apple slivers and balsamic vinegar. It was inspired. I think it could use a little work, but that's the thing with items that aren't normally on the menu: you're getting an experiment. I think they should stick with that experiment. Maybe one more ingredient would bring it together. Possibly walnuts? Then I got what appeard to be one of their hyped menu items: Pizza Fritta. This is a deep-fried calzone with mozzarella, ricotta, marinara, and ham. I try to eat lower down the food chain as much as possible, so I hesitated at the ham and almost asked to have it removed, but there was just enough to give it some hamminess but without the ham taking over (as ham often does). They have an excellent beer selection and the decor/atmoshpere is upbeat, colorful, and interesting. I live a block from Two Amys, so I have access to good Neapolitan pizza, but for my deep-fried Neapolitan fix, I"m definitely gonna come back to Pupatella.
(4)Tony B.
I am normally not a big fan of thin crust pizza, but this place did a great job and even though it was packed they were extremely quick. It was a high-quality feel at an affordable price ,the only downside to this restaurant is that the pizzas only come in one size which is convenient for two. But suboptimal if just trying to grab a bite.
(3)Allie D.
Whatever you do, don't leave without trying the arancini (fried risotto balls). They are amazing: crispy, crunchy risotto exterior with a creamy eggplant and cheese filling. I could have just eaten several orders of them for lunch. We had the margherita and burrata pizzas (both vegetarian) and both were incredible. The burrata is made with a very creamy, buttery buffalo mozzarella that's well worth the extra money. It's not a very big place, so get there early to nab a table. We were there on a cold rainy Saturday, and the place was packed.
(5)Kathy M.
What a WONDERFUL neighborhood jewel and oh so yummy. Tried Pupatella after seeing a video about the place on Arlington Now. We ordered way to much food - all which was very good ...and I agree the Brussels sprouts with green apple was Amazing even if Brussels sprouts are not your thing! I ordered a pizza Margherita, an order of eggplant arancine, and potato croquettes - the pizza was exactly like described on their site - and delicious- the arancine were so E of the better I had in the US but the Potato croquettes were DEVINE!!! The space in the restaurant is very well used- we sat very near the pizza oven and our clothes smelled like the food which was the only negative and the reason for four stars and not five.They had really good beer too!! Will go back for sure!!!
(4)Aamna C.
Still super amazing, totally love LOVE the burrata pizza. Love it so much - wish I could marry it. Picked up my pizza to go last night, and I am SO happy you are now open on sundays.
(5)Brendan W.
Amazing opportunity to experience a taste of Naples, straight from the heart!
(5)Toan N.
I like Pupatella, but are Neapolitan pizzas supposed to be a little chewy? I guess I'm just used to a firmer crust. I'm also comparing to what I've had in NYC. Best Neapolitan pizza I've had was in the Big Apple, but Pupatella definitely can fill my cravings in VA.
(4)Mandi F.
I would give this place a million stars of possible. This is the best pizza that I have ever eaten and I have try pizza everywhere I go. Pupatella has them all beat
(5)Jessica L.
hoOOooly crappers. I am excited to say that I have found my new favorite pizza place!! I had the garlic-mozzarella bread, which was GREAT. I loved the chunks of mozzarella cheese atop the chewy bread. I could eat that by itself. Puptella serves the BEST pizza I've had thus far in DC/VA. Pupatella does it right with their Neopolitan-style pizzas: the crust has just the right amount of thickness and chewiness, the ingredients are fresh and meld perfectly together, and I don't even know what else to say...biting into the Real Margherita pizza was godly. Get the Real Margherita. It's legit.
(5)mark s.
I did not see Gluten Free Pizza on the menu ? Do you guys serve that. You advertise authentic and certified but without the Gluten free option, it's really not. Almost every authentic pizza place in Italy serves some Gluten free option. The incidence of Celiac in Italians is 10 times what it is here, so it's common there. Did i miss something on the menu or are you ignoring Italian tradition ?
(3)Saara Z.
Great pizza with really awesome ingredients. Pupatella is straight forward, not a lot of frills. I highly recommend anything with their all-beef pepperoni - I usually make my own with pepperoni and mushrooms. I've also tried the pesto pizza, the tomato artichoke, and the meatball pizza - all of which were awesome. I've never had major issues with the lines/wait times but I try not to go during peak times, particularly over the weekend.
(5)Bunny N.
Came here with a group before heading out for a night on the town. When coming into Pupatella's, one of the employees greeted us and handed us a menu. You order at the register, and then sit at a table. If you ordered a glass of wine or cocktail, you will have to go to the bar in the other room to get it. Or either you can wait and a server will bring it out to your table. I had a pizza that had prosciutto on it. It was sooooo good!! I think that it was probably the best pizza that I have eaten! Love love love this place!
(5)Jenna L.
Normally when a place gets this much hype, I'd assume that I'd be let down. But, I wasn't. The food is every bit as delicious as my fellow Yelpers led me to believe. Pupatella is located in an unassuming location across from a shitty safeway and next to a 7-11. There are maybe 5 parking spots, so, I'd suggest getting a spot in the safeway lot across the street. When you walk in, the building is deceitfully run down. Wall paper is peeling off the walls and the floors are dirty. But, the smells more than make up for that. You pick up a menu at the front door, order, and then find a seat. A waitress stationed in front tells you this information, and locates available seats for you. My friend and I sat outside on a lovely patio with tables that are way too small to comfortably hold two pizzas and two drinks. It's mainly for the lack of atmosphere and small table size that I took away a star. It took 30 minutes for our food to arrive (which the lady at front told us, so it, was fine). Staff brought it out, and they were friendly, helping us to rearrange our table to make everything fit. I first had a pice of my friends white pizza, might be the best brick oven pizza I've ever tasted. I got one with ham, artichokes and mushrooms. The mushrooms were particularly good, but everything else on my pizza was ordinary. Overall, it was very good, but not nearly as good as my friends white margarita, which I think I want to eat daily for the rest of my life.
(4)Leena K.
Years of pampering at inimitable NY/NJ pizza establishments has, understandably, contributed to my very high expectations when it comes to this classic comfort food. Here I was, mocking NOVA as the faux-pizza capital, when one day I accidentally came across Pupatella. I have since been taught to appreciate and respect the Italian Neapolitan style of pizza that never quite stood out to me before. But than that's because it was never prepared this well for me before either. The Margherita DOC is one of the simpler pies here and yet the ratio of fresh, high quality ingredients, contrasting textures, and inviting aromas create an experience that is nothing short of inspiring. Every bite caters to and excites the five senses. To top that off, the hazelnut gelato with an espresso shot serves as a divine palate cleanser. Your tastebuds will be thanking you! The staff is friendly and the atmosphere is fun and accommodating of large groups. Parking is nearly impossible but will never deter me from coming back again and again. After a long search, my NOVA pizza haven has finally been found.
(5)Kelly T.
Amazing pizza and I like all of the options that are on the menu. The side salad is so simple yet so delicious! You can tell they use quality ingredients. I had the eggplant and red pepper pizza which was amazing. Parking is a bit ridiculous with only a few spots to this very busy restaurant.
(4)Nancy L.
This may be the best thin pizza I've had in the area! Or in the United States :) The pizza - $9-14 The crust is thin but it doesn't disintegrate when you pick it up. The crust is also super chewy which I love! The red sauce was ok but I really liked my friends white pizza with the sweet corn. It was so yummy and unique! I had the meatball pizza which was delicious w lots of mozzarella and ricotta cheese. My fiancé had the spicy salami pizza and it was suuuper spicy. I was very surprised! The wait - We went on a Friday around 6:30pm with 5 people. We waited in line for about 30 minutes before we got to the counter to order the food. Then waited another 15-20 min or so to be seated. The pizza probably arrived 15 min later. It didn't feel like a terribly long wait because it was broken up. The entire place was definitely crowded so they should think about expanding or redesigning the layout. The service This place is pretty much self service. They bring you the pizza but that's about it. You get your own Utensils and water. The people working there are friendly and they'll bring you boxes to pack up leftovers if you ask.
(5)Ananya M.
I'm not a huge pizza connoisseur or anything, so I only tried this place after multiple friends highly recommended it, despite living in Ballston. The restaurant is in a very nondescript location on Wilson, so I didn't realize what a nice place it actually was until I walked in. I came on a Sunday evening, so the restaurant wasn't too crowded; my friend and I were able to order and find a table within 5 minutes. The pizza was also out only 5-10 minutes later - pretty quick. I had the diavola pizza, with spicy salami, mozzarella, and basil. The salami added an excellent flavor to the pizza; while it wasn't too spicy, it had a nice tangy taste that I enjoyed a lot. The dough is also nice and chewy (my Japanese friend referred to the texture as "mochi-mochi"). The pizza, while served in a sizeable portion, left me full without feeling heavy. After we'd been there a while, we were pointedly asked by one of the waiters whether we were going to order anything else in a tone that suggested we should leave, but this was understandable since the restaurant had started getting crowded. Overall, a great experience, and I'd go back for sure.
(5)Tra H.
The pizza here is definitely good, but I don't think it is 4.5 stars good. We got the margherita pizza and a ham and mushroom pizza. Their tomato sauce is phenomenal, but I'm not a huge fan of the dough. Yes, it is fresh, but it's also too thin and soggy, which kind of ruined the pizza for me, since soggy bread is a cardinal sin to me :-P. The service was good and fast, so I was happy overall. I wish I could give 3.5 stars. I can't do a 4, so 3 stars it is! Would it ruin my credit if I say the pizza at the Mellow Mushroom in Adams Morgan is better?!!? But to experience the best pizza in the east coast, next time you are in Boston, go to Santarpio's in East Boston. Now THAT is good pizza! (And somehow it only gets 4 stars instead of 4.5? Bostonians sure are hard to please!
(3)Justin E.
Incredible. Had the buratta and the margherita. Both excellent.
(5)Taylor O.
This is my favorite restaurant. They have the best pizza I have ever had. The staff is always very polite, and its $10 off a bottle of wine if you order two pizzas. I come here way more than I should and never regret it!
(5)Fabio B.
The best NAPOLETAN Pizza in the area. No others words are needed. Capitol napoletan is on purpose. Italy has many Pizza styles. Their Arancino rocks!
(5)Christi D.
Solid 3.5. I won't ever crave this pizza but I also won't mind stopping by if friends took me here. I'd recommend this place for people with kids that want an extremely casual place to eat for a little bit of time. Like many, I was on the lookout for the best pizza places in DC and was enticed by the Yelp reviews. I've found a couple home runs but mostly have found disappoints. So as someone who is easily disappointed, I'd say a 3.5 is pretty good. The dough is soft. Crust is thin. The size of the pizza is just enough for one person, but not too small to make you feel unsatisfied. Ever have Amy's frozen pizza from the grocery store? This has the same kind of dough and is about the same size. My kind of pizza! On the down side, the toppings threw me off a little. The sauce on the marhgertia was a bit salty and (according to my bestie) the prosciutto was better alone than as a pizza topping. I think their best pizzas are on the white sauce (cheese) versus the red pizzas. I know everyone on Yelp raves about the various toppings on red sauce or build your own pizzas...but I very much prefer the white because the tomato sauce is too salty. Also, when I went I thought it was family day because there were SO many kids. I guess that makes sense since the decor is full of pop art and there are bright colored plates next to the utensils/napkins area. Most everything is made of plastic and from IKEA and the chairs are curvy and fun. Why wouldn't that attract kids?! TIMING TIP: Pad your time in case you have to wait for a table. The largest tables seat 6 and there's only one of those and another couch/chair area that might also seat six. Everywhere else seats just two people or one at a counter.
(3)Francisco M.
Cheap & absolutely delicious. The pepperoni and meatball pizzas are fantastic; every pizza is made in their brick oven. The arancini w/ eggplant (fried risotto balls stuffed w/ eggplant and cheese) are some of the best appetizers I've had anywhere, ever (also available stuffed w/ sausage). So, so fantastic! Didn't try any gelato, but what they had looked quite good.
(4)Whitney C.
LOVE THIS PLACE. Cannot say enough amazing things about Pupatella. If I could give it more than 5 stars I would. Been here dozens of times, and never have I been disappointed. In fact, everytime I go out get take out I always fall more deeply in love with Pupatella. While the wait may be long at times (warning-friday & saturday nights get crazy busy) it is always worth the wait. The food is made extremely fresh- and the pizza's are made right in front of you by Enzo and his cute friend. ;) hahah. If you go- make sure to try the bruscetta- it is incredible.
(5)Sam J.
Best pizza in DC by far. I'm originally from NY and recently moved back there after living in DC for a number of years. The pizza here is as good as the best NY has to offer. Also, as their dessert special of the day, they had Sfogliatella. This dessert blew my mind. Great taste (pastry w/ orange ricotta filling) and the folds on the pastry gave it a great look and texture.
(5)Charles W.
Very good pizza! No more Dominoe's Pizza for me. The waits not long either, unless you're really hungry :-)
(5)Sheila D.
WOW! I'm never going to eat American brand pizza EVER AGAIN! This pizza place rocks my world, sooooo yummy!! This pizza melts in your mouth, the same way chocolate does. First I hade to wait in line for about 30 minutes to even place my order, then I had to wait about 45 minutes till my pizza would get done. I ordered a bimbi pizza for the kids (which is the same size as all the other pizzas) and another pizza I had made to order. I couldn't wait to bite into this pizza, and my goodness it was magnifico. I'm never having any other pizza, unless it's Pupatella ;)
(5)D C.
Pupatella for lunch today! We got there at 11:30 after reading about how crowded it gets and I am very glad! It was empty but crammed by the time we left. A very simple setup in a dumpy strip mall but some great pies! One of my favorite comfort foods is pizza. I love really good pizza! I mean I really love it. I cannot stand super heavy, doughy, too spicy, too sweet, too cheesy, too slopped up with toppings. I won't touch beach pizza, cafeteria pizza or chain pizza. It's just not pizza to me! My personal feeling is that the simplicity and complexity of Napolitano pizza is the most fantastic pizza ever. This restaurant is very good! I went with a crowd and we ordered 5 pies. We had to start with the Margherita DOC. If they cannot do that than they might as well close the doors. It was the best Margherita pizza I have ever had. The tangy sauce and the perfect crust. Well done! My next favorite was the Prosciutto Arugula which was also fantastic. The Mushroom white pizza was out of this world too. The light brie and truffle oil made this pizza explode with flavor when you ate it. We also had the Capricciosa and the Chorizo pies which were both disappointing. I felt that except for the Margherita pizza that all the others could have used a little work. There is some sort of magic pizza spirit that makes these pies near perfection. I have tried to do it at home and I have eaten at so many places trying to find it. These pies were all good but not all fantastically good. Most importantly, the crust! This place has some killer crust. The flavor is great, the char is great but I have one complaint. It got a little thick near the edges. I loved the crust but just couldn't eat all of it. 4 of 5 for the crust. The only place I have been that could stand up to this place is Pizza CS in Rockville. Pupatella has a better Margherita pie than Pizza CS. However, if you put the CS Carne vs the Pupatella Chorizo then Pizza CS wins. If you put the CS Capri vs the Puptella Capricciosa then Pizza CS wins again. CS has a superior crust too. I am splitting hairs here though. If you are in VA then Pupatella is a great pizza experience but in MD Pizza CS is still the place. Now if I was traveling from , I don't know, let's say TN and I had to pick pizza for dinner in the DC Metro... hands down, Pizza CS is the winner. Their marriage of flavors and ingredients is just better. Still, Pupatella gets a solid 4.5 stars.
(4)Tucker H.
There are so many reviews already there isn't much to add. The thing that sets this place apart to me is the crust, which is amazing. They seem to go light on the sauce and cheese, which is good. They are both of perfectly fine quality, but any more and they would distract from the perfectly chewy, slightly charred, and completely delicious crust. This isn't a great place to take more than a couple people, and it isn't fancy (at all), but the pies are delicious.
(4)Jaye V.
I can't believe it. Last night, Pupatella dethroned 2Amys. Until last night, 2Amys held the spot in my book for the best Neapolitan pizza I've had in the States. No more. You know it's good when stylish Italian Euros come in to hang out, chat in Italian with the owner/chef, and eat. It's the second establishment in DC (2Amys is the other) to feature pizzas certified authentic by the Verace Pizza Napoletana in Naples. Awesome how the owner/chef handles, shapes, and places each pizza on the peel himself. That's one way to ensure quality control - I never tired of watching him work. 2Amys for me, though, is more about the small plates and cured prosciuttos and such, some of which are also featured on big daddy Obelisk's menu. You can't find their stuff anywhere else. Rome, maybe. So although 2Amys is my preferred joint overall, I have to give it to Pupatella for the better pizza. God, that chewy, airy, delicious dough... still thinking about it.
(5)Chris M.
Heaven will come complete with their brick even churning out an endless supply of Chorizo pizzas with basil added, sides of sausage arancinis, and bottles of Gragnano wine. Put another way, I've given serious thought to scrounging through their trash for left over pieces of crust. Forget about it being the best pizza around, their pizza is the best food I've ever eaten, period. For those that don't "get" Neapolitan" pizza, please stop complaining and stay away so I can get a good table near the oven and watch pizzas come out in anticipation.
(5)Paolo G.
Excellent pizza. The crust is the best I've had anywhere. The Margherita DOC and Capriciosa I tried were great. I also had the arrancini with eggplant (perfectly fried, but more cheese, please) There is an increasing roster of great pizza places around DC, each with its strengths and weaknesses. However, this place gets the most important thing perfect: the crust. It is somehow thin while being crusty and chewy-perfect! My only small nitpick is that the sauce on the Margherita was just a touch acidic for my taste. Pacci's is Silver Spring is an example of perfect sauce. But Pupatella's is nearly as good. The perfect crust makes up for this however, and actually makes this pizza better than Pacci's (which is pretty damn good). Came here on a Sunday afternoon and had no wait. The staff were also very friendly and attentive. The gelato was a great end to the meal. I also liked the beer selection.
(5)Francis K.
This is one of those place that makes me hate the rating system here. Is this the best Neapolitan pizza place I've ever been? No. Is it the best one I've been to in this area? Hell yes! The pizza here is five stars across the board. No doubts in my mind or my stomach about this. The crust has the right amount of chew to it on the interior. The edges of the crust have the right amount of char and the lovely taste which comes with that. The mozzarella on the margherita is of the wonderful water buffalo variety. All of the food I've had here has been absurdly on point. This is the best/possibly only certified Neapolitan pizza joint in Northern Virginia. Better yet, they aren't some half-assed place making New York style pizza and claiming that it's Neapolitan. Aside from the food though... everything else is pretty decent to slightly above decent. If you have not been here before I highly suggest you read through their website so that you aren't surprised about certain things, like taking your own plates to the bins even though your pizza was brought to you. I've always been aware of these little things and haven't found them to be an issue. People leaving their stuff all over the place when they finish is a bit of an issue though, but that has nothing to do with the establishment. My only real qualm regarding the service is that I have yet to figure out the order in which your pizza gets made. Every single time I've been here I've had people who ordered after me get their food ahead of me. Not one or two people, but sometimes four or eight or ten pizzas out of order. Not sure whether they batch them in threes because of the oven and therefore three pizza orders get priority, but I find it frustrating when it takes me thirty minutes to get my (very very very yummy) pizza when the people three spots behind me in line got their pizzas in fifteen. Additionally, there is virtually no parking in front of the business. I would recommend either coming during a non-busy time or parking across the street right from the start.
(4)Rainshadow L.
A gem in The town! Always busy for pick-up, and not enough parking space. But, their pizzas are so good. The crust is perfectly charred and the sauce is not salty nor oily.
(5)Deidra G.
I had really high hopes for this place based on the yelp score and the huge number of reviews. I was disappointed. The pizza was good but it didn't knock my socks off. It was small and thin and overpriced. The ingredients were fresh but the flavor was average. I was unimpressed.
(3)Brad B.
We've been here twice now - both times on a Sunday (very easy to get in). Pizza was awesome, best I've had in the area. Great value too - $10 a pizza and they have local beer on tap. The only, only reason I'm going to knock this place is the general "ambiance". Let's call it 90's chic. Considering this is arguably the best pizza in the DC metro area (sorry 2 Amy's)... you would think they could play something beside top hits. I don't want to listen to Eminem and Keisha while enjoying a delicious Neapolitan pizza and draft beer. It's weird. I think I've mentioned my hatred for restaurants playing top-hits loudly. I hate it. Oh, also parking is awful. good luck. I'm pretty sure you can park at the Safeway across the street and not get towed. GO HERE.
(4)Justin S.
The pizza here was interesting. I ordered the Mediterranean pizza and it was good. The service here was good. It's a typical sit down place but I don't recommend bringing a date here since it can be loud. If you want a place that has good pizza and also a spot to relax with your friends give this place a try!!
(4)Andrew M.
Full Disclosure: Me and Enzo (owner/operator) were roomies at GMU way back in the day...but that doesn't mean I don't pony up cash when I come, so.... This place rocks! True Napoli-style pizza. The oven (and owner/operator) was custom made and shipped from the Old World, for christsakes! Ingredients are fresh, very high quality and are used according to some crazy protocol that an international pizza society has made available worldwide. Seriously. There's what, like 100 certified places in America? Pupatella is one of them.. The sides and sandwiches are good, but come for the pizza....linger for the oddball selection of bottled beers. Chill music most of the time as well. Last time I had a pizza with anchovies, olives and mushrooms? Can't remember, but it was something that everyone at my table had to try (I always do my best to promote anchovies...they get a really bad rap for no good reason). :) Oh, the gelato looks amazeballs, but I didn't try it.
(5)Emma S.
Loved the location, quick and easy drive, but food took a little too long and wasn't as much as I expected, but still was great! Went in during my lunch break, and thought I would spend a lot more, but spent a lot less. Definitely going back on my next lunch break!
(4)Susanna B.
This is a long overdue review for what is, in my opinion, THE best pizza in the metro DC area. I have been several times and have never been disappointed by the food, the people or the atmosphere, even after waiting in a long line, scrambling for a table and waiting 30 minutes for a pizza. It is always worth it. The main event is, of course, the pizza. Made in the authentic Neopolitan style, the crust is perfectly thin and crispy, yet soft and pillowy with that distinctive brick-oven taste. The toppings are always superbly fresh - I recommend the proscuitto and arugula for something light and fresh tasting. For something on the richer side, the meatball pizza is simply melt in your mouth goodness with ricotta cheese giving it extra creaminess. Also notable are the chorizo and eggplant pizzas, and, when they have it, the "Fig and Pig." When you do go on a busy night and have to wait a while for the pizza, definitely order an appetizer or two as those are always brought out fairly quickly. The bruschetta is bright and fresh and the fried risotto balls are also scrumptious. For an inexpensive yet robust, spicy glass of wine, try the Sangiovese. The Chianti is also fantastic.
(5)Joshua W.
Puppatella Pizza has a great atmosphere, menu, and prices. Unfortunately the pizzas we ordered were burnt. The ingredients were good and the flavors were good, but it was so burnt that the pizza was overwhelmed by the flavor of charred dough. Maybe the oven was too hot or the cook's timing was off, but the dough ended up extra burnt on the outside and then super spongy (undercooked) in the middle for both of our pizzas. The flavor sort of ruined both the Margderita DOC and the Ham + Mushroom Pizzas we ordered. We also ordered a Brussell sprout and Apple appetizer. A little strange, a little burnt, but still really tasty. The setup is also a bit confusing. There is food/drink ordering counter, also a bar, and a food drop off service. Considering there was a line out the door the whole time that meant that it took almost an hour to wait in line, and then get the pizzas. We considered some gelato but decided for forget about it because we didn't want to have to get back in line for 1/2 hour again. The guy who dropped the pizza and our app at the table was super friendly, so was the bartender. This place has potential and I'll be trying it again to see if the pizza is always cooked at too high a temperature or it was just a fluke.
(3)Kareem C.
Very good pizza and it was big enough to split for two people.. Drink prices are a little high. Would do better just walking to 7-11 and getting a drink. Lol. Like the atmosphere and the fresh ingredients they use. Definitely will be back.
(4)Mike M.
Not sure why you're reading my review with the 337 other reviews. What else can possibly be said on this pizza joint? Here's my tip... Go off hours as a 3rd wheel and get the half table in front of the oven. It only seats 3 anyways. So you'll probably see a couple sitting there. Sit next to them and stare at their food and sneeze a lot until they leave. Then you couple friends can sit there.
(4)Mike W.
I'd seen this place on a TV show about a year ago highlighting the best pizza places in DC. Yes, it took me a year to finally get here. Why leave the city when there are already so many good eating options? Well, I've officially found a reason. Pupatella. The pizza is just what you want from a Neopolitan pie. Soft crust with oven blisters. Melty cheese. Thin, thin, thin! It really is the kind of pizza that just melts in your mouth. It doesn't matter what kind of pizza you get there. That part is irrelevant. It just matters that you are there and that your mouth is full of pizza.
(5)bean c.
So glad that a decent Neapolitan pizza place opened up in this area. No, it's not *just* a "thin crust". You just got to try it to get it. The whole package and concept is totally different from American style bread heavy crusts. The ingredients really make the product. A friend that I brought along commented on how intense the tomato flavor was in the sauce. Food: We ordered two pizza choices from the list (Pepperoni and Arugula with Prosciutto) and both were excellent. The crust was perfectly toasted, airy, and chewy. The arancini was orange sized and very well made. We also had an order of brussel sprouts that had great flavor and crisp. Loved every bit. Parking: The lot directly attached to the restaurant is a mess. It is tiny and shared with the neighboring businesses. The in and out maneuvering from that lot is just not worth the proximity. I think I saw a large parking lot across the street that people were parking at instead.
(5)Margaret R.
Bottom line: Absolutely delicious and authentic Neopolitan pizza...with a choice to Americanize it with toppings and sides. For me, all Neopolitan pizza is compared with the pie I had in Naples at L'Antica Pizzeria (before the movie Eat, Pray, Love came out thank you very much). Pupatella is probably the closest I have ever come to that experience outside Italy. I enjoyed it more than 2 Amy's (which is too light on the sauce for my taste), and I was blown away. Sure, the crust isn't quite as chewy and the tomatoes weren't quite as watery as the actual Naples pizza--but to the American palette, these are probably all good things. The fact of the matter is, the pizza at Pupatella is delicious, affordable, and as close as you can get to Naples without traveling across the Atlantic. Logisitcs: parking is limited in front of the restaurant, but drive into the residential area right around the corner and there is plenty of free street parking. You order at the counter first and then a server will find you an empty seat. Oh, and the house red (Il Bastardo) is delicious! Oh, and although Pupatella is in the Washington Post Dining Out Guide as having some of the best doughnuts in the area (when the chef baked them for a related pastry business)...they stopped offering them in the restaurant about 4 months ago. Bummer! But there's gelato!
(5)Christina A.
Finally. FINALLY. An awesome pizza place in Arlington. Ok really - I'm the one who's late to the game. My hubby and I live in Arlington and frequent Focca Luna and Pete's. Pete's is the worst on the scale of pizza...but for some reason my husband likes it. Anyway, we arrived at Pupatella last night around 7:45 and there was a line to order. At Pupatella, you order your pizza and then go sit down. A waitress will bring you your order. I decided to order the classic margarita pizza. They recommended one pizza per person. My hubby got the calabri I think. I also got a coke, which ended up being a mexican coke with real sugar, yum!! We waited for 10 mins after we ordered to be seated since the dining room was full. From then, we waited about 20 mins for our pizza to come. To be fair, we were warned it would be 20-30 mins. The pizza came out and wow...this is no ordinary pizza. The crust is thin and the edges are crispy, but the center was soft and melty. I had to fold the pieces to eat them. But the crust was delicate and chewy. Unlike anything I'd had before. The flavors were perfectly balanced. I think they sprinkled olive oil on my pizza too. It was really delicious and I finished all but one piece. I will definitely be back!!!!!!!
(5)Steve L.
Overall, I really liked the pizza at Pupatella. The crust is a bit too soggy and charred more than I would like, but I would happily eat here again. I had the mushroom and ham and the ingredients were excellent. The wood fire pizza oven marries the crust and ingredients in a way that makes neopolitan pizza great. The beer selection is decent. They have about 5-6 beers on tap with local micro brews and a small bottle selection. Happy hour ends at 5 pm
(4)Andrew N.
I've been trying to eat here forever after hearing good things from friends and always seeing it on yelp. Clearly, I've been making poor life decisions not going here, but now I know. Awesome local place and probably one of the best pizza I've had...(I'm no pizza snob, I'm cool w/ Pizza Hut's pan-pizza) But one should always appreciate authentic and fresh food. The setting is no-frills and casual, but has an authentic vibe to it. Staff was really nice and seemed genuinely happy (one waitress said she'd marry one of the specials?). Sat in the outdoor area in the back, great for a summer night. Pizzas are individual sized, but we got a pizza to share along with salad and arancini. This meal was definitely satisfying for 2 people. - Got "Salad #1": can't go wrong with prosciutto - Arancini - the cheese was hot and gooey. Doesn't come with sauce, but you can ask for it. - Buffala Bianca Pizza - crust w/ the creamy white sauce was my favorite part of the meal and again..can't go wrong with prosciutto
(5)Foodie C.
Amazing pizza and great salads Pizza made very traditional napoletana style It is very busy during lunch and dinner so try to go before or after rush. Parking is a challenge there is only a few places out front and not quite sure if 7-11 next door or Safeway across the street mind parking there or tow. So be aware of where you park. Pricing is a bit high for the portion size but the quality is worth it
(4)Nima B.
Great pizza! I would go at non peak hours to avoid the line and be able to get parking. It's a bit pricy for a pizza. I usually eat half and take the rest home. I hate leftover pizza but this is an exception. Delicious. I always pray my gf forgets about the leftover pizza so I can eat it.
(5)Emily S.
Pupetella has some of the best local pizza I've ever had. The crust is soft and the ingredients taste fresh. They also add a drizzle of olive oil on top, which is a nice touch. Unfortunately, the pizza I got was a bit soggy, but other than that it was very good. I can't wait to come here again!
(5)Agnes S.
It was good but not mind blowing. I've only been there once and asked for a recommendation for vegetarian and they suggested the margarita. Brick oven thin crust, with plenty of sauce and plops of cheese with a few pieces of basil strewed throughout. Tasted good. The tomato sauce was kind of plain, as was the pizza itself. Simple. Good. But not great, not unique or go out of my way to get. It might be what I got. I'll definitely try a different one if I come again. Pizza is made for one, I'm pretty small and ate 3/4 of mine. They do serve wine and beer. You order at the counter and your pizza gets delivered to your table. It's pretty fast, like only a 10 minute wait after paying. Parking is really tight. There definitely are not enough spaces in the small lot that they share with another restaurant. I saw several groups walking from the shopping center across the street. Total cost for my pizza, with no drink was around 14.50 after tax. Add tip and you are looking at a pricey night for a family considering it's a pizza dinner. If I'm in the area again I'll try it and hope I get the experience I've read from other Yelpers.
(3)Chris G.
Great pizza here. But guys, if you need to use the restroom to do anything more than pee, you have three options: 1. Use the ladies' room; 2. Hold it; or 3. Go in the sink. There is no toilet in the men's room, and no toilet paper or paper towels, either.
(4)Kelly O.
I love the pizza here. I came in to order my go to, pepperoni when I saw a pizza that looked interesting. I started to ask the man which pizza it was when I was interrupted by some staff member who said, "Don't talk to them. They need to focus." I asked her if she knew what pizza they just put in and she asked what it looked like. I said nothing until she said, Sorry...not trying to be a dick. I said too late. I guess even on a lazy fall Sunday afternoon you can't escape the dc dbaggery. Very rude if you ask me. I will stop coming here. I don't think I want to support a place that treats people like this. Me and their workers.
(3)Shereen H.
The BEST pizza in the DC area. We always get the 2 pizzas, $10 off a bottle of wine deal. My favorite pizza is the eggplant and red pepper. The eggplant has that delicious smokey flavor. I also love the meatball pizza, margarita, and sausage/onion. I have never had a bad meal here! I do recommend avoiding this place on weekends. One Saturday night we waited over an hour for our pizza, we even finished the bottle of wine before the pizzas got there. But it was definitely worth it! I usually go on a Tues or Wed now and have never waited long for food. And finding parking should never be a challenge, you can park in the Safeway parking lot across the street!
(5)Dana W.
Just returned from three years of living in Sicilia...i will say..this is as close as I've ever been to Neopolitan style pizza without actually being in Italy. The menu is smaller than Italy of course, but more diverse than you'll find anywhere else in this area. I'm a fan, and it was worth my 40 minute drive!
(5)Danny V.
The quick and dirty: Not bad. Not great. It's OK. Better than pizza in Italy: Not on a Friday night Service: Spotty Organization: not on a Friday night. Friendliness: Check mark Unlike extra-virgin olive, I didn't experience superior taste, service or quality. Sadly, I walked away wallowing in apathy and a little disappointed. The Friday night wait was 1+ hours for pizza. Fine. I have beer. We waited outside on the back patio and felt like crammed sardines eavesdropping on our nearby neighbors. To the right: Momma and Papa bird with two chirpy children whose metabolisms have them vocalizing their hunger pangs. To the family's chagrin, "no eggplant." They ask for a menu and several more mins transpire before the hungry birds get the worm. 55 mins later a staff member informs us that they are out of eggplant. Again? Then there was an eggplant count of some sort to determine if it was eggplant parm or the eggplant special that was 86'd. Tick tick, tick tock, stomach growl, tick tock. Menu, menu, re-order. I know ingredients are fresh, but why does it take an hour to figure out if eggplant for pizza vs for eggplant parm is 86'd for the night? The pizza arrives and my experience can be summed up exactly as reviewed by Eujin M's. Hmmmph. Why does disappointment always taste so sad. I thought the pizza would have hit me over the head with quality and freshness, but it was just OK. Will I be back? Maybe. So many great reviews have me believing that this experience could be better on a weeknight.
(3)Pei D.
Wait for almost an hour for a pizza, and someone who orders after me getting their pizzas first! Messy management. The taste is good but far from great.
(1)Laz L.
Just went here for the first time! The 4.5 star review is true! The pizza here is amazing! Very comfortable environment and the customer service here is superb! I've never seen customer service like this before at similar places! Definitely coming back to try other pizzas and food they offer!
(5)Zachary K.
Some of the best pizza I've had (Including Italy)!! Fresh ingredients and fresh taste. I heard that the pizza oven was actually shipped over from Italy and you can taste it - especially if you have the self control not to inhale it :). It's a food experience that you definitely need to have if you're in the area and love pizza!
(5)Theresa K.
Hands down one of my favorite pizza joints. The crusts are chewy and the ingredients are always super fresh. Their Parmesan arugula salad is a great pairing with any pizza. I personally love their margherita pizza and their buffalo mozzarella appetizer is delicious! Definitely a must try if you are craving good solid pizza.
(4)P H.
The best pizza! Just like in Italy. Only 3 stars not 5 because they don't ever answer their phone! Maybe the new competition from the Italian store will change their policy.
(3)Jenn M.
Suuuper busy on a Friday night! We saw the throngs of people waiting but we walked almost a mile to get here and there was no turning back! I'm glad we decided to wait it out. They have a good system going on so follow their instructions. You get in line and order, then you tell the waitress your table number and she puts you on a chart to be seated. We got seated within 20 minutes. But waited another 30 minutes for the pizza. We ordered the arancini balls as appetizers so that kept us entertained while we waited. And the beer also helped with the wait. ;) They recommend one pizza per person and they're right. My bf and I each ordered a pizza. He had the Mimosa pizza (Italian cream, roasted corn, prosciutto cotto (ham) & fresh mozzarella) and I had the Sausage & Onion pizza (their own sausage, sautéed onions & provola (fresh smoked mozzarella). Both pizzas were good to me! All the ingredients blended well together and tasted so fresh! We would definitely come back here to try their other pizzas!
(5)Albert L.
Finally got around to Pupatella, and I'm glad I've been. Believe the hype - the pizza here is really excellent. No, it's not NY style. No, it's not Chicago style. Yes, it's very close (if not the same) as some of the best pizza you can find in Italia. So what makes a good pizza, and how does Pupatella do it, you ask? Well, first, that big Neapolitan pizza oven you see in the middle of the shop is a good start. The bang-on dough consistency for the pizza crust and body is chewy but has that thinly-crispy texture. The tomato sauce is not just tomatoey-sweet, but it also has a light olive-oil smoothness and slight saltiness that it needs. Finish it off with genuine mozzarella di bufala and fresh basil, and you've got yourself a winner. Being my first time, I had to go with the classic margherita (what I described above) to get a baseline. I also decided to add some Italian ham to my pie and probably should have asked for extra basil as well. It did take a while (about an hour) for our orders to come out, since the shop was very busy with dinner service at the time. I do think everyone thoroughly enjoyed their orders, and event the Pupatella veterans were still raving about how good their food was. To me, the margherita was spot-on with the simple flavors and cleanliness on the palate. All in all, they've got some very good pizza - probably top 3 in the whole DC metro area for authenticity and freshness. I realize that the size and concept of the shop dictates that customers must wait a while for orders during busy hours, but I wish they'd find a way to make it a bit more efficient. We want to get into that pizza ASAP!
(4)Lily L.
As I mentioned in my BP post, there isn't a whole lot of parking here, but I do believe there is a parking across the street. I was meeting a friend on a Friday for lunch, and it wasn't too crowded inside. You basically place your order/pay, get a number, and they serve you at your table. We had Chiantis (yup - they serve wine!) with the Margherita and Pesto Pizzas - the Margherita was my favorite of the 2 because there were too many walnuts in the pesto pizza. We ended up leaving with 2 slices, but I think they were portioned fairly well. It's definitely one of the better pizzerias that I have been to.
(4)Joshua K.
After seeing Pupatella featured on WETA's "Pizza in Washington," I had to try it. Given that it's located deep in Arlington and a hike from the metro, it took me a while to get out there. Unfortunately, it wasn't much worth the trip. To begin with, Pupatella has a strange hybrid ordering system. You stand in line as if ordering takeout, wait on another line to get a table, bring a prepaid drink coupon to a bar to retrieve your drink, and then a server brings your food. It's incredibly inefficient, and makes it inconvenient to order additional food or drinks. I enjoyed the risotto balls and found the pizza to be decent, but not commute-worthy. The ingredients seemed to be fresh and top quality, but the crust was bland and soggy. The margarita pizza was pretty standard and the pesto pie was flavorful, but too salty. I definitely recommend trying Pupatella if you're in the area. I just don't think it lives up to the hype.
(3)Jagruti P.
Hands down best Pizza Place in town, I have gotten the Margherita, Classic, Chorizo, Eggplant & Red Pepper Pizza. All equally amazing. The donuts are heavenly! Cons: The parking lot has limited spots. The women taking your order at the register is the most unfriendly, non-smiling person on the planet ever. They don't have ranch dressing - when I asked for some for my crust, she waitress laughed and said this was an authentic Italian place.
(5)Andrew O.
Once upon a time I would have given this 5 stars as my favorite pizza spot in Northern Virginia / DC. However, since their expansion its gotten much more crowded, lost some of its charm, and the food feels like special. OK, so the pizza is stlll pretty wonderful, as are the arugula salads and pretty much any starter. It's just gone from delightful neighborhood joint to trying to cram a real restaurant into a tiny storefront with basically no parking.
(4)Hana S.
I heard really good things about this place from multiple people. Finally I got a chance to to try this place out. A friend and I ordered a pizza and a salad. The salad was not fresh and extremely bitter. The dressing was sparse and flavorless. Our pizza leaved a lot to be desired. It was extremely oily and salty. It also tastes like bacon...my companion is a strict vegetarian. We both agreed our meal was awful and could not finish it. The sad thing is we are not picky eaters. Besides out meal being awful underneath out table was filthy. Like someone emptied a plate on the floor. So germaphobes beware. I did see some appetizers on other peoples plates that looked ok. However I will not be coming back to try them.
(2)Max T.
Eaten here and taken out numerous times. I love everything about this place. It's sort of a hole in the wall but everyone knows about it. It's very casual but served on fancier plates in a different place, their pizzas would easily sell for twice as much. What to do: 1. Go here. 2. Wait in line. (It's worth it) 3. Get the burrata special and anything else that sounds good to you. 4. Also get sangria or wine special. Drink this and order more before your pizza comes. Then order another round. 5. Devour food. Consider another round...? 6. Try the gelato and tell me how it is. I bet it's amazing but I've ways sufficiently filled my face with pizza by this point that I've never been able to try gelato.
(5)Neal D.
The pizza is great and so it the gelato they serve. The service was great and we walked in about 15 minutes before closing. We had 3 different types of pizza and the the pizza was perfect.
(4)Hannah H.
I've had Pupatella on my list for quite a while, as they are known for their brick oven pizza, so I was really excited to finally try them out! You could either dine-in or do a carry-out. Their menu includes Friggitoria (fried food that is typical of Naples), small plates and salads, Red Pizzas, White Pizzas, and paninis. There was a long wait for tables so we just decided to order and do a carry-out. Even though it was about a 45 minute wait, I was patient! :D I had the Pepproni Pizza, which contained San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and slices of beef pepperoni. While waiting, it was awesome to see the guy who was putting the pizza in the brick oven - with the long wooden paddle, you could see him checking the done-ness, turning it every so often next to the flames. The pizza itself was about 11-12 inches, and perfect enough to share. The crust itself was thin and had nice little bubbles - the San Marzano sauce was sweet and tangy, with chunks of tomatoes; there were also chunks of mozarrella cheese that was not completely melted, but scattered throughout; in addition, there was a good amount of beef pepperoni that had a nice little crispy curling action. The crust itself was a little thicker, and if you don't eat it right away, the pizza tends to become soggy. I couldn't wait to get back home so had a few slices in the car - it was pretty good, eating them nice and hot. I like the fact that it wasn't overly greasy, but more of a 'lighter' fare of a pizza, if that makes any sense! Service was friendly, and I'm glad I was able to try them out! Parking can be a little tough as they have a limited number of spaces in the front, but there are some who park next door at the 7-Eleven lot (but, be careful, you might get towed!). +very long waits T___T
(3)Henry N.
It's the best pizza place in town. There rissoto balls are deep fried but good. When you walk in, you see a big red brick oven when you walk in
(5)Ben F.
Okay, this has fast become one of my favorite pizza places in Arlington. Hard as it may be to believe, this place is even better than Papa Johns. I know what you're thinking. "Better than Papa Johns? Is such a thing possible? Recant! Recant, sir, on your heretical exaggerations!" Alas, I cannot, because it is that good. Joking aside, it's good. I've been there...about half a dozen times. I would go more, but I was informed that an excess of the combination of pizza and beer can render one, shall I say, "dough-y." Perhaps you want details, yes? Fair enough. For starters, the parking sucks. Let's get that out of the way. There's not enough parking, but you can park in the parking lot across the street (no one will judge you). Just remember to look both ways before crossing the street and obey the traffic signals. That said, once there, depending on the time of day, you will be greeted by a line of varying length. This length is a predictor which may offer some clues as to the number of available tables. If the line is long, send your group out to find a table while you wait (patiently) in line to make the order. But what will you order? Decisions! I recommend the pizza. Again, it's pretty good. But what kind of pizza? Entirely up to you. I find the pepperoni to appease my mundane tastebuds, but I will steal a slice of the sausage, onion, and goat cheese pizza. At least, I think that was what I stole. The Brussel sprout salad is a worthy appetizer. It's all healthy and such. Regardless of what you eat, you can do no wrong. It's a cool place, but it can get loud.
(5)Jay B.
Awesome pizza comes at a price...popularity. Everybody and their brother have found Pupatella. No matter when you go, there's a line and a wait, even for take out. But, if you go when not hungry, the line works well. If you're hungry, the line just adds to frustration about waiting. On one hand, it's 'just' pizza and not worth 30-45 minute wait. On the other, it is pretty good and worth having there, as it doesn't travel well. Until the next big thing in Arlington pizza arrives, wait in line for Pupatella.
(4)Nada M.
This place didn't live up to the hype from all the online reviews and ratings. The pizza was good, but nothing particularly amazing to be honest, I feel like it's like any other stone oven pizza. The place is so small, it's always crowded, and you end up waiting for a really long time to be seated. And when you finally do get a table, your rushed through your meal by the staff, it's so uncomfortable, the pizza came 5 minutes after the appetizers. I am not a fan of the service either.
(2)Steven K.
IMO, this is the best pizza in the area. Forget 2 Amys! Authentic Neopolitan pizza is right around the corner. Don't be alarmed by the long line (you order at the counter), it moves fairly quickly. After ordering we waited maybe...30 minutes before we were able to get a seat on a busy Friday night. How do they make such a thin crust pizza that holds together so well? This was my second time back and both times I've gotten the spicy salami pizza. Highly highly recommend. I didn't think it was too spicy, but my fiance had a bite and was desperate for water. Really, there's no wrong choice with any of the pizzas. I'll be back Pupatella.
(5)Jocelyn B.
DELICIOUS! I tried Pupatella for the first time a few weeks ago after a friend had recommended it to me. I ordered two pies for take-out (Proscuitto-Arugula pie and Pepperoni) for my boyfriend and I. They were to die for. Despite the lack of parking available when we went to pick up the food, Pupatella will now be my go-to pizza place!
(5)Heather J.
All it takes for a DC local to try something in a new area of the city is for someone to come in from out of town. Well, someone finally came in from out of town and was staying near Pupatella. Finally, I thought, my excuse to go! (Not that I need an excuse, but it helps to have some external motivation.) I got the capricciosa and it was excellent. The crust is perfect! I love the atmosphere, too. It's casual and they don't take themselves too seriously, even though they make seriously good pizza. Next time I'll go back without needing an excuse!
(5)Gwen B.
We came here on a Friday night after hearing some rave reviews. We waited about 45 minutes for our pizza but we were in no rush so it wasn't a big deal. Since it was lent, we were unable to get any meat on the pizza. We got a side of the sprouts and apples (YUMMY) to start. I got the margarita pizza and my husband got a plain red pizza with mozzarella cheese. Both were very good, the oven baked taste was evident. The crust was nice and soft which we both enjoyed. The biggest downsides to Pupatella were clearly the long wait and location (not the most convenient location). Although the pizza was delicious, the seating was not the most comfortable and due to the long wait, we may not be back anytime soon.
(4)Mama Y.
Food is beyond amazing, but don't expect any conversation or interaction from the staff. You order at the counter, pick drinks from the cooler. Once your fantastic food is thrown on your table, you are on your own.
(4)Tara M.
Best Pizza in Arlington, VA! The gelato is great too!!!
(5)Andrew S.
This place is overrated. 45 minute wait for a pizza on a Friday evening that they says cooks in one minute due to the temperature of the ovens. You can't sit until you order which is understandable but the lady seating people was nasty. I rested my hand on the stanchion while we waited to order and she made a nasty comment to not touch it. The pizza was almost burnt on the top edges but the bottom was very soft and flimsy. When I eat pizza I like it crispy not like fresh white bread. It had a good taste but I believe that Rustico down the road is much much better. Pizza just has a better taste in general.
(2)Nicholas M.
Most pizza in the area ranges from meh to decent, but until we tried Pupatella we hadn't found a really first rate pizza joint near us. Fortunately, Pupatella is head and shoulders above the rest. Okay, the set-up is a bit odd the first time you go: You wait in line to order pizza, apps, and beverages at the cashier, get a number placard, then wait for a table to open up (turnover is pretty quick). Once you get a seat you can go to the small bar and get the beer or wine you've paid for while the apps and mains are delivered to your table. It's usually crowded and noisy and can seem on the chaotic side, but everyone's in a good mood and the wait staff works non-stop to make your visit pleasant. Of note, the wait staff clearly knows the food they bring you is great, and their enthusiasm is infectious. And the food? The menu is small but the options are excellent, and the pizza -- the Margherita is certified DOC -- is just great. The dough alone is delicious -- thin and blistered from the intense heat of the oven, and the toppings are well thought out combinations. Pizzas are individually sized, so you will want to order one per person. On balance, we like the white pizzas a bit more than the red ones, but that's a matter of personal preference. When in doubt, don't hesitate to ask the cashier for a recommendation -- they know their product! It's a good idea to resist the temptation to add a topping to their standard combos lest the thin crust get a bit soggy with the added weight. Appetizers are also good. We love the Brussels sprouts tossed with a balsamic dressing and the Caprese made with cherry tomatoes is also a fine starter, as is the arancini with eggplant. Beer and wine selections are good -- what's not to like about Peroni on tap? If you want red wine, don't hesitate to try the Primitivo. Yes, it's noisy and almost always busy, but you won't go here for a romantic dinner, just for the best pizza in the area.
(5)Ashley R.
I love coming to Pupatella. Great pizza, sangria and atmosphere. It's a casual place where you stand in line to order and they deliver to your table. Good date place so there is no awkward check grab at the end :) I have had many of their pizzas- all outstanding and their appetizer mozzarella balls are amazing too. I crave this place once a month! Sangria is delicious with fresh fruit. Easy parking and quick service. I will always remain a customer here!
(4)Mallory M.
Does this place need another 5 star review? Yes, yes they really do. This is the most delicious pizza of all time. I also love that they call their pizzas personal pizzas so you don't feel bad eating the whole thing yourself! I would also recommend the arancini! I got the chorizo pizza and the sausage arancini - ask for marinara with your arancini!! The staff was very friendly. This place gets very busy so the line can be out the door, but it moves quickly. The food comes out quickly as well!
(5)Matthew A.
I absolutely love this restaurant. In my travels I have often taken advantage of the VPN Americas website to find quality neopolitan pizza. Pupatella is one of a few places in the Mid-Atlantic region that carries their certification. It shows. It shows in the quality of ingredients, the preparation, the speed, the oven spring, the leopard spotting on each pie. It's not exactly convenient to where we live but we go out of our way to eat here when we can. It gets pretty busy on weekend evenings and the parking situation is a little hairy, but on a weekday for lunch before hopping a plane, it is fantastic. I look forward to many future visits.
(5)Genny P.
Great wood oven pizza. So popular it can be hard to get in there. A favorite part of the weekend.
(5)Neno D.
These guys are killing it! The pizza was SPOT ON...
(5)Mike H.
Best pizza I've been able to find in the DC area. Lines can be long--especially at dinner times on Fri-Sun.
(5)Pete V.
I have tried 4 different pizzas at Pupatella and they were all outstanding. The best being the margarita pizza. Super thin and chewy crust, superbly balanced sauce and cheese, and fresh toppings. The person who goes to Pupatella, tries the pizza and doesn't like it should be shot. This is by far the best pizza I have tasted in DC. What's more, they have a respectable craft beer list, in fact stellar if you consider this is a upscale hole-in-the-wall pizza joint. The wine, especially the house chianti is surprisingly good, and cheap. $5.00 for a glass of wine in this city is a screaming bargain. If you are considering pizza, have a car, and are not afraid of venturing out of your comfort zone for incredibly tasty pizza, your efforts will be handsomely rewarded.
(5)Dianne M.
DO NOT DINE HERE IF YOUR CHILD HAS A FOOD ALLERGY I was so very disappointed today when I visited this restaurant. My one year old daughter has a dairy allergy, so I called ahead to make sure the crust and sauce was dairy free. It is, so we excitedly made plans for lunch there with friends. When we reviewed the kid's menu, there was not anything on the menu that was dairy free. Well, that's fine, we just ask the chef to not put cheese on one-quarter of my husband's pizza. She's one and doesn't eat so much, so this works perfectly. We've done this at many places and have never had a chef not accommodate the request (with the appropriate disclaimer that they cannot guarantee there isn't cross-contamination). Imagine my dismay when the chef refused. He outright refused. Why? The cashier simply told me that he wouldn't do it. Offered no explanation even though I explained my daughter has an ACTUAL allergy and this was the only way she could eat! We were told no. Again, with no kindness or explanation (except a neighbouring cashier tried to tell us to order meatballs of the kid's menu until our cashier corrected her that there was parmesan in them!!!). So, I would have had to order an entire pizza without cheese for my one-year old daughter in order for her to eat? Had my friends not already ordered and paid, we would have left. Again, no help from anyone, and frankly, no one seemed to care. I finally ordered bruschetta. Of course, the bruschetta is served on very crusty break with large chunks of tomatoes. My daughter has four teeth and she couldn't chew it. I have never encountered such lack of care or accommodation for a customer with an allergy and a VERY simple request. I told the cashier I would put this treatment on every single blog and forum I could find so other parents of children with food allergies would know not to eat here. She simply shrugged and said it wasn't her fault as she wasn't the chef or the owner. Well, I hope the owner reads this. I'm appalled that you would care so little to try to help a one-year old enjoy pizza. do you know how hard it is to sit at a table and eat in front of your daughter while she wants food from you and doesn't understand why you say no? I will not dine here again.
(1)John H.
Been coming here since 2012, just now got around to writing a review. First date with my girlfriend of a year and a half was at Pupatella, and it sealed the deal. We come here once a month. Can't go wrong with mozzarella balls, pepperoni and sausage pizza and a bottle of il bastardo. Always ask to sit in the back deck if its open!
(5)Demetria C.
Great pizza, great alcohol options! I am a huge fan of ciders, and they definitely have some great variety of beers and ciders.
(4)Jamie M.
The pizza here is heavenly. The harmonious celebration of the cheese and sauce is the equivalent of angels playing a saxophone ballad with Kenny G, while floating across the sky on doughy clouds of divinity. When my pepperoni and cheese pizza arrived, I was elated with excitement and enchantment. I gripped the holy crust, and closed my eyes as I took my first bite. In that moment, time stood still, and calories didn't matter. Virgil appeared , and I took his hand as we walked down a narrow, ebony tunnel toward a brilliant, golden light. I was Paradise, Found. The tomato flavor embraced my taste buds, and tangoed in a rhythmic basil flow that was so flawless, it would have received a perfect score on Dancing with the Stars. The cheese caressed my palate like the hands of Patrick Swayze sculpting clay with Demi Moore in the movie Ghost. The pepperoni was as delicious and it was savory. I could faintly hear the whisper of Morgan Freeman narrating each chew until I had to swallow. I opened my eyes, and realized that I wasn't having an "out of body experience," just having the best pizza I have ever tasted. God had answered my prayers.
(5)Bill F.
Perfection. The 2nd best brick oven pizza I've ever had (best is Sorrento's in Long Beach, NY...which also gets points for being BYOB and having great staff). The prosciutto arugula pie is where it's at. My wife got the Eggplant and Roasted Red Peppers and it was still very good but not on the same level as mine. I love that each pie is just big enough to get 1 person full. I love the beer selection (IPA heavy with some of the best beers in the country). I love how freakin perfect their crust and dough is...soft and chewy...unreal. Definitely going to be taking friends here when they are in town.
(5)Cheryl T.
Excellent pizza - and arancini!! I got the arancini with sausage and proscuitto arugla pizza. They couldn't have been any tastier - I actually ate absolutely all of it, and gave myself a tummy ache later, but I just couldn't stop myself! The reason it only gets 4 stars - location and atmosphere. It's located directly next to a gas station, with only 5 or so parking spaces. Because it is so popular, you have to park at the Safeway across the street and run across Wilson Blvd. We got there at 530 and were able to get a seat, but within 15 minutes, the place was slammed. Even when we left, it was packed to the brim, and for good reason! You have to order at the register before they will seat you, and the process is a little confusing, because of the way the restaurant is setup. You have to pass the hostess to order, then double back to get seated. When it's busy, it's a mess. The cashier gave me a number when I placed my order, but failed to mention to show my receipt to the bar (in the other room) to receive my glass of wine. When it wasn't delivered, I finally asked the bartender how it works. Would be nice if the cashier would have told me when I ordered it. Atmosphere - there just isn't any. It's a small place that's really non-descript. With the big business they have, they really need to upgrade to a new (bigger) location. All in all, I am looking forward to going back to try the Panzerotti and another yummy pizza!
(4)Mark O.
Amazing pizza. A must for pizza lovers!
(5)Thomas J.
Certified or not, this is damned good pizza. It's nice to see the places like this improving the previously desolate pizza-landscape in DC. Nice having "worth the drive" alternatives to Dominos (et. al.)
(4)Ami S.
AMAZING! The food, their service, the price and atmosphere. Would add another star if I could. Will definetely be back for more.
(5)Lisa N.
**3.5 stars** Very long waits and a tiny/complicated parking lot... Pupatella definitely uses fresh ingredients in their pizzas, but I don't think it deserves the hype that it has. I liked the Prosciutto Arugula. But not sure if I'd come back just for it.
(3)Jason O.
This place has potential. Seeing all of the highly rated reviews I was excited to go here although was honestly a little disappointed. Admittedly it was busy, although the line system and lack of service to direct all of the people confused by it, didn't deter us from looking forward to this awesome looking pizza. The biggest downsides overall were the price and the actual pizza! It looks amazing although it seems like they weren't taking enough time with each order and our pizzas came out looking like they could have stayed in the oven longer and it was soggy on the bottom. Ultimately for the price and lack of service, even when busy, was enough to prove that they definitely have potential although not enough to make me come back.
(3)Samuel S.
It was superb. There is much tastiness in this thing they call "pizza".
(5)Josh M.
Was in DC for work and found this place on yelp. Based on other reviews, I was scared of a potential long wait, but it was very quick and efficient. You order your food first and then are given a number to wait for your table. We were told it wouldn't be long and got a table within 5 minutes. We ordered the arancini which was delicious And a great value (two big arancini balls for $4.50). Then we got a mimosa pie and the mushroom white pie. Both were so delicious and very filling. As an added bonus, if you buy 2 pies, you get $10 off any bottle of wine. To top it all off, the decor was so nice and cozy. Would definitely recommend this place for some delicious Neapolitan-type pizza.
(5)Jack S.
Service is terrible. Who stops making pizza in the afternoon? Drove all this way to find out they are not making pizza.
(1)Greg W.
Best pizza in D.C. metro area. Enzo is straight from Naples Italy and knows how to make one hell of a Neapolitan pie! Well done Enzo! Classica with garlic roasted tomatoes is my favorite. All of his pizzas are amazing. His meatball subs are incredible too. Awesome bread and meatballs!!!!! 10's across the boards!!!!!!!!! Great staff...Monica is super friendly and an amazing chief!
(5)Bob P.
Best Italian in Arlington.....even beats The Italian Store!
(4)Kari H.
Homesick for Napoli? Get your fix here. Pupatella is typically crowded and for good reason - the pizza is phenomenal. If you have a choice, endure the wait for a table instead of take-out as the pizza does a bit of its luster the longer it sits.
(5)Chris M.
Seriously. The best pizza in the DC area. The margherita doc is exceptional. The waits on Thursdays through Sunday can be brutal, but it's worth the wait. Watch out: they are closed on Mondays.
(5)Garrett S.
I came here with a couple friends last week before heading to PCBC for a few pints. I opted for the Diavola (spicy salami) pizza and was not disappointed in the least. Whatever basil they are using is off the chain. Seriously, it is just such a great flavor along with the sauce and spicy meat! And it really was spicy too, so don't order it if you're sensitive to that kind of thing. The crust was phenomenal. It could have been a LITTLE more crispy (my preference), but for the style it was great. Tons of little bubbles, with a great balance between chewy and soft while having a somewhat crispy outside. Seeing them cooking the red sauce on the stove was great. You can see them making pizzas left and right... I was impressed with the speed of service despite how busy they were on a weeknight. I'll definitely be back!
(5)Tori G.
Delicioso! This place just kills it. San marzano sauce, cheese from Italy (seriously), and fresh veggies. Yes, yes, and yes! It was recently voted the best pizza place in Virginia and I would agree. I was born and raised in Virginia and this is the pizza I have eaten in the state. The only negative is the ordering process but as you can see it didn't affect the overall rating.
(5)Jenny L.
My pizza cravings tend to come in 3 forms: 1) cheese central (think Dominos, Papa Johns or Chicago deep dish), 2) veggies on crispy thin crust/flat bread (think Papa Johns thin crust), and 3) Pupatella. Pupatella serves wood-fired Neapolitan pizzas: not a lot of cheese, and simple ingredients on a soft, pillowy crust that is prone to sauced-induced sogginess. Pupatella's crust is a bit contradictory -- it's so soft in the middle that it's easily foldable, yet so charred in some places that you can see black spots. Both of these things bother me at times (especially the "leopard spots" which, smell- and taste-wise, can be very distracting)...but there's something about it that screams "authentic" to me, and the ingredients are so good that they compensate for the burnt-yet-soggy crust. Tonight I had the chorizo pizza, which had a touch of sweetness, and a slice of my dining partner's smoked sausage pizza. My favorite, though, is probably the Margherita pizza -- classic, simple and delicious!
(4)Patrick M.
What happened?? This used to be one of my go-to pizza places in Arlington along with Italian Store, Fireworks, Lost Dog, and Pete's but something has changed. 1. They don't answer the phone so you can't order pizza to go without driving there. We were told when we got there that the oven can't handle the peak busy periods so they stop answering the phone in order to keep up with orders which is somewhat understandable but a better business approach would be to answer the phone and tell customers that it's going to be a long time for their order vs. not answering at all. 2. Once we arrived, we waited for 15 minutes to place an order. Upon ordering we were told the pizza would take 35-40 minutes but to come back in 30 minutes or wait at the bar. Since I've been here before and was looking forward to their pizza, we decided to place the order but we decided to come back to pick it up. We were running late and didn't get back for 45 minutes and were told it would be another 10 minutes for our 2 pizzas and risotto balls. It ended up being 15-20 minutes. In total it took 75-85 minutes from arriving to Pupatella to receiving our pizza. Wouldn't it be much better if they answered their phone, accepted the order, and told you to come in an hour to pick it up?? 3. The pizza quality was AWFUL last night. It was the most rubbery pizza I've ever had. The ingredients were sliding off the pizza, the bottom was burnt, it wasn't fully cooked, and it was very chewy. I will say the risotto balls were excellent but I won't be going back to Pupatella and I've removed them from my pizza places in Arlington. If the quality of the pizza and the customer experience continues to be like this, Pupatella will be losing many customers to other restaurants very soon.
(1)Andrew M.
Pupatella is hands down the best pizza I have had since moving to DC almost 10 years ago. The last time I had pizza this good I was in Naples. Avoid the meatballs though, they were a pretty big disappointment all around, though others seem to like them they were tasteless.
(5)Antonia S.
Love it! Not intimate and more like a pizza joint but they have wonderful traditional southern Italian dishes, it's cheap and a rare find in Arlington. Parking is difficult, but worth the wait. Get beyond the name!
(4)M D.
Don't go here. We arrived at 7 on a Friday night, and were told it would be a 40-45minute wait for pizza. Which was fine. Waited in line about 15 minutes to place the order and pay. Then sat at a table. The salad and meatballs we ordered as starters were quite good. After about an hour, we asked a staffer to check on things. Five to seven more minutes, we were told. Then about 15 minutes later, a few tables that had been seated well after us were served. My kids were starving, I was exasperated, so I told them to cancel the order and we left...nearly 90 minutes after first coming thru the door. Staff seemed nice but overwhelmed. I think the problem is the seating capacity is 5X what the little pizza oven can handle. So don't go here...just not worth the absurdly long wait (and the less-than-accurate time estimates given out when you arrive).
(1)Lu D.
Pupatella. Be ready for lines, folks. Drive by on any evening during the week during prime time hours and you will witness long lines. A darling of the local community, folks love their authentic (rare in the area) Neopolitan pizza. Our pizza was tasty. Although, not outstanding as so many other reviews have indicated. And that's OK. I prefer a thinner crust, and Pupatella's was thicker but with a well-rounded airiness to it. A high note is the freshness. You can witness and taste the fresh herbs, sauce, and love that goes into each pizza.
(4)Dominique F.
Just got back from Pupatella and I am still stuffed from that delicious pizza. I have been eying this place on Yelp for a couple of months now and finally decided to make the walk down here with a couple of friends. We arrived there on a Wednesday afternoon around 5pm and there were only a couple of other people at the place, so we ordered our pizzas and sat down waiting for it. One of my friends ordered the fried mozarella and it was DELICIOUS. A few mins later our pizzas came out and everyone seemed to enjoy theirs. I got the mushroom pizza which has a white sauce and brie and it was great. Definitely recommended. Will be back!
(4)Juliet K.
looveeee their pizza here. if i could change one thing though, i wish the middle part of the crust was a little bit crunchier. oh, and also that everyone else didnt love it so much too! the wait can get ridiculous and the parking here is awful. ordered one of the risotto balls. i loved it but the fiance was not that impressed. then he wanted pepperoni and i wanted the seasonal special - prosciutto and figs with a balsamic glaze. and yes the prosciutto and fig pizza was as amazing as it sounds! i felt like i died and went to food heaven. the saltiness of the prosciutto and the sweetness from the fig complimented each other so well while the balsamic glaze completed the flavor profile. the pepperoni was also pretty darn tasty as far as pepperoni goes. they were quite generous with the amount of pepperoni and it was perfectly salty. cant wait to come back again. nommy.
(4)T H.
Best pizza place in Arlington. I only wish they delievered!
(5)Layla L.
this is some damn good pizza!! I wish the crust was crispy but it doesn't matter it was soft, chewy and delicious. I wish I could go every day. I'd recommend the margarita, though the eggplant/red pepper was good I don't care for smoked eggplant that much so I wouldn't get it again.
(5)Barbara B.
After reading so many great reviews I was excited to try Pupatella. My husband and I went for lunch and ordered the meatball and red pepper pizza and I ordered the eggplant and smoked mozzarella pizza. While the topping ingredients were fresh and tasty, the crust was extremely disappointing. It was very thin, which I like, but except for the appearance of a char on the crust, it was soggy and nothing like true brick oven pizza. As a former New Yorker and a foodie, I have had much better pizza at other establishments. I wish I wasn't so disappointed.
(2)Frank C.
Outstanding Naples style pizza. So many of the different pizzas are great. A little crowded and cramped, but pizza is some of the best in the DC area. It reminds me if the pizza I have had in the south of Italy. Sauce is exactly as it should be. Crust us perfect.
(5)Joe M.
On a recent, roughly 48 hour, trip to the DC metro-area I was taken to Pupatella after hearing so much about the establishment and their pizzas. I'm happy to say that this is one time the hype was met and far surpassed. After a quick run down of the menu, and changing my mind three times on the pie I wanted, I finally changed my mind for a fourth and last time, settling on the day's special: The Fig & Pig. This glorious creation featured Pupatella's White Sauce, Brie, Figs, Prosciutto and Balsamic Glaze. The result was a perfect marriage of taste and texture. The saltiness of the prosciutto was balanced by the sweetness of the fresh figs and the creamy white sauce, brie and balsamic glaze tied the entire thing together bite after bite. The crust was thin and crisp with a great flavor. Dessert was a fresh, in-house made Nutella Stuffed Doughnut and it was heavenly. Beyond the food, the staff was friendly and attentive. I'm not sure what other pizza places in the area offer but based off of my tip to Pupatella, I have no desire to stray from this wonderful place. The Fig & Pig was easily one of the best pizzas I've had in a long time and Pupatella deserves to be in the conversation for one of the best pizza places in the country.
(5)rhys g.
I won't go anywhere else for vera pizza! Get the Nutella donut for dessert!
(5)Neil D.
Excellent Pizza for the DC area! I've lived in Italy and while it isn't 100% authentic like you get from pizza places in Naples, it is pretty good. I think Pupatella's is at the same level as 2Amys, Etto and Pizza Paradiso, so if you like those places, you'll enjoy pizza here.
(5)C B.
FANTASTIC food. Worth the wait! Took various friends and they now go there regularly.
(5)B Y.
Delicious pizza. The only downsides are the usually-long wait and the relatively limited menu. I think the prices are a bit high. Not a rip off by any sense, but if you equate pizza with the family with a relatively inexpensive night out, this isn't the place for you. They do use premium-quality ingredients, and that likely is part of the reason.
(4)Cheryl R.
As a New York native, I'm pretty picky when it comes to a good pizza. But man, does this place have it right! I ordered the margherita and they did not disappoint. The dough is soft, yet crisp from the wood oven. The sauce is a burst of fresh ripe tomatoes and the mozzarella oozes deliciousness. Love this place and will be back real soon!!
(5)Cat P.
I love the vibe. I love the music. But most importantly, I love their pizza! Chewy and crispy crust, flavor-packed sauce, quality toppings. I broke my traditional Chinese medicine diet (avoid dairy and sugar) for this place and it was totally worth it. I can definitely see why they recommend one 11-inch pizza per adult. It's so lipsmacking good you'll want a pie all to yourself. However, one pie is plenty for two with a reasonable appetite. Forget how cheese and refined wheat are the ultimate evil, gimme more!
(5)Sophia S.
Probably THE best italian pizza place in DC. Simply delicious. Cool atmosphere and waiters.
(5)Jessica H.
Whee! I love this place. We try to get here before 6pm because after that it's pretty packed. Pizzas cook in 2 minutes though, so you don't wait long. Crispy crust, variety of cheese. As for toppings, the garlic-roasted tomatoes are a must, so we usually get the artichoke+ garlic-roasted-tomato+ fontina pizza and the prosciutto salad. Got the arancini once, that was good too. Everything here is good, basically. Cute (expensive) glass bottles of Coke, cans of San Pellegrino aranciata, nice wine selection that I've never tried. Also, gelato! But I'm always too full to try it.
(5)Ed D.
Quick preparation and quality pizza. The place is a little small, which is only a problem because it's a popular place. The prices are reasonable, the service is quick and the people are pretty nice. The decor isn't bad but not great, but this is a pizza joint. The food is why you come and it is quality ingredients executed to near perfection.
(4)Kevin L.
Best. Pizza. Ever. Sometimes the wait can be long if its peak time but the pizza is ALWAYS worth the wait. Pupatella is second to none.
(5)Desirée A.
I have been a huge fan of Pupatella since they had a food truck in Ballston. The first thing you have to understand about their pizza is that it is NEOPOLITAN style. If you like yours with a thick crust or a lot of pasta sauce (or cheese), this is not your style of pizza. But if you want it to taste like what they actually serve in Italy (as in Naples where it was originally invented), then this is the place for you. They even went to the trouble of getting it certified AND they have an explanation on their website as to what to expect. Our favorites are the traditional Margarita and the Ham and Mushroom. Both are simple and delicious. One day we will venture to the other dishes. . .Each pizza is about 12 in. and serves one person, but if had a salad or something else with it, you can make it last until the next day. The only con, like most popular places that make good food, is that it's sometimes difficult to get take-out. Because they make all their pizzas to order, if they're slammed, they can't pick up the phone. If you're willing to wait, they usually have the television projected onto the wall in the waiting area, which I thought was a thoughtful touch. They're also now open on Sundays (they used to be closed Sundays and Mondays), so that's one extra day for your Neopolitan pizza enjoyment. They also make fresh doughnuts and house gelato (but I think the machine has been broken for a little bit). At the time of this post, they weren't serving gelato. Hopefully by summer!
(5)Mark V.
Here is a case of where awarding four stars signifies somewhat of a disappointment. Although I greatly enjoyed eating at Pupatella when it was in its original configuration, I'm afraid that their recent expansion has caused a little of the bloom to come off the rose of this place. I returned here recently for dinner and was amazed how busy it has become. Pupatella bought out the Middle Eastern market next door and more than doubled its area. And the crowds have filled up even this expanded space. But we were able to get a table pretty quickly and then get in line to put in our order. Ordering went fine until I was told that there would be a 30 to 40 minute wait for our pizzas. Really? It seems that the demand has grown to the point that the staff cannot keep up with it and I don't see them adding another pizza oven any time soon. So that means long waits for pizza at dinner time every day it is open. Along with my pizza order, I made sure to order a few appetizers that would hold me over until the pizzas arrived. That turned out to be a great idea, because the appetizers were the highlight of the meal. Of the three that I ordered, two were terrific and one was just OK (but could easily be improved). My orders of arancini (fried rice balls) with sausage and panzarotti (fried potato croquettes with prosciutto and cheese) were just great and worth the trip to Pupatella alone. My order of bruschetta (marinated cherry tomatoes over sliced of toasted bread was bland and needed grated cheese to give it flavor (which I couldn't find). They need to rethink this dish by perhaps adding some shaved parmesan to it to make it as good as it can be. Add a buck to the price, if you have to. Unfortunately, the pizzas didn't live up to the promise of the appetizers. As always, they were tasty, but there was not only a problem with our pizzas being overcooked, but EVERYONE'S pizzas being overcooked as I looked around the room. Neapolitan pizza is supposed to have brown leopard-like spots on the crust. This time, the crust was mostly black, which gave it an off taste (which is not a surprise). Worst of all, the very meticulous owner was there himself, yet he let every pie go out improperly cooked. What should I make of this? I hope that Pupatella doesn't become a victim of its own success. But I am not going to rush back here just for appetizers when I can get pizza that is cooked properly closer to my place.
(4)Sokchhan O.
Just ate here yesterday. The first thing to take note on is the parking is definitely limited. I got lucky and came before the lunch crowd, so was able to snag the last remaining spot in the lot. The two of us ordered 2 appetizers (side salad and the panzarotti), and shared a Capricciosa pizza. This came out to about $25, which isn't cheap for lunch, but not crazy expensive either. The side salad has LOTS of olives in it, so make sure you like olives before ordering! The panzarotti is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Great crunch, but I felt it could've use a little more flavor on the inside. The pizza was definitely solid though and we've said we'll come back again to try all the other things they have on their menu.
(4)Simi H.
I am a big fan of the Margherita. I always tell myself to try other pizzas but when I get there, I instinctively end up getting this one every time. I always take it to go but there is seating inside.There is also parking outside the shop.
(4)Margaret M.
Best authentic Italian pizza in NoVa!
(5)Wes R.
The Best Pizza in DC area hands down, just wish the parking lot was bigger
(5)Julia A.
Man, this place is good. They really do personalize your pizza. You can choose to create your own or order off their menu which already has an incredible selection. I had the proscuitto arugula pizza and it was incredible! Best part was that with the 12" diameter, it was all for me. The crust had just the right crunch and the toppings were delicious. Do make sure you have enough time to eat here though. The location is pretty small and busy on the weekends. Just plan ahead and it will be worth the wait!
(5)Keila B.
Found this place through Washingtonian's cheap eats issue. Was in town last weekend to spend some quality time with BDK and chose this for lunch...excellent choice! We split an order of arancini stuffed with eggplant...they were delicious! BDK ordered the pizza with smoked mozzarella, eggplant, and red peppers. I had the pizza with chorizo, mozzarella and red onion. Oh Lordy! Those pizzas were delicious. The crust was absolutely perfect. Thin and crispy with the right amount of char without being burnt. Despite the extreme heat, we opted to sit in the patio out back. Cute space. This place will definitely be on the permanent roster.
(5)Jenn B.
I would have given 4 stars if it weren't for the overall value... the pizza tastes authentic especially the Margerita. However, the place is pricey for what it offers ... Very casual, and very basic, sometimes doesn't look clean, and the pizza is very easy to prepare, however, the prices don't reflect that. I think the owner should treat his/her customers and invest some money to improve the look and furnishing of the place given how profitable this business is..
(3)Bryan C.
Good pizza, but can turn soggy if not eaten pretty quickly. We had a pepperoni, a white pizza, a smoked sausage, and a veg. All were good. So why the 2 star review? Well, the setup is horrible. No parking. Long line to order. Long wait for a table. Also pretty expensive for pizza. There are plenty of better options in the area that aren't such a hassle.
(2)Rachel D.
In my humble opinion, this Arlington gem serves the best pizza in the DC metro area. The owner clearly takes such pride in his food and it shines through in every bite. The crust on this Neapolitan-style pizza is perfectly chewy and there's always the right balance of fresh toppings (hello, Burrata mozzarella). If you're looking to indulge, the arancini (fried risotto balls with cheese inside) appetizer is phenomenal as well. Finally, who can say no to the house-made gelato to round out the perfect Italian meal? Pure heaven. The absolute only complaint about this place is that it's always PACKED so wait times can get a little tedious. But with food this amazing, you really can't be surprised that everyone wants in on the action.
(5)Nene K.
I'll be the naysayer here but I found Pupatella to be ok as opposed to AMAZEBALLSNYCPIZZAINNOVAWooooooooooo. The pizza is thin crust and, is probably the closest imitation to NYC pizza there is here. Nonetheless, unless you're willing to brave the crowds and the wait, I wouldn't recommend a return trip. Parking is very hard but you can park on the streets of the neighborhood behind the shopping center building or in the Safeway parking lot across the street. Small groups are best here although my friends and I got lucky and were seated with 6 people. It took about 40 mins however but this was a Sat night. The service is friendly and the meatballs, of all things, are really good. I just didn't find the pizza anything to write home about. Frankly, I prefer pizza from the Italian Store.
(3)Anna Laura B.
Very tasty but needs to be eaten ASAP or the crust gets soggy and all the cheese falls off when you pick it up. But still good :)
(4)Ronnie M.
Absolutely has to be included in any discussion of the best pizza spots in the country. Top notch pizza. We had the margherita, spicy chorizo, and arugula. All were wonderful. Then we had gelato, which was probably the best gelato I have ever had. Highly recommended!
(5)Jac H.
I went here for lunch. It was not crowded at all on a Thursday. I got the Margherita and my friend got the Chorizo. I thought the flavors were all there and delicious, but the crust itself, it may just be my own preference, I wish it was a little bit crisper. The crust was crispy yet chewy at the same time. The pizza also doesn't hold if you try to pick it up.. it's definitely a fork/knife type of pizza, which is a bit disappointing, possibly just because the pizza crust was just so thin and the sauce is so wet -- and the grease from the chorizo. I think I'll go back and try other dishes. Maybe it was an off day.
(3)H J.
Best Pizza in town. The only downside is the parking situation.
(5)Mark B.
Down the street from a friends who has been inviting us to go for a while. Great pizza, great beer selection and a really fun vibe! Be prepared to wait for a place to sit, but the wait is well worth it. I want to go back and work through the entire menu!
(5)Jin T.
I just had the perfect margherita pizza- the crust was thin, tender, and delicately crispy, the homemade tomato sauce the perfect amount of savory, the mozzarella not too overwhelming. I kind of inhaled it, but noticed that when the pizza sits too long on the plate and sweats a bit, the bottom just begins to get soggy- but since you'll be eating so quickly, it may not happen (or get a box). Their gelato is also amazing. I had a small coconut and chocolate- the coconut contains bits of coconut!
(4)Kate P.
Cute, colorful, small spot for Neapolitan pizza and gelato. Nice creative menu. We tried the fried Brussels sprouts with apples -- delicious. Everything tasted fresh. There is a neat little patio in the back which is nice. I'd suggest parking across the street in the Safeway lot.
(5)Mark B.
Simply put, excellent pizza. Best pepperoni pizza I have ever had.
(5)Shawn K.
I am rarely really impressed by pizza, but Pupatella's Neopolitan-style pizza is really, really good! The crust is worthy of 5 stars. I also had the fried sausage risotto balls, which were also very tasty, but wish I had gotten the sampler instead (didn't see it until after ordering). $3 more, but you get to try all the apps.
(5)Hue K.
Pupatella is the only and first place I found fried calzone in DC area. Since I've tried cheap street food, fried pizza w/ketchup and cheese in Prague, I thought it would be so much easier to make than authentic good pizza without compromising pizza-taste. surprisingly I've never seen it in the US. Yes, it's greasier and worse than pizza in terms of calorie but once you enter the pizza-zone, you should just forget about the calorie. Once the dough gets fried, it becomes softer inside and crispier outside. Do you know what's better? When it gets cold, it's still soft inside and crispy outside. You don't need to microwave it, just like Donut. Like Steve L. said, the watery filling was a bit problematic when you eat, but then cut the piece and just use spoon instead of fork. Arancino was disappointing because it was crispy outside but cold inside..Mushroom and cheese in the center were completely thawed... I don't like things cold inside when it was fried.. unless it's fried ice-cream. It was very cute though.. look like a baseball. Overall, reasonably priced pizza and interesting item, fried calzone were fun enough to visit Pupatella. I didn't get free scoop of gelato because I didn't ask... Maybe you should ask/remind them if you go there on Tuesday, if you want a free scoop. PS: Soon, they will not customize fried calzone because they will make them in advance and freeze them so it will come with ham, cheese and tomato sauce. If you are vegetarian and want to try fried calzone, go there SOON before they pre-make all the calzone in advance.
(4)Steve L.
I'm so excited that these guys opened up a restaurant. I had been wanting to try their cart forever but was also drawn away because of the long wait. I got there around 11:30 today to avoid the lunch rush and I'm very glad I did - the one rush followed right behind us and then faded (so I'd suggest coming in at 11:30 or 12:30 while the store is still relatively new and unknown. Between the 5 of us, we had: 1 pizza with mushrooms, onions, sausage 1 pizza with mozzarella, spinach, pepperoni 1 deep fried calzone with mozzarella, basil, grilled sausage 1 deep fried calzone with gouda, basil, ham 1 sandwich with salmon and other stuff (that they ended up turning into a pizza because they said the bread was too doughy?) 1 arancino 5 free scoops of gelato thanks to the advertised special on Yelp! :-) I'll admit that I'm not a fan of Neopolitan pizza, but I can certainly appreciate their work. The freshness of the ingredients really shines through in their pizzas, and it's especially apparent in the mushrooms, sausage, and onions As for the calzones, I've never had ham on anything that I've particularly enjoyed until today. The ham in their deep fried calzones was especially tender and flavorful! The arancino is extremely rich and filling. You might be able to eat one of these and be completely satisfied since it feels like you're eating a heart attack. Definitely get this one to share if you're going to do it! I'm no expert on gelato, but one of the girls at lunch said it was great stuff, and I'd have to agree. The hazelnut is pretty awesome, but it dominates the palate so much I could barely taste any of my friends' scoops. I was okay with that though. However, there were some issues which I will attribute to their recent opening: - I know they just got a new awesome oven from Naples, so maybe they're not too used to it and dealing with a big lunch rush at the same time: the tops of the pizza were perfectly done, but the bottoms were still kinda flimsy a times so that your pizza would be pretty floppy when you tried to pick it up. Maybe this is also due to how fresh the ingredients were, as fresh ingredients do tend to contain more water. - And maybe this is just because of the Neopolitan style, but I was a little disappointed in the calzones we tried. It was too doughy. (And the dough itself is interesting, it smells and tastes like a chinese donut.) And as we were sharing all our spoils among 5 people, we tried to cut the calzones into pieces for everyone. As soon as we did this, the watery sauce began leaking out of the calzone making everything soggy. I've never seen the innards of a calzone so watery. - The watery sauce from the calzone caused a problem with the plates on which your eat-in orders are served. It's just a piece of cardboard the size of the pizzas they sell. Since this was a completely flat piece of small cardboard, it really caused a mess. - The order/pickup system is a bit confusing. At first, they called out an order number which I guess must have been on the receipt? After that, they just started calling out what the order was. It would help if this was more standardized/apparent - Table cleanup was almost straight forward: there's a trashcan at the front of the restaurant by the door, but we had no idea what to do with our silverware! We ended up putting all of our utensils in a water cup and that became the receptacle for utensils for us and the rest of the restaurant. There seems to be a good amount of seating here. A table for 6 and a table for 8 in the back, a few 2-top tables, and a bunch of bar-level seating. I'll be back to check out the sandwiches - those always looked so good to me. Congrats to these guys for going from cart to restaurant!
(4)Alicia B.
Wow. Just wow. Who knew you could travel to Italy and back in 40 mins living in Northern Virginia?!? I'm here to tell you folks that it's possible...at Pupatella. With one bite of my sausage onion pizza, I was in Italian heaven...smoked, fresh mozzarella, beautiful, robust Marzano tomato sauce, spicy sausage, and perfectly braised onions. It was to die for. I mean, come on people, the base recipe for their pizza has been around for over 200 years!!! That's 200 years of deliciousness in one single bite. Fantastic. Will be back again, and again, and again, and again, and again, and again.....just go. You'll see.
(5)Jihad B.
The pizza here is phenomenal. There are plenty of beers on tap but they are horridly overpriced. As a true testament to the quality of their pizza, Pupatella is often crowded.
(4)Amanda B.
Meh. I like the look of this place and was really excited to eat here after reading the reviews. Unfortunately my expectations may have been to high and the experience fell flat. The pizza is good, but reminded me of Red Rocks. The ordering system is wacky and confusing and I dislike having to pay for a beer every time I order one. We were there later (around 8 p.m. on a weekend) and by 9:30 the staff was reaching over and grabbing our glasses and plates telling us to wrap it up because they were closed. I really wanted to give this place a higher rating but the weird set up combined with the rude staff makes it hard:(
(3)Steve S.
I lived in Naples, Italy for 2 years and the pizza here exactly what I remember. The pizza here is amazing and by far the best I've had since living in Italy.
(5)W m.
The best pizza in town. And I mean in DC. People are friendly and laid back, the style is modern and funky. This place is as good as it gets.
(5)J D.
If the lines on a Thursday evening are any indication, you should go early (before 6) if you want a table and a bit of quiet. Otherwise, long lines, a wait for a table and a sense of being rushed will be the norm: people hovering looking for a table and a line going out the door do not encourage lingering even while enjoying an after dinner glass of wine or two. Still, I am looking forward to trying more of this restaurant. The pizza is Neapolitan style and excellent, well sauced and flavorful. The classic Margherita is satisfying, a crispy crust with fresh basil flirting with your palate. The sausage is house made and is a very nice topping, marrying well with the cheese and onions. A glass of red wine provides a nice accompaniment. We got there early enough to chat before the hordes descended. Although there is table service, the pizza is ordered at the counter and served as prepared. We didn't have a long wait to eat at the time we came but the place was humming and the line to order was just about going out the door with many take out orders waiting to be claimed. Parking is limited and if you are in a hurry to leave, you may find yourself boxed in by cars as patrons claim carry out orders inside.
(4)Anonymous P.
There aren't words to describe this pizza. I used to eat Pupatella pizza frequently, and then I moved to California. I really had no idea of the kind of pizza Hell I'd be putting myself through by moving to the west coast, but let me tell you, it's NOT a good scene out here. DC has plenty of competitive pizza joints, and I've eaten at most of them, but Pupatella nails it because of the freshness of their ingredients, and the care with which they place them on the pizza. At some places they just slap the ingredients wherever, so you get a bite with TONS of cheese and basil, and then there are parts of the pizza that are solely sauce covered. Enzo and his team in the kitchen take their time with the pizzas, and they really strive to make every pizza perfect. If you're one of those people who complains about the charred spots on the crust, you should probably go shave your back now, and then order some Papa Johns. Same deal if you think the sauce "has too much salt/sugar!". Their sauce, because it's DOC pizza, is ONLY San Marzano tomatoes. They don't add anything else, because they don't have to, because their sauce is naturally delicious. For anyone who is considering visiting Pupatella (which you should be): please go in there with a relaxed attitude, knowing that if it's a busy night, you may wait in line for 20 minutes, and then wait up to an hour for your pizza. The line moves slowly so that the place doesn't end up so crowded that no one can find a seat, and the pizza takes that long because they're hand stretching every piece of dough and placing the ingredients with care. And don't talk to the guys in the fedoras, they're busy! I MISS YOU, PUPATELLA. Every time I take a bite of thick, doughy crust out here in California, my heart aches for a margherita fresh out of the oven.
(5)Cheri W.
Really good authentic Neapolitan pizza. They have great gelato too. The reason I'm giving 4 stars instead of 5 is because of the price. It's around $13 for a "personal pan" sized pizza. I think that's a little high for how much you get. $10 is more reasonable but I do love this place! There is no parking but there's a grocery store across the street where you can park and walk over.
(4)Ladan M.
Meatball pizza, prosciutto and arugula, both are addictive. I always get my pizza to go, but cannot resist eating hot crust of at least one slice before getting home. It's that crackalicious.
(4)S. Paul L.
By far the best pizza that my wife and I have had in the DC area. I can't believe we didn't stumble upon this place sooner and it's literally a 10 min walk from our town house. Their pizza's are excellent and they have a really nice variety of unique toppings that you won't find at Pizza Hut or something. I highly recommend the smoked chorizo, buffalo mozz, and red onions. Once you're done chowing down on pizza you can grab some gelato. They also have some pretty interesting gelato flavors. I would definitely suggest grabbing a scoop of their figs and mascarpone gelato. Great stuff. A tip though: eat there. The pizza crust/dough itself is extremely thin and with the toppings they use I would imagine that if you were to get it to go by the time you dove into it at home the crust would be really soggy and lose a lot of that really nice charred flavor from the open fire pit. Oh, one last thing, any place that has Lagunitas "Lil Sumpin Sumpin" as one of their beer selections gets two big thumbs up from me.
(5)Tim R.
Perfect place for Neapolitan pizza in Arlington! It does get crowded around dinner time occasionally but it's worth the wait.
(5)Derek F.
I think they make the best pizza in all of the USA! And to top it all off, they always have Sly Fox on draft!! I come here at least once a week and it gets better every time.
(5)Brian F.
Intent & passion are there; execution was not. I appreciate the mantra on the wall of only the best: double zero, San Marzano tomatoes, etc.. This is a genuine pizza and is very much like what I ate in Italy every day I was there. Their stated 1-minute-only in a 1000' oven bake time doesn't quite do it. I would guess it could have cooked half again more. Sounds petty, but it matters bigtime. Both my fiancee and I were underwhelmed at the crust. It was actually difficult to cut - I'm 6'1, 240 - so I usually don't have difficulty cutting things. Unfortuantely the crust was still doughy and Clearly chewey. No question it was under-done. Otherwise, this could have been pizza near perfection. Great sauce - could detect only SM tomatoes, some onion,garlic, salt and very little if any herbs to get in the way of the nice natrually sweet SM tomatoes. nice fresh mozz on the margaritta - She had proscuitto arugula. Also, the Arancini were a bit mush as far as the rice, sausage had good flavor- not enough cheese. Bruchetta was delish- bright and fresh; spot on. Honestly, I'd have given 3.5 stars for the food if it wasn't clear they are absolutely trying. Note to Management: My fiance picked off at least 1/2 of the arugula - I'd have done the same. You're obviously a quality organization and arugula isn't cheap. Take a look and see if other customers are doing that. It was a little out of balance - (we're there for the proscuitto, the arugula is just there to add a fun bit of pepper, not make it a salad) AND you'll Save yourself some $! :) Will go back and ask for slightly longer bake to see if a crispier crust can make it to 5 stars - as their zeal for authenticity merits.
(4)James K.
Most authentic Napoli-style pizza in the DMV. You have to get there early because the lunch crowd is there right at opening, even on the weekend. We tried the Napolitano and pepperoni pizzas and even our 2 year old approved. I wish they were more centrally located. My waistline is happy they are not.
(5)Eric J.
This was the most average pizza I've had. If you make a corn pizza, there should probably be a lot of corn. Hopes up. Hopes made of glass.
(2)Bruce K.
Probably one of the best pizzas I've ever had in all of Northern Virginia. Everything is made with perfection and is always worth the wait. I've never had a bad pizza from here and would make it the only pizza place I go to if I lived closer. The only downside is that it's always kinda busy/hectic but their pizza is THAT good! Also, their gelato is very good. I would suggest fig & marscapone
(4)Kevin K.
Overall: Confusing but solid. A suburban-located artisan pizza place with an expansive menu from rich+fried to delicate+balanced. Cheap beer and a small (and expensive) wine list, and an interior that reminds of college cafeterias. Thankfully the price does too.. very cheap for the quality. If this wasn't in a vacant area that reminds of suburbs, it would compete for quick stop food. _________________________________ Ambiance: 2/5. I like city living. This has the feel of the suburbs. Cafeteria tables sprawl about the main dining room, complete with an awkward little bar in the back. Apparently it's a recent add-on to the kitchen-room, which is equally cafetieria like. Loud mixture of locals, young and old, keep it intimate if you're looking to enjoy just your table, but otherwise bland. _________________________________ Service: 4/5. The tip jar at the front hints at the cafeteria-type process: place your order, pick your seat, and wait for delivery. The cashier neglected to mention what wines they were out of but had quick recommendations. Your seat, water, napkins, plates, and silverware are all on you, so look to grab a booth or bar seat if in the back room--the door allows a slight winter draft. Our server brought our apps quick, then pizza shortly after. She was present and pleasent throughout--an unusual treat for cafeteria type service--and then offered boxes before cleaning up our table. _________________________________ Drinks: 4/5. Decent but expensive red-wine variety (1-2 bottles per style), local craft beer, and cheap, large-volume Italian lagers. Most of the wine was $25+ a bottle.. or double the cost of their pizzas. _______________________________ Food: 4/5. Quite good. Apps are small and cheap, though most appear heavy. The ingrediants are better than fresh and work very well together--I'd trust any combo they put out, pizza or salad. The pizzas are incredibly balanced, filling (couldn't finish one on my own), and of course cheap. The perfect amount of red sauce for my Neopolitan, and the toppings on our white kept it juicy and well-textured. A bit more char than I prefer throughout. (Best to worst) 1.) Arugula+Prosciutto - Verde in Baltimore's is slightly better as its not as dry and there are more, fresher ingrediants, especially prosciutto influence. This is still top notch. Salty-bitter interplay works against dryer crust, all drawing out the ample sweet sauce. The parmesan shavings go missing 2.) Spinich - Lightly creamy due to sauce, the red peppers add real lightness before the pine-nut crunch. Great use of feta to keep it moist. Very Greek feel to it, flavor and texture, so while it avoids common issues like dryness and sameness, it doesn't strike a unique chord for me. 3.) Arancini with Sausage - Salty, filling, and crisp, the amount of risotto unfortuantely accents how dry they are. The risotto overwhelms the sausage. The peas are slightly out of place as well, lost in the middle in every way. Overall a bit tough to swallow.
(4)Kelly K.
It may not be as good as NY pizza but I must admit it is pretty tasty. It's definitely the best pizza I have had in VA/DC.
(4)Melanie M.
Love the doc pizza. Gelatio tastes great too.
(4)Mick A.
Went here again and had a Big Ol' Pizza Margherita and a Big Ol Rootbeer and fell asleep watching College Football on my Big Ol HD TV. What a glorious Big Ol' Saturday Afternoon
(5)Ken R.
If you're inclined towards Neapolitan pizza, you're really going to love Pupatella. Since I'm not inclined towards Neapolitan pizza, I wouldn't beat a path to Pupatella, but I recognize exceptional food when I eat it. And Pupatella's Neapolitan pizza is very exceptional. Everything is absolutely as advertised... dough is to die for and the toppings are fresh. If you're into atmosphere, this place is more of a dive than a nice resto. But seriously, you won't be thinking about the surroundings once you bite into their delicious slices! Oh yeah, be forewarned, the parking is terrible. Not Verizon center on a Saturday night horrendous (this is in Arlington, not downtown DC), but the 4-5 tiny spaces in the cramped strip mall make parking a challenge.
(4)Randy G.
I took my fiancee here when it first opened. After literally one bite, she said she never wanted to eat any other pizza ever again. I'm from Naples, and this is by far the most legit Naples-style place in the DC area (yes, I've tried the others but was never particularly impressed). Everyone I bring here is blown away. I can't even post a picture of their pizza on Facebook without half my friends commenting about how good it looks, and how it even looks like the real deal. For me, their pizza is a religious experience, and the only thing in the DC area that makes me nostalgic of Naples. UPDATE: the espresso with Nutella is a stroke of genius. Insanely delicious.
(5)Bill P.
We were hungry for pizza and selected this restaurant using Yelp!. Pizza and paninis dominate the menu, but other selections are also available. The pizzas are 11"; most customers seemed order their own personal pizza. The pizza has thin, fluffy crust (Naples or Neapolitan style). The pizzas vary based on the toppings. Most entrees have a specific set of toppings, but custom-made pizzas are also available. The pizzas have a light, fresh tomato sauce as the base with spots of fresh mozzarella cheese. I had the eggplant and red pepper pizza; my wife had the tomato artichoke. My wife had a generous side salad composed primarily of arugula, cherry tomatoes, olives, and balsamic vinaigrette dressing. I had the bruchetta which was exquisite. It was fresh bread generously topped with fresh cherry tomatoes and garlic. They have a bar to serve draft beer and wine. The draft beers include local craft beers; I had a Port City Pale Ale. You order at the counter and are given a number to display on a table. Meals are then brought to the table. We were there on a Saturday evening. We arrived before 6 and did not have any trouble getting a table. However, when we left about 7 PM there was a long line waiting. We enjoyed the meal and, no doubt, will return.
(4)Gabriel H.
My wife and I went there last Saturday night after a long discussion of what to have for dinner. She was having one of those nights that she didn't want to go out. So I called to order for a pick-up. Apparently they were too busy to answer the phone (they did mention that on their website). So up we went, in our sweatpants...and we found a little place that used to be a Peruvian restaurant a long time ago, now transformed into a retro-futuristic pizza place. Well, the place was packed! We ordered the Margherita (my wife's favorite), and the arancini sampler. I agree with Keli, the eggplant one was the best. The pizza itself was awesome! and the lady who took our order was really nice...she told us that we were going to have to wait for 30-40 minutes...but the wait was not more than 15-20 minutes tops. They have a small seating area where you can wait for your take-out, and you can either read magazines or watch the game. We are definitely going back! I would give it a 5-star, but this was my first time to go there and it was for take-out. Next time, we'll dine in, and who knows, I might revise the rating. The pizza though, was awesome!
(4)Sheri G.
I tried 2 pizzas from here: the "real" Margherita with buffalo mozzarella and a concoction my husband made up: pizza with white sauce, sausage, Fontina, and tomatoes. We got them to go, even though I know they can get cold quickly since they are so thin. We live less than 10 minutes away though. At home we thought they were warm enough, although in hindsight, we probably should have thrown them in the oven as suggested on the website. Anyway. The pizza was definitely the fold-it-up-and-eat-it type. The crust was crisp on the outside and got soft and moist (I know, I hate that word too) as you worked your way in. I have to be honest and say I like my pizza a bit crispier throughout. I guess I'm more of a Lazio or Sicilian style type-of- pizza gal. I loved those sheet pan-style pizzas while in Italy. The sauce had a nice, sweet flavor and the ingredients were fresh. I'd love to come back for a panini. They've got gelato too, which automatically earns them a star. I definitely appreciate the authenticity of the Neapolitan pizza and the fact that they imported a brick oven from Naples. The seating is limited in here, and I wouldn't consider it a great sit down place. They do have a small selection of beer and wine (but no bar), so you can have a beverage while you wait for your takeout.
(4)Steve R.
Hands down, the best Pizza in the DC metro area. This comes from a pizza snob who lives off NYC crust and pristine toppings. D.O.C. at its finest. Get the Gragnano (sparkling red wine) to go with the pie. I know it's expensive at 30/bottle, but if you bring a friend and get two pies they knock it down to 20/bottle. It's so good I'd even pay 30. This wine is designed to be matched with pizza. You MUST have it. Also, for an app., get the fried zucchini blossoms if they are in the season. If not, go for the arancini. I know arancini are done by a lot of joints in the DMV but Pupa's are my favorite. Something about the crust and the cheesy explosion when you cut it open.... Some great gelato will finish off your meal as well, but usually I'm too stuffed on pizza to get any. When I have, though, it's been delicious.
(5)Caroline G.
On my visit to Pupatella, I wasn't that excited at first because I am not a huge pizza fan. However, Pupatella has changed my mind. The pizzaman (are they called chefs?) uses an 800 degree oven and cooks the pizza for one minute for a truly authentic Neopolitan pizza pie -- a crust that is perfectly cooked, soft and not burnt! You order at the register, bus your own table, and you must order the arancini if you've never had one. It is a crunchy fried rice ball stuffed with peas and sausage. Just thinking about it is making my mouth water.
(5)Kyle U.
Tasty and authentic Italian pizza! The crust is chewy and has a fresh tasting tomatoe sauce. I've tried nearly all of the pizzas they have to offer. My favorites are probably the Chorizo or the Prosciutto Arugula - both are fantastic (priced at $12 each and a single pizza feeds one). This place can get quite busy during peak hours and seating can be quite difficult at times. I've been stuck by the front door once and with the amount of people that come through my pizza got cold pretty fast (not to mention my date and I ourselves). You're asked to bus your own tables, but during off-peak hours the employees are wonderful and get you settled in usually. Laid back and comfortable when not busy.
(5)Justin H.
I absolutely LOVED LOVED pizza ever since I was young....(even dreamed to be a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle!!!) and after coming to this place many many times over again, I STILL can't capture everything about how awesome this place is....the ambiance with the witty play of words on the wall...the skillful "fedora hatters" that diligently makes your pizza....the first whiff of smell when you walk in....the freshness of the ingredients they use...the pitchers of beer you can purchase....OMG, just pure awesomeness. They even imported their oven from Naples to make these awesome pizzas! The only CON I have about this place is sometimes the wait for pizza (backordered) and how you have to wait around to get a seat...although they have extended their store from before and always try to warn you beforehand so it doesn't really bother me...but it might for others. In my opinion, they're just too DAMN good to resist which is why it's so packed!! DEFINITELY try the Margherita pizza with buffalo cheese, that cheese is just OUT OF THIS WORLD. COWABUNGA DUDE! To Pupatella: This is my very first Yelp review because I just can't stop thinking of your awesomeness!!!
(5)Adriana V.
I'm a Jersey Italian which means a couple of things when it comes to pizza - I like my crust thin, and I am incredibly picky about what I deem to be good pizza. With that in mind, take my criticisms with a grain of salt if you are less fussy than I am about a good pie. Pupatella does most things right. The crust is thin, and has decent flavor. The toppings are absolutely excellent. We have had margherita and several other varieties and all of the toppings have been top notch. The mozzarella here is very good. There were a few things that kep Pupatella from being excellent, which is why I took off a star. First off, there is too much sugar in the sauce. All pizza sauce needs a little hint of sugar, but their sauce is just too sweet for me. Second, while I understand that Neapolitan pizza has a bit of char, our pizzas have had an inconsistent amount of charring. The first pizza we ordered was perfect. The second was WAY too black, as it it was forgotten in the oven for too long. Overall, Pupatella is a solid choice in the area, but a few nits keep it from being something that dazzled me.
(4)Ryan S.
Best pizza in Northern VA, hands down. Everything about it oozes perfection - from the delicious cheese to the perfectly proportioned sauce to the slightly charred crust. Just thinking about it makes me want to get some right now...
(5)Frank H.
The red-tiled oven dominates the interior of this restaurant. It attracts your eye like and you wonder what kind of delicious pizza concoctions might come out of it. We ordered the Margherita and it's pretty darn tasty. Staff is nice. The decor is something to be desired and looks like they took a design from MC Hammer's baggy pants and made a quilt. Don't go for the interior design; focus on the pizza.
(4)Emily V.
My roommate and I went here on a Friday night at 6. Boy had it filled up by the time we left! This is definitely a small place, I wouldn't recommend getting here too late. My chorizo pizza was AMAZING, so delish, my roommate really enjoyed her mushroom pizza. Prices were really reasonable (that's what you get when you have to bus your own tables). I would definitely go back for my Neopolitan pizza fix. They also knock $10 off a bottle of wine if you buy two pizzas, and though I didn't try the gelato it looked really good. Will definitely head back.
(4)The mustached dog Y.
Boyfriend craves their pizza all the time. Last time I got the Real Margherita and he got the Chorizo. I didn't like his Chorizo too much because it seemed a bit too salty for my liking, but man, did I enjoy that Margherita... even Boyfriend tried to steal a couple bites but I had to stop him before he finished off my already-small-share. You could taste everything... the olive oil, the mozzarella, basil, the tomato sauce; and it tasted oh so good on that chewy yet crunchy crust which means something since I am so hard to please with pizza crusts (I tend to almost always have leftover crusts. but its ok since the boyfriend eats them for me). I think its pretty hard to find a Margherita like theirs. So simple but sooo done right! I'm not really a fan of their tacky decor though.... but who cares when we all go there to eat, right? I love their Pupatella wood-burning oven. And its fun to watch the owner hand-make all the pizzas while you wait for your order. Now I call that dedication.
(4)Sewell T.
4.5 stars? really? The atmosphere is weird. If you like a no frills pizza joint I guess its ok. Wait in line, pay for your pizza, pick out a bottled or can soda from the cooler, they bring you the pizza; you bus your own table. Pizza is ok, not great. I'm not sure how this place gets 4.5 stars. Next time I will order Dominoes.
(2)Delaware F.
Very fine Neapolitan pizza. We had the eggplant/red pepper and prosciutto arugula. Both good and generous with the toppings. The arugula was put on the pizza after it had been taken out of the oven, though I think it is slightly better if it is put back in the oven for a minute. (The celebrated pizzeria bianco in Phoenix does this with their arugula pizza).
(4)Gerson R.
Like Elise S. (a previous reviewer), I had really high expectations going to this place. This place provided a "Nothing spectacular, but still good" meal. Before The Food: Nicely decorated. Kind of a small place. If you like Coke with sugar rather than corn syrup, Pupatella has it. That was a big plus. I forgot how good those suckers are. Also, Pupatella offers gelato in case you'd like some dessert afterwards...or before... The Food: My fiance and I shared some Garlic and Mozzarella Bread to start with. This was a very good appetizer. The mozzarella was a very good quality kind, and the garlic was just a perfect touch to it. The garlic wasn't overwhelming, but just right. This was melted on to a light and soft bread that toasted very well. I was pleased with it all. We also shared the Chorizo pizza. This pizza had Spicy Spanish chorizo, thinly-shaved red onion, roasted red pepper and fresh mozzarella. This pizza was a decent pizza. It was flavorful and I could tell the Pupatella really does use good quality ingredients, and it did have a pleasantly puffy crust that I did enjoy. The problems to this pizza are the size, and the center. For $12, I wasn't expecting a personal pan pizza. Don't get me wrong. It was good, but the fact that the middle of the pizza being so thin that I had to hold it with my left hand, while my right held the crust, to actually take a bite, made it not worth $12. I'd say more like $8-9. Conclusion: I would come here again. I do believe that the kind of pizza would make the difference. I think that the grease from the chorizo might have contributed to the sogginess of the pizza. I will come here again to try another kind of pizza, and that will be the final test, but for now, it's 3 stars. P.S. I enjoyed Iggie's on Calvert St. in Baltimore much more.
(3)Richard W.
I first discovered Pupatella a couple of years ago on a day off at the cart they used to have in Ballston. Could not believe how good the pizza was. Now that they have a fixed location, I absolutely love the place. Start with a Caprese Salad...the fresh mozzarella is heavenly. I am a meat eater and rotate between the Prosciutto Arugula, Chorizo and Salami pies. Have never had a bad meal at Pupatella. Its great watching your pie being made, They are cooked quickly and come out nicely charred and blistered but not burned. The place is tiny and the seating is cramped, if you sit anywhere other that the large tables in the back it is a balancing act to eat your food. That being said, the turnover for tables is pretty quick and by staying in a small storefront, they should be able to keep the quality of the pies up to current standards. In this instance...smaller is better.
(5)Arlingtonian P.
Have tried just about every pizza, and have never been disappointed. Their seasonal pizzas are imaginative and great (can't wait for the fig pizza to come back in season). The folks working there are always helpful and smiling, just adds to the experience.
(5)Ross M.
Great Neapolitan style pizza! I recommend keeping it simple and just going with one of the pizzas that has basil on it. The DIAVOLA is what I usually get. We waited more than 30 minutes for our pizza on Saturday night at about 8pm, but they told us it would be more like an hour! Totally worth it though. Skip the appetizers and just stick with the pizzas. It's great to have an alternative to something like the Italian Store's pizza (Arlington), or Fireworks pizza (Courthouse), or even Papa John's (ew) pizza. The eating area is kind of trippy, so do your thing before you enter! Highly recommended.
(5)Ravi N.
The restaurant is a bit out of the way - around 8/10 mile west of the main Ballston area on Wilson Blvd - so it's somewhat of a hike from the metro. The restaurant is tiny and was very crowded at 5:45 pm on a Thursday night. It took nearly 15 minutes to order and they had a computer mishap that slowed the process further. Tables seemed to be hard to come by but after placing my order I got lucky just as someone was leaving. Kind of a hassle and not that pleasant to order and get seated. So why 5 stars? The pizza! The ordering process aside, this place is all it's advertised to be - the best pizza by far in the DC metro area. Don't come here looking for quick service or a nice ambiance - you won't find it here. Come here for the pizza, you won't be sorry. I recommend eating it here despite the difficult seating situation. I doubt it would be as spectacular after being carried home (they don't deliver).
(5)Miss E.
I'm pretty impressed. I'd never eaten Neapolitan-style pizza before. We tried the sausage, margherita (my fave), and prosciutto. They were all excellent. The pizzas are small and thin (I ate a whole pie plus another slice), and they go very light on the sauce. The crust was doughier than I like, but the ingredients were really fresh (maybe a tad salty). Overall, I'd give the food 4 stars. It's a nice change of pace. The location and interior, however, are pretty annoying. There's no parking, no servers, and nowhere to sit. We ended up parking at Safeway and got our pies to go. That kind of pizza should be enjoyed the second it's out of the oven, NOT after it's been sitting in a box for 15 minutes.
(3)Dan G.
i have had better , even at little ceasers. average taste , great price. you get what you pay for. authentic ? doubt it....decor, average. will i be going back ? maybe for the convenience of location.
(2)Linh O.
The pizza is good but small for the price and so a bit expensive. My boyfriend and I came here after a friend checked in and we started drooling over the pictures. Because of the size and thinness of the pizza a person could easily eat 2 pizzas here and still have room for dessert and a few more things. All in all, while the pizza was small-ish and kind of pricey we appreciated the fresh ingredients and relatively short wait time (even though it looked pretty busy and we had to park across the street). Will be back to try the other items on the menu, especially the affogato!
(4)Sara B.
Oh my oh my oh MY. PERFECT PIZZA. And to the yelpers below who mention it being too thin or small thats because its a genuine Neopolitan pizza that uses the same ingredients as a pizza place in Naples! They have strict criteria to follow to even get to be considered a real Naples pizzaria. It's not a large meat lovers from Dominos. Salad 1 is perfectly delicious - arugula, parmesan, and prosciutto. BF and I each got a pizza each - I got the REAL margerhita with the imported mozz and basil and he got the ham and mushroom pizza. The sauce is just amazing. They obviously use quality everything. Parking and seating are a little tight but the food will not dissapoint. And thats what really matters right???
(5)C. W.
I was about to just completely write off neapolitan pizza until I tried this place. They really do it right. Unlike a lot of places that use the style, they are not afraid at all of toppings, or sauce for that matter. Which is good for me, because when it comes to pizza, in my mind flavor trumps any purported adherence to some traditional style. Just make it taste good. The crust is also perfect with a good amount of char. Reminded me of a perfect tandoori naan, which is a good thing since that is one of my favorite things in the world. I did have one little nitpick which is not really relevant, which is that I was really surprised that it was not the famous, much hyped Naples trained owner who was manning the oven but rather just some random people. Now at many restaurants its a given that the owner isnt going to be there, and obviously this is the case with celebrity restaurants, etc. But the way that these neapolitans really harp on the rigorous certification or whatever and really build that certification and authenticity as the cornerstone of their business model, it just seemed odd that at the end of the day this proved irrelevant and that the guy cooking the food could very well learned his trade at Pizza Hut. But whatever, that is just a philosophical aside, the food was delicious.
(4)Allison N.
I am in love with this place. Everything I've eaten is so good, the staff is super friendly, the ambiance quirky and fun, and best yet, it is open until 10pm. My favorite is the panini, which are made by taking a baked piece of pizza crust sliced in half (think pita) and stuffing cheese, meat, veggies, whatever you want in there, then throwing it back in the oven to melt and warm everything together. It is like an Italian party in your mouth, and one you should have on a regular basis. They also serve sangria now, which I cannot wait to try because I bet it will be awesome. Go here. Immediately.
(5)Stephanie G.
*4.5* Oh, Pupatella. I'm not in love with the name, but I am definitely falling in love with the pizza. Word on the street was that this place had very good Neapolitan-style pizza, and wow -- it really lived up to that. If you like 2 Amys, Pupatella better be your next stop. It has a laid back atmosphere; order at the cashier, pay, they bring out your pizzas, and you clean up. I had a prosciutto arugula pizza with a real-sugar coke, and the BF had the chorizo pizza. My pizza was just plain amazing. Wonderful, fresh ingredients, perfectly baked crust. I would have gone with a rare 5-star review, but I was shocked when the BF complained that he STILL preferred 2 Amys. So I tried a few bites of his. I'm not sure what happened, (maybe it wasn't cooked quite long enough?) but the center of the pizza was really soggy. After I gave him a slice of mine, I think he realized why I was so in love! My pizza was definitely better than his. So although I now consider Pupatella to have the best pizza in town, I had to knock off half a star for the inconsistency. I will definitely be back, though!
(4)Donna N.
In my opinion, THE BEST pizza in the area!! My favorite is the sausage pizza and the eggplant risotto balls. The pizza crust is soft and chewy and so delicious. Very casual restaurant with self serve plates/utencils/napkins and water, if there's no line, your order should be ready within 10 minutes. Also, if you loved the cart, you'll love the restaurant just as much (maybe more)! :)
(5)Barry W.
I don't think Pupatella is the best pizza in the area but it may well be the best value. Comparing the pizza head-to-head with Two Amys....or Orso...and Pupatella is definitely in the ballpark but not quite best. But that's okay because...well, back to the value thing. Pupatella is lower on price and pretentiousness than most of the area's most heralded 'za houses. Simpler menu. Unassuming venue. Costco condiments (including a faux Olive--actually canola--oil) on the self-serve table. But that's all okay because this place is about value. They're NICE. And they're flexible: made me a half-sized salad on request; love that since so many restaurants treat their menus as straitjackets. But, to be clear on the most important point: cheap condiments and other cost saving measures do NOT translate to the food where quality and authenticity trump all. As it should be. So, the pizza. Pretty damn good. Clearly neapolitan and all that should mean. Real deal pizza oven fires the pies at very high heat for a very short time. Fresh and soft pie...as it should be. Dough is a bit denser than I prefer but very good nonetheless. Tomato sauce is excellent--evidently the place only uses san marzanos there--yes! Imported bufalo mozz--double yes!! Sausage looks great but could use a bit more flavor--kind of gets a bit lost relative to the other wonderful tastes of cheese, tomato and basil on a pie. How 'bout those shades and fedoras? Now that's some branding. With all the shots of the pizzas up here, I figured go in a different direction and post some photos of the apparel.....the verve and the vibe....i think the fedoras and fashionable shades are the best pictoral representations of Pupatella because they are fun, casual, authentic and of the same streets where you'd find food like this in Naples. Not sure if they have Pupatella t-shirts but, if they do, they should brand around the fedoras and shades. First photo votes anyone?
(4)Matt A.
The best pizza I've had in the area. Quality, fresh ingredients. This is not a quick place to stop to eat, so expect to wait. The wait is worth it. They have stepped up their customer service since my original 4 star review and have a lot of friendly people working there now.
(5)Harry R.
Oh Yeah! I can't believe there is an outstanding Neapolitan pizza on this side of the Potomac. Stopped by on the way home from work to pick up a margherita to go. Even 20-min after it came out of that beautiful red brick oven it was fantastic. To do this right I have to lay it down next to the gold standard, 2Amys. The crust is comparable, the cheese is all there, and the sauce, well its a bit different than what you get from Mt. Olympus on Macomb. There's a bit more bite to the Pupatella sauce and it doesn't blend with the same harmony as it does downtown, but overall - this is one outstanding pie. Next time I am there I am going to eat in, right out of the oven, in order to get the straight. But I will be back, again, and again, and again.
(4)Kevin C.
Excellent!
(5)Peter K.
There has been a lot of buzz about this place, and I had high (inflated?) expectations. The pizza is good, the ingreidients fresh. But given that it is so hard to find parking (or a place to sit, for that matter), I have plenty of good alternative choices closer to my Arlington home. So I probably won't go out of my way to visit again.
(3)Chuck W.
Consider this one yelper that is not buying into the hype of Pupatella. Terrible parking situation, as it's located in the smack dab of a strip mall (well, that's putting it nicely) with maybe a total of 10 parking spaces. Inside is total chaos, with people ready to pounce at any sign of an open table. Ordering is relatively simple, but the high number of orders occasionally means they'll forget about a beer or wine order, which happened to me - after 10 minutes of not receiving anything, I had to go up and see what was going on. Whoops, sorry, we totally forgot about you. The food, also just OK. I did like the aracini, but the pizza was really nothing special at all. The crust was burnt on the bottom, so it kind of felt like I was eating bread that had been waaay overdone. I know everyone else seems to love it, but in my book, Italian Store is the best for pizza in this area.
(3)Seema G.
Went here with a friend and her co-worker after she had told me how great it was. The pizza was great. It tasted different from any other pizza I have ever had. The crust was more fluffy and a little more yeasty which actually was a good combination. i love how the pizzas are individual sized so you can get what you want and you don't have to compromise on toppings. The best part of it was we went on a Tuesday where they serve free gelato if you mention yelp and it was yummy! The place is tiny so you may need to wait for a seat but we had no problems when we got there.
(4)Ashley W.
Drop what you are doing right now and go here. Legitimally the best pizza I've ever had (including pizza all over Italy, Argentina, Chicago, NY, etc.) The tomatoes....ahhh the tomatoes! I have dreams about those tomatoes. And the fresh buffalo mozarella that they import from Italy....I mean just stop. I can't handle it. When you add in the basil, the cheap wine, the newly extended seating area, and the caprese salad. I mean I die. Just go, trust me.
(5)E N.
Unpretentious place, high quality ingredients. Extremely good sauce and fantastic crust. We had to wait a while though - I don't think the 2 minute turnaround cited in the review below is typical. Arlington needs more places like this - casual foodierias.
(5)Lygie H.
Amazing, authentic Neapolitan pizza. So glad to see this place thriving in its brick and mortar location. I love the diavola pizza and the arancini but everything I've tried is great. I brought my parents in who can be picky about food and they demolished their pizza! It can be a challenge to park but fight for that spot and get some of the best pizza in Arlington.
(5)V H.
Ok, guys & gals...how many of you haven't ordered a pizza in months because the last 100 pizzas you've eaten have made you justa bout hate the thought of eating one more??? (I've lived in the Great San Fran & The Big Apple plus traveled multiple times in Old World Italy so I know a good pizza) So, I am here to let all know that Pupatella Neapolitan Pizzeria & Friggitoria is, by far, the most creative, absolutely the most satisfying and delicious pizza in Northern Virginia. Here's hoping they reset the new standard.. "Help us keep prices down. Order at counter & bus your own table". Bright, new (4 1/2 months in business at Arlington location) clean...fresh ingredients straight outta the Old World, full of complex flavors. My spouse & I splurged as everything on menu sounded so interesting. Here' what we ordered: 2 salads: salad #2: baby spinach, garlic-roasted tomatoes, red onion & sweet white anchovies $7. (two could share as generous in size). Bruschetta: homemade bread, cherry tomatoes, (yellow & red), fresh basil & garlic. $10 We shared salads. Also ordered appitizer: Arancino #1, fried risotto ball stuffed with mozzarella, peas & sausage $3.50. Salads were especially enjoyable. Yes, with 2 glasses red wine, Bastardo, which was a little young tasting but it mellowed as we ate. I can't remember name of other red wine but it was excellent as well at $4.50 per glass! (u can order a bottle of red at $30.00 but if u order 2 pizzas you get $10.00 off price of bottle making it approx $20.00). And, if you can't finish bottle of wine, drink what u wish & take remainder home. Pizzas: I ordered Prosciutto Arugula: prosciutto di Parma, baby arugula, fresh mozzerella, Parmesan $12.00. Hands down, the most flavorful pizza I've had with the perfect combination, delicate balance of Parma/arugula & cheese. Crust was chewy, nicely baked in wood oven My pizza was a 5 star plus. My husband ordered Real Margherita: fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil. $12 Again, we shared pizzas & I thought his was a little lose in center due to extra olive oil. You can also make your own pizza: $7.00 + various prices for cheese, vegs & meats. I was so full that I could not order their homemade tiramisu (4.00)..so ordered Affogato-sm scoop of chocolate gelato topped with Expresso coffee, $4.00. It was full of intense flavor, smooth, mmmm., just perfect, just the right amount as an after dinner expresso/dessert. $4.00. My husband ordered expresso, strong but real smooth. $2.00. They have a great choice of homemade gelatos, all so, so tempting. So, will we return? You bet...Now, I highly recommend this tiny, not so well known jewel to all who have managed to read my long but enthusiatic review.
(5)Erin K.
This is hands down the best pizza in the DC area!! I've lived in DC for nine years and have sampled all of the local pizza hot spots, and in my opinion Pupatella has robbed 2Amys of its "best pizza in town" status. And it's in Arlington, which has been long overdue for a real pizza place! The Real Margherita is soooo good! The crust is thin and chewey, with the perfect amount of sweet San marzano tomato sauce in the middle. The buffalo mozzarella is absolutely to die for especially with the basil. What makes Enzo's (the owner and pizza aiolo) pizza so good is not only the freshness and high quality of ingredients, but how he makes it. This guy is seriously passionate about pizza (how many other restaurants in town have the owner hand make every dish!?) and that's the real reason why it tastes so good!! Also, the arancino is really delicious--fried risotto with cheese and eggplant in the middle--yum!!! And to the contrary of some other reviewers, I love the bowl it comes in!! Another plus--if you buy 2 pizzas you get $10 off their already reasonably priced bottles of wine. Bottom line is, go to Pupatella! You won't regret it and you'll probably end up eating there more than once a week!
(5)Vivek K.
I went here about a month ago when I was in Arlington and was very impressed. This is legit Neapolitan Pizza (it even belongs to the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, which is apparently an organization that conforms their pizza making to certain old world artisan standards - who knew?) at affordable prices (I think its ~$10 for a personal pizza) - what's not to like? They also serve decent gelato (nothing to write home about), and have a selection of beer. Very casual atmosphere. The only downside I could see is that there isn't a ton of space to sit down in this restaurant's casual atmosphere, and the seating near the back at least felt a little cramped, with people bumping into me as they moved through the little aisle. I would definitely visit Pupatella if I"m in Arlington again, as it is some of the best value I have ever seen in a pizza place. This is one way pizza should be: simple, delicious, and cheap.
(4)Laila S.
Pupatella was the first neighborhood eating establishment I hit up after moving to the area. It's certainly not in a cutesy section of ballston but neither is my house! The food's what's bringing in all the crowds. This pizza is simply put- amazing. Thin crust with a charred taste that's just right and fresh delicious toppings. Only caveat Is that they don't recommend carry out bc of the texture of the crust- it seems to loose it's oomph sitting in a box. If you're feeling sinful do not miss out on the fried risotto ball filled with sausage, cheese and just about everything good in life! Uh or the amazing gelato.
(4)BERT O.
I really enjoy this place. Their mozzarella garlic bread is really good. I like the freshness of their pizza. The Margherita is one of my favorites. Their risotto balls are amazing. They're very crunchy and the veggie one really does it for me. Also, the price for the food is inexpensive. Pizzeria Orso kind of had it for me, but this place beats it in quality and price.
(5)LanChi N.
So..after all the hype... I finally tried this place. Note: parking lot is really small so you may have to park across the street and walk over. Basically you walk in grab a menu and you look for the pie you want. Choices range from white pizzas to red sauce pizzas. They also have a few appetizers and salads if your interested . But After careful debate I decided on the Arugula and Prosciutto pizza and my brother decided on the chorizo pizza. I also decided to get lemonade because a sign said it was limited everyday so why not. Lucky me they had 4 glasses left. Once we ordered we were given a number and we just picked a seat. Our pizzas were then delivered to the table. Pizza on a plate not one aluminum disc that your used to when going to a pizza joint. Italian style on a white plate. I looked delicious but unfortunately I was disappointed when cutting /digging into my pizza all my toppings fell off as I took a bite. The sadness I felt as the delicious flavors were there but with a soggy dough below. The crust was chewy and had good flavor it was just the lack of crispness on the bottom of the pizza. The one thing I know Neapolitan pizza has is the thin and light crisp bottom that makes it what it is. Now perhaps my brother and I were spoiled from our NW travels. But we know good pizza and I've even had real Neapolitan pizza in Italy. Pupatella has the flavors of Italy down but perhaps we came at the lunch rush so things weren't carefully crafted. All and all try your luck perhaps your pizza will be crispy
(3)Ching H.
Pupatella, tella me more. The San Marzano based sauce, allows for the perfect merriment of dough foundation and toppings. I love love love pizza with a good tomato sauce- and pupatella brought my pizza dreams to life. TO LIFE. I went to Pete's pizza in Arlington the day before and was disappointed, so I was still jonesin' for this pizza that I had manifested in my mind, one with the perfect amount of sauce to dough to topping ratio. And BAM I was like let's try pupatella, wasn't sure what to expect but it's safe to say I would have pitched a tent right then and there so I could live at this place and con my way into eating this pizza on the regular. Bang the gavel, I've decided this is my favorite pizza place in NOVA. Pizza snobs if you know of a better place help a SISTA out!!!! I had the diavola (salami and basil) and Brussels sprouts with Apple. Loved both but the pizza was the real stand out. Stand up who runs this world, pizza does, cuz carbs give you energy eh!? All my pizza lovers come at me, pupatella I'm crushing real hard on you. Sorry not sorry for the extra long review, I just love pupatella so, and want to share the good news with all my internet friends.
(5)Navid B.
This place is unbelievably awesome! The pizzas are too good for the prices, and that's what keeps bringing me back. You can get about the same quality in Georgetown, but with twice the price. Will recommend everyone in the area to try this place.
(5)Thuan T.
Some of the best pizza I have had! As close to authentic Italian pizza as you'll get. All the specialty pizzas we saw were in the $11-$15ish range. Came with a group of friends and ordered three pizzas among ourselves. After ordering at the front, we seated ourselves. Got pepperoni, prosciutto & arugula, and an eggplant & red pepper pizza. All of them were great! All the pizzas had a very nice crust with a bit of crunch, but still relatively soft and easy to chew. They encourage you to get one pizza per person as a personal pizza for good reason. Each 11" pizza is very hefty, though it's more fun to split it up among a group to sample more types. The pizzas came out within 10 minutes nice and hot! The arugula added a very complementary bitterness to the prosciutto pizza and all the flavors were very harmonious within the pizza. The eggplant & red pepper was just delicious all around with melted mozzarella on the pizza and the whole thing had very nice texture. Of course, you can't go wrong with the pepperoni pizza. The crispiness of beef pepperoni was delicious and the pizza held together very well. Parking is not plentiful so expect to park in the Safeway parking lot across the street! Overall, it lives up to the hype that I was reading about Pupatella and I would definitely come here again!
(5)Mike E.
Pizza isn't worthy of a re-telling of eat, pray, love, but it's pretty darn good. Sandwiches were the actual star of the show.
(4)Jodie R.
Very yummy pizza's! If you're having a pizza craving you should stop by Pupatella! I've heard a lot about this place and wanted to try it out, because I've heard mixed reviews. The pizza is indeed delicious; I got their signature Margherita pizza! But I also tried the Pesto White Sauce pizza (which I liked better) and a Prosciutto pizza! (Tip: if you go with friends, make sure you get different pizza's so you guys can try all the different types! Because they don't allow 1/2 of one type and 1/2 of another type on one pizza). The ingredients taste fresh and delicious; however, the pizza does get a little soggy after awhile (at least for my Margherita pizza) because the dough is somewhat thin. The crust is fantastic though c: Overall, very flavorful pizza's! They also serve gelato -- from flavors like nutella, figs and mascarpone, and almond! The gelato is expensive though for such a small scoop.. but if you're willing to try a unique flavor, the figs and mascarpone gelato is absolutely amazing *^*
(4)Omero M.
2.5 stars. This place is seriously over-hyped. We came here expecting something authentic and phenomenal based on the 4+ star rating, however, it was extremely underwhelming. The pizza is bland and the crust is soggy, which is not authentic to Neapolitan style pizza. They should use the fancy brick oven to actually make the crust crispy and well cooked. The restaurant definitely has charm and is a breath of fresh air compared to the dull corporate restaurants that are around Arlington but the food or atmosphere do not make this place anywhere above 3 stars. We each had leftovers which we reheated on a pizza stone in our oven, definitely made a huge improvement. Pro tip: get take-out and warm up the pizza till the crust is actually cooked at home.
(3)Lucas B.
Pupatella. This place is just too good for words. I've been here twice since I've moved to Arlington and it was just as good as I remembered almost two years ago. I came here on a Thursday evening around 5:45 pm and it was surprisingly not all the way packed. It had just rained for about an hour before that so that could have deterred a few people walking there or standing outside waiting for tables to open up. Our party of 6 gathered towards the back on the first room with a couple pitchers of beer to start off. After deciding from the menu, I went up to place our order for everyone. We shared the arancini balls and the Brussels sprouts to begin. Both were fantastic starters. The sprouts were roasted and tossed with balsamic vinegar and julienned apples. The flavors played off each other really well which I wasn't expecting with the addition of apple. The arancini balls honestly might have been the best part of my night. They were hot coming out of the fryer and placed in front of us with some marinara sauce. Sauce not even needed. The cheese and meat inside the balls were so good. If you're waiting for your pizza you have to spend an extra few dollars on these. For the main event - I ordered the classic Margherita pizza. The pizza is just the best. Flat out. The crust is crispy on the outside with a nice char and the toppings have so much fresh flavor with every bite. I cannot stress enough how good this place is. If you're looking for a good slice or more, this is where you ought to go.
(5)Wouter H.
By far the best pizza I have had in a very long time! The staff is very friendly and we absolutely loved our visit! We are sad that we live in the Netherlands and won't be able to come back for a while.. If you are nearby, you have to go here! Enjoy
(5)Zach H.
Pizza isn't typically something I get excited about, but Pupatella is pretty good. Upon walking in, you get hit in the face with the wonderful sounds and smells of freshly baked pizza. It's an entirely different experience when you get to see the food artists tossing pizza and watching them make pizzas as you wait in line. The wood fire oven is really what makes this place legit. The friends I went with were raving about it and just couldn't get as pumped up as they were. Still, I went along with it as though it was like every other average pizza joint... but "average" is probably not a word I would use to describe this Italian gem. My friends and I ordered Roasted Brussels Sprouts and Sausage Arancinis for the starters then decided on the Prosciutto Arugula and Tomato Artichoke pizzas. The Brussels Sprouts were made with green apple and tossed in a balsamic dressing. Good, but not the best I've ever had. Similarly with the Arancinis, while good, they were less than impressive and a bit on the dry side. The risotto filling didn't have the creamy texture you normally get from an arancini, but there was a good amount of melty mozzarella cheese which was enjoyable. As for the pizza, it was definitely traditional and flavors reminded me of the pizzas I had during my travels through Italy. However, the crust got slightly softer towards the middle of the pizza and sometimes didn't have the structural integrity to hold up the ingredients on the pizza. Other than that minor criticism, the pizza was damn good. Overall, the service was good and the food was definitely above average. Though I would stick to the pizzas because the starters weren't anything to write home about. Because of it's popularity and limited seating, the wait times can get long. So plan ahead, go during off-peak times or call it in to-go. Otherwise, you can expect to wait in excess of 30 minutes.
(4)Riley S.
Pupatella has the best pizza in the entire world made by a group of smiling hat-wearing pizza chefs. It's always pretty crowded, but the wait and the weird decor is definitely worth it- they have a cute back patio and a good happy hour deal on half-price bottles of wine, and they also usually have some good beers on tap. I always get the Burrata pizza with roasted tomatoes, but I really don't think you can go wrong at Pupatella. The Burrata platter is a really good appetizer with cherry tomatoes and arugula. I also love the gelato- I love salted caramel. If you like pizza and live in the DC area, absolutely plan a trip here!
(5)Sam W.
Came at 2:00 on a Sunday. I can see how parking can be an annoyance here if it was really busy. Tried the frittura sampler and two pizzas. One of the arancini balls was a little too done, but everything else was fantastic. The fried fresh mozzarella balls were my favorite part of the sampler. The drinks irritated me a little, but not enough to take a star off. 2.75 for most of the stuff is a little high, but it is Arlington, and they do have a water station behind the register to get yourself cold water. The pizza was amazing. I was really excited when I found this place and their wood-fired oven. Really it's what the deciding factor was for me. The crust was great, a little black from the oven, but that is to be expected. All the toppings were great. My husband got the spicy salami. I stole a bite and it had a good kick to it. On my pizza, I splurged a bit and got the buffalo mozzarella. Wow. Next time I'll have to try the burrata.
(5)Ed L.
Excellent pizza! The choice is good and there is also great drinks. The queuing system is a little odd but does work well. But the pizza really is the show stopper,it's probably in the top 2 pizzas I've ever had!
(5)Arpita B.
There is something just right about eating a pizza on a cold winter evening....The warm crispy crust & the molten cheese, are just what the doctor prescribed to keep the winter blues away! Craving for this sinful delight, lead us to the doors of pupatella. Despite the late hour, the place was bustling with life. They have a system in place here... You stand in line, order what you like & by the time you are done (or more like 10 mins after) there is a table ready just for you! We ordered the chorizo as well as the prosciutto & arugula pizzas. Both were perfection! There isn't any other way to describe it. The pizzas were piping hot, the crust was crunchy( not too hard.. Not too chewy) & the flavors just packed the perfect punch in every bite.... All in all...the very definition of a perfect pizza! Can't wait to come back & try the other pizzas on the menu!
(4)Tito C.
Yes we have a heard about how authentic this place is, and it stays true to the reputation. The ingredients are fresh and the food is always delicious, priced appropriately to other places in the area as well. I've frequented this place a few times now, but my most memorable experience was after a bike ride a few days ago. Was originally biking to sweet green until I rode by pupatella and let's be honest: Pizza..or leaves? Decision was clear. However, was unaware of their happy hour pricing and was pleasantly surprised when I went to order. Half off draft beers and half wine as well as appetizers from 3-6 pm! on keepin on, pupatella!
(4)Sonia P.
Pupatella is consistently ranked as one of the best pizza joints you'll find in Northern VA. As an authentic Neopolitan pizzeria, their pizza crust is super thin, soft, fluffy, and their fresh mozzarella makes the pizza "wetter" meaning the end result will never lead to a totally crispy crust. Pizzas are baked in a wood-burning oven (straight from Napoli, yo!) and the quality of their ingredients is high and everything is made to-order with love. Great deal: buy 2 pizzas and get $10 knocked off any bottle of wine. We ended up getting their house red wine of Sangiovese - nothing fancy but just what we needed with our molto delizioso pizzas. You order up at the counter and then an employee will seat you at a table. Despite the crowds, we somehow ended up waiting for only 15 minutes before our insanely friendly, smiley, and bubbly hostess found us a table. And then we MANGIA-ed! -Arancini with Sausage (fried risotto balls filled with mozzarella, peas and sausage): this Sicilian street food is one of my favorite food items ever, and Pupatella does them just right. Next time, I'll ask for a side of marinara sauce for dipping. -Diavola pizza (Spicy salami, fresh mozzarella, basil): for all you spicy carnivores out there, this pizza is for you! -Burrata Pizza (special): you guessed it, this no-sauce pie is all about that incredible burrata (extra creamy buffalo mozzarella that's been touched by the cheese gods). Cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, and basil complete this perfect pie. Parking could be a potential nightmare especially when all you got is pizza on the brain and there's no place to park, but one of the very few spots in their lot opened up as we arrived during peak dinner hours on a Saturday night = fate, clearly! Pupatella is definitely a gem in the area and a must-visit. Buon appetito!
(4)Adam B.
I want to be fair and honest, I dont want to tell you how great the place is just because the staff was so nice, and they gave me a free pizza, that was really cool. However I don't want to tell you how bad it is just because they make really doughy pizza. I'm not sure if it was just when I went or not but I ordered another one and asked for it to be crispy and it was much better. The time after that it was even soggier than the first time. However the flavor is awesome, I love their sauces and their cheese, and if I take the pizza home and throw it in my oven I can get it to the perfect crispiness. I'm going to go back again and give it another shot if not for flavor alone.
(3)Sarah K.
A colleague who spent 5 years in Naples took me here (and sent me to 2Amys), and it was fabulous. The pizza, the appetizers, everything was delicious. Even the ice cream with espresso on top (can't remember the name). I love taking visitors here.
(5)Kelly K.
Like a fresh pourover coffee, once you try Pupatella's pizzas, you won't be able to go back to your old ways. Pupatella is one of those modest places that really focus on the quality of their food. The spread: - Bruschetta: the homemade bread is good, but I wish they cut it into 4 pieces so it's more manageable to eat - Brussel sprouts: the balsamic dressing and apples give it great flavor - Margherita: too saucy and the toppings were unevenly distributed - I'd give it another shot in the future - Capricciosa: my personal favorite. Good combo of flavors - Sausage & onion: Solid pie - you can't go wrong with this - DIY pizza (red sauce, salami, pepperoni, arugula, mushrooms): they forgot to add the argula, but the waitress was happy to bring it out on the side. The cashier assigned us the wrong number, but once we got past the confusion, we all agreed this was the best pizza we've ever had. The staff is helpful and friendly. The bar in the back has a good selection of local beers and the servers will offer to get you another if you're running low. We never felt rushed, even with the long line of pizza lovers waiting for their orders.
(4)Lydia N.
Really good pizza and risotto fritters. I got the margherita and had a slice of my friends' corn - ricotta pie and mushroom- artichoke pies. I immediately noticed how flavorful and chewy the crust was. Delightfully spotted with charred blisters. The tomato sauce was bright and well seasoned, on the more savory end of the spectrum rather than sweet. I really enjoyed the richness of the ricotta and texture and flavor of the corn on the pizza together. The artichoke was OK and the mushrooms seemed lost compared to everything else. Ricotta fritters were fun to eat because each arancini held a different filling. A surprise for each one. Good fun. I am reviewing for take out so I imagine that the crust would have been more crispy if it didn't have to deal with sitting in a cardboard box. Even so it was delicious!
(4)Yaka H.
An okay experience, not sure if we just went on an off day. The choices of pizza here can lead you to a delicious and confusing battle, with no wrong answer. Tasty combinations to be had for sure. You can make your own if the preset ones aren't to your fancy. Order up at the counter and sit yourself. We had the arancini with sausage and with eggplant. Personally, I thought the price was a bit steep for just two pieces per order. The eggplant arancini I had was golden crisp on the outside, but the inside was quite icy cold, making it unpleasant. I ordered the Pig & Fig (proscuitto and fig with balsamic drizzle). A great tasting pizza, but the crust was quite soggy and was unable to hold any part of the awesome toppings. Though the crust had a beautiful char on it, it was very deceiving and kinda just flopped over too easily. The crust a bit too floppy and more doughy than crisp in my ideal neopolitan crust ratio. Dining companions had similar issues with their pizza. Really can be difficult to find parking here. There are a few spots on in front. The supermarket across the street has a towing sign and same goes for the 7-11 next door.
(3)Jose F.
Was so excited in trying this place, so hey why not try it on a snow day with my boys! When it comes to pizza my kids are my wing men hahaha. So one thing is man what a tiny lot, finding parking can be a challenge. Once you get inside they have a interesting setup for ordering and sit down. You get in lone order and you wait at your table if your eating in cool. I order two pies a chorizo and a classico. I also got the arancini which came with no sauce, guess that's how they come. They came out quick and fairly large yum! The fresh mozzarella was just gooey and I wish I had more. The seasoning was spot on and I just wish I had some marinara. The pies came out next and wow lots of fresh mozzarella was used. That shows they care about using quality ingredients. The let down was they could have been cooked a little longer as I was tea bagged by my pizza. Good light sauce not overly seasoned but kinda lacking. Over all the kids enjoyed theirs but they said it was just OK. Overall more like a 3.5 because it is better than most and hey if your in the area yeah just try it.
(3)Kimberly K.
Oh. My. God. This place is a GEM. Seriously, the BEST pizza I've had in freakin' forever. I came here with a big group of friends so we ordered a bunch of food and shared everything! We started with Salad 3 ($7.50). Tarragon, baby arugula, grapefruit, green apple and parmesan with mustard-citrus dressing. SUPER fresh and delish! What a delightful pairing of flavors. NOW ONTO THE MAGICAL PIZZAS! We ordered the following: Classica Doc ($10): Fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil Proscuitto Arugula ($13): Proscuitto di parma, organic baby arugula, fresh mozzarella, parmesan Capricciosa ($13): Sauteed mushrooms, marinated artichokes, proscuitto cotto & fresh mozzarella Diavola ($11): Spicy salami, fresh mozzarella, basil All four were absolutely AMAZING! My fave though, if I HAD to pick, was the Proscuitto Arugula. Man, the ingredients were SO fresh, and the dough? PERFECTION. Everything about their pizza is so right. I really can't recommend Pupatella enough. I would seriously drive to Arlington JUST to eat here. Make sure to save room for dessert because their gelato is amazing! An fabulous ending to an incredible meal. If you're a fan of chocolate, you'll LOVE the dark chocolate flavor!
(5)Michael O.
I've been here twice and the second time is the charm. We ordered 1 Diavola red pizza and 1 Pesto white pizza. The Diavola is a great pizza especially if you are into sauces with a zing to it. Furthermore, The pesto pizza was exceptional. The only thing I would have changed is to use pine nuts instead of walnuts. This is a great place and I'm glad I checked out this place a second time since the first time the crust was just soggy, but this time around I was impressed.
(4)Tanya L.
Very good pizza...but not the best...really a 3.5 at best. Picked the Hubs up from DCA after his business travels and figured since we were on this side of the Potomac, we'd try to check out some of my bookmarks. We walked in a bit after they opened. The lack of parking was no joke...like maybe 7-8 cars max no joke. We parked across the street, most likely illegally, at the Safeway lot. They weren't terribly busy, so we were able to step aside in the lobby and figure out our order. Then we walked up to the counter and ordered the Margherita, Diavola, & Sausage and Onion. They were out of meatballs, so the Hubs lost out on his only pick. We found a booth and then got our utensils, plates, napkins, tap water, & condiments. Pretty low-key and serve yourself. We were given a number and sat that at the edge of the table as instructed. Our order came out and it was time to go to town. My favorite was a tie between the sausage & onion or the Margherita. The perfect simplicity of the Margherita was awesome. The smokiness of the smoked mozzarella on the sausage pizza was what took an "ok" pizza to YES. The Diavola was good too. We had three slices leftover and there were foil sheets available to wrap up leftovers. As we were eating, business started picking up. Still, it didn't get terribly busy but I can imagine the craziness on weekend evenings. So, what will prevent us from going back with the rest of our kiddos...too far, we have something way better closer to us (helloooooo Pacci's), and the crust on all three pizzas were soggy before the middle of the meal...*sad face*. The flavor of the crust was perfect and there were bottles of olive oil available to dip your crusts in...however, that sogginess was disappointing. The size of the bathroom is laughable too. I'm pregos right now and could barely fit...I'm normally a size 0-2 and 5'2", if that helps. Heaven forbid if our kid needed a diaper change too...there was no diaper changing table. I could see us going more often if we lived close by, but we don't and have Pacci's near us, which turns out a far superior product...with better parking. ;o). So, a 3.5 because of parking issues, soggy crusts, & tiny bathrooms.
(3)Parinaz G.
I don't know what else to say about the pizzas here that hasn't already been said. So I will start by saying that they have really amazing gelato, especially the salted caramel, which seems to be the most popular flavor. Yes, the wait can be long at times, but it is worth it. When you order two pizzas you can get $10 off a bottle of wine, and you can enjoy this while you wait for your pizzas. If this is your first time, I recommend you at least try one of the following pizzas: -chorizo -pesto (vegetarian) -magarita (so simple, yet so heavenly) In the warmer months they open up the patio, which has cute picnic benches with umbrellas. I love this place and I go here so often that the servers recognize me and joke about not handing me a menu.
(5)Michelle W.
DELICIOUS! Absolutely love this place! It's a no frills pizza place where you order at the counter, find a seat, and the bring the pizza out to you. They have an outdoor patio (which is partially covered) that is seat-yourself on a first-come, first-serve basis, which was so key that evening when I went. It had rained earlier in the evening, so most of the customers were waiting for seating inside the restaurant. We went outside and easily found seats (as in there was only one other party sitting outside). I'm not sure how often they rotate their pizza, but their sausage one and their eggplant ones were delicious! This is probably one of my favorite pizza places in the DC area!
(4)Rachel N.
I love little whole in the wall places like this so I was super excited to give it a try. Upon walking in the host was very friendly and explained that we order first then sit down. In fact, all the service we received was really great. The crust on the pizza was perfect! It almost reminded me of a pita type texture. The cheese was high quality and my fiancé loved the spicy salami. The HH prices are also on point - half off drafts & some apps! We had two nice draft beers for 7$ total. I wish they had more topping options- especially since they give you the option to build your own pizza. We also got the garlic cheese bread for an app and it was super tasty but was kind of over priced. It was two slices of bread with cheese and garlic thrown onto it - we had to ask for red dipping sauce.
(4)Chris C.
Man oh man, this pizza is DELICIOUS. Whether you're looking for your new favorite pizza place or just trying out new places around the area, you HAVE to check this place out. At first, it looks like a hole in the wall that you might try to avoid. But when you look closer, you realize there is no parking, there is a line, and there's a reason for it. Because the pizza is awesome!!!! I definitely recommend checking it out.
(5)Chrissy V.
Yummy Neapoletan pizza. The real thing!!! I must have been there about 4 times and all the pizzas have been awesome. The kid menu items are so so, but then again, i should have ordered pizza for the little one. The ordering system is unusual in that you only can get a table after ordering. This ensures there is always space to sit to actually eat the pizza. Service is extremely friendly.
(5)Bob T.
The same delicious pizza, lousy ambience, and minimal service. The waitstaff did seem a bit more attentive than usual, maybe because it's not very busy right now. The smoked sausage pizza was particularly good and my daughter enjoyed her cheese pizza as always.
(4)Lexus K.
always amazing, no guilt felt
(5)Brenda L.
Hands down the best pizza I have ever had in my life...and I LOVE pizza. I've never been to Naples, but I'm pretty sure this is what the pizza tastes like over in those parts. Service was quick and the staff was friendly.
(5)Timothy L.
Authentic stuff going on here! Ordered an arancini with sausage (2 balls per order, so we split them among our party of 4). Super crunchy outer exterior, but a layer of soft risotto underneath. Inside was a melting pot of flavors; stringy mozzarella, thick helping of sausage bits, and the occasional pea. I'm salivating now just thinking about it. Great way to get the stomach and the palette ready for what was to come. Then our pizzas came. Ham & Mushroom, Margherita, Chorizo, & Mushroom (White).Beautiful pizzas, where you can tell the cheese and sauce were really boiling together in the oven. Each one had its own flavors going on. The ham and mushroom got tastier and bolder after every bit, the margherita had me closing my eyes as it transported me to Naples. The Chorizo had an excellent bite from the red peppers, and the Mushroom pizza had an amazing semi-creamy texture followed up with the woodsy-ness of the mushrooms. Each pizza finished off with a light crispy crust that didn't take away from the actual flavors of each pie, but complemented and lifted each one to perfection. Great pizza, good wine and service. Will definitely come back when I'm in the area. Only downside; we weren't served water at our table (I know it sounds like I'm nitpicking, but there's good reason why this is the first thing thats served at restaurants). Is this just a thing where we just need to ask the typically busy wait staff?
(4)Alexis K.
I think it's about time for a little review update. I have frequented Pupatella at least 3 times since my last review, and it is consistently satisfying. My two favorites are still the prosciutto arugula and the mushroom pizzas. The prosciutto arugula is a very fresh, crisp tasting pizza, whereas the mushroom pizza is covered in indulgent truffle oil and chunks of brie cheese (no red sauce). Their arancini - deep fried stuffed rice balls - is delectable as well. The pizza is on the thin side and is prone to sogginess, which is why I strongly suggest eating the pizza as quickly as you can if that's an issue for you. With that being said, I really don't think the pizza would taste very good the next day, so come hungry! I've also seen a number of reviews complaining about burn marks on the bottom and on the crust of the pizza. Don't be mistaken; they aren't burn marks! It's natural charring from the wood fired ovens! Despite the fact that Pupatella offers very limited parking (5-6 spots max) and a less than ideal seating situation inside the restaurant, I'm willing to park illegally across the street and risk getting my car towed for dat fresh, hot dough.
(4)Will C.
Parking is a pain in the butt here but once you ditch your car and walk through the doors, you will be greeted by the smell of various aromas in the air. My girlfriend and I parked across the street at the Safeway parking lot. They only have around 4-5 spots in front of Pupatella. We were a bit concerned of getting towed but luckily it did not happen. Plenty of people also parked their car across the street at Safeway. We were greeted by a gentlemen who handed us menus and told us after we ordered to seek him for them to seat us at a table. My girlfriend and I ordered the Arugula/Prosciutto and Mushroom pizza. We got our number and headed towards the dining area and got seated at a small high table. My first time visiting we were allowed to choose our own seating. I guess the seating got out of hand so they switched over to this method. I am not quite sure if we are suppose to get our own utensils or the Pupatella employees were suppose to do it. I saw that some tables the employees handed them to the customers and other's where people got their own utensils. Well either way customer service here is lacking since not once did they check up on us. The Arugula pizza was definitely the favorite out of the two for me. I really enjoy the taste and scent of arugula so anything that has that on it I will most likely love. The combination of the arugula with prosciutto was really good and was well balanced. The mushroom pizza was also good but after one slice the cheese on it became nauseating for me. The first time I came I tried the meatball pizza and that was pretty good. Overall I think the pizza's here are unique and different from the standard Papa Johns/ Pizza Hut etc. There is nothing wrong with Papa Johns but when I am craving this sort of pizza I will be back to satisfy my craving. My only complaint is the table we were seated at, it was really small and with two pizzas on it and two cups of water we didn't really have space to place the small dishes to eat our pizza. (That table would be perfect for only fitting one pizza) So my girlfriend and I just ate directly from the dish. While this was happening I saw other two people parties seating in the booths and 1 person dining by herself at table way bigger then ours. A couple was also moved mid- meal to another table. So I am docking a star for poor seating arrangements. So management if your reading this, please improve on this or return back to the method of letting customers choose their own seating. Bottomline: Good unique pizza for this area. Definitely recommend checking it out.
(3)Bryn M.
First time trying pupatella and it lived up to expectations! My boyfriend and I came here and each ordered individual pizzas. I got the spicy salami fresh basil red pizza and it was off the charts. Great ratio of Crust/cheese/meat/sauce. And they did not lie about the spicy part, this is not for people sensitive to spicy food but for those who actually like a kick I definitely recommend. I was able to eat half of this for dinner and the other half for lunch and both were sufficient meals. Can't wait to try all the pies they offer
(5)Greg C.
Definitely one of the better hand-made pizza parlors I've visited. On a business trip to DC whilst staying at a nearby hotel I dropped in to order bruschetta and a meatball pizza to carry out. They mention on their website that they do not take phone orders during busy nights, and that was the case this Thursday evening. Parking was a bit of a challenge, but once I found a space for my compact rental. There was a line for to-go orders so I waited about 5 minutes to place my order and added an IPA (beer) to enjoy during the wait. You can watch as the makers quickly toss pie after pie down the line and into the oven while you wait to order. The beer (Slyfox) was refreshing after a long day and I barely had time to finish it before my buzzer went off indicating my food was ready (10 minutes). Back at the hotel 5 minutes later. The bruschetta was nothing special: cherry tomatoes tossed in olive oil with some garlic and basil, but hey! That's pretty much the recipe so no complaints either. The bread it was served upon was the highlight. Onto the pizza. It was very, very good. Excellent? I'm not sure I'd go that far. It's top tier, to be sure. We live very near an authentic Italian restaurant in the Tampa Bay area and I would consider theirs to be excellent and this came close, but not quite. That said, you can't go wrong with Pupatella.
(4)Jodi K.
What can I say? This little pizza place stole my heart. Being originally from CT (New Haven/NYC just a stones throw away) I have high expectations for my pizza and Pupatella exceeds them all! The decor is a little different than what you'd expect and if you're dining in be prepared for a tight squeeze (also reminiscent of New Haven pizza places) but the staff is super friendly. Don't be afraid to refill your own waters or grab your own crushed red pepper ... Which isn't a complaint about the service ... It's more of a compliment regarding the ease and casual homeyness of this establishment. And if you're dining during normal dinner times then be prepared to wait for a table. Worth the wait though! I love to start with the Caprese Salad with the most delicious Buffalo mozzarella. Really. It's amazing. For red pizza I've thoroughly enjoyed a few like the Prosciutto Arugula, Margherita, and Chorizo (yum!) pies. As far as white pizza goes the Filetti Doc is delish and so is the mushroom ... Sooo creamy. I never have room for dessert but that looks good as well! I will be visiting Pupatella again soon!
(5)Asa H.
Really unfortunate how slow the food is. Like an hour to get the pizza...good pizza but so slow it kind of ruins the whole experience.
(1)Cooper R.
Omg we love Pupatella, to the point where we've basically started coming here once a week. Every pizza is amazing, had the Smoked Sausage last night and it was basically like eating little slices of clouds it was so good! Pro tip: Come here for an early dinner! You avoid the crowds, and the pizza is so yummy and filling you won't have to worry at all about being hungry later:)
(5)Kath L.
Probably some of the best pizza I've had in the area. Really good. Very fresh ingredients and reasonably priced. I also like that you seat yourself. It lends a nice casualness to the place.
(5)Paul T.
Went and asked for half and half....but lady said they dont do that, so I said no biggie, so I asked her to recommend one, and she recommended the margherita doc, so I tried that, it was okay, I have tried better pizza before. Decent but not amazing or wow to me. Price wise a little high for what you get. Maybe I will comeback and try something else next time
(3)Randi F.
I know I am supposed to love this place. I have friends who lived in Italy for years and love it. I don't. It's a great atmosphere and the people are nice, but it's not wonderful. The pizzas are big, not not big enough to share and that be a whole meal. It is expensive overall. It's ok overall, but the set up of ordering pizza and paying is very hard, especially on the weekend. The layout of the restaurant causes some traffic. Overall it is fine, just not my taste.
(3)Joseph W.
Pizza was good...didn't stay there. Only picked up. They had football on. So I was loving the wait.
(4)Ryan W.
Genuinely the best pizza I've had in the DC area. Fresh, varied toppings and amazing dough.
(5)Andy W.
Obligatory 5 star. Best Neapolitan pizza in DC (and arguably in the country). As a purist (read: coward who only ever eats the same thing), I only order the Margherita DOC. Pupatella's is hands-down better than those offered by "the other guys" (2 Amys, Menomale, et al). Since the expansion getting a table hasn't been a problem at all. If you don't like waiting in line to order I'm sure Pizza Hut will gladly accept your patronage.
(5)Jeremy V.
We tried to eat here a few times previously, and upon arrival we noticed the line was out the door. Once we turned around and went somewhere else, the other time we came in. Unclear as to how the operation works, we asked the hostess what we were to do, and perhaps because it was so busy she was frustrated, but she was a tad rude when we asked the process and approximate wait for a table. She wouldn't give us a clear answer. We had to be somewhere about an hour and a half later, so we didn't risk the wait. We ended up coming back, and Jesus, the pizza was awesome. Service can be busy, but the host that day was excellent and managed to find us a seat pretty quickly. We had some sort of pastry type meat thing which was really good, and the pizza was great. I had a pepperoni, of course, which is my defacto pizza order to judge pizza places. It came out piping hot, decent tasting sauce, but excellent pepperonis, and the crust was delicious. Their pizza was well worth the wait, tho, a tad bit expensive for the sizing. But the taste definitely makes up a little bit for that. Definitely a staple place in the region!
(4)Sue M.
Delicious pizza with fresh ingredients. Love the mushroom pie.
(5)Jon D.
After living in Naples for 2 years (2009-2011) I thought I would have to fly back if I ever wanted to eat the caliber of pizza that I had there. Now hands down Naples still has my heart, but this place is like a few slices of Naples in the DC area!
(5)D L.
This is the best pizza in DC.
(5)Tatiana H.
This place is great. I had the brie and mushroom pizza. HOLY MOLY, can you say yummy. The fried crispy potato things were fantastic. The meatballs were so so. Not bad just lacking something. The garlic bread is a do over, it is so good, I ordered a chorizo, pepperoni and mushroom pizza for my hubby and it was okay. Maybe something else next time for him. They have a wonderful menu and I can't wait to go back. We ordered 2 pizzas and 4 appetizers. total bill was 50.00 and we had lots of left overs.
(5)Mina C.
Best pizza in the NOVA/DC area. Reminds me of Gusta Pizza in Florence, Italy. You can't go wrong with the classic Margherita pizza. If you want other starters- get the Brussel sprouts with balsamic & green apple dish or arugula salad. Don't forget to save room for gelato!
(5)Ryan A.
Incredibly authentic! A hidden gem to say the least. I ordered the pesto pizza and it was delicious! I also tried a piece of the chorizo pizza and it was equally as good. The caprese salad was filled with fresh ingredients and the service was friendly and fast. Parking is scarce but the gas station attendant is nice and allows a few cars to park in his parking spots. I decided to go here because it was so highly rated on both Yelp and Zagats. It definitely lived up to the hype.
(5)AL K.
Arrived to a long line of peeps waiting to place their orders. The line wasn't the problem since it was moving fast. The average wait time for a pizza is 45 minutes to an hour on a very busy Friday night. The pizza was gooey with chunks of mozzarella which was yummy. i loved the bruschetta!!! Parking is the problem around here. Look for the lot across the street but do not park at 7-11 for you might get towed. The gelato was good. i'm not sure if they make this in house or sourced it somewhere but make sure to try it.
(4)Kevin m.
Service is difficult with an order line and then you go find a seat. good pizz and the arrancini are great! Not much of a beverage selection. Good food - mediocre service. Doesn't compare to two Amy's or Fire Works
(3)Tammy K.
Wow. Amazing pizzas. Buratta pizza is unique and outstanding, but everything seemed really good. Will definitely return next time I'm in the area.
(5)Marie D.
SO GOOD. Wood fired pizza. Worth waiting in line for.
(5)Rutherford N.
Best pizza in the DMV, by far. I have been here dozens of times and it's consistently delicious, true Neapolitan style pizza. I wish there was more room for seating (definitely busy in the evenings) but it is ALWAYS worth the wait.
(5)Dustin M.
Excellent pizza though prices are on the high side.
(4)Michael H.
Best. Pizza. Ever. Order one per person though.
(5)Emily S.
The Food was fantastic. and the margaritas are strong. ( Go for the Real Maragairt)
(5)Elle P.
This is absolutely the best pizza I've ever had (and I've tried a lot!).
(5)Alex P.
I first spotted this place because I was trying out Fetoosh (which is amazing) next door and saw that Pupatella was beyond crowded. So I went back the next week and had to try it out. Theres a process to ordering...First you stand in line to order your pizza, then once you order you will be given a wait time for a table...if you ordered alcohol then you have to go up to the bar and get...then once you are seated you have to wait and then they bring you your food...For dessert, if you want Gelato then you have to go up to the Gelato counter and pay separately. I don't have a problem with the process...I actually kind of like it, but please note Pupatella doesn't take reservations. So the time in line was like 15 minutes, then the time to get seated was another 15 minutes, and then it took an hour exactly for the pizzas to come out...So from the time I was in line till I got my food was an hour and a half!!! which to me is crazy for pizza. Good thing I got an appetizer to hold us over. The risotto balls for appetizer were great and the pizza was also really good, but my only complain with the pizza was that the crust was very soft so it was hard to pick up. Other than that the flavors and options were amazing and the prices were really fair. Would I go back? I probably wouldn't go back because of the wait times...I don't really think an hour and a half for pizza is worth it, but the pizza was good.
(3)Diana D.
every time: CAPRICCIOSA with pepperoni. it's so good. it's so good. In each bite you have the perfect portion of the pizza dough, meat, and veggies (mushrooms and artichokes count, right?). i can't stop saying it, but it's so good! the first time I had it I was so excited. then the second, third, and 4th time happened - and by the time I knew it, I was in love. it's so good! Ah! might have to have it again soon, VERY soon..... the pizza portion is big enough for one person. I would skip on any carb-related appetizers - everyone knows they leave you with less room for the pizza. their appetizers are so tempting though! the risotto balls are crispy on the outside, melting rice magic on the inside. also, I say skip on the calzone -- it's fried, i think. Has a totally different texture than the pizzas that come out of the oven. stick with their pizza! Try the capricciosa with pepperoni!... it's so good!!
(4)Michael G.
Best pizza in Arlington, varied menu, great gelado as well. One of my go to spots on a Su-Th night. Can get crowded on Friday/Saturday but just grab a beer/wine and wait the 30-45 minutes for a spot. Phone isn't always answered. CLOSED ON MONDAYS!!
(5)Vishal S.
Funky artsy cafe. Super friendly staff. Lots of choices for pizza and can also make your own pizza. Small little place and generally busy. The pizzas are awesome - a bit pricey tho - like DC prices in the outskirts of Arlington. But worth the $$$
(5)Cynthia L.
So I totally understand that this is a very different type of pizza (Neopolitan pizza baked in a special oven, meant to have char marks, etc.), which is why I'll say it's a 4-Star Place (if you are looking for crispy, thick-crust, hearty American pizzas, you may not enjoy this place quite as much). We got the Margherita Pizza and 2 others (for the sake of not butchering the names, I'm going to say meatball on one and mushroom/ham/artichoke on the other). I can def taste the freshness of the ingredients (fresh buffalo mozzerella, basil leaves, etc.), hubs and I just didn't like how "wet" the pizza was (from the mozzerella). I also didn't quite enjoy the burnt taste, but I could appreciate it for what it was The place (during lunchtime) was very packed and it was nice feeling like the place was a very "home-y" restaurant. I'd give this place another try before I totally say yes or no.
(4)Elda A.
As much as we love the food here im not sure if we will be returning. There wasnt a place to sit but one of the workers helped us get a table in the back near the bar. She got us a high chair and she was deciding where to put it so it wouldnt get in the way of the double doors or on other side back to back with a booth. Unfortunatley her deciding factor was that she asked us if our son (17 mth)old was gonna be loud? I ddnt understand what that had to do with anything considering A he wasnt making a peep, B the place was packed and loud and C there were a ton of loud kids around us! I just found it rude
(2)Ron B.
This place was recommended to me by a friend that swears this place is the best pizza spot in the surrounding area. Considering we are all pizza lovers and I'm a self-proclaimed pizza connoisseur I had to try it despite having to drive an hour to get here. Maybe it was me overly hyping it only to be left feeling slightly disappointed. Don't get me wrong the pizzas were good, but just how good we're they? If you'd like a comparison I'd say they were on par with Mia's in Bethesda, MD and similar to Coalfire Pizza in Ellicott City. What does this mean? The pizzas were good, but certainly not the best in the surrounding area and certainly not worth an hour long trek to have. In case you're wondering we ordered the chorizo and margharita pizzas for two people. Pizza serving sizes are good for 1-2 people, but since I'm sort of a fatty I got one all for myself. We also got the panzarotti as an appetizer and the spaghetti and meatballs from the kids menu. Pass on the margharita and get the chorizo or try something else. The panzarotti was good, but it was my first time ever having one. My wife is originally from an Italian NY neighborhood so she said the panzarotti was good, but smaller than the ones she had before. If you're wondering about the spaghetti and meatballs yeah I tried it and you can't really mess up spaghetti and meatballs. Service was great though! All the employees there were extra friendly and accommodating. I guess this place is really popular so it can get crowded and seats fill up. I came with a party of 5 including myself and my almost 1 year old child. Seating wasn't available for my entire party so we were offered seats at the bar until a table opened up. We took it and about 15 min later we were seated at a table. This place is kid friendly so they had a high chair for my kid. Awesome! I'm adding another star as we speak---done. The bottom line: the pizzas were average and you can get similar pizzas elsewhere at other coal oven pizzerias, but by all means try it yourself if you're in the area.
(4)Ash C.
I am giving this place a 3 star for ambiance. And by no means I mean the seating in the crowded small pizzeria; I mean the excitement exuding on everyone's face who was there. I kept looking at the donuts and they looked delicious but since I was having coffee with a friend later on I kept reminding myself not to indulge (definitely trying them next time when I'm in the area) Back to the pizza; we ordered eggplant arancini for appetizer and margarita and spinach/feta pizza. Arancini was blahhh and I only scooped the mozzarella out and ate it instead (YES I LOVE CHEESE). Pizza's looked super fresh and light. It would have been a perfect slice if I didn't keep thinking of presto pizza's perfect marg. Sorry Pupatella I tried! Next time I'm gonna give those tempting donuts a try and update this review!
(4)G S.
WOW this place is great!!!!!!! We have been to this restaurant three times over the past week. The pizza is so amazing by far the best ever had and very reminiscent of pizza in Rome. You have to try the Margherita Doc pizza. It is certified authentic Italian and superb in all respects in fact everything is outstanding including the caprrese salad the Buratta. platter as well as the brussels sprouts. Eggplant Parmesan is a house specialty. Enjoy superb service and top the meal off with an amazing gelato.
(5)Chris H.
Words don't do it justice.
(5)Christine H.
LOVE the roasted beets, so does my son which is amazing. Oh, you know the pizza if great. Best oven in Arlington.
(5)Nick H.
Great pizza (only Italian store in Arlington has them beat), gelato and craft beer. Super chill and cozy date spot. Friendly staff. We will be back!
(4)Brenda H.
I went there for the first time today. Apparently they shit down the pizza oven between 3 an 4pm. I was in line when one of the waitresses came up to my husband and I and told us that. We were on our way out when someone mentioned I was pregnant so they said we could order pizza. I was grateful for that. Being that it was our first time there, my husband wasn't sure what to order so he took an extra minute Make a choice. Initially he didn't want pizza but after a minute he changed his mind. The cashier said he couldn't order anymore. So apparently you order then sit yourself down. It was a lil confusing because there were no utensils or plates on the table. I got it myself. I don't know if that's the normal way it works. The decor was loungy. The pizza was good. It had a good flavor. My husband ended up ordering a panini which he said it was ok. I just found it a lil confusing as in how the restaurant works.
(3)Juliet F.
Went last night: some guy at the door asked us to stand in a 15-20 minute line to place our order and then find a seat if we are dining in. He promised this is a good night wait time-wise for a Saturday. We followed directions, ordering two pizzas for the two of us. Then we proceeded to wait ONE hour for the food to come! The pizza was good but not worth the wait. If you go, order lots of apps and drinks to sustain you until your actual food arrives? That's the best I can offer!
(3)Molly M.
This place gets amazing reviews and is still underrated. Incredible pizza, nice people, quick service. ABSOLUTELY get the panzarotti. Mashed potatoes with prosciutto basil and mozzarella, rolled, and fried. AMAZING. The pizza is made in an oven made from volcanic ash from Mt Vesuvius. It gets to nearly 1000 degrees so the pizza cooks in 60 seconds. Fresh ingredients, old school technique. No BS, just great food. Other highlights- Mexican coke, great gelato, local beers on draft. The only thing I don't like is that they refuse to answer the phone but I see why they don't- this place is worth waiting in line for.
(5)Sara C.
Best Neapolitan pizza in VA. My husband and I frequented this place all the time when we lived in Arlington. Now we make special trips from Vienna just to get our fix. I have been to Italy and this is exactly what the pizza is like. Great food - you can't go wrong here. Be prepared to wait and don't be shocked of they don't pick up the phone to take your order - your not the only one who knows what's up!
(5)Robert B.
I read a stupid article about the best pizza in every state. This place was rated number 1 in VA. So being bored my wife and I drive from Warrenton to Arlington Va over a hour to try this place. After getting there at around 3pm Saturday November 8th we were told they were shutting down for a half a hour until they cleaned there over. I was like we drove an hour just to eat here. The lady seemed unimpressed. I was told we could order appetizers and when I tried to order them the idiot at the register seemed uninterested in helping us. When I asked if they had any bottle water I was told if its not in the case we dont have them and she was not nice about it. We abruptly left. This was the worst experience we had had in a long time. If they have good pizza I will never find out because I'm never giving this place a second chance.
(1)J B.
The pizza is awesome and they have some really interesting options for toppings. The lines are usually long so you might want to consider coming at an off-peak time.
(4)Grace M.
Amazing pizza and everyone that works there is super nice but restaurant setup needs improvement. The entryway is too narrow for one of those pay upfront concepts. Also, it's awkward tipping before knowing how everything will turn out.
(4)Lauren H.
It's a tie between this and Italian Store for best pizza for me. Come at lunch, dinner is way too crowded. Tried on Friday night and it was a 45 minute wait just to order!
(5)Christine J.
My boyfriend and I love exploring new areas and restaurants. You will never see us at a chain restaurant for that very reason. Why go to a chili's when you have so many other places to try? He had just recently moved to the area for his new job in DC and while we were planning our restaurant check list found this gem. The best pizza I have eaten in years. Everything is fresh and so authentic it's like stepping in a Naples itself. I had to try the mushroom and brie immediately and let me tell you you will not be disappointed. Boyfriend had the meatball it looked so good I just had to have a bite myself. You have to try this place!
(5)Heather R.
Talk about a hidden gem. We were driving aimlessly (and when I say aimless, I mean "back road omgwherearewe aimless), and happened to look into Pupatella. At first thought, I pictured an oriental grocery store - it was that packed. Then the name... pupatella made us think Mexican food? We scoped it out across the street at the Safeway while I did a quick Yelp search.... a Pizza joint?! Ok we had to try it now. From their utterly not typical drink selection to churizo pizza, we were sold. In and out in under a half an hour (apparently the waits here are much longer, but well worth it), we'll definitely be back.
(4)Sylvie S.
Great hole in the wall pizza place. Order at the counter and take a number to your seat. Small, casual, and delicious! I got the prosciutto and arugula pizza....without the arugula. Lol It was surprisingly good and made with fresh ingredients. Get two pizzas and get ten dollars off a bottle of wine! Their beer selection also seemed above average (I think). Wanted to try the doughnuts but they were all out. Instead got the tiramisu. It was forgettable. Stop by to eat or pick up some to go!
(5)Jane J.
Excellent pizza. You'll probably have to park across the street but don't let that disuade you. More real Italian than New York/Chicago style. If you like real Italian Style this is the place to be. Hands down.
(5)Paul L.
For a place run by Italians I expected much better. I went on the advice of a friend, and for full disclosure I must say he is from Italy as well and loves the place. That said, his father came to visit from Italy, I took him there, and we both agreed "Meh." I have had better. Our crust was soft, the prices were high and it was really nothing special. Two Amy's beats it for authentic Italian Pizza hands down. Also Pazzo Pomodoro makes a really good authentic pizza as well.
(2)Erika E.
The BEST Neapolitan pizza in this area!! I'm hooked. Got the deep fried mozzarella balls, pepperoni pizza (for the toddler), and the mushroom (white sauce) pizza. Definitely going back and recommending to all my friends.
(5)Sam S.
my current top favorite pizza in the area. tied for menomale in brookland. i had a glass of chianti and the diavola - spicy salami, fresh mozzarella, basil, and san marzano (!!) tomato sauce. it was near perfect. the only reason it doesn't get 5 stars is because it's not john's of bleeker in nyc.
(4)Sapna B.
Wow. This place has amazing everything. And to top it off, it has very reasonable prices. I came here with some girlfriends last night and we had the Arancini with Sausage, Bruschetta, Margherita Pizza and the Prosciutto Arugula Pizza. The Arancini was delicious -- freshly fried and the cheese was not only the perfect amount, but it was melted perfectly as well. I'm usually not a huge fan of Bruschetta but I loved this one -- the balance of tomatoes to basil was perfect and it had the perfect amount of salt (I usually find Bruschetta to be under-salted or over-salted). The tomatoes did cause the bread to get a big soggy but not a deal breaker. The Margherita Pizza was definitely my favorite -- totally classic and the fresh buffalo mozzarella cheese was amazing. The crust was perfect -- so nice and thin with a slight char that really brought out the taste -- I was happy to be able to eat three or four slices of pizza without feeling like I was going to explode. The Prosciutto Arugula pizza was also delicious -- not as good as the Margherita but delicious nonetheless. Will be back over and over again.
(5)Susan L.
Don't understand what the bruhaha is about. The pizza is soggy and not too good plus the bald guy at the cash register was decidedly unfriendly. Two Amys is far superior.
(1)Colleen N.
Best pizza I've ever had in my life and continues to be amazing. The staff is also very friendly and the beer selection is good.
(5)Christie H.
I am waiting (and secretly dreading) the day when all of Arlington finds out about Pupatella. Each time I go there, I'm expecting a line out the door and a visit from President Obama, because it is that buzzworthy and delicious. The worst part about Pupatella is the parking situation. Parking is extremely tight in front of the building, although we've always been able to score a spot. But that's the only downside. When you walk in the front door, you're greeted by friendly staff, chic and comfortable decor (love the egg chairs) and what sounds like a killer iPod playlist. But the food is the real star here. Get anything you want on the menu, because there's really nothing that's bad. It's all delicious, with interesting combinations of fresh ingredients. I love the proscuitto and arugula pizza, which is at once both crispy (bottom of the perfectly-charred pizza) and juicy (pizzas are only cooked for a minute, meaning that the toppings retain their moisture and flavor). Other standouts are the vegetarian aracini, the fried calzone (which tasted like a donut with ham - delicious), the Nutella pizza (OMG), and the specialty pizzas they unveil every week. The drink selection is great -- we love the Pellegrino sodas, which complement the pizzas perfectly. As if the food and service weren't enough, the value can not be beat. A pizza will set you back about $12, the aracino $3.50, and the soda $2. A ton of food and not hard on your wallet. Warning: Don't go on a Sunday or Monday, because they're closed. I showed up last Monday and almost cried because I wanted the pizza that bad.
(5)Jessica R.
Food truck turned restaurant, this place gives you the impression that you've found an undiscovered Italian diamond among the rough. It's unassuming and delicious and you'll leave feeling 150% satisfied. If you are dining 'a deux', I highly recommend the following: 1- Split Salad #1 (the generous serving of prosciutto is extremely fresh) 2 -Try two different pizzas (each one is made to order in a delicious and authentic Neapolitan fashion by the owner Enzo. my favorite is simply mushroom and mozzarella) 3 - Split a small scoop of the Pistachio gelato (perfect ending) I promise you'll love this place!
(5)Zach S.
Probably the best pizza I've ever had. Perfect crust - light and chewy, with a delicious char that gives it a smoky flavor. The sauce is great too. It's fresh and bright and has a ton of flavor. It's a cool place too. As a cheapskate, I appreciating being able to order at a counter and not have to deal with table service and tipping. You might have to wait a while for your pizza to get made if it's busy, but it's worth it.
(5)Nicky B.
Great pizza and friendly staff. I was very sad when the cart closed down but the store is only about a mile up the road, so its both walking distance and quick bus and driving distance for those desperate lunch times. I've never had a pizza I didn't like it here. I'm a fan of their grilled sausage on pizza or the sausage panini. A few years back I went to order a pizza at the cart and the guy said they had just ran out and all they had was the sausage sandwiches, but had run out of the onion as well. He suggested I put mushrooms and artichokes on the sausage and mozzarella sandwich, and it was AMAZING. My mouth is watering thinking about it. Definitely worth heading up Wilson to go to.
(4)Jess Y.
The wait at this restaurant is seriously ridiculous. You wait in a seemingly never ending line to order--even if you come early. Then you wait in another ridiculous line for an open table. Then you wait at your table for the actual food to arrive (which also takes a while). The lines go out the door, but in the winter they somehow snake inside and block the servers from actually doing their job. There must be an easier way if the lines themselves are preventing and slowing down service even more. I've been here twice and yes, the pizzas are delicious--that traditional Neapolitan style pizza that you can't get anywhere else but Italy. And yes, you will wait probably an hour and a half to get them. But, I suppose that's still less than actually flying to Italy. Only issue is that sometimes because the crust is so thin, it can get a little soggy in the middle if there are too many "wet" toppings. The big winner was the Prosciutto & Arugula except we actually subbed out the tomato sauce for pesto and it was a fantastic choice. Probably one of the best pizzas I've had and was the first pizza to be cleaned out at our table. The next best was a special for the day which had broccoli rabe and meatballs with a nice hint of heat.
(4)Mirela T.
Man, all i need to say is YUMMY! This place is awesome, now that they've expanded there is more room for seating, they needed this. Every time I've been to this place it's been nothing but deliciousness. The pizza and the veggies are fresh. The the fact that the pizzas are baked on an open fire is by far my favorite. It gives you that awesome flavor that a bake oven couldn't. They have a specific set menu of pizzas, but you can also build your own. Love that they give you that option. Also, like to add that the gelato is delicious, especially the hazelnut. My gosh, so good! Seating can be a bit tricky and the wait can be long, but worth it!
(5)Ariel E.
I came here for a quick weeknight meal. There was no wait, and I loved the pizza. Considering the high quality, I thought the price was really low. :) I'll definitely be back!
(4)Rob K.
Solid to great pizza. The only issue I have with Pupatella is the restaurant itself is small, but worth checking out if you enjoy
(5)Kimberly S.
The dreary weather had me feeling a little bit down last Friday so I decided to eat my feelings through pizza. On this day, no ordinary Domino's would do -- I needed a Neapolitan certified pizza that was cooked in a wood burning oven. Luckily, Pupatella is a hop, skip and away from my office and came highly recommended on Yelp when I started a talk thread on who had the best pizza in the area. My favorite pizza toppings usually include mushrooms, green peppers, and a sprinkle or arugula on top. On my very bad, no good day, I knew that a smattering of pork rounds would be the only way to turn my frown upside down. I ordered a pepperoni pizza and it came out piping hot with grease pools collecting in the areas where the sausage had curled up. It was a beautiful sight to behold and even more wonderful to eat. With a crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella -- this pizza had me mad cheesin' the rest of the day (with a side of heart burn). Deliciouso!
(5)Jessica L.
Best pizza ever. I go there once a week to get the diavola pizza. Everyone there is so nice!
(5)Lou C. H.
The sausage pizza and margherita pizza are excellent, as are the eggplant and sausage arancinis and squash blossoms! Yummy and sinfully so. The crust is a little doughy and tastes like a pancake. Not crispy. Chewy. Often crowded. Wish they had more variety of salads and low calorie/low carb options though. Arugula is not my favorite, but they offer an arugula salad with crisp green apples and grapefruit that my dining mates loved. One of their daily specials was Fried Pizza which intrigued my pre-diabetic friend until she realized no one wanted those extra calories and told her that fried pizza was all hers and all alone. Pizza is already on my trainer's verboten list, and to fry it....is to kill me now. They offer some craft beers, cream sodas, wines, and of course, desserts. The pizzas are on the small side. If you order 2, you get $10 off your bottle of wine.
(4)J O.
Good food, good drink, available priced combinations for food and drink. Would go again.
(4)Elizabeth J.
We went on a weekend and there was no where to park. We found a spot a few blocks away and walked over. The place was packed. The staff were nice and we ate there as recommended by other reviewers. Good thing because the crust wouldn't have made it home. The pizza was good but not the best I've ever had.
(4)Jim P.
I've only had pizza this good in a few places. You can tell the difference between a good pizza and a great pizza by the untopped crust portion. A lot of places get the toppings and sauce figured out but fall short on the crust. On a good pizza, it tastes good. On a great pizza, it tastes like manna from God. Put another way: if the pizza was free and unlimited, would you still eat the crusts? I wouldn't, in a lot of cases. But here I definitely would. Shout out to the staff. They cooked us 4 pizzas even though we walked in right before closing time. I know that's a dick move. Normally I would leave but I had just finished driving up from NC and my brother was raving about how good this place is, so we really wanted to eat here. I owe you one.
(5)W C.
Good pizza, but I am used to good ol NY pizza.
(3)Rob B.
When I originally went to Pupatella with a friend, I was thrown off by the LONG line that almost went out the door. But after eating my pizza I see why this place is so popular. The food was delicious and the service was great. That long line isn't from employees being sluggish or slow because you can see them working as fast/hard as possible. Great place
(5)Bob W.
I would rate this tied with Ovvio (of Merrifield/Fairfax) for best pizza in the greater DC area. As for parking at Pupatella, forget it! Maybe you can find something on one of the side residential streets. Love the fact Pupatella features Mexican Coke and other premium products. Way to go.
(4)Ethan L.
Time for more pies! Pupatela is a different take on most pizza places, not so much in the sense that they make their pizzas a certain way. When you first enter you have to get in line. You go past a red mosaic oven and a counter where the pizza makers are creating the pies. It's a great first look into seeing what goes into what you are making, blobs of mozzarella and fresh basil leaves adorn the tops, and start you salivating. Quickly pick out something from the menu, we hit the specials, but 2 were gone, and substituted some regulars. Four pies and salads were ordered. I then saw pitchers of sangria, which could hit the spot, but where is the beer and wine menu. Now here was a fun tip, there was a small smorgasborg of beers in a cooler as you get close to cash register. My eye picked up a Weihenstephaner Oktoberfest, yup I am coming back after I finish my sangria. Tiled walls of green and yellow, modern ultra red chairs and black cushions. There's a little bit of touch here in the madness and quite busy place though. The salad was fairly ordinary, but at least romaine lettuce, and good shaved cheese. Simple is ok, it's fine sometimes, but of course the real star here is the pizza. We ordered two specials, (we wanted 4 specials but 2 ran out), a fig and prosciutto, and a cream? and beef (which we had to substitute with sausage since they ran out!). The other regular pizzas we had were a tomato and artichoke, and a chorizo. Let's get into the nitty gritty of why the pizza hits it. The fig and prosciutto is chewy and tender, drizzled with a great syrupy balsamic vinegar reduction. Hit this with the fig sweetness and it was a great combo. Tomato and artichoke bursts with controlled acid and sweet tomato, the chorizo has a wonderful sausage pepper kick and spice, and the other special we had just hit with great blobs of sausage, mushroom, and those white goo of cheese. All the pizzas have one thing unique about them. They are spongy and doughy with a great black carbon char to them, but NOT soggy. The tomato base under them is real solid and was easily a great backbone to all the pizzas we had. I wouldn't recommend these for delivery or take out, I would strongly suggest getting them and eating them at the place instantly. They chew and dance in the mouth with great fresh ingredients. Also I love the sizes of the pizza they are easily enjoyable for one, and great to share so that you filled up just nicely. Well that's it right? umm no... one thing escaped me, and that was the dessert, specifically an espresso junkie like me needed to have. Order an Affogato. how could I not forget about this great simple dessert, a dollop of gellato dunked into a shot of espresso. Blueberry or strawberry... uh no.. get a hazelnut or double chocolate.. and it's espresso junike (me) heaven. This is a great place to grab a bite, solid fresh, delicious, and more importantly a great place to have pizza.
(4)Erin F.
Pupatella is our favorite pizza spot in the DMV. We came in at 7:30 on a Friday night and had a table within 30 min and our pizza soon after that. I don't know how they manage the crowd so well, but I was incredibly impressed. We started out with the burrata platter. The olive oil they used was amazing and played wonderfully with the arugula and the tomatoes. The deli meat was also very good. Then the pizzas. Oh the pizzas. We got 5 pizzas for 5 people, and couldn't finish them all. They were all fantastic in their own way. Burrata- this is a MUST HAVE. There was no sauce, but the burrata was fantastic, the crust was salty. It was a wonderful pizza. Traditional DOC- probably one of the best versions of this around. Simple but elegant. If you're adventurous, I'd say don't go with this pizza, but only because the other ones are so good. If you're not adventurous, this is the pizza for you. So good. Mushroom- this is, to be honest, not my favorite pizza. I'm not a huge fan of blue cheese in general- although this is one of my favorite preparations. If you like mushrooms or blue cheese, this is a fantastic pizza. My boyfriend inhales it. Eggplant & Roasted Red Pepper- I don't like red peppers... on anything BUT this pizza. I tried this pizza for the first time on Friday, since I normally go with my BF and he refuses to eat eggplant. It was so yummy. It's like an amazing eggplant dip, but warm. Highly recommended. Tomato artichoke- I was hesitant when we got this one, but it turned out to be so yummy. The artichoke is slightly liquidy and salty which combines really well with the tomatoes and the tomato sauce. It also offsets the smooth/ slimy mozzarella. An amazing combination. I just wish they sold the small pizzas by the slice so that I could try them all like I did with the group. Fantastic restaurant. Cannot recommend highly enough.
(5)M B.
I"m not sure where i heard about this place but decided to try it...i was a bit surprised by the process...you stand in line order your food, pay, and then once you have a number you are seated. If you ordered drinks you must go to the bartender and show him your receipt and then your drinks are poured. Other then that...Everything we ordered was great! We got the eggplant Parmesan pizza and the chorizzo pizza. We ordered the sampler for an appetizer...i have never had anything like it! Would definitely come again! Parking is a bit of a pain so i would recommend coming early. We were able find parking on one of the side streets but i have a feeling people park in the Safeway Lot across the street.
(4)Ariel O.
Wonderful pizza!! My sister and I came late at night (9pm) and the service was great, even then. Even though the menu suggested that we have a pizza ourselves, we just shared a pizza and ordered an app. For a drink, I got a Ginger Ale (in a bottle) - very good! Our app was Brussels Sprouts with green apple & balsamic dressing ($5.50). If you like tart, tangy, and braised (charred), then you'll love these! My sister makes similar sprouts so I loved them! For our pizza, we chose the Meatball Pizza ($13) with homemade​ angus beef meatballs, ricotta, mozzarella, basil and garlic, The crust was thick where it should be and a little thin where you'd like it. The sauce wasn't spicy or too rich, just perfect. Very satisfying for a dinner. We stayed past their closing time but we weren't the only ones and they weren't rudely telling us to leave while we were still eating. The place IS, however, small. So you might need to do carry-out if it's crowded. PS. According to their website, they do not deliver and are closed on Mondays. FYI!
(5)Yan W.
I reserve photo collages for loved ones, and I had to create a photo collage for Pupatellas! I've been looking forward to trying this establishment after I saw it featured on a PBS special about best places to eat in the DC area. When you first arrive, just expect that you will not get any parking. None. Just accept it, and move on. We slyly parked at the Safeway across the street (not recommending this, just describing to you what we did). We also went at an off time - 3pm and still had to wait a bit for our pizzas. We tried the prosciutto arugula and tomato and artichoke and both pizzas were amazing. I'm a thin crust person, so the perfectly crispy, yet doughy, sweet crust knocked my socks off. I don't yet know what tomato sauce in Italy tastes like, but if It tasted as flavorful and rich (but not thick) as at Paputellas, I'm moving.
(5)Amanda S.
The best pizza in the DMV area!! I love the diavola pizza and I usually add artichokes. The mimosa pizza is also very different and so tasty! I am never disappointed when I come here.
(5)R P.
Simply put, the most authentic, exquisite napoletano-style pizza I've had outside of Napoli, Italia. If you live in the DC area or are visiting and enjoy phenomenal pizza, you have to check out Pupatella.
(5)Marie M.
This is my favorite pizza place, ever. First time (certainly not the last) I got the meatball pizza and the burrata platter for an app. Their pizzas are made to order and extremely fresh. The meatball texture sort of reminded me like ground meat. It was spread perfectly over the pizza. The buffalo mozz in the burrata platter is absolutely mouth watering. I had it last night for the first time and seriously am considering going tonight. The pizzas are good for one person, depends how hungry you are. You will for sure has a slice or two left over. Thin crust too! TRY IT! They get extremely busy so go at a good time.
(5)Linda C.
I heard so many good things about this place and it was confirmed by fellow Yelpers. Eat here once and you will be back! The hubs is a pizza connoisseur, and he loved every bite. We tried the pesto pizza, pepperoni pizza, arancini stuffed with eggplant, and cheesy bread. The pizza dough was light and chewy, and the fresh mozzarella was awesome. We were there on a Saturday around 2pm and the place was busy. Can't imagine what it's like during peak time. PS - They had a gelato selection that we will have to try next time.
(5)Irwin K.
Definitely coming back here. I'm a big fan of Neapolitan pizza. It's not quite up there like Antico's in Atlanta, which is my favorite, but it's close and the price point is better ($11-15 per pie, though smaller pies). ** THE FOOD** Generally speaking, the pizza is good. Dough is thin with a little salt and char to give it flavor, the sauce is excellent, and the cheese is great. Since the dough is thin and as someone else mentioned, it's a tiny bit under cooked, too many toppings can make it a sloppy pizza. The wife and I had the Margherita and Diavola pizzas and the eggplant arancini. As with a lot of places in the area, they serve glass bottle Mexican Coke products. Margherita ($13): 5-stars. Mozzarella di Bufala cheese, olive oil and basil. Man, everything came together in this pizza. The dough was great, sauce was great, cheese was delicious, basil was fragrant, and you could taste the quality of the olive oil. If you like no frills Neapolitan pizza, get this. Diavola ($11): 3-stars. Spicy salami, mozzarella, and basil Pizza was good, but not the best I've had. I'm used to Diavola being more spicy with peppers, so I was a little underwhelmed by the overall punch. They loaded it with (not that) spicy salami, which I was happy to take off and eat on the side with the Margherita. The salami itself was good, just maybe a little too much. Eggplant Arancini ($4.50): 4-stars. Two fried risotto balls with eggplant and mozzarella Never had this before, but gave it a try. It's more of a fried cheese ball rather than risotto, but that's probably what made it even better! The crust was crunchy and not that greasy. We asked for some marinara on the side, which went well. ** THE SERVICE ** Not really too much to say. You line up, order, and sit down. It was a Saturday around lunch time, but not too busy. I asked for marinara for the Arancini and they delivered. Asked for a box to pack up the leftovers, and they got me one. No complaining involved. Quick tip - if there is no parking near the store, park at the Safeway across the street. The cashier mentioned that the 7-11 likes to tow cars in their parking lot. ** BOTTOM LINE ** If you like Neapolitan pizza, it's definitely worth a visit.
(4)Kim H.
Loved this place! We started our lunch with Frittura (fried) Sampler, which includes: 2 fried risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella, peas and sausage 2 fried risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella and roasted eggplant 1 fried potato croquettes stuffed with prosciutto and mozarella 1 fried mozzarella ball Good lord, they were fantastic!!!! I love the texture of fried risotto because it reminds of fried sticky rice (asians love their sticky rice!). Be forewarned, they are super heavy. My favorites were the sausage/peas and roasted eggplant. We love to try everything so we got the following pizzas: Diavola - spicy salami, fresh mozz and basil Pepperoni Margherita DOC Mushroom (white) - comes with garlic, brie and truffle oil Spinach (white) - comes with roasted red peppers, pine nuts, and feta A big plus, I saw workers chopping up fresh veggies! The meats were high quality and very flavorful. They use large thick slices of salami and pepperoni. The white pizzas were fantastic. I've never tasted anything quite like the mushroom brie before, it was sweet and soft. The spinach pie was nice and neat. I loved it all!!! I've read a lot of reviews about how the crust gets soggy very quickly and I would have to agree. Eat fast because once this starts to happen, the pizza is definitely not as appetizing. We took a lot of leftovers home and I must say, it tasted just as good cold!
(4)Maria-Elena T.
Stopped in for a quick pizza after the gym. We split a margherita with arugula on half. We also got the sausage, pea, cheese -arancini. In addition, I ordered two uncooked arancini to go to take to my mom. I wouldn't be seeing my Sicilian mom until the evening and I thought they would taste better freshly cooked. These are the most authentic arancini I have had outside Italy. The pizza is good- great flavor. But a little doughy in the middle for me. I prefer my pizza more crispy.
(4)Sandra F.
Salads are yummy. Pizza is very tasty, IF the bottom is not BURNED BLACK. Tell the person who takes your order to have the bakers pull your pizza before the bottom is scorched. (I am not kidding here.)
(3)Melissa S.
The BEST pizza in the DC area. Hands down. No contest. Amazing! I would describe the service as "no frills" but let's face it, you come for the food not the customer service. I would recommend coming in a bit later during the week to avoid the busy dinner rush when the atmosphere is more relaxed and the space not as cramped.
(5)Si S.
Simply delicious pizza.... What more could you ask for?!
(5)Tammy L.
We loved the diavola and meatball pizzas we ordered. The arugula salad tasted very Italian to me. A glass of white wine went well with the pizza.
(5)Mark H.
Highly overrated. The pizza is pretty good, but given the rise of quality pizza options in Arlington, I can't say that Pupatella is exceptional. We ordered Panzarotti (fried potato dumplings) that came out cold in the middle. To her credit, the waitress immediately took it back and when it came out the second time, it was cooked perfectly. We ordered insalata caprese, which was the highlight of the meal. It was marinated lightly and the mozzarella was really fresh and tasty. We ordered the arugula pizza and yes it was good, but not exceptional. The crust was soggy in the middle. Some people seem to think that's an authentic style, but I disagree, even if the owner is from Naples. The crust should be cooked through and have a bit of bite, even in the middle of the pizza. It was tasty, of course, just not good enough to stand out from the area's competition. The service and interior are problematic. The dining room is very small and extremely crowded. There's no table service. I ordered a beer with my dinner and I received a ticket to go redeem at the bar. When I got to the bar there was nobody working it, so I just kept my ticket and sat down to eat, waiting for somebody to come back to the bar. After 10 minutes of waiting I flagged down an employee (keep in mind, there's no table service) and asked about the bar situation. She apologized and found somebody to fulfill my drink ticket. In a small & busy restaurant, I can perhaps understand how important posts might get neglected, but while I was eating my meal 2 other guys went to the bar to redeem their drink tickets and they waited 10 minutes, too! It's situated next to a gas station and the parking is extremely limited and crowded. I'd like to think maybe we just caught them on a bad/busy night and I would like it more if I went back a second time, but there are so many awesome pizza places around here that I doubt I will give Pupatella a second chance.
(3)Julie S.
Loooove the prosciutto pizza and the buffalo margarita! Parking sucks for the most part and I don't know if you can park across the street at Safeway but we did once and didn't have an issue.
(4)Andrew B.
I come home after work craving pizza - sophisticated, complex pizza - not Dominos or Papa Johns. I searched yelp and found the typical places, but then I stumbled upon this incredible spot. Having close to 600 reviews, I had to try it for myself. You walk in to a unique atmosphere that doesn't really give off a pizza vibe, but more of a diner vibe in my opinion. I take a moment to watch the chefs create a wide range of pizzas - all of which have my mouth watering. After scanning over the simple, yet thorough menu I decided to get the prosciutto & arugula pizza and mozzarella balls. The pizza blew my socks off. It was hands down one of the best prosciutto & arugula pizzas that I have ever had. The ingredients were so fresh that I could taste each ingredient in every bite, something I rarely ever come across. The ingredients were so good that I could even taste the flavorful olive oil that was dripped over the pizza. To make a long story short, the pizza lives up to and exceeds all the hype and praise this place gets. I will continue to go back here whenever I'm looking for a delicious pizza dinner.
(4)Agnasa W.
Awesome place with great pizza and cool service. One of the best places for genuine Napolitan pizza in the area. Been there 3x already.
(5)G R.
My first time there. Pizza was excelent. The sauce is the best thing of it all,, in my opinion. Only 3 stars because as we were in line to order, one of the staff told us that the main seating area was closed because of "a rat" issue. Normally that would be where I turn around and head for the exit, but, after some serious hesitation, decided to eat there anyway. A week later I am alive writing this review.
(3)Jen P.
I had never partaken in true Neapolitan style pizza before...I'm a Jersey girl and can be a bit of a pizza snob, admittedly. I like a thin, crispy crust, a sweet tomato sauce and bubbly cheese. So, when I heard that Neapolitan pizza had a soft crust, my inner pizza critic was skeptical. Until the first bite. YUM. I had the margherita the first time. (I have had others since, but keep coming back to the margherita.) Fresh buffalo mozzarella and a fresh tomato sauce gives great flavor and balance...but the crust is what does it. Light and chewy, with little charred speckles that add a hint of smokiness to a flavorful crust... Again...YUM. I am officially a lover of the Neapolitan pizza. Although I will still argue the virtues of a northeast pie, I will be calling Pupatella for my pizza fix while I live in the DC area.
(4)John P.
Pizza was just so-so. Crust was not crisp, too chewy; artichoke topping was tough. Very disappointing in light of its apparent popularity.
(2)Michelle Q.
Excellent wood-fired pizza, quick service, and Mexican coke (plus other fancy sodas). What's not to like? (Except maybe lack of parking. Parking at the grocery store lot across the street is fine, but the pedestrian cross signal takes for-freaking-ever!) The prosciutto with arugula and shavings of parm was sublime. Perfect bitter char on the dough. Order in the main counter area, and take your number to a table. Wait approximately 4 minutes for your pizza. Yum!
(4)G D.
Love this place!!! Was looking for a quick place to sit down and grab some lunch after a soccer game. Stopped by this place based on yelp reviews and am so glad we did. Thank you to all the yelp reviewers. Nothing fancy but some damn good pizza and gelato.
(4)Nate B.
The best pizza this side of Italy and I have had it there too!!! Between the pizza and the Gelatto it is a real find.
(5)Vanessa R.
Margarita Pizza with Buffalo Mozzarella cheese is by far my favorite pizza in the DMV area! This was a takeout order so I can't comment on any other aspects, but this place is definitely worth its reputation.
(5)Sadia R.
We went on a Sunday night and I was surprised to find that you have to order before you are seated by the host but I didn't mind since that took all of 5 minutes (I've heard it is worse on Friday and Saturday). However, then came the excruciatingly long wait for our pizza, I was starving so I felt like time stood still. Everybody and their mamas got their pizza but not us (this could all be a hallucination since I was about to pass out). To give the restaurant some credit they did say the pizza would take about 45 mins but it came after an hour and 20 mins!!!! Tip: order appetizers it's worth it Now to get to the good stuff: the PIZZA. OMG it's the best pizza I've ever had in my life!!! The cheese the crust the sauce wow!! We ordered the margherita pizza- it was simple yet amazing! after eating this pizza all those crazy varieties you get at a regular pizza joint is absolute crap! We also got the pepperoni pizza and for all my friends who don't eat pork the pepperoni is BEEF!!!! I couldn't believe my eyes or my taste buds for that matter haha! The pepperoni pizza was amazing too but my fav by like 0000001% is the margherita :) Lastly the prices are pretty reasonable. Can't wait to come back and savor my pizza
(5)Dan C.
Believe the hype! Incredible and authentic pizza. Go now!
(5)Jeffrey H.
Holy crap - the bree pizza is insane. INSANE!
(5)Marianne L.
Its Thursday. And I'm found once more as I am every week settled in enjoying the best Neapolitan pizza in the country. If its on the menu here pretty much guaranteed I'm going to try it. Today I'm enjoying fried zucchini blossoms and have opted to add mushrooms and slivers of fresh garlic to my Margherita. No clue what a zucchini blossom is suppose to taste like as I've never eaten one but these are exceptionally light and delicious kissed with a bit of fresh squeezed lemon juice and a hint of salt. Magnificent! It was about this time a few years ago I savored my first pie here. So much has changed as Pupatella has flourished. Its now twice the size with a full dinning room, beer & wine bar (including HH Tues-Fri), now open on Sundays, and breakfast on the weekends. You can still order at the counter and sit down - or now at a table from one of the roving waitstaff. The remodel to take over the space next door was kept under wraps and launched as a surprise - as I discovered one evening when I stopped in and had the honor of the first pie in the new space. The space may have had changes but one thing hasn't: GREAT FOOD. The regular pies on the menus are always fantastic, but don't overlook the daily specials. Often highlighting seasonal ingredients. Tempting tonight was a special winter sauce-less pizza featuring greens, raisins, pine nuts and olives. Definitely going to be back for that. The fresh bread baked for the paninis is excellent - crusty on the outside, soft inside - and the tasty doughnuts available on occasion (a wonderful indulgence). A year of focusing on diet and exercise has meant a number of changes to be healthier - but there's no way I would give up coming to Pupatella! Just not going to happen. I haven't gotten to Naples yet - but I can enjoy the little bits of its flavor that Enzo brings to Arlington. Great food, great people, great time!
(5)Liz C.
This place is a hole in the wall, that I probably wouldn't have found if not for so many recommendations. We went at noon on a Sunday and waited for them to open. A couple families were already there. However we were able to order and sit down right away. We tried the Prosciutto Arugula, Capricciosa, and the Ham & Mushroom which came out very quickly. They were good portions for one or two people. The cheese was in giant delicious mozzarella blobs and the crust was thin and crispy. The Capicciosa was the most flavorful of the three, and they were all priced around $12. The atmosphere was casual and family friendly. Not as upscale as Rustico but not a super casual corner pizza joint either. It's a fun place to try when you're in the mood for good pizza!
(4)Mrs S.
Love Love this eatery...being pregnant I seem to crave pizza pizza and my husband found this place through word of mouth and we were not disappointed. Mushroom and extra cheese so very delish. Service was outstanding, place was clean no sticky tables or crumbs/food on the floor and noise volume not a problem but we have kids...lol. Bathrooms were clean being pregnant its an issue of having to use the bathroom more and more ;)
(5)Alison M.
I came back here recently after not having gone in a while, and I had really forgotten how good it is. IT'S SO GOOD. The wait can be annoying, but the pizza is definitely worth it. We always get the prosciutto/arugula and generally something off of the specials menu. I could eat here every day (except at some point I would probably not be able to fit through the door anymore)
(5)Johanna H.
Hands down best pizza of all time. Not sure what else there is to say besides that. Appetizers are alright...but if you're going to come here, come for the pizza. Pizza is a bit expensive (around $13 each) and I can usually eat a whole pizza to myself since it's thin crust and sliced into four pieces. Even though it's pricey, I just can't stay away from this deliciousness.
(5)Shana K.
Delicious pizza! By far the best I've found in the DC metro area. Wish it was closer to me. You'd never know it by the looks on the outside. I found it by reviews on Yelp and am so glad we stopped by. Definitely check this place out for pizza, paninis, calzones, and fried appetizers.
(5)Andrea H.
We moved to the area this summer and are looking for simple, delicious pizza. This place kept getting rave reviews so we figured we would check it out on our way back to town from some errands. Doesn't even remotely live up to the hype, and not worth the parking hassle, awkward ordering, canned beverage, soggy crust. Probably good for a first date "I want to impress her with my knowledge of out of the way quirky places" thing, but not for a family with three ravenous boys ...
(3)Andre S.
This place was amazing. I loved their pizza. The atmosphere was great. The service was outstanding. Highly recommended.
(5)Ami M.
I wish I can go there every single day for lunch and dinner, the best pizza place i've ever been to in the Washington dc and virginia area and the prices are fair enough. THIS PLACE IS MY PIZZA HEAVEN
(5)Laura G.
The glowing reviews brought me here. The pizza, however, was not 4.5 stars. I ordered a basic cheesy pizza and a side salad (arugula, tomatoes, olives, and balsamic). I had high hopes for the pizza while I waited to place my order and watched as the cooks made other pizzas right in front of me. But when the pizza arrived, there wasn't enough sauce or enough flavor for that matter. The crust was a little bit burnt but it was also flimsy near the middle. The side salad was fine (arugula, tomatoes, olives, and balsamic) but nothing amazing. Service was surprisingly fast for a Friday night. The set up of the place was good. No table service, no problem. I actually prefer to order and pay first, then sit and get my order after. We got lucky with parking, but it is a pretty small lot.
(3)Meg L.
My boyfriend and I LOVE the pizza at this place! Hands down, best pizza place in the DC-metro area that I've found yet! No where else in the states mimics the brick oven pizzas I ate in Italy as well as Pupatella (other than the fact that few places in Italy have pepperoni)! The food is spectacular! We highly recommend the meatball pizza! I also like creating my own with chorizo & fresh mozzerella as key ingredients! So why not a 5-star rating? I'm of the opinion that the service could be much more efficient. Every time we go here there is a line, sometimes out the door because you order your food before you sit down. The couple times we've tried to call ahead for take out, the voicemail box has been full and no one answers. I think it would be much more effective if they used the standard hostess & waitress method. Also had to knock a second star off because even though there isn't someone waiting specifically on us, the personnel who work here aren't nice/friendly. They're there, they go through the motions of their job, and they send you on your way. Once when we were waiting for an order to go, my boyfriend had his foot resting on the slightest edge of the coffe table they have in front of a couch. A girl came over and rudely asked him to put his foot down. We exchanged glances as if to say to one another how inappropriate she was, and then she was back with a spray bottle of bleach and a rag where she proceeded to spray it directly in front of us without warning. This was most uncalled for because she could have waited until we left (literally 2 minutes later) or at least given us warning.
(4)Roderic O.
Hands down best pizza in D.C. area. They are quick and efficient. The crust to topping ratio is perfect and everything is fresh. The Margherita is a classic but the prosciutto arugula is a close second. You can't go wrong.
(5)Mike D.
A lot of people reviewing this place don't seem to understand (or forget since moving to NoVA) what both authentic Napoletana pizza and a local pizza place is supposed to be. First, Local pizza places do NOT: 1) Have order @ table waitstaff. 2) Have large dining facilities. 3) Have particularly intricate or casual/chaining dining furniture. 4) Have beer on tap. 5) Have wine whatsoever. Yet Pupatella goes out of their way to bring the pizza to your table with their number system, has tap beer and wines available with your meal, has an extensive amount of seating for being a high turnover shop, and has friendly, efficient service. Unless you know the guys really well, you don't normally walk into a local pizza place and have an hour long conversation with the guys because they're *gasp* busy making orders. Yes, I live right down the street so I have not yet been there on a weekend, but they were pretty full on a Tuesday night, so I can see how they would struggle on the service front on a Friday or Saturday night or Sunday afternoon. It's not like they're not trying. In my probably 15-20 minute wait for my pie (I ate at the restaurant), they turned over probably 20-25 pies. Second, Authentic Pizza Napoletana does NOT/is NOT: 1) Have a layer of crust 10x thicker than the toppings layer 2) Have cheese evenly spaced, because that's not how fresh mozzarella works. 3) Overly crispy. As another user mentioned, look at the bottom of your pie crust. If there is "leopard spotting" (his term), this is as is should be and is perfect. Even as someone who hates things charred off a grill, this flavor is perfectly in harmony with the rest of the tastes on the pie. 4) Stiff. Fresh Mozzarella, sauce, and oil runs. Because the crust is not a mile high, it is soft, absorbs this run-off, and becomes somewhat moist in the middle. This is to be expected because you should compare the crust to pita or naan as opposed to a Pizza Hut pie. I have no problem with people claiming that they'd prefer NY or CHI or any other style better, and I can't knock them down for an opinion. But when you simply complain "this pizza is soggy WTF," all that tells me is that you don't have any idea that what you buy from Pizza Hut or Domino's isn't authentic. News Flash, even if you've had pizza in an "Italian pizza place" in the NYC metro area, chances are it's actually operated by Greeks or Albanians. Not saying their pizza is bad, I swore by such a place up there, but it's a distinctly different style. Rant aside, this pizza is amazing. Slight air pockets at the edge of the crust. Amazing sauce flavor. The water buffalo cheese was actually tooth-cuttable (quite often if you even get a part of a cheese glob in a bite, the whole glob is coming with it). Perfect cook time/style. I will have to try the regular mozzarella (I got the Margherita with the water buffalo cheese, and while it was very good I will be interested to see if it was $3 extra good). At $10+tax (too high in Arlington, seriously the 10% local on hot/prepared food is a total joke), an 11" pie is a perfectly reasonable, and in fact a good value for such a find. At $13+tax I start thinking, because I've had another very good Neopolitan-style pizza from an equally high cost of living area (Hoboken), and paid $17 for a 16" pie that gets me 3-4 meals. Does my being a fan of this style make me biased? Maybe. But it's not like I'm out there hating on deep-dish or any other style either. If you haven't been, try Pupatella. If you have been and had 1 bad experience and swear off it because there are 90,000 pizza places in Arlington, try it again sometime on an off night. Do also note that they specifically note that they clean their ovens daily @ 2 according to their page/info, so if you write a scathing review complaining you can't get a pizza at 2:05, your argument is invalid.
(5)David H.
Love the pizza (best in Arlington). Favorite is the diavola. Everything is fresh. Panzarotti app is tasty. They used to answer the phone, but I haven't been able to get through anytime recently..wish I could order ahead, but it's not too bad of a wait unless you're going on a weekend night (which can be 30-1 hour)
(5)Jamie O.
The service is great. Wood fired brick oven. The bruschetta is okay but the fried sausage and cheese balls are great.
(4)Trent H.
My new favorite pizza place in Arlington. The Pilsner and Peroni both complement the pizza very well.
(5)Clint F.
Excellent. Can get pretty crowded, but has gotten better after they expanded. Food is delicious, and you can't really go wrong with any of the menu options.
(5)Jim S.
It's not been in the top 101 pizzas in the country two years running for no reason. The flavors leap off the pies, the crusts are amazing, the cheese and sauce are to die for. You're not going to find much better DOC pizza this side of Italia.
(5)Erica R.
Amazing pizza. Don't go there expecting a fancy dining room or formal dinner atmosphere. Don't go there expecting great service (you order in a line and wait for food to come)- go there just expecting great pizza and you will be happy.
(5)Katherine C.
I have wanted to go to Pupatella for so long and I finally made it happen last Friday night. For those who don't know, Pupatella is a counter service-style pizza place. You wait in line, order your pizza and drinks, pay, then wait for a table. If you ordered something from the bar, you will need to go to the bar, show the bartender your receipt, and take your drinks and wait. On a busy Friday night, it was a little frantic, but there were plenty of kind waiters and waitresses ready to explain how things work. At 8:30 PM, the wait for the pizza to arrive to us was about 45 minutes, but it really didn't seem so long with a glass of Il Bastardo. I ordered the sausage and onion pizza which had smoked mozzarella on it (delicious) and my boyfriend ordered the meatball pizza, which had fresh mozzarella and ricotta with fresh basil. The pizza is Neopolitan style, with a focus on quality ingredients. I am a pizza fan and I don't discriminate, but Pupatella is definitely my favorite. I also really appreciated the gelato bar. I had the most amazing fig and mascarpone gelato and my boyfriend really liked the salted caramel and toasted almond flavors. I have zero complaints and will definitely head back.
(5)Suzanne N.
I came here because I read a ton of good things about this place but I was not impressed. I ordered a pizza margherita with buffalo mozzarella which was delicious but the crust was soft in the middle. I could not pick up a piece to eat. Maybe it was just a fluke but I've had better pizza at Joe's place in Vienna and at Coalfire in Burke. The pistachio gelato, however, was divine!
(3)Val W.
Come here for a delicious, casual meal - it's not fine dining, so don't expect it to be. Pro's: Delicious pizza, relatively good prices, fresh and tasty ingredients, unique specials (brie/cherry/walnut/white sauce pizza was amazing!), Con's: It's not Italy (though NO WHERE in America is Italy, so anyone expecting this should get over it), arugula was a bit heavy on arugula pizza (and this is coming from an arugula-lover),and wait time did seem a little long for pizza (though them staying busy is a good thing). Though I never went here before the expansion, I can't imagine anyone being able to fit. As it was, it was difficult to find a table at 8pm on a Sunday night (though again, keeping busy is a positive for the business). Definitely a place I'd hit up again, nonetheless!
(4)Madison L.
Came in based on Yahoo review of being the best pizza in Virginia. Uhh, I beg to differ, so far for me the best pizza is Mama Mia Pizza in Gainesville.
(2)Johanna S.
Simply Amazing. Went there on a summer breezy night. Ordered about 4 pizzas and 2 pitchers of sangria. I got their - Margherita Doc - $13 Prosciutto Arugula - $13 Chorizo - $13 Diavola - $11 Their portion is like a standard M-L pizza at any pizza place. I would say the price is great, portion is good, and.. most importantly their taste is uhm-ma-zing. Sat in their back area (which btw is beautifully lit) and just talked and ate the night away. Uhm, it's perfect. Just go.
(5)John G.
Went here finally for the first time and was really pleased by everything. The pizza was good as advertised and the salads were huge. They also have a nice little patio out back hidden away that is great in nice weather. Will be back soon
(5)Angela K.
Delicious, no frills pizza with real, fresh ingredients. Dine-in is better - so your pie doesn't get soggy. Arancini is also amazing. Great neighborhood find.
(5)Nick L.
The pizza is delicious. The ordering and seating process is ..different. You stand in a long line (worth the wait) Order your food/drink, then you tell a staff member that you'd like a table. If you got wine you go to the back bar and pick up the bottle or glasses yourself. Then you sit down and eat. It's a bit unorthodox but the pizza is fantastic. I'd recommend ordering an app or something else along with the pizza, they're not huge but with an app to share you will be perfectly full. Plus its fun to try new delicious things! We ordered the margarita style and one of the mushroom pizzas. The truffle oil was a bit overwhelming and really took over the flavor. I'd try something different next time myself.
(4)Mai T.
Ordered two pizzas for take-out for lunch: Pepperoni and the Ham and Mushroom. When I got home, it was quite soggy so placed them in the oven which crisped the crust nicely and tasted very good. Sauce was good, toppings were fresh and I liked the thin but crispy and chewy crust. I ordered a sandwich during a prior visit and thought it was just OK. I guess it's best to just stick with ordering pizzas.
(4)Ara A.
So I heard a lot of praise about this place from MULTIPLE people for years and I finally went myself to check it out. Honestly, the food wasn't bad, but it was nothing special The pizza was average (at best) and the appetizers (brussels sprouts) were OK. Maybe I need to give this place another shot as I kept hearing how this was one of the best Pizza places in the DMV area. Places like Two Amy's are far superior. I will give it another shot, but I left very disappointed. The service/staff was super friendly and nothing but great there.
(2)Santos M.
Excellent little pizza that is fresh-made from the ground up. Very inexpensive too, last time I checked I think I paid $5 for a quality home-style-freshbaked pizza.
(5)Baby Fresh P.
Casual, high quality, inventive salads and pizza to die for. Take your homesick Italian friends here. Also, a great deal on wine when you order two pizzas.. Oh, and a very affordable happy hour. LOVE this place with all my heart.
(5)Ryan Z.
Pizza at Pupatella is as good as anything I've eaten in Italy. Dough is perfect and the toppings are fresh and flavorful. To start, I love the arugula and grapefruit salad (#3) and the sausage risotto balls. Honestly, I think that every pizza is pretty darn terrific, so you really can't go wrong. I also love that everybody working here has a smile on their face and seems to be genuinely concerned with providing an excellent customer experience.
(5)Val T.
I love Pupatella. It is always busy, so you have to be prepared to wait for 10-20 minutes to be seated. But the pizza is amazing. We usually start with their appetizer sample - a selection of fried balls stuffed with sausage and cheese. I love their pizzas. The crust is very thin. They bake it in a special pizza oven. My recommendation - try their white sauce pizza with spinach and pine nuts. My absolutely favorite in the world!
(5)Jennifer D.
I am not a huge fan of pizza but I'd say the pizza here is one of the best I've ever tried. I live in the west coast so maybe my expectations are pretty low, but seriously this place has amazing pizzas! We ordered the Burrata salad and it was so tasty. The crust was delicious I can easily eat a whole entire pie by myself. The arancini with eggplants were also really delicious. The two items I ordered that I didn't care for too much was the mozzarella balls and the arugula salad. Both were just pretty typical, nothing too great. It is a very casual laid back restaurant with lots of kids. The gelato was also VERY delicious. Overall, a great restaurant with a happy casual environment that serves DELICIOUS pizza!
(5)Steve C.
Fresh pizza with ingredients that complement each other well. My favorites are the chorizo and the prosciutto arugula. The sauce tends to be on the sweet end of the sweet-savory spectrum but it works well with the other ingredients. The chorizo pizza has a subtle spiciness. The pizza is perfect size for one person. The ratio of toppings to sauce to crust to cheese is perfect. This is my favorite pizza in the DC area.
(5)Bob W.
Took the fam to Pupatella last week. Overall, extremely pleased. The pizza crust is amazing. We got three pizzas, all were really good, although the zucchini strips on one were a bit burned. I didn't mind but Mrs W did. Also got a side salad, meatballs, arancini, fried mozz balls, and gelato. No complaints with any of that. Service was generally good, but some of our apps got lost between ordering and serving and came out with the pizzas. Overall, minor quibbles. On most nights, probably a five-star meal.
(4)Scott G.
Amazing in every sense of the word. The Pizza-- Amazing in a good way. The Service-- Amazingly bad. I have been to all the greats in NYC and can honestly say this pizza is as good as any of them. Be careful though to order the right Pizza. For example, the Pepperoni is fantastic while the Sausage and Onion is well below par. I just cant get over how many restaurants treat their customers. I had specific dealings with 4 different staff members and 2 of them actually cared about my experience. I really am getting tired of going to "respected" restaurants and having to deal with poor customer service to get a fairly good meal. i guess it doesn't matter when you have a line coming out the door around the street. Overall 3.5 but will round up do to the amazing pizza.
(4)Scott C.
Their pizza is true Neapolitan, just like in Europe.
(5)Jenn K.
I went here a while back and forgot to write my Yelp review. My lasting memory months later: darn good pizza- worth the trip, very satisfying and filling. Its a really popular place. If its not the best pizza I've ever had, its high up on my list!
(5)寧如
Pizza was good. Can definitely tell that it was going to be good eat... there was a constant line. Would recommend to anyone that likes pizza.
(4)EJ C.
Delicious pizza! I've never had anything I didn't enjoy. Very yummy!
(5)David G.
This place is as good as all of the hype. The pizza was fresh and chewy with just the right amount of toppings. Word to the wise, get there in off-peak hours or plan to wait a bit. Its popularity precedes it.
(4)Swetha K.
Been here a few times and the pizza doesn't disappoint! They have a modest, but solid variety of craft cans/bottles of beer. The back patio is super cute over the summer! Great place for families, but Friday and Sat nights are cray (no call ahead or carryout).
(4)Chuck N.
Sunday, 7:00PM. Quickie: +Delicious pie +Variety on menu Constructive comments: *Better use of space *Cleanliness And then...? They earned that Neapolitan certificate - so good! ********** Stuffed my face in: 1. Margherita +Appropriate amount of sauce/ingredients 2. Burrata +Fresh cheese, generous portions
(4)Samantha L.
Food gets 4 stars Service / Customer service gets 2... hence the average of 3. My friend lives in Arlington and ordered some pizzas for take-out this week. I was diving there from DC so she asked me to stop on the way and pick up the food. She was told food would be ready at 5:15... and "not to be late". I arrived at 5:20 because of some rush hour traffic... and they had not even started making our order. I also got accused of cutting the long line when I first got there, when I was really only following the directions on the sign that said "if you have already ordered please go to the front." The food itself, was really yummy! All 3 of the pizzas and the salad we had were delicious! Its definitely not Dominos or Papa Johns... and the prices are pretty reasonable.
(3)Lia M.
I'm with Yujin - going against the grain here. I'm just not that into Pupatella. I'm guessing it's because I don't like Neopolitan pizza (I don't care for 2 Amy's either, but I like Red Rocks). My first order - a takeout pizza with smoked mozzarella and artichokes was just awful. Not only was the pizza not tasty, my order wasn't ready for pick-up, and then they made it wrong, so I had to continue to wait. Staff was unapologetic. The squash blossoms were good, though. The second time was a bit better, as I ate in, which is what Pupatella recommends, and some friends recommended as well. We had the Brussels sprouts, classic DOC, gelato, and sangria. Sangria wasn't very strong, so I would not order that again. Sprouts were fine, but a bit to vinegar-y for me. Pizza was much better than the first one, and so was service, but I didn't like it enough to return. Gelato is good though. If you like Neopolitan pizza, definitely give it a try. If not, stay away.
(2)Susan S.
The Skinny: Amazing pizza, but how long you wait for it will vary. Upsides: 1. Delicious, authentic Neapolitan pizza fresh from the stone oven 2. Grapefruit salad w/ tarragon is unique and tasty 3. Fun ambiance, no tips required 4. Good meatballs Downsides: 1. The wait can be very long and seating is not guaranteed 2. Gelato is just so-so
(4)Sara F.
Best pizza place ever! Well, okay, best pizza ever. The restaurant itself is fine, but the focus here is completely on the pizza. The ingredients are extremely fresh and the crust has just the perfect hint of salty that an excellent pizza should have. Also, bonus for the super friendly staff. If I lived nearby this restaurant, I would weigh 300 pounds. Thank goodness I live in DC. Sort of.
(5)Tri J.
Trendy and hip. This place has excellent pizza. It's a tad pricey for what is essentially a personal sized pizza but the dough and crust are delicious, as are the toppings. Pretty much anything with prociutto in it has me going and so the fig and pig pizza has got to be my fave, though it's a "special" and so often not on the menu. Also love the caprese salad which has the most melt in your mouth, creamy buffalo mozzarella in it. I also love that gelato is served there. Great food, cool atmosphere. I don't even like pizza that much and I dig it!
(4)Ibrahim Y.
Really like their pizza, it is made on-the-spot and tastes really fresh. My friend got anchovies on his pizza and it wasn't very tasty, but my anchovy-less pizza was great :).
(4)Josh B.
I would love to give this 1 star so no one would go here. The best pizza for miles!
(5)Good E.
great pizza! i finally found a neapolitan pizza joint that i like , woohoo! we shared three different pies and got the croquets croquets-great, tasty and large sized but we only got two meatball pizza- was good chorizo- was very good Capricciosa-my fav! the price is a tad high for a place i would consider more of the hole in the wall variety. you essentially order, seat yourself and bring all your utensils and water to your table. parking is a bit tight and there were cops everywhere when we went on a friday night which was a bit unsettling but hopefully nothing to do with this establishment. overall, i would say this is a worth a try!
(4)Chris O.
Italian DOC pizze Naples style. This is the real deal. Parking can be a pain and they can run out of specials but just get the Margherita. I promise you you're not going to find anything much better in Campania. Go ahead and take a little flavor vacation. Nice selection of beer too. I'm happy they expanded.
(5)Nandini M.
This was delicious Neapolitan style pizza. My table shared the eggplant arancini, garlic bread with cheese, mushroom white pizza and the artichoke tomato pizza and it was all great. The arancini (risotto balls) were especially good and perfectly crispy on the outside. The pizza was very filling, well done and authentic. The space is pretty sparse and casual, not at all what I was expecting in terms of a popular restaurant in the DC area. It is mostly serve yourself but the staff was really friendly and hospitable. The best thing about the restaurant is the price... such a good deal! Easily one of the best bangs for your buck around. Highly recommended but because of the lack of space and ability to make reservations, don't come during high traffic hours unless you are prepared to wait a while.
(5)Andrew R.
A little weird method of ordering, but very great authentic pizza napolitana. I return here as often as possible.
(5)Jennifer S.
I had been looking forward to trying Pupatella for quite a while after seeing it featured on a PBS special. Nerdy perhaps, but I hold PBS in pretty high regard. But in the end it was just eh. The pizza tasted good but the crust was very soggy and the pizza was a little too salty. The staff certainly wasn't very welcoming. I don't think I would say the staff was rude, exactly, but they sure weren't friendly or helpful. I have no problem helping myself to water, plates, and silverware but it might be nice for the staff to mention that's the process. I wouldn't make a special trip here again. Contrary to what all the other yelpers say, you can find a much better pizza.
(3)Art N.
An great spot for excellent Neapolitan pizza! The ingredients are very fresh and tasty and the flavors of the pizzas after they come out of the wood-burning oven are some of the best you'll ever have. Homey interior with good service, parking can be challenging when it is crowded but it is well worth the the effort! Quite possibly the best pizza in the DC area!
(5)Nitin B.
Best pizza in dc, hands down, if you like authentic neapolitan style pizza. I've tried two Amy's (overhyped), pizzeria paradiso, and other neighborhood favorites, but these guys are the best bang for your buck. Best part is the simple, tasty, and chewy crust. The establishment is certified DOC from Neapolitan pizza makers. The only negative is the crowds during the weekend and time it takes to order and get your pizza if it's busy. Great deal on wines as well.
(5)Aaron B.
Best pizza that I've had by far in the Ballston/Arlington area. Their eggplant parm is amazing and even gained grudging respect from my significant other who is from NYC and knows her eggplant parm. Their other fried appetizers aren't anything special - I can take them or leave them. Their pizza is where they truly shine. I've had the arugula prosciutto, spinach, chorizo, and classic pizzas and they were all really good. The crust was baked well - not too crispy and not too soft, and they use just the right amount of toppings. I will note that on one occasion the pizza was a little undercooked, but it was still really good, we didn't even notice until we reached the last piece of the pie. I would recommend take out from here as there isn't a ton of seating. Also, something else to consider is that parking is quite limited and the pizzeria can get very crowded, especially on the weekends. If you are carrying out, call ahead. They don't always pick up but its worth being persistent since the line could possibly be out the door when you get there.
(4)Laura H.
The pizza was absolutely amazing- I got the margherita and added mushrooms. If you're a mushroom fan, you MUST try theirs! They're marinated in red wine- so amazing! The best deal is buying two pizzas to get a discount on a bottle of wine. The ambiance is a little awkward but the food more than makes up for it!
(5)Page R.
Have been hearing great things and the menu looked divine... Unfortunately, I did not even get to try the food because the line was extremely long and the hostess could not give an estimate on how long the wait was for a table. Tried to call in for take out, however, every call got sent straight to voicemail and the mailbox was full. Unprofessional, IMO. I would rather drive to my favorite wood fired pizza place all the way in Harrisonburg, Va, Bella Luna, than have to attempt a take out order from Pupatella again.
(1)Anya C.
Stick to the pizza--it's phenomenal, obviously. You don't need appetizers, just order a pizza per person (I tried the panzerotti appetizer once and it was fine, but the pizza is so much more than fine, that what's the point of eating anything else here?).
(5)Nitin V.
I usually get pizza to-go from Pupatella and it's always great. I'm a huge fan of any of their pizzas with basil in particular.
(4)Christian B.
"Highly authentic Italian Pizzeria set in quirky little cafe" Food: 5/5 Service: 3/5 Atmosphere: 4/5 Parking: 3/5 Cleanliness: 5/5 Pupatella is highly unique for this region in that it serves up what is probably the most authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas (and other things) without being Americanized in any way possible. The tomatoes are San Marzanos from Italy, the mozzarella is water buffalo and also imported from Italy along with traditional prosciutto, Italian fennel sausage, and basil. The oven itself is hand crafted in Naples and made from the ashes of Mouth Vesuvius....this is NOT Pizza Hut. Service is interesting in that there is virtually no tableside waiter-to-customer service and instead is done Panera style by ordering at a front counter and taking a number to your table but the layout of the line leading up to the counter is great because you have a view of the entire assembly line of hand-made pizza happening right there in front of your eyes - very nice touch. Parking is a bit difficult with a very small lot in the front and then available parking at non-associated businesses around, making it hard to even arrive. However, I'd say it's worth the journey just to try something this truly authentic.
(5)Mike M.
Just an update, this place is still amazing! I've gone many times and will go many more. If you haven't tried it, you're missing out! I love the meatball pannino & panzarotti!
(5)Rachel H.
I've been hearing rave reviews forever and got carryout several times that didn't disappoint. Other than the wait for a table, the experience was excellent. Best pizza in Arlington. If you're in a rush, or want some ambiance, get carry out and go home and watch the travel channel. But the pizza is tops!
(4)Parks S.
Best pizza in N. Virginia and as good or better than any in the DMV! Authentic Neapolitan pizza, highest quality ingredients, but it's the crust that sets it apart. Like many pizzas of this type, you best eating it fresh there right out of the oven; 15 minutes later it's still good, but not so different from the competition. All the pizzas we've eaten there have been solid choices, so you really need to just follow your own taste. Pay attention to the posted specials, you'll see some options not found elsewhere. I've not had the special calzone, which takes 25 minutes, but there was one at the next table, and it look fantastic. Appetizers are good and specials can vary. My kids love the fried mozzarella balls, and a special of roasted brussel sprouts was outstanding. A great beer selection on tap. Only negative is limited space; it can great crowded at times. Park across the street in the Safeway lot with no hassles.
(4)Danilo B.
Some of the best if not the best brick oven wood fired pizza in the tri state area. The ingredients are super fresh and the taste is amazing. And their other stuff is awesome too...appetizers and paninis. And Tuesday through Saturday check out their nutella donuts...they're silly good. And to all those complaining about their pizza not being crispy...IT'S NOT SUPPOSED TO BE! And I say this being Italian and knowing what Neapolitan pizza should really be like. If you want crispy pizza, go somewhere else where they dont serve Neapolitan pizza the way they should.
(5)Tony P.
Located on the other side of I-66 in a more sedate residential neighborhood, the establishment serves as a food oasis. The service consists of initial self order placed at the counter, but waitstaff at the tables. The service was attentive if not expedient given the popularity. The neopolitan style pizza is excellent. The crunchy crust is charred ever so lightly and retains a bit of chewy texture that makes it so desirable. Do not overlook the other fares. The appetizers are great. I love those fried risoto balls. And to top it off, they carry Sprechers root beer (which gets a whole +1 star unto itself)!
(5)george g.
Hana, Hair Cuttery, Shirlington I have a grand head of thick hair. I was about to despair that I would ever find anyone in Northern Virginia who could do my hair justice. I had been traveling to Gettysburg to get a good (expensive) hair cut from a stylist I have known for some years. Then one day just to get it done I walked into the Hair Cuttery in Shirlington and met Hana. I put my $20.00 down and have lived happily ever after. Hana knows what to do without much input from me. I've never gotten a bad haircut and she seems to know how to cut hair so it will grow out gracefully and look better with age...up to a point. My only complaint is that she is not a secret and you have to make an appointment. Save that money a fancy salon charges you and go see Hana. You can use the money you saved to get a mani/pedi next door.
(5)Alicia M.
Googled Pupatella on a Sunday night aroun 8p.m. Right on google it says, Pupatella with its address on Wilson Blvd. and the hours for that day. It said open until 10. Okay, so a friend and I went, got there at about 8:50. There were still people dining in their dining area with drinks and what not. All we wanted was some pizza and a beer each, and I hear their pizza is amazing. SO the cashier comes up to us and warns us to make a decision fast because they are closing in 10 minutes, at 9 (update your hours on google!!!!!!) We finally put our order in with her, expecting to grab a beer too and sit down and eat it. After telling her our order, she replied "sooo, to go? because we close in 3 minutes." I have worked in the restaurant industry since I was 19, and am still a waitress in Arlington. I know what it is like to have to close up, BUT, when there are other cutsomers still sitting in the dining area with full drinks, a final customer should 100% be able to sit down and enjoy their meal. I highly doubt that at 9 on the dot she kicked out all the other patrons and threw out their full drinks. I was so annoyed, cancelled the order, and went to Fireworks in Courthouse... It was amazing and tipped our paitent closing waitress 50%.
(1)Bro H.
Gotta say, for the price and the wait, this is far from my preferred pizza spot. But, naturally, the dozens of other people in line disagree with me, so take it as you will.
(3)Stacey K.
Best pizza in Arlington, hands down. It's worth going for the crust alone. I highly recommend the chorizo pizza and spinach pizza.
(5)Neeruan A.
Writing a review doesn't do this place justice. My recommendation, check this place out for yourself, IT IS WORTH IT.
(5)Cuong T.
I came here with a friend tonight and had quite a pleasant experience. Upon walking in my friend and I were a bit confused as to where to order because at the 'order here' area there was what I think a gelato/ice cream area so we thought "oh, this must be the place to order dessert," but nope, that was where we were supposed to be. However, immediately after I put on my confused face the male Caucasian employee with the short hair came up and immediately helped us out, asking us if we were new and giving us recommendations. The atmosphere was definitely casual and very typical of a nice hangout place for both adults and older kids, though I did see people from all age groups here. There was this one employee who I think was new that kept walking by and seemed to be smiling at everyone (not the creepy smile but more so of a nice, welcoming smile) , which was really pleasant and added a nice touch of friendliness (to top off the guy that helped us out earlier) to the atmosphere. Keep it up, :} Now the food...oh boy. First off, you guys have to realize that I've had the best, and that's the pizza from Homeslice located in Austin, TX (look it up on yelp). The price is definitely a kicker here. My pizza totaled out to be 13.61 I think..and the portion that I got was actually quite perfect, but for a price that high...mmm....well, at Homeslice I could get a pizza about 2.5x times the size pizza that you would get here, and it would also taste better too... ..in terms of taste..I'm sorry to say that my pizza was slightly burnt on the undersides and some parts on the crust. Now it's fine to have a pizza brown and perhaps slightly burnt, but when I'm able to distinguish burnt dough with cooked dough, there's a problem there. The pizza did save itself with the toppings. I got the chorizo pizza, which had chorizo, onions, and mozzarella cheese I believe...really good balance of toppings and sauce, the flavor was there, I could taste every ingredient, overall good job for that factor. The crust was pretty good too. Like other reviews, it was crispy on the outside but nice and soft on the inside. Now at Homeslice nothing would be burnt, I'd have the same even distribution of toppings, but the crust would taste better in terms of flavor as well as texture, and plus I'd also get more, haha. However that's not to say the pizza was poor at all...it's just the burnt parts really got to me and the price was eh. Overall the place is worth a visit. 3.5/5 stars is my actual rating with the burnt pizza for a heavy price dropping it from a score of a 4 or 5. Will I return? Perhaps so. If I do, I'll be sure to update the review and give them the 4 or 5 stars they can potentially get if my pizza isn't burnt. I'd also like to try their appetizers because the risotto ball item looks good, :}.
(3)Cathy H.
Pizza is one of my guilty pleasures. I can eat it every day, but of course, I know better than to do that. I love certain chain pizza companies just as much as I love Grimaldi's in NYC. For that reason, I am an equal opportunity pizza lover and not a self-proclaimed connoisseur by any means. I heard about Pupatella when it was a food cart in Ballston, but considering I do not work in that area, I hadn't had the privilege of having their food for lunch. Now that Pupatella is a brick-and-mortar shop, I finally had a chance to have dinner there. Yes, this place definitely lives up to the hype, but please don't expect to come here for a quick bite because you will definitely be waiting 30-45 minutes for your pie on a weekend evening. The operation of this place is identical to the Nando's Peri Peri chain: order at the counter, pay, grab a number, and your food gets delivered to your table when ready. My girlfriends and I ordered a variety of things: pepperoni pizza, burrata pizza, spinach salad, and meatballs. All were tasty! My pizza, the pepperoni as recommended by Kimberly V., was unique in that it was all-beef. Beautiful grease puddles on top of the salty meat and perfectly melted mozzarella to give me heart palpitations, literally and figuratively. Trying the burrata pizza was quite exciting for me because I had never tried this masterpiece of a cheese: mozzarella exterior with an oozing mozzarella/cream interior. In addition to this wonderful cheese, there were halved cherry tomatoes, pine nuts, and basil. No sauce present, but it was not missed. This was definitely the star of the meal. Pupatella offers complimentary EVOO and red pepper flakes for crust dipping and I found that to be extremely enjoyable. The reason I give Pupatella 4 stars is as much as I like a proper Neapolitan pizza, I still don't enjoy my toppings falling off as I hold my slice by the crust. The interior crust is just too thin and becomes soggy even with as little as two toppings. I will not deny that the flavors are all there and on-point. RedRocks makes a fantastic pizza crust that holds all your toppings in place with each bite and I commend them for that. Before you private message me with any I-grew-up-in-New-York-and-you-don't-know-what-Âreal-pizza-is attitude, please accept that pizza is a very personal thing; there is no right or wrong. Well, frozen pizza with 10,000 preservatives is obviously wrong. Service is good here despite the long wait. As for dessert options, there are freshly fried donuts and gelato, but we didn't have any room for such delights. I will need to return to try their chorizo pizza and arancini.
(4)Margarita M.
It's my absolutely favorite place for pizza. Either I make pizza at home or I eat here, why settle for processed cheese and meat from god knows where. Yes it's packed on a weekend night and patience is key. Yes it's tight and intimate. Also the reality is you'll have to wait for a pizza for a while but shit order some arancini, order the burrata platter and you can hold on till the pizza arrives, because when it does IT'S WORTH IT!!! Magherita DOC you can't go wrong! I love the prosciutto de parma it's great. Really, it's amazing!! We sometimes go on Saturday and wait a bit but usually we come for late lunch on the weekend or on a weekday and no wait and it's great. Omg, almost forgot! The fig marscapone gelato makes me want to cry tears of joy but I usually don't because I go down the street to pinkberry, because....I'm watching my weight? LOL!!!
(5)molly h.
Thursday prime dinner time and it was hopping. Yes the pizza can take a while to come out but it really isn't that long of a wait. And it's worth it. Really yummy. Fun flavor combinations and quality ingredients. Thin and chewy with that classic smoky charred taste on the bottom of the crust. Getting around the restaurant - in the door, down the order line, through the itsy bitty door between the two portions of the restaurant - is awkward. And I am still not really clear on the whole process. Do I get my own water? Am I supposed to go back to the bar for the drink I ordered in the food line? Still not sure. But the many bustling wait staff employees were eager to help and attentive. Lent a chaotic air to the whole place. But it kind of worked. In a low key, neighborhood-y way. Will be back. For sure.
(4)Mike A.
I ate at Pupatella last night and all I have to say is New York, Chicago, Red Barron, you have nothing to worry about. After reading the reviews on Yelp, I decided to walk from hotel to try their pizza. The place is located in a strip mall. The parking lot is small. Upon entering you get a photo copied menu in 8 font that is very difficult to read. You place your order, buy your drinks, pay, and tip (credit card) all up front. I'm thinking asking for the tip upfront is best for the food runners, I won't call them servers so as to not insult those who actually are. Started with fried brussell Spouts on recordation of cashier. Basically it proved that if you dump enough basaltic vinegar on something, ever yesterday's grass clippings could be eaten. Next came the pizza, start with the dough was chewy, rubbery, with no seasoning what so ever. The sauce lacked inspiration and and if you did a blind taste test with Pizza Hut dipping sauce, I would wager on Pizza Hut. The fresh mozzarella was the only positive of this pizza. If you in town from a real pizza city, look else where.
(2)Chae K.
This place always hits the spot for me when I'm craving a light and tasty pizza. I nearly always get the buffalo mozzarella margherita, which is a perfect expression of a beautiful and balanced pie. Delicious!
(5)Sam B.
My favorite place for pizza. Love the place, hate the parking. I'm always fearful of getting towed parking across the street at the grocery store. High quality meats, cheeses, and vegetables make all the difference for me and Pups knows what they are doing. My go-tos: Capricciosa, Mushroom, or Margherita The arincini is also pretty good. Excellent service as well. I'll never stop coming here!
(5)Christina F.
If my waistline and pocketbook could take it, I'd eat here at least weekly. That being said, I'm still usually here at least once a month and it's one of the two places I take anyone who comes to visit me. This no-frills, Neapolitan-style pizza place is the only place I go for pizza. My usual pizza is the panna proscuitto. It's no longer on the menu, but it's still in their order system. It's just a simple white sauce pizza with mozz and prosciutto. The crust is always perfect and chewy yet crisp. Their pizza oven provides the perfect amount of charred bits that adds dimension to every bite. I always try to end the meal with one of their fresh Nutella-filled doughnuts that are made in-house. Delicious. Beyond that the staff is wonderful and I always have a great time when I'm there. Last year they expanded seating, but we still try to go a little before lunch or dinner rush to make sure we don't get delayed. There are a few negatives to the place (though I don't feel they are worthy of reducing the rating). The parking lot is TINY and the 7/11 next door will tow you. And if they are busy you can end up waiting 45 minutes to an hour for your order. They can only make so many at a time. But it's totally worth the wait. :)
(5)Jill C.
Legit! Delicious! Be ready to order upon walking through the front door because you order and pay before being seated. SUPER busy on Friday and Saturday evenings. But oh so worth the effort.
(5)Yujin M.
We'd had an eye on Pupatella for a while now, based on it's proximity and stellar reviews. We finally mad our way there last night, and picked ourselves up a chorizo pizza. I don't like going against the flow, but I didn't understand what the big deal was about this place? The toppings were undoubtedly good, as evidenced by the open kitchen proudly displaying the fresh ingredients that were adorned on our pie. But isn't the measure of a good pizza the dough? The crust was burnt and almost had a sour-doughy taste, and was soggy in the middle by the time we got to it. I really wanted to like the pizza, and found myself trying to make excuses for it. Perhaps the drive home was too long? Maybe my taste buds were desensitized by the multiple pizzas we've had during the past few days, from frozen pizza to a surprisingly impressive pork and beans pizza at Ella's? But the bottom line is, I just wasn't very impressed. Trusting that the informed assessments of fellow Yelpers can't be completely wrong, I'm looking forward to giving it another go. As we noticed that the taste deteriorated significantly with even a slight passage of time, my next attempt at Pupatella will most definitely be in-store, straight from the oven.
(3)Eric N.
One word. Fresh. I've been to their pizza cart before a few times and I'm glad that they finally opened a storefront. I just wish they still had the cart since I go to Marymount in Ballston. This place is easy to get to, right off Wilson going the opposite direction of Ballston, Clarendon Courthouse. My only complaint about this place is the parking, as its a little tiny place near the McDonalds. Upon walking in, you immediately see the brick oven, the guy who makes all the pizzas, and the counter with a gelato bar next to the cash register. My friend and I weren't that hungry but we agreed to get one pizza. We ordered the Ham and Mushroom red pizza. Wait time was 30 minutes, but it was a busy Friday evening so it was not a big deal. Finally getting the pizza, it was definitely enough to satisfy us, but we could easily have gotten one pizza each. I have not had this good pizza in a while in Northern VA. The pizza was juicy. Not oily. Amazing. The tomato sauce itself was amazing, but the fully cut mushrooms and ham were just a bonus. Not only that, but they serve coke here in glass bottles. I don't drink soda, but I have to since its been a while since I've had coke in a glass bottle. It just tastes better. I need to get the fried risotta ball next time, all these reviews rave about it. Plus the salads, and the gelato and the other pizzas. I might just give this place a 5 star next time.
(4)Sara A.
Most of the reviews here are legit. If your looking for authentic home style Italian pizza, this is the place to go. Wish there was more variety in the menu regarding meat selection on your pizza, and the pizza takes 30-45 minutes which is annoying but other than that, it's good pizza.
(3)Deebee K.
This place is soooo overrated! We went on a Friday evening. Had to wait in line for 20 minutes just to order and another 40 minutes for our food. I built my own pizza (vegetarian) and my husband had a pepperoni one. We were seated at a table near the bar. The table didn't belong there-it seemed it was there to accommodate more people. The place was crowded and the service scant. We had to ask for flatware, then for Parmesan and red chili flakes, then for paper napkins. We didn't get the Parmesan at all. My husband asked the bartender for a sangria-it took him 20 minutes to get back to us (my husband eventually canceled) even though he was handing out drinks to people who had come after us. The pizza was so uninspiring. The bottom was charred-it left a bad taste in the mouth. The center just fell apart-it was soft and soggy and mushy. Was it worth the wait? Absolutely NOT! Colas are only bottles from the fridge so you don't even get free refills. The only good thing about the place-the gelato. We had the chocolate and it was decadent, bittersweet and yummy! The waitress was rude and impatient. I wanted to try a few flavors before I made up my mind but she seemed like she didn't want me to. She gave me a scoop in a cup without asking my preference when I wanted it in a cake cone and just curtly said they were out. Seriously, go spend your money elsewhere. The pizzas are average at the most. Run-of-the-mill.
(1)Nicole Z.
Great atmosphere: fun, relaxed and focused around the food. Fresh ingredients, handmade dough and wood fired pizzas- how can you go wrong?!
(5)Stacy J.
Love it here! Get the white pizza with mushroom! It's so yummy. I like Pupatella because they give you exactly what you want, no frills excellent pizza. Located in a strip mall next to a gas station, parking can be difficult at times but trust me, it's work the battle. Select your bev from their open shelves and order away. If you're like me and like Magic Hat for their bottle caps, you'll have to be sure to mention that to the cashier before they pop the cap off into the trash. Seating can be tight and difficult for big groups but the staff is very helpful in trying to time their pizzas to come out at the right time so you're not trying to grub while standing. Don't forgot to bus your own table!
(4)Winston R.
A veritable pleasure palace for your taste buds. Talk about gettin it in. I usually order a cheese pizza with a beer. No delivery options as of yet, but if I know Enzo (and I don't), delivery is in the works. I would be willing to stake my reputation on it.
(5)Alyson H.
I'm not sure whether to shout from the rooftops or keep my mouth shut. This place is really good (and pretty cheap), but tiny, and I'm a little afraid of the word getting out. My husband and I got "The REAL Margherita" pizza (the difference from the other margherita on the menu apparently being the buffalo mozzarella?) and two drinks (a Mexican Coca-Cola and a bottled tea). The pizza was wonderful: thin but chewy crust, amazingly flavorful sauce, tangy basil, melty cheese. Hours later, I'm STILL thinking about that sauce.
(4)Mark O.
Wonderful food. That's all I can say. The regular dude has spoken. Oh, the customer service could be a little better. I felt like a loser who they didn't really want to feed, but the food was so good that it overcame that (and once I realized that I am a loser). Again, the food was great. Just go try it.
(5)Kathryn B.
The good: The staff is friendly and the food is delicious. I will go back only if it is not busy. I will probably give 5 stars when I return during a slower time and don't have table issues. See "The bad." The bad: My friend and I ate here at 7:30pm on a Friday. It is a "seat yourself" place which is fine when there is not a line to the door. There is no order to seating and there is no first come first serve. It is a free for all and if two people are running for a table being cleared, there is a confrontation as to who gets the table. My friend and I were nice and gave up the first table. Then they brought her salad but had to take it back because we had no place to sit. Two seats opened up at the bar, so they brought another salad and our appetizer. The bar is SMALL - not big enough to eat the pizzas. Plus, we had to keep turning to watch for a table to open up. A second table opened up and my friend ran to grab it just as another group was claiming it. They just arrived and we already had food. They insisted they should get the table because there were 4 of them but only 2 of us. My friend was very nice and let that group have the table. We watched like hawks for another table. My friend raced to grab it while I watched our purses and food. Another guy tried to claim it. He had just placed his order and we had food already! He was NOT pleasant about giving up the table but my friend held her ground. Although we enjoyed our meal and our evening, having to argue for tables does not make the dining experience any more enjoyable. When things are that busy, Pupatella needs to have a better way to assign tables or the typical entitled, overly privileged Arlington crowd needs to learn how to share and wait their turn. This method of seating may work in a city where people are nicer, but that is not Arlington. I understand this method of operations saves on menu prices, but maybe they need to enforce a rule that the group with the lowest number gets the open table when the place is packed. Forgot to mention the guy sitting next to me at the bar giving me the stink eye. Yes, the bar is small and not made for eating, but we did not have a table. I was not touching him and he had as much personal space as my friend and I did. When we finally got a table, he raised his arms in joy and kicked my bar stool as I was walking away. Seriously, people need to get over themselves.
(4)Rachelle E.
These pizzas are good, but I think that what the place has going for it is its atmosphere, decor, and hip-ness more than anything else. The prices are definitely insane - $13 for a pizza the size of a dinner plate? The food is made well, but those are gourmet prices and Pupatella is more hip than gourmet. A $13 entree shouldn't be gone in one sitting with room left for more. What are we paying for? The fedoras? The accents? The soundtrack over the speakers? Please, make these pizzas bigger and turn that racket down! Give people their money's worth! I really think that Pupatella would benefit from being located in a larger space, with a larger staff (including more than one actual chef). I realize that a huge investment went into those neon eyes, the brick oven, the graffiti, the seats and the sound system - I'm sure that's why all the condiments are generic and the ingredients probably come from Sysco or a similar food provider. Its as simple as this: If two people have to spend at least $25 at your establishment for dinner or lunch (really, no lunch menu?), then they really should be receiving more food and faster service. It also doesn't help that people are told the wrong wait times - my partner was told that our pizzas would be ready in 25 minutes and it actually took 45. All we got was a "sorry" in response - are you even trying to keep your business, Pupatella? I mean damn, a coupon or something would at least compel us to return, but this just makes it seem like all business is expected, therefore you can provide whatever kind of service you want - people will always be coming in, right?
(3)Jonathan N.
Amazing authentic neapolitan pizza. The sauce is great - you can really taste the San Marzano tomatoes they use in the sauce. We have tried the Margherita D.O.C, Arugula Prosciutto, and Peperoni. All tasty! Also try the fried squash blossoms if they are in season.
(5)Alyssa H.
Absolutely delicious, authentic pizza. I've been twice, and both times went for the Margherita DOC. Waiting in line is actually fun here, as you get to watch the process of pizza making from putting on toppings to going in the wood-burning oven. I have nothing bad to say. Best pizza I've ever had.
(5)Honey B.
Try the meatball pizza. You won't be disappointed. I would eat here every day if it was open every day/
(5)Su C.
The pizzas are great, and we love the gelato! The self-seating makes it a little difficult, but overall it's a great neighborhood restaurant.
(4)Diana C.
For anyone paying attention: This is what real Neapolitan pizza is supposed to taste like. I've had pizza in Napoli. Trust me. - The dough is amazing. Thin, but still chewy, and has a nice flavor that doesn't detract or overpower the toppings. - The sauce is perfect. Simple crushed tomatoes, lightly seasoned. Terrific flavor and consistency. - Simple, fresh ingredients that stand up on their own, and when on the pizza... perfetto! Also? REAL mozzarella imported from Italy: soft, chewy, deliciously melty. Not that shredded crap that tastes like plastic. My friends talked me into going here last night and I am so glad they did. I am a fussy-pants when it comes to Italian food (and rightfully so), but I was delighted to eat here. Even though it's super out of the way for me, I'm definitely going to hit this place up again. The gelato pretty good, but I'm still on the hunt for gelato that tastes like the kind I ate daily in Italy. I think I need to go back to the motherland for that. At any rate, really, go here for the pizza. You won't be disappointed. If you are, there is something really wrong with you. Sorry, I didn't want to be the one to mention it, but it had to be said. Mille grazie per vera pizza italiana!
(5)Soo C.
This place rocks! No other restaurant in Northern VA makes an authentic Neapolitan pizza like Pupatella's. The price is very reasonable. The pizza is made fast and it's not it's fantastic! If you want to have their pizza at its best, stay there as eat it because doing it as take away just doesn't do the pie any justice. It's a small space but it's a simple place that focuses on its pizza. Mangia!
(5)Alli F.
Parking is the worst here and the wait is always long.. Who cares? The pizza is great and the staff is wonderful.
(5)Patrick S.
Love this place. I live a block away and am extraordinarily pleased to have it in the neighborhood. When the pizza comes out of the oven (only 90 seconds after it goes in) the top is blistered, the bottom is as well, but it isn't crunchy/crispy because it isn't supposed to be. The style of pizza is Neopolitan which is a very distinct style, which they explain on their website. If you love super crispy pizza with super thick dough, you may not love this style of pizza. This crust is chewy and awesome and you can taste the wood-fire, which I really enjoy. The pizza's ingredients, however, are fresh and just enough to taste in each bite. Gouda, buffalo cheese, basil, tomatoes, each pizza I've had I've enjoyed. I've also had the arancino, which is awesome because I like anything that would describe itself as a fried risotto ball. Is it rich? Yes. Yum. The calamari was also tender and perfectly cooked. Another bonus is the gelato. The 'hood has a lot of families, and it is great to just walk up with the family to grab some gelato--I've had the coffee, caramel, chocolate hazelnut and lemon--and they usually have 9-12 flavors to choose from. In addition, they have Italian wines and beers. The 3 times I've been there has always been a line and a crowd. Whether it was 3 in the afternoon or 7 at night. The folks that work there/own the place are super nice. Do they have kinks to work out? Yeah, but I have a feeling they will be really successful because they have great food at a good price in a neighborhood that really needed a place like this.
(5)Mike M.
Wanted to try this place out because We kept hearing about it so we decided to give it a try. WOW! This was the best pizza I have ever had. Very authentic and the appetizer was excellent also. We also had some gelato which was great. They are very busy on Friday and Saturday so you might have to wait to be seated. Will be back.
(5)justin k.
Okay, I should probably preface my review with a little history.. I just moved to Arlington from Buffalo, N.Y. I don't know how informed about Buffalo you may be, but Buffalonians love several things with fanatical passion. 1) we love beer. Watch any winter Bills game. Sober people don't stay outside in -10 degree weather with no shirts on. 2) We love chicken wings. Obviously. But back home they are known as chicken wings, not Buffalo Wings. 3) We love our football team. We are all hoping someday the NFL will put a professional team there. 4) Buffalo LOVES pizza. Do you know on newscasts, when they show the random overweight person footage while they talk about 'America's growing obesity problem'? Yeah. Probably Buffalonians. Now, Buffalo style pizza is a thick crust, heavy on the cheese and toppings style. Generally, your average pizza joint in B-lo is serving up pies that usually satisfy in one or two slices. If you're exceptionally manly, a third slice may be in order. This is what I grew up on. I usually don't go for thin crust pizza, but yesterday's trip to Pupatella changed all that! So the little lady and I headed for some pizza. I ordered the Real Margherita, with pepperoni (I'm a meat guy, needed my protein fix) and my fiancee ordered the simple Margherita with no extras. Also went with two Mexican Cokes (gotta love REAL sugar) Both pies came out soon after, and we both agreed the combination of tasty sauce and excellent toppings was a winner. One pie ended up being enough to fill me up, and my girl ended up bringing a slice home for later consumption. She ate it this afternoon, and said even after reheating it still was crispy and super tasty! I figure we will probably be spending a lot of time here. :) I can see where parking could be a pain (only a few spots out front, which we were lucky enough to procure one of). Other than that, I saw no faults at all. I really liked having the oven right out in the open so you can watch them make your pie! Overall, I'm suggesting you hop in the car and head over there soon. Otherwise, we will probably buy them out,and end up as some faceless background footage on an upcoming 'obesity epidemic' news update.
(4)Joe T.
Great pizza, crust, and sauce. Prosciutto pizza was one of the best pizza I have ever eaten.
(5)David B.
So this was my second visit. I went late afternoon because I can't imagine getting in at dinner time. I had the Diavala and side salad. The salad was waiting at my table as I was pouring water, so that was wicked fast. As I finished my salad, which was big enough to be a nice appetizer, my pizza arrived and it was a beaut: spicy pepperoni, mozzarella, all yum. Staff was spot on. I tried the gellatto and it was nice. Suggestions for dinners: come early, be patient. It's worth it.
(4)Theresa J.
The kind of pizza that once you have it you'll crave it and need to go back on a regular basis. It is GOOD. Everything fresh, individual pizzas made in front of you, great salads, very friendly staff. Shop is rather small but people move in and out rather quickly, never have had a problem getting a table (but I always go at lunchtime). I keep forgetting they are closed on Mondays and am so disappointed when I show up and have to wait a whole day to get my pizza fix.
(5)Kristin D.
This is one of my neighborhood favorites. A friend introduced me to this restaurant on a Friday and I went back on Saturday. Their salads consist of high-quality greens and interesting and unique flavors. And the pizza--whoa! I love the margherita and anything with basil. All of the appetizers have been thoughtfully prepared and have complex flavors. The waitstaff is hipster and helpful. I LOVE it. So glad it is my neighborhood.
(5)Reid N.
Excellent Napoli style pizza. The head chef, Enzo, is from Italy and brought the authentic Napoli style to the U.S. Go before 6pm or after 9pm to avoid the long waits for a table but it is well worth the wait.
(5)Alex B.
The place is awesome. I always test-drive a pizzeria by ordering a Margheritta pizza to see if the place is up to par because this is as simple a pizza as you can get, but yet, so many things can go wrong. Boy, was it good at Pupatella! They use all the right ingredients: san marzano tomatoes, il caputa flower, mozzarella di buffalo, and evoo. the pizza is a perfect size and comes out about 90 seconds after being cooked in the wood-burning oven custom made for the restaurant. The staff is friendly, and the place has a very low key environment. Come here for the food, the food you will get, and the food you'll enjoy.
(5)Scott L.
I honestly wasn't expecting too much from this place. I tried the Simple Margherita and the Chorizo and both were really good. I would definitely come back. The inside of the restaurant is small and there's not much parking outside. The pizza takes longer than expected to come out but it's worth the wait. Be sure to avoid the place on Sundays since it's closed.
(4)JP E.
Best Pizza i've had in the DC area. World class crust made from a 900 degree oven along with great toppings makes a great pizza. I love the casualness of this place - get in line, order a pie, and go sit down, even bus your own tables. i called and asked for a table for 7 people at 6:30 and even though their website clearly states no reservations, they accepted mine (15 min window). The arugula proscioutta pizza is usually not my favorite at any neopolitan joint but this one was probably my favorite. The fried calzone was also delicious and didn't need any dipping sauce (order it, cut into it and you'll see why). The arancini was a little disappointing and i've definitely had better. I'll be back.
(4)Alexa T.
I really enjoyed the pizza here. I love the fact they know exactly what they are doing--nothing fancy here--they are trying to deliver authentic pizza on the cheap (well, cheaper than some places). We got the big table in the back--had 4 people for dinner. 3 of us ordered the Margherita pizza and our friend Kyle ordered something random. Here is the verdict--husband didn't think it was particularly good. However, our Italian friend who JUST returned from Italy LOVED it. Most importantly I loved it! Will be going back! I did, however, find the crust too fluffy. The sauce and cheese were amazing enough to more than make up for it! Don't park in the 7-11 parking lot--you will be asked to move. We had to relocate our car to the Safeway parking lot.
(4)C D.
The wife and I tried Pupatella tonight after reading the rave reviews on Yelp. This was the first time my Yelpsters have let me down. The interior of the place is interesting. There are brightly colored seats and crazy artwork on the walls. Service was friendly and fast. There were about 5 or 6 other people in the restaurant when we went in around 5:30. I got the sausage and onion pizza and the wife had the margarita pizza. We got the pizzas to go and no drinks. Total price was $22.00. The crust was soft and chewy. The sparse sauce had almost no flavor. The sausage was hard and flavorless. Wife said her pizza was just ok. I thought it was very expensive for what we got. Next time I have a hankering for pizza i will probably just drive out the the Italian store. Pupatella was a real disappointment. *extra star for the interesting decor
(2)Allison H.
Bumping this up to five stars because I find myself craving Pupatella pizza more often than not these days and the lack of fountain drinks/iced tea matters to me not a bit anymore.
(5)Andrea K.
Love the casual and simple atmosphere and the outdoor patio - the new extra seating area will be a welcome addition for the busiest times. Can't beat the pizza. They also have great homemade gelato! Parking can be a pain on Fri and Sat.
(4)Elise S.
I went here with high expectations after reading all the glowing reviews on Yelp. This is the first time I tried true Neapolitan pizza. I got the real Margherita pizza and it tasted good, but I'm used to American-style pizzas: oversized with crunchy crusts, covered in spices, and cheese that is congealed all the way through. My favorite type of pizza is New York-style, which is the opposite of what's going on here. The pizzas here had a texture I wasn't used to: thin and very soft, fluffy crust, soft, fluid cheese that didn't stay still, and the pie was wet(!) in the middle. The Buffalo mozzarella tasted awesome, but the sogginess in the middle of the pie was off-putting. The pizzas are kind of overpriced considering each pizza is $12 and feeds only one person. The risotta balls were good, but lukewarm in the center from not being deep-fried for long enough. Plus, you probably have to wait in line for a parking spot AND a pizza. In summary, I'm giving it 3-stars because I think I'm just not a Neapolitan-style pizza fan. If you're like me and like NY pizza, you might not like the pizza here. Otherwise, try out this place for some authentic Neapolitan pizza and see if you like it. If you KNOW you like Neapolitan pizzas, then you will love it here. update: Yeah, I gave it 3 stars after my first time there, but I'm upping it to 4 stars after my second trip. I got the Neapolitan pizza with mozzarella cheese, and it was an experience. Maybe I was in a bad mood before, but I really liked it the second time around.
(4)Lisa F.
I went to Pupatella for the first time for lunch yesterday..and I am still thinking about how good my pizza was. I got the real margherita pizza, and I would venture to say it was the best pizza i've ever tasted...seriously. Yelp did not lead me astray on this one. Didn't taste it, but the gelato looked amazing as well. Will have to try it soon.
(5)Rob H.
Pizza - 5 Stars Ambiance/Setting - 4 Stars This place makes me want to spend more time in Ballston. Really. As already noted by everyone below, the pizza here is out of this world. no question about it. The staff is nice, the service is fast, and the flavors are prominent. I like the casual atmosphere of the restaurant (self seating & service), but the overall ambiance, decor, place settings, etc. leave a little to be desired. I am normally not the kind of guy that cares about this stuff at all, but I did find it a bit odd that the pizza here is priced at about the range as 2 Amys and some of the other nice DOC-esque pizza places in the area and feels a little bit cheaper. I guess I am spoiled for living so close to the uber-flashy 7th Hill with the awesome patio. Oh well.Hope to head back soon.
(4)Steven F.
best pizza in town ,peroni on draft, donuts are to die for .gets very busy so give your self lots of time
(5)KL M.
Don't let the outside appearance of this place fool you, as it will soon become the only place you venture to get your pizza fix for now on!! The Pizza (mmm mmmmm mmm): Pupatella serves authentic Neapolitan style pizza, which is a lighter and fresher style pie than the greasy mess you ate for breakfast back in college. The crust is soft and charred from the little round wood-burning oven , tasting like it just came off the grill (which technically.... it sorta did). The sauce is light and tastes like fresh tomatoes (as it's supposed to), deviating from your usual uninspired marinara with a bunch of dried herbs dumped in it. The cheeses and various toppings are all high quality, fresh ingredients, and you get enough of all the good lovin' toppings (soppressata salami, prosciutto di parma, roasted red peppers, fresh organic arugala, marinated anchovies, etc.) without it taking away from the tastes of the rest of the pizza.... basically it's balanced. The pizza is quite flimsy (as it supposed to be) and might be a little wet (which is the result of the watery but amazing cheeses and thin crust) so just do a fold over and just munch down on it! Deliciousness: I usually order my personal favorite, the Diavola and a side salad, but I've tried the Chorizo, Capriccosa and PMT Panini and they were all amazing. The pizza is enough for two meals, but fare warning, it's better fresh out of the oven than heated up at home! Next time I go I plan to get the Arancini since it's all the rave and apparently authentically sicilian... I also want to try out the Salami Panini and Margherita Doc. Basically whatever you get here, you can't go wrong! Ambiance & etc: The inside of Pupatella is quite unexpectedly modern. All the cooks wear cool little hats and some shades, it definitely catches your eye. They usually have some sort of sports game projected on the wall, and even a couch you can lounge on and eat. Everyones friendly and you bus your own tables when done, which I'm fine with but others could find reason to complain. I believe they have an outside as well, but not too certain.The only thing I would change about this place is to have it open on Sundays (also closed Mondays).... but every good chef needs a day of rest, especially if they are slingin out pies this good :)
(5)Margret H.
My boyfriend and I are here almost once a week. If you're looking for great, authentic neopolitan pizza, then this is your place. He likes the real margherita and I usually get either their creative special of the week or the prosciutto with arugula. Fresh ingredients, speedy pizza. They also have yummy deep-fried Brussels sprouts with apple. They also have a rotating beer selection. And, you can watch your pizza go from dough to oven in the expert hands of Enzo and his supporting cast.
(5)TP N.
Pizzas are so good right out of the oven. They make your individual pizza right in front of your eyes, which is fun to watch while you wait. They're not stingy on the ingredients. There are glasses and water pitchers near the back if you don't want to buy the available beverages, but they had some good beverages for sale: some interesting beers, perrier, bottled coke, and I forget what else.
(5)Lav P.
Woah. This is a big statement, but this was the best pizza I've ever eaten...ever. Granted I haven't been to Italy, but I've eaten at tons of pizza places in the U.S, and nothing comes close. What sets Pupatella apart is that every component of the pizza is spectacular. I ordered the Margherita with garlic. The simple tomato sauce was AMAZING. They say on the website that it's just crushed San Marzano tomatoes and salt, which I think really lets the flavor of the tomato shine through. The buffalo mozzarella is fantastic (imported from Italy of course). And the crust...AWESOME. Slightly charred and crusty with a chewy, yet tender texture. I just ate there a few hours ago, but I'm already seriously contemplating going again tomorrow for dinner. Yea...it's that good.
(5)New to San Pedro C.
Very good! Best we have had so far living in Arlington. Wish they delivered! :)
(5)Karthi M.
One of my 3 favorite pizza places to go to the others are Pizza Paradiso and Pizzaria Orso. Highly recommend their Margherita pizza. Excellent quality, great tasting, and pizza takes only 1-3 minutes to cook. They have a really high heat oven and the taste of the pizza is amazing. Only problem don't bother calling during dinner hours they usually don't even pick up the phone. Must try pizza if your in the area!!
(5)Kelsey K.
No worth the treck to VA. Too many kids and sauce is too sweet
(2)John P.
I left work early one day to hunt down the food cart, but now I can stop on my WAY home. Had a Margarita Pizza, Arugula salad with prosciutto and Peanut Butter gelatto. All were fantastic. Not the pizza most people are likely used to- but the fresh taste is immediate, and if you aren't used to it now, you should be. Due to the fresh mozz, fresh tomatoes- the pizza is a little 'limp' or soggy as compared to what you may think of as Americanized pizza. But fold it up and put it in your mouth and you won't be disappointed. Can't wait to try the fried rice balls, fried calzone, and ALL of the pizza variations.
(4)Tyrone F.
Don't be fooled by the storefront. This is the best pizza in town, hands down!! I work right next to this place and I don't think its been one month I haven't had it at least once, since I discovered this place back in September. Awesomeeee Pizza!!! Great people!
(5)Dana W.
The yelp reviews I saw looked good so I decided to try Pupatella. They weren't wrong. I got the bruschetta and The Real Margherita for carryout. The tomatoes in the bruschetta were very flavorful and paired with the toasted bread were excellent and just the right portion size. The real margherita pizza was great too. Very light and a perfect pizza. The only thing I should have done differently was eaten the pizza at the restaurant because it was a little soggy when I got home, but that's to be expected from a neopolitan pizza. I'd definitely recommend trying Pupatella!
(5)Ruth S.
I love their pizza! I used to go to Pie Tanza, but this place is even closer to home and as good or better. I really love the one with fresh tomatoes and artichokes. Yummy! The parking lot gets full, but I think it's ok to park across the street in the Safeway lot.
(5)Nikki G.
The pizza was really good, and the beer selection is decent. It has more than just the bud/miller/stella choices. I went on a Friday night, and it was very crowded, lots of families with kids. There's a very casual atmosphere that I like. But they do ask you to bus your own tables, so if you're high maintenance, it may not be for you. If you go, keep in mind that the pizza isn't very filling. I'm tiny and don't eat very much, and I could easily finish an entire pie by myself.
(4)LoveMyPups A.
Once again they get all the stars I can give. I brought the girlfriend along finally for a pizza and some Gellato. She loved the pizza...and of course I did as always. My first time getting the Gellato...one was free for the Yelp mention, the other I gladly paid for. Before I could ask for a taste of the Peanut Butter she was licking her lips and ready for more. I had the mixed berries...oh so delicious. Pupatella being just a few doors down has me hooked for a lunch once a week. I don't want to abuse or unnerve anyone by going every Tuesday for the free Gellato w/ my pizza....but it's awefully tempting...I think I may just switch it up every once in a while. Awesome job as always guys. I have to bring the rest of her Italian family in for dinner one evening.
(5)Jeffrey P.
Fantastic place. Great food, prices and staff. I will be a patron for life.
(5)Shelby W.
My friend and I had dinner here the other night for about half what we would have paid at any other Neopolitan style pizzeria in the D.C. area. Don't let the lack of ambience and self service fool you -- the food is amazing and so so reasonable. By setting and busing your table the restaurant is able to keep the prices down. $11 for the salami and kalamata olive pizza -- and best of all when you order 2 pizzas you get $10 off a bottle of wine. Does it get any better? We shared an arancino -- the fried risotto ball filled with seasoned ground beef and buffalo mozzarella. Heaven. We ordered gelato to round out the meal -- also wonderful. Any leftovers go into the most adorable pizza box too. This place is a treasure!
(5)Peter K.
it's ok, good for family fun (saw plenty of kids). I don't see the appeal but, I guess some people think this place is "special". Maybe bc the "chefs" wear straw fedoras (don't ask me why). All I saw was an average pizza parlour, little or no atmosphere, average seats/tables. and u can see/hear everyone. as far as the pizza, i agree with others that the sauce is soupy, and, it can make a mess when eating. parking is limited so go across to the safeway. pricing is average for the area. would I go back? probably not. I've had much better in clarendon and, of course, lyons village (italian store).
(2)David J.
We just had lunch here. We made the trip based on the very positive YELP reviews. We were disappointed. Yes, the pizza and calzone were made with fresh ingredients and made well. But the overall impression of the food was bland. And for folks eating in, it's simply not a comfortable venue.
(2)James L.
I had my first visit to Pupatella today. I ordered the Spinach pizza for $10. It was really excellent, with very fresh spinach, and tasty roasted red peppers and pine nuts. I'll be back.
(5)ND DC D.
The most delicious item Pupatella offers up is the kool-aid served by its die hard followers. Based on the average rating I had expected the taste and feel of the piazza navona in Rome. Sadly, although the ingredients are fresh and simple - Pupatella was unable to put it all together for me and the pie as a whole was not greater than the sum of its parts. The highlight of the experience? The bohemian - no frills atmosphere...particularly refreshing in the Rosslyn-Ballston corridor.
(2)Jada M.
I went to the Pupatella on my lunch break. I ordered a pizza to go and when I got back to work I realized they hadn't sliced it!! I had to cut the whole pie with a fork and knife. To make things worse, the pizza was too soupy so the pizza was incredibly flimsy/floppy. And I couldn't pick it up to eat it. Then I went online to read the reviews to see if others agreed and I discovered they give out FREE scoops of gelato on Tuesdays. Today is Tuesday, but I didn't get a free scoop. They didn't even mention this promotion while I was there and I would have loved to have had some! The good news the pizza had a delicious flavor with rich sauce and good toppings.....but so do other pizzas in the area. Bottom line, for now, it's not worth the hassle of leaving the office.
(2)Marty R.
Excellent pizza! Certified Neapolitan pizza that is outstanding.
(5)Ben K.
Best Neopolitan pizza ever! Better than 2 Amy's and certainly more convenient/less annoying. This is not thin, crispy super cheesy gourmet pizza loaded with fancy toppings. This is Neopolitan pizza cooked in an authentic brick oven imported from Italy with chewy, pillowy dough that I wish I could take a nap on, simple tomato sauce, and the perfect amount of cheese. You may need a fork and a knife for the middle. You may not have cheese on part of your slice. IT DON'T MATTER. Close your eyes and forget about what you thought "pizza" was supposed to be and then put some of this in your mouth and you will be wanting to go give Enzo (the owner and master pizza maker straight out of Italy) a hundred high fives. Go here now.
(5)Norlie L.
very good pizza, but you must eat it there and not take home; otherwise the thin crust gets soggy and gooey...
(4)Yvonne C.
I'm giving 5 stars to the pastry side of Pupatella, not the pizza side. I went there for a pizza yesterday afternoon because I read a good review in the Wash Post. It's OK pizza, fun to watch it being made, tastes and smells great from the wood oven, but I prefer a thicker crust that's been baked longer. However, I noticed a small sign that said "open Fri-Sat-Sun at 7:30 with your favorite pastries". I couldn't resist going back this morning. I had the place to myself, so I chatted with pastry chef Chris Deutsch. He arrives each weekend morning at 4am and bakes croissants, doughnuts, and cinnamon rolls. To die for!!!!! I haven't been to a pastry cafe this good in many years, certainly not in a location like this (strip mall). Chris told me he trained in FR, and his pastries show it. His doughnuts are a far cry from Krispy Kreme---his are made with brioche dough (buttery, dense but light), and he makes cinnamon rolls with croissant dough (flaky). I tried one of the chocolate croissants (they also come plain or almond) and a sugar-topped doughnut (other varieties are vanilla cream-filled and nutella-filled). O. M. G. Perfection in every bite. He also serves drip coffee, lattes, and espresso. I can't recommend this enough....you've simply got to try it.
(5)Doug B.
I've tried going to this place three times. Each time it was closed, including today for lunch. Sorry guys, 3 strike rule. I went to Pizzeria Orso instead.
(1)Matthew C.
New favorite!
(5)Da B.
Very good. But let's not get carried away.
(4)Darren D.
It may be management of expectations, but i won't be going back or recommending it to anyone. It's loud, crowded, no service and the food definitely does NOT make me want to come back. I'd much rather go to Hops or Outback or Lonestar or Maccaroni grill. Bruchetta - poor and lacking flavor, arrancina (rice balls) tough and chewy - prefer mine over theirs, fried calzone - very good - at least my son loved it; pizza - SOGGY!!!!!! If you want to stand in line, order, get a number, wait for a table, get your silverware, napkins, water, wait for a table, POUNCE on a vacating table, show the bartender your receipt for wine, draft, etc, get your beer, wine, etc, wait, get served, eat, bus your plates/silverware and leave....then this is the place for you, but not me. I like a place that allows me to tip AFTER i eat and not after. I waited 15 minutes before complaining that our pitcher of sangria had not been delivered only to find out that i was supposed to see the bartender after i paid. major L.
(2)Shane B.
Pupatella was fine, but for some reason I haven't rushed to come back. It may be because of the huge spider that was crawling around on the porch when we were there but I just have bad memories of the place, even though the food was good.
(3)Kimberly K.
FRESH /FLAVORFUL/ HIGH QUALITY INGREDIENTS The Real Margherita Doc: What a fine pizza this is. My taste buds thanked me during the entire meal. The crust is perfectly crisp at the edges yet soft throughout. The tomato sauce adds just the right amounts of sweetness. Topped off with hunks of buffalo mozzarella from Naples, basil and a drizzle of olive oil. Winner. Their beef pepperoni and spicy Spanish chorizo toppings are also very tasty. Talk about meaty goodness. Pupatella really knows how to make a mean pizza!
(5)Marilynn L.
the absolute best pizza i've had in the area aside from astoria pizza in woodbridge. amazing! delicious! i'm addicted!
(5)Laura N.
Fresh and absolutely delicious! Just a note- they don't take call ahead orders on busy nights (Friday and Saturday)
(5)Dominic Y.
I was in the mood for pizza and a friend of mine said this was the best pizza place on the planet, so I just had to check it out. What a great variety of pizza! Also the mozzarella balls where unique and delicious.
(5)Brandy P.
We went because of the rave reviews. The place is small and packed so be ready to wait for a table and for your pizza. Pizza was good, I prefer Piolas in Rosslyn. But overall is good.
(4)Brian K.
Great pizza. More of a take-out place. Service is pretty horrible.
(2)Amanda E.
Sorry, Italian Store. Pupatella is where it's at. All of it. I'm not a crust person, but their dough and cooking method is perfect. Soft but not too chewy. Nice smoky pizza oven flavor. Go for the Buffalo Mozzarella from Naples. It has a tangy, creamy and rich flavor that is unbelievably melt-y. (Not a particularly elegant description, but whatever). From there, build your own or one of their white or red pizzas. If they have them available, get the fried zucchini flowers for an app. They're not stuffed with anything, but the breading and flavor brings me immediately back to the streets of Roma. The Arancini with Eggplant (fried risotto balls) is a great app to share if you have a big appetite. They're super peppery (maybe a touch too much, even) and stuffed rich, roasted eggplant. They're closed Sunday and Monday, and at times during the summer they're only open for dinner. I understand why, but selfishly wish they were open 7 days a week.
(5)Elaine G.
Long line and wait but soo well worth it! Amazing pizza! Cool to watch them make it. My kids absolutely loved it! Need to come back to try all the other pizzas!
(4)Hoon C.
Good pizzas. Good crust -- wood fired ovens so you'll get some burnt parts but it has good chewiness to them. Quality toppings, and lots of flavor while being reasonably priced. Friends had the paninis and they said that it was tasty. I'd definitely go again.
(4)Alison L.
Initial strategy- walk in for pizza and some wine. Post order strategy- finish the 3 appetizers and then some of the pizza. Awesome menu, I was shocked. Honestly, did not think this place would do anything good other than pizza, but I was stunned. We ordered the arancini (some of the best I've ever had, as the outside was nice and crispy, and they were huge!) And the Brussel sprouts-- the balsamic and apple was a great combo of flavor...and lastly, zucchini blossoms, which I've never had. I think I'd prefer them not fried, now that I've tasted them. Pizza was out of this world. I can see how this may not taste to great to go.. but even reheated in the toaster the next day it was delicious. Not sure if it was the toppings or the thin crust, but it was a mouthful of yum. Can't wait to return! (and a lot of folks were getting the gelato, so can't wait to try that too) Warnings- parking lot = very tiny, jaywalking the road = dangerous... and finding seating can be difficult if they're busy...so just plan on a wait if you do at normal pizza eating hours.
(4)james b.
First time there, last month, best pizza I've had outside Naples. SEcond time, last week, pizza had a soggy, underdone crust. Still better than most, and I'll definitely go back. Updating, back to 5 stars; the last few times have been great. Musta just hit a bad day a few visits back.
(5)Christopher C.
I am sitting here in the parking lot of pupatella i wanted to do thia review before i started my trek back in the snow. MY GOSH this pizza ia great I don't Know if any other places are acceptable in this area. They really make a great pie. Everything is fresh. What really surprised me what the gelato YOU have to get it. I got a mix of salted caramel and dark chocolate. I may come back here tomorrow.
(5)Leighann G.
A-mazing! I've been meaning to try this place since I moved here last November, my only disappointment is that I didn't eat here sooner! I'm a Jersey girl so I'm a bit of a pizza snob, but the pizza here is incredible and very much like some of the pizza I've had in Italy. I recommend the meatball pizza, it was awesome!
(5)Catharine L.
This place has ruined me for pizza, nothing compares to Pupatella's crust. Nothing. It's crunchy, chewy, and flavorful. I also appreciate the fact that they put a ton of sauce on their pies and how their cheese is melty and delicious, NOT plasticy and bland. For Pupatella newbies- the lines can be viciously long, but I promise, the food is worth the wait. Also, they may not let you sit (it's seat yourself) until after you've ordered, which can be tricky if you have kids. And finally, they disable call-in orders on weekend nights. All those minor gripes aside, they still get 5 stars from me, the pizza is that damn good.
(5)Tesia V.
Yummy pizza thin crust and the beet and goat cheese appetizer was good too.
(5)B F.
I've tried 3 different pizzas, 2 salads and 2 different bottles of wine and loved them all. Most affordable tasty date night.
(5)Michelle S.
Seriously the best, most authentically Italian pizza in DMV. Fresh ingredients and great people too!
(5)Craig W.
Some of the best authentic thin-crust Italian pizza I've had!
(5)Glenn Alex V.
Best Pizza in the area! Went to 2 Amys to verify my choice. Love the atmosphere and the pizza!
(5)Lynn B.
We have been going since they opened. We used to go more frequently but now that the secret is out and it is hard to get a seat, we time our visits to the non peak eating times. Still our favorite pizza and well worth the wait.
(5)Lauren B.
Great pizza. The sauce is phenomenal and their other selections are too. The price is very affordable. They're awesome and they're always busy so if you go at the same time as everyone else, you may have to wait. Really love it though!
(5)Norry H.
As my friend chefs K.O. of K.S.B. and R.D. of G.III recommended me, I went there today for the first time. The Margherita pizza was really good. The dough, simple tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, everything was up to my expectation which had been already raised high inside of me. Arancino 1 stuffed with mozzarella, peas and sausage was delicioso. The dessert special, home made Neapolitan pastry was pretty good too. I liked the idea of self servicing system. They have real stainless utensils, napkins, condiments, free tap water in pitchers which did not taste bad at all, etc. on the self service station. The interior looks Italian with bright colors. The price is very reasonable. Their Margherita pizza to me is the best cost performance pizza at the price of $9.00. But Mr. Enzo, please, do not raise the prices!
(5)Craig R.
Another terrific pizza pie which ranks right there with Luciano's, Valentino's and Ciro's. This rating is based off the Margherita pie. This pie is a slight variant to your standard pizza. Dont expect a crispy pizza here but more on the chewy side with what I characterize as a creamy center. There is something special about the dough, sauce and cheese combination which gives it that creamy like texture/taste. The biggest recommendation I can give is to eat this pie right out of the oven as there is no better way to experience just how good this pie can be, Yes.
(4)AB S.
Pizza was fantastic. Aroncini balls were delish. I recommend asking for a side of red sauce with them, though. So much better with red sauce.
(5)Keren C.
Limited seating and parking but the pizza makes it all worth it! Pupatella is up there with the best pizza I've ever had (I'm from NY!). There's also a pretty good selection of beer and wine. It's a very chill place to enjoy great food, drinks, and dessert with friends and family. I will definitely be going back (probably too often)!
(4)Jim R.
Having lived in Naples, Italy for 8 years I can say this is pretty close to authentic. Not exactly but close. One thing missing is Italians making the pizza .
(4)Mike I.
Preface: I just moved to Virginia from Philly. The pizza is good, but if you're looking for your typical no-frills northeast style pizza place this certainly isn't it. They do it right, baking at high temps / short time to give the hand-tossed crust the proper taste and texture. However, I was appalled that they just flat out don't answer their phones...when I asked about it it the answer I received a silly answer of "well were busy" while one of their employees was sitting at the front of the line pointing to where the menus are. If you go there you will have to wait in line for your pizza then wait again, but the wait for the pizza is short because all pies are 11" and don't spend much time in the oven.
(4)Lhynette C. A.
Pupatella's wood fired Neapolitan pizzas are the crème de la crème of pizzas. Sorry...but this is it folks. Don't bother going anywhere else if you're a Naples pizza style enthusiast. After reading all the great reviews and hearing so much about this place, it was time. Meeting up with a few great peeps for dinner in the middle of the work week - we anticipated a long line, but it fairly went quick. Get in line, one cashier, tell them what you want and they hand you a number for your table..then your party is seated. We ordered a round of apps to start with...arancini and such...but to be honest, that's not even worth talking about. So on to the PIZZAS...I got to try the margherita pizza, the meatball pizza and the eggplant. My favorite is the margherita of course!!! The buffalo mozz was creamy and fresh as ever and each huge glob is placed sparingly all over the dough. topped with the most delicious tomato sauce and fresh basil. The dough is flash fired for a short amount of time in their custom oven designed by the owner, and it was shipped from NAPLES! I know..I've done my research #creeper - one word perfection. The dough is an addicting element that binds all the toppings together, with just one bite...the pizza as a whole won my heart. Bite after bite, the creamy and stretchy mozz, the basil and the sauce was perfect... bite after bite. The tomato sauce tasted clean, and light, not too overwhelming with spices, and with that, you can definitely taste the empowering flavor of the basil leaves as it breaks down. It's freaking delicious, and my mouth is watering just talking about it and recalling my first bite into a Pupatella pizza. Because it was truly an epic experience! The service was pleasant, but it tends to get crowded in there...from what i've heard - sometimes it's better to order ahead and pick it up so you don't deal with the crowd during busy hours. The only negative thing i have to say is...i don't know why i waited so long to try Pupatella...so don't make that same mistake and go now! :)
(5)Mike G.
The pizza here is absolutely divine ! My friend had the meatball pizza and I had one with rocket and mozzarella . The first thing I noticed about this pizza is the dough , light fluffy and not too thick . The flavor of the fresh mozzarella combined with the sauce was a perfect balance . I really enjoyed my meal and I will certainly come back !
(5)Michael K.
My dad took me for pizza once.
(5)Andy L.
The best pizza spot in the DC/Virginia area. I've been spoiled with new haven pizza for some time and i was a bit bummed when I moved to Virginia and I couldn't locate a decent pizza spot. Then, one day, I discovered pupatella. This place is fun. The atmosphere is friendly, the wait is never that long and of course the pizza is fantastic. My choice when I go is the burruta pizza or the meatball pizza, both awesome. This place has become my go to pizza spot and i happily visit it once a week. No complaints about this place.
(5)Meredith B.
Came here for what I was told was some of the best pizza around. We started with the frittura sampler. The arancini was delicious. Though the panzarotti was a little salty for our taste, it was still very enjoyable. We ordered the meatball pizza and seriously, I could have eaten the entire thing. The crust was thin and perfect. Our only complaint was that the garlic was a little overpowering with every bite. We wished it was a little more subtle. But if you like pizza, you should definitely try this place. Not the best pizza I've ever had, but it was good. The service is casual. You order at the counter and they bring you your food when it's ready. They had signs saying no waiting by the front counter, which I didn't really like because we didn't want to get in line to order before knowing what we wanted to order. A little confusing.
(4)Ross E.
"As good as it gets" really does describe Pupatella. The pizza is fantastic, the appetizers are tasty, the gelato is delicious ... I can't under-represent my fanaticism for Pupatella. They started as an oven in a food cart, progressed to a small hole-in-the-wall, and recently bought out the restaurant next door so that they could have a dining room - if that isn't a success story, I don't know what is. The newspaper accolades and reviews are real - if you haven't been yet, you know where you need to go out next. The only downside I can think of is a lack of parking (maybe they'll buy the rest of the small strip mall and turn it into a lot :D) - if it's at all busy, just park in the Safeway lot across the street.
(5)Heather G.
I really don't get the hype about this place. My aracini balls with eggplant in them were nicely fried, but the aracini wasn't fully cooked. It was crunchy like I was eating it straight from the container. The pizza I had, while resembling the ones I had in Rome, was not all the way cooked in the middle but almost burned on the edges. I ordered mine with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses along with tomato sauce and it was really all kind of soupy and bland. The Brussels sprouts with green apples and balsamic vinaigrette were surprisingly the tastiest items I had. I waited about 15 minutes on Saturday at noon for a table for 5, which is not bad. All in all, it was a $70 meal for three people including 2 pizzas with three toppings, the brussles sprouts, the fried appetizers platter, two pieces of garlic bread, a meatball panini, three bottled sodas, and a Peroni. TLDR version: Very expensive and not all that great.
(2)Bhavi A.
Pupatella is acceptable pizza if want the feeling of eating something semi-authentic but can't actually get to NYC to do so. In this case, they say the Margherita pizzas are great... factoring in the stale basil and soggy floppy crust, it's meh, but if you're desperate like I said, you can have a go. We got the pesto pizza too which was better. The seating area is not bad (way better than what you get in NYC) and 3 or 4 parking spots if you get lucky.
(3)Monnia D.
Based on all the high yelp reviews, my boyfriend and I were very excited to try this place as both of us are looking for a great local pizza joint. Unfortunately, the pizza here was pretty terrible and we won't be coming back. Both the dough for my boyfriend's pizza and mine were undercooked and verging on raw. The sauce was watery and the whole thing was basically inedible. What I don't understand is how it can be so undercooked and still have char on the sides? How does one manage to burn something and yet still not fully cook it? Boggles the mind..... Giving one additional star for the arancini which was delightfully good.
(2)K A.
One of best pizza in northern Virginia, you can't find their fried pizza in any other place in this area.
(5)Steven M.
Very good Neapolitan style pizza. Nice staff in a causal atmosphere. Everything is counter ordered, food is delivered to your table when ready, while drinks (all) are reorder at the bar with receipt.
(4)Audra B.
I came to Pupatella on a Tuesday around 5:30PM. It started to get pretty busy as soon as I arrived. There are around 5 parking spots in the lot and they filled up fast. You order at the counter and take your number to your seat. There is a small bar, a dining room, and another room that you can sit at the counter. We opted for the counter with the window view because the dining room was full of children and quite loud. I must note that this is a very family friendly place. We arrived in time for happy hour so I had a glass of white wine for only 3.00 and my husband had a draft of pumpkin beer for only 3.25; great deal. FYI - I also read that if you order two pizzas you get $10 off a bottle of wine. Here's what we ordered as described on the menu: Panzerotti - fried potato croquettes stuffed with prosciutto and mozzarella Salad 1 - organic baby arugula, prosciutto di parma, shaved parmesan and balsamic dressing Meatball Pizza - homemade angus beef meatballs, ricotta, mozzarella, basil and garlic Sausage and Onion - our own sausage, sautéed onions and provola The panzerotti was good and had a wonderful, crispy crust, but I wouldn't order it again because I'd like to leave room for more pizza. The salad was a very large portion and could easily be split between 3-4 people. It was a simple salad with top notch ingredients. This was the best prosciutto I've ever had. I usually stay away from it because it's never that good. This changed my mind! I would order this again. The meatball pizza was good, but the meatballs were a little bland for my taste. The sausage and onion pizza was fabulous. The onions brought a lot of extra flavor to the pizza. The customer service here is fantastic. Everyone is friendly and seems to genuinely enjoy their jobs; very refreshing to see! I plan on going back and trying other pizzas because they all sound amazing.
(4)Rakesh N.
Really fresh pizza! The best you can get in Nova. Vegetarians definitely will love this place considering wide range of options. The only bad part is the wait times on weekends especially around dinner time.
(5)James M.
All the pizzas are one size. That's the only downside of Pupatella's because you always want more. Order the aranchini and never look back.
(5)James M.
Finally got a chance to try this place on pi (aka 3.14) day, out of all days! Lots of ppl dining in and taking out. Limited parking in the small lot, convenient buzzers to alert you when your order's ready. We got 4 $13 dollar pies to go -- Margherita Doc, Prosciutto Arugula, Chorizo, Capricciosa. All the ingredients (cheese, sauce, toppings) tasted great, but the crust was definitely under-cooked for all 4 pies. We had to toast them up on our stove a bit to fully enjoy the 4 pie spread. Definitely convenient for NoVA folks, and comparable to 2 Amys in DC. Looking forward to leftovers tomorrow.
(4)Pegah Y.
I don't get the huge fuss about this place. It's super casual and doesn't try very hard to have nice decor (they have metal chairs, for crying out loud - I don't expect something swanky, but put a little more character into your restaurant), the pizza wasn't as delicious/flavorful as I was hoping it would be, there's a very long line, the pizza takes a while (we waited about 40 minutes for ours), they don't have that much variety, and it isn't worth the price. It also isn't very close to the Ballston metro (we drove and parked in their tiny, cramped parking lot - we were lucky to even find a spot on a Saturday evening). In all, I just feel like this place was overrated. I ordered the Diavola (Spicy salami, fresh mozzarella, basil) and asked to add pine nuts (my recent obsession). The pizza was almost flavorless. I could hardly taste the basil or spicy ingredients. And the crust was burnt (something I only like to a moderate degree on pizzas). My boyfriend ordered their special of the day - a honey pizza (which, surprisingly, tasted pretty decent with the oil they used). I did like the fried mozzarella balls we got - those were quite delicious, dipped in a warm marinara sauce. In all, I didn't have a particularly amazing experience at Pupatella. It's good, but not amazing. I'm not sure why it got such high ratings.
(3)Maja T.
Pupatella has the best pizza in DC metro area. I like arugula pepperoni pizza. I tried some other pizza they have and always left the place satisfied. My friends that I took to this place also liked their pizza.
(5)Kat A.
I finally gave this place a try after seeing a special on PBS or something about the best pizza in the DC area. It definitely lives up to the hype. As a self-proclaimed pizza aficionado, it's certainly the best pizza I've had in the area. Don't be thrown off by the hectic set up. I went there on a Saturday night and have to admit I was a bit nervous. The line was so long we could barely make it through the door. We were told it would be about a 20 minute wait for a table which I thought was impossible given how busy it was. Luckily I was wrong! The line moved very quickly and by the time we paid for the food (you order and pay first) our table was ready. So they clearly have a system that works even if it seems a bit hectic. As for the food, I don't think you could go wrong with any of the pizzas. They come out piping hot - to the point you have to wait a few minutes before diving in. I had the tomato artichoke pizza which was delicious. My boyfriend ordered some pizza I would never get (pizza toppings are the one thing we disagree on!) and I even liked his pizza which is saying a lot. We'll definitely be going back. Highly recommend a visit to all my fellow pizza lovers out there.
(5)NotaFoodSnob H.
Having been to Naples Italy, Pupatella is THE PLACE to go to for authentic Italian pizza in the DMV area -- high quality ingredients with plenty of varieties! My family eats here every other week or at least once a month. I am not sure what else to add to so many raving reviews of this place, except "JUST GO ALREADY"! My personal favorites are Meatball, Pepperoni and Chorizo, but there are plenty of other delicious vegetarian choices too. Parking is tight so get there early! During dinner hours, they do not pick up phone so no take-out orders, and they get very crowded, so expect some wait-time if you visit 6-8pm. THIS IS by far THE BEST PIZZAs IN THE AREA. LISTEN TO THE REVIEWS and JUST GO ALREADY!
(5)Mita P.
Great pizza--lives up to all the hype. It was so good!
(5)Laurie M.
Loved this place! The sauce had a fresh tomato taste with a bit of an acid bite. The crust was perfect. The margarita pizza and Italian ice cream were well done and just what we wanted.
(5)Cat C.
Pupatella hits every high mark for me, from the crust, to the sauce, to the toppings, and distribution of pizza toppings. Did I mention crust? Yes it is chewy ooey goodness with the perfect amount of oven char. They're consistent and the staff is great. The restaurant is a little cramped, not in the best location, and you'll probably have to park across the street on the grocery store lot - but the pizza is worth it. It has become my go to spot for my Neopolitan pizza fix.
(5)Robert M.
This place is perfect for pizza lovers who appreciate Neapolitan pizza. It's the best Neo pizza I've had outside Naples. The crust is sooo light and fluffy. Very friendly staff and reasonably priced. The apps like bruschetta had farm fresh cherry tomatos adorning the bread and the meatball app was great. The pizza takes the cake. We shared a bottle of wine for cheap an aglianico that paired well with food. There's a nice outdoor seating area in the back. I shall return and recommend often.
(5)DeerEyes A.
Expensive! The pizza is good, but nothing spectacular. It's easy to over do it at this place, especially if you order appetizers. The parking is not good - most people park at the Safeway across the street and walk over.
(3)Alexandra M.
Absolutely amazing wood-fired Neapolitan pizza in Arlington, VA. My go-to orders are the side salad, absolutely anything from the friggitoria part of the menu (try the frittura sampler - delicious!), and the filetti doc. Pupatella often has burrata available (a soft cheese that has the texture of ricotta on the inside and mozzarella on the outside). When available, they offer it on a pizza similar to the filetti doc - but with pine nuts. It's a must have. Don't overlook the donuts, which are not always available but are always worth the calories. The only reason for a 4-star review is because of take-out. Despite the convenience of take-out, the pizza is not intended to be consumed after sitting in a pizza box for 10 minutes (or longer). Moreover, the restaurant simply can't handle take-out orders (particularly those placed by phone) - having a hard time juggling in-store orders (to stay or to go) with those placed over the phone. They may tell you 30 minutes and still not have cooked your pizza an hour later. Save yourself the frustration and truly enjoy the amazing pizza Pupatella has to offer by visiting in person and eating there!
(4)Mohammed K.
This review is about service. You wanna learn about the Pizza read my other review. I'm a big fan. But coming with my one month old 5mins before your so called break time (3:30PM) and you send me back out is very inconsiderate and cold. To make things better I had a 3 week old and its our first time out of the house. We drive 10 miles to get there, at least answer your phone when I'm calling you on the way to check.
(1)Karla R.
The service is fast and friendly. The parking is limited and the seating accommodations are somewhat crowded. But it's worth it because the pizza is very good!
(4)Camelia M.
meatball pizza was amazing. it's like eating your mother's meatloaf and the barefoot contessa's weeknight bolognese all in one.
(5)Tiffany O.
Mmm, what can I say about Pupatella that hasn't already been written?! Yes, the pizza and food is amazing Yes, the dining room is small Yes, parking can be tough So the food itself....I've probably been 15 times and so far I've had 4 things on their menu (I'm a creature of habit) Wine - I get the House White. It's cold, a full glass, does the job. When you order you'll get a ticket that you have to take to the bar to get your drink Salad #3 (Tarragon, baby arugula, grapefruit, green apple and parmesan. Mustard-citrus dressing) - Super delicious and fresh. The dressing is really tart Brussels Sprouts - Halved and deep fried and then served with diced apple and balsamic vinagrette. The Brussels can be a little greasy so the apple and balsamic help to cut through the oil. Pizza - I make my own and basically get the Prosciutto Arugula, minus Prosciutto. The cashier is even nice enough to remove the cost of the Prosciutto. Let me tell you, this pizza is amazing!!! Thin, chewy crust with charred bubbles. The sauce is yummy, the arugula is yummy, the mozzarella is yummy, the Parmesan shavings are yummy. Coming here you should plan to wait, whether you're getting carryout or sitting in their dining room. However, during your wait you can watch them make the pizzas. They cook in a brick oven that is around 800* which means the pizza cooks in less than a minute!!! Seriously, I've timed it multiple times because I didn't believe it at first. Parking - Usually the small lot is full so I've parked in the grocery store across the street. Haven't been towed yet.... Dining Room - you need to get your own water, plates and silverware from a cart near the entrance. There is a hostess lady who keeps track of the line and seats you as quick as she can Bar Area - There are 4 barstools where you can eat or drink if you're lucky enough to get one. They serve beer and wine. Outside Patio - New last year (I think) there is an area outside with maybe 10 tables. There wasn't a hostess there that I saw at least. You access it out the back door by the bathrooms. It's ok, nothing special but it is a place to sit and enjoy your pizza. Carryout - I've only been lucky enough once to actually have them answer my phone call and be able to put in a carryout order. When they're busy (which is most of the time), they don't answer the phone. Too bad. Note: They're closed on Monday's
(5)Kathryn P.
O Pupatella, how I love you. Being from Connecticut (Hello Frank Pepes anyone!?), pizza is near and dear to my heart, and having lived in the DC area for 8 years now, it's been an ongoing quest to locate a place that makes satisfactory pizza. Somehow I stumbled upon Pupatella a year or two ago and I have never looked back. I wish it was accessible by metro but such is life, I am willing to make a special trek by car just to partake in its deliciousness. Every pizza I have had has been amazing, the gelato to die for, the arancini,- perfection. Do yourself a favor, go to Pupatella. You will not be disappointed
(5)Jea L.
Great pizza! The environment, not so glamorous, kind of a hole-in-the-wall, but it's all about the pizza, so check it out for yourself.
(4)Angela K.
I highly value customer service, so with that said I gave this place a lower rating because of the poor/rude greeting received from a member of their staff. Aside from their customer service needing to be improved, their pizza tasted fine. Nothing too special, but good for a quick casual meal.
(2)J M.
The best pizza in the DC area without a doubt! The ingredients are fresh and the dough is soft and thin. The staff is always friendly and warmly greets repeat customers. It is setup that you wait in line and order at the counter first and then find a seat afterwards. The seating areas are small, so it can be a challenge to find space for big groups. Also, it gets quite busy on the weekends. They have a very small parking lot, but you can get street parking near the 7-11 next door.
(5)Alan W.
Very good pizza...but not the best...really a 3.5 at best. Good ingredients and sauce, but the bread was just okay. The pizza was also a little burnt, but not too bad. I think it gets it's high reviews because of the quality ingredients they use. Picked this place since it was on my bookmarks. The lack of parking was no joke. We parked across the street at the Safeway lot. They weren't terribly busy, so we were able to step aside in the lobby and figure out our order.
(3)Tanner D.
Over rated. Just called at 6:05. Asked to order 2 pizzas. Earliest they'd have it ready FOR PICK-UP is an hour and 5 minutes later (7:10). We're talking about pizzas folks...... PIZZAS! Wasn't asking for delivery. UPDATE: Went to astorfoods.com ordered a pizza online, picked it up at 6:30pm. Currently enjoying delicious pizza at 6:40pm..... well before my 7:10pm estimated pick-up time of Pupatellas
(1)Daniel T.
Finally got to try this place after a few failed attempts...wanted to see what all the hype was about. Stopped by at 6 PM on a Friday. I had the arancini (fried risotto balls) with sausage, chorizo pizza and a meatball pizza. Honestly, it's good authentic tasting pizza, but wasn't good enough to justify for the 38 minute wait. I understand they get busy, but I don't see what's so special. The pizza was not super greasy which is a plus. The dough is kind of flimsy and gooey, good tasting but not firm. I feel like they don't use enough sauce, but I guess that's their style? Good pizza spot, just not good enough to make me wait.
(3)Katie G.
Is it going downhill? I was there recently, and ordered what was listed as a special--smoked sausage and mushrooms. I heard the pizza cook confer with the woman at the till: "make her this last one." It was pre-assembled. I had barely sat down when it arrived in front of me. Undercooked. And with a pretty nasty flavor in the sausage. I was starving, and I love the tomato sauce here and usually love the dough, but I prefer it not gooey and stomachache-inducing. I notified the woman who'd taken my money and she just shrugged and said, "we're about to close. Maybe the oven was too hot. Next time, I'll give you a discount." I just shook my head and walked out. That is not appropriate customer service.
(2)A B.
Just so good! Pizza, salads, snacks, beer, wine, it's all tasty. I'm definitely a fan.
(5)Andrew M.
Okay but not worth the price. So I got the margherita pizza (which had buffalo mozzarella for an extra $3 more than the regular classic cheese pizza which I'd thought I'd spring for because it was my birthday)...it was $14.30 after tax which is way to much for a personal pizza especially one that you order at the counter (they are pretty much self-service-which is not a bad thing for convenience- I've never paid that much for a personal pizza at a sit down restaurant let alone one you order at a counter) After the sky high price I was expecting something amazing-which it wasn't. The sauce and cheese were good but the crust was not at all. It was super soft with 0 crispness almost like naan bread. They need to use the great looking oven that they have properly and get it up to a higher temperature and cook the pizza longer. Lastly for $14.30 you'd expect something like fresh Parmesan but that was just generic pizza place shakers and also they didn't have fresh garlic either, rather powder. Overall unless they drop the price I won't be going back.
(2)Yen W.
I have been a regular here since 2010. The pizza is excellent. Their burrata cheese pizza is a must try. Downside is the fact that it's always crowded. Many times I have to wait 15-20 minutes to get a table cos they dont take reservation. One time my friends and I were there, as soon as we finished the pizza the waiter asked us to leave so that other customers can sit. We were there for only an hour max and haven't even finished our drinks! There is only a few parking spaces in front of the restaurant. Many people don't know that you can park at the Safeway across the street.
(3)Melanie H.
Pupatella serves thin crust, Neapolitan style pizza in a no-frills environment. It's impossible for me to not order the prosciutto arugula pizza, but I've tried the chorizo pizza off friends' plates and it's a solid choice as well. The crust is so good, softer in the middle and crispy with blackened spots on the edges. Skip the bruschetta appetizer unless you're starving; it's just standard white bread with diced tomatoes. Alright, but nothing special. The wait during the weekends can be brutal (1-1.5 hours), but they do have beer and wine so you can grab a drink while you wait. The only problem is where to wait with said drink - the waiting area is tiny and I tend to feel like I'm in the way no matter where I stand. Since the parking lot is small, I always park across the street at Safeway and have never had a problem.
(4)Colter H.
Traditional Neapolitan pizza at its finest. Date of Visit: Many Once I tried Pupatella, there was little trouble choosing a pizza spot going forward. They boast a pizza oven shipped from Naples, Italy, but regardless of the oven's authenticity, this place does pizza well. The toppings are plentiful, the sauce is fantastic, and the crust simply can't be beat. I guess that's what 800-1000* degrees for ~60 seconds will do for you. The lone downside is that parking is minimal and wait times can be long, which just affirms how good this stuff is. Considering the pizza, their small (but nice) beer/wine list, and laid-back atmosphere, Pupatella is the easy/only choice for quality pizza in the area.
(5)Seung Yeon C.
Best pizza in Virginia. Pizza is fresh and absolutely delicious. Since I go there I couldn't enjoy other pizza. There's always crowd.
(5)David T.
The real deal. Certified by Italy and as good as any pizza you'll get across the ocean. The only real Neapolitan pizza in the area. Seriously, stop reading and go get some pizza. Lines can be a bit long and you have to seat yourself, but it's all worth it. Believe you can BYO for small corkage fee too.
(5)Mike C.
Simple..... the best authentic pizza in NOVA in my opinion. Straight from Italy...... their special ingredient and oven help capture all of the flavors of the ingredients! The Buffalo Mozzarella pizza is a great pizza to try! Keep it kinda simple when ordering pizza.... no more than 4 toppings since the dough is thin.
(5)Ashima D.
Pizza was exquisite - the crust was soft and crispy. The service was quick and enjoyed watching the pizza-making process. And the oven was cool looking!
(4)Helen Z.
My friends have raved about this place for ages and while we've ordered takeout before, I knew pupatella was one of those places you had to enjoy the pizza fresh from the oven. The restaurant has an order, then sit process, probably to expedite their process as each pizza already took ~25 minutes to prepare. I tried the arancini and the spinach white pizza. Both were delicious! Arancini is a fried ball of risotto, stuffed with melty mozzarella and eggplant or sausage. The key is to eat them while they're hot from the fryer so the cheese is warm and stringy. Nomz! The pizza was amazingly flavorful. I loved the use of olive oil. What really makes this pizza stand out is its crust. Thin but chewy, pupatella crust is made of very simple ingredients and tastes amazing as a result. A few places were a little burnt but I think that's just the nature of the way their oven works. Again, this is a dish that must be enjoyed while fresh, as I imagine the crust hardens once it cools down. They also serve gelato. Though it didn't look super appealing, I got a kids size of the hazelnut and was really impressed by how creamy it was. I wish I had gotten another scoop! Summary: I can see why pupatella is ranked as one of the top pizza places in the DC area. Definitely give it a try!
(5)Nini J.
Amazing pizza (best dough and fresh toppings) and I really like how the place is ran. Also it's the only place I know that offers beef pepperoni (for my non pork eating boyfriend). And it tasted better than the swine version lol.
(5)Auditi G.
Came here last night for dinner after hearing great things from friends. As soon as we walked in, we were greeted by the friendly staff. We ordered the Homemade Meatballs, Arancini With Sausage, Panzarotti and the Margherita Doc with Pepperoni. I absolutely loved the patio outside, made me feel like I was in someone's backyard. The patio is a great place to bring a large group to. I saw some older ladies crushing bottles of wine and food to a seat for two who looked like they were on a date enjoying a bottle of wine and pizza. The meatballs, arancini and panzarotti were all good, but nothing that threw me over the edge as amazing. The meatballs come with marinara sauce, grated parmesan, and toasted bread. I was expecting the arancini to be a bit creamier since they were risotto balls, but instead found it to be really cheesy, which wasn't a bad thing. The panzarotti was pretty good. It was filled with potato, mozzarella and meat. The panzarotti were my fav among the few options we got. I was craving some sauce to go along with it, but that was just my personal preference. The pizza was pretty good. I am usually not a fan of pizza but I enjoyed the fact that the dough was light and not too heavy. It was a thinner dough, so I folded it so the toppings wouldn't fall off on me. The pizza was refreshing and allowed us to enjoy it instead of feeling extremely over stuffed after. I think all the portion sizes were enough to share for two people. The ingredients all tasted fresh and I enjoyed the service. The apps are great to try, but I enjoyed the pizza the most.
(4)Leigh D.
Not a fan of the pizza here. However, their gelato is the best. I was here last night with my Pizza Addicts group. We waited in a fairly long line to order. I got the meatball pizza and told her that I wanted the cheese to cover the entire pizza, not in splotches. The cashier said that if you want that, Two Chefs across the street is your choice, but she can add extra cheese for $1, and I said yes. When the pizza came, I saw mine had more cheese than the other people's pizza; however, it still didn't cover the entire pizza. Also, I expected a heartier amount of meatballs on the pizza. It was these little meat spickled on. As for the taste, the pizza was just alright for me. There were parts of the pizza that weren't warm enough, which I thought was unacceptable. For the pizza, I give 2-2.5 stars. Some in the group lived the pizza However, there were a couple in our group that wanted gelato, and I sampled to see that I liked it. It was great, and splurged and got 2 scoops. It was maybe the best gelato I've ever had. So, in summary, a good date or friend, have pizza across the street at Two Chefs, which I went to before, and I remembered the food was good and very friendly, but didn't try their pizza. Then, after trying Two Chef's pizza, go across the street to Pupatella for Gelato.
(3)Mary Jane S.
Great pizza. Fast, well organized service. Yes, there is often a long line, but for good reason. Not the greatest parking lot, so park across the street.
(5)N B.
Yes. Margherita Pizza. Every ingredient is perfect and balanced. Crust is delicious and chewy. My only complaint is that the restaurant is clearly not big enough. I don't want to wait an hour to get a seat, and take-out means I just have to wait longer to eat my magic pizza.
(5)Mayra G.
Best pizza in town!!! My first time there I was recommended the Prosciutto Arugula and roasted brussel sprouts, which were both exquisite! Friendly staff & fun ambiance.
(5)Keli R.
Being a transplant from connecticut...if you want thin crust/Neapolitan/New Haven Style pizza... this is the place for you. Yes, it's a big pricey....and hell yes, I woke up with garlic seeping out of my pores, but it was really good. The proscuitto and arugula was my favorite but I would have preferred if the arugula was dressed with olive oil and lemon and placed in a big mound on the pizza after the cooking process. The best part was the arancini sampler...the eggplant was the BEST and tasted like bacony goodness.....definitely would go back for those and a few beers. Be aware..it's a bit pricey.... two personal pizzas an arancini sampler (small sampler) two beers and a donut *(that the counter boy masquaraded as a free donut and then charged me 4.00 for it) and it equaled like 46.00! If you're used to crummy pizza in this area at cheap prices...you may be floored by this place. But it's definitely worth a look!
(4)Xavier P.
Decent pizza but overhyped and overpriced. Ordered the Neapolitan and sausage pizza and fried rice balls. The rice balls are really great though!!! Not an expert but I have spent lots of time in Italy and know the freshness of the real thing.
(3)Joseph M.
Maybe I should have went here before going to Italy. I just got back from Northern Italy and decided to try this restaurants pizza. I decided to get the MARGHERITA DOC. Boy was I dissappointed. I have no choice but to compare it to the italian pizzas I was in Italy only a week prior in Bergamo and Milan. Not my fault. :) The crust was terrible. It was like chewing rubber. Its the best way to describe it. Everything looked so authentic but I couldn't get past the bad crust. My fiance who is born and bred in Northern Italy simply stated, "Only in Italy you can have a really good Pizza". I have to agree. I guess for American standards, you can find better. I will give it a 2nd chance....I'm not that harsh.
(2)Rosie M.
Pizzas made with love. I love this place, food is delicious from their appetizers, salads and pizzas. Awesome customer service too. Had a slight issue with my pizza, they gave me my money back without asking and replaced my pizza. Definitely recommend this place if you're craving authentic pizza.
(5)Daniel Y.
Simply put - Pupatella's pizza is amazing. It's just as good as the one I've tried in Florence, Italy several months ago. Friendly staff and plenty of seating. This is my go-to place for Napoli pizza in Arlington.
(5)Sean G.
Love this place. Great pizza and service at fair prices. I'd compare the pizza to be similar in quality to comet ping pong, but saves me a trip downtown. Will be back!
(5)Sam B.
Can I give this place 12 stars out of 5? It was seriously that good! I was there with a large-ish group - about 8 of us. Everything we ordered was beyond delicious and we didn't leave a crumb of food on the table by the time we walked out of there. It was my first time having arancini and those little puppies blew me away. I'm definitely coming back next time I'm in the area!
(5)AJ W.
After multiple attempts at circling the parking lot and waiting for the dust to settle on their expansion, I have made it to pupatella. Got my dopey menu in hand, got a bottle of foreign coke, got my number card and got my booth. Food came reasonably quick, but I think these people are full of themselves. $7 drafts, $2.50 cokes, and it is beyond me that a place with "bus your own tables" signs posted all over the place has a tip jar. The food wasn't life-changing, and I will more than likely fourth-meal it later. Save this place for a date with a SO not from around here. Oh, and if you ask for a box they give you sheets of tin foil. I was rather surprised when they pulled out single sheets of it like Costco uses instead of an employee toting a roll of Reynolds Wrap.
(2)VA B.
I came here a few weeks ago with friends and the pizza was amazing, reminding me of the pizza I had in Italy. First off, the parking situation sucks. It's a super small parking lot, so be prepared to look for parking. We parked across the street at the Safeway, which I don't think is allowed, but we did it anyway. Also, the interior is very small, and seats fill up really fast. We got there before the rush at around 4-4:30pm and luckily got a booth without a wait. Also, you order at the counter when you first walk in, then they give you a number to place at your table. I got the Margherita Doc pizza (Neapolitan buffalo mozzarella, basil, olive oil) while my boyfriend got the sausage. I also got a glass of pinot noir, which was really nice. The pizza takes about 30 minutes, so be prepared to wait, but it's totally worth it. The crust was perfectly cooked, with some crunch, but not too much. And the flavors were subtle and fresh. My boyfriend's sausage pizza was also delicious. He's pretty happy with whatever food he gets, but he raved about the pizza and keeps talking about going back. Since we enjoyed the pizza so much we decided to get some of the gelato they have up front. I got pistachio and it was great, but I also like most gelato. By the time we left (around 5:45) it was packed. Lots of people waiting in the entrance area to be seated. Again, try to get there early, or during off hours. I can't wait to come back, or order out soon. The pizza is the best I've had in this area.
(5)Jen S.
My husband and I had bought the Washington's issue of the DMV's 100 Favorite Bargain Restaurants and decided to check this spot out since it raved about their Neopolitan pizzas and since Ryan S. is such a huge pizza connoisseur, we headed out that way. Yes, the Margherita pizza is solid. I also liked the Tomato Artichoke pizza. They recommend ordering a pizza per person which makes sense for a guy and gal but if you're going with just your gf, 1 pizza plus an appetizer and/or salad will be filling enough. The parking lot is tight so we ended up parking on the street.
(5)Jordan C.
Don't let the location fool you, this is One of the top 3 places for Pizza in the DMV...fresh ingredients...delicious crust, and great sauce. The atmosphere in this place isn't anything special, and don't expect to immediately get a seat if you get there after 5pm, but once you get the food it won't matter cause you'll be in pizza heaven. The appetizers are great, and since they make your food fresh it's not a bad idea to order one or two while your pizza is prepared. This is a great spot for a low key group gathering or date, but not really a place to have an intimate gathering or fancy date.
(5)Sharon O.
Best brick-oven style pizza I have ever had in the US. I like that I have the option to make my own pizza, and have never had a poor experience. The gelato is pretty great, too.
(5)Ryan R.
This place is great! One of my co-workers recommended this place for a quick bite last weekend. There are daily pizza specials that aren't on their regular menu or website, so you may want to check the list on your way in before committing to other ooey gooey delectables! For starters we went with the Arancini with Eggplant, two fried risotto balls stuffed with mozzarella and roasted eggplant ... yum! And ordered two pizzas 1) Margherita Doc, Neapolitan pizza with buffalo mozzarella, basil, and olive oil; and 2) Prosciutto Arugula, Prosciutto di Parma, organic baby arugula, fresh mozzarella, and parmesan. both were AMAZING! We can't wait to go back ... may next weekend :)
(4)Elle E.
Craving ice cream ? Stop in for a gelato fix anytime. Small is just over $3 and is two scoops, so you can mix flavors if you want. Definitely worth it! (And, not sure how late they're open, but I know I was driving by one night and stopped in near 9:45 pm.) Seriously tasty gelato.
(4)Twitney L.
Really yummy pizzas here! We got the fried risotto which was pretty good, the margarita with extra cheese and pepperoni, sausage and onion, and a pepperoni pizza. I thought the margarita with the extra cheese and pepperoni pizzas was really dead on! I mean extra anything is extra goodness!!! The crust had a really good flavor unlike most "authentic" Italian claimed pizzas, where i find the crust fresh but tasteless. The crust also had a nice smokey burnt flavor which gave it its slight crispy texture. Though the food was good, the service was pretty slow. We waited a while for our pizzas and all of the seats and tables were really cramped together. A server was kind of rude to one of my friends when he was trying to figure out our seating situation, we didn't know that you had to order in line first. It was kind of confusing since it was our first time there and we thought it was a sit-down restaurant. The server should've been a little nicer and more helpful. I want to be understanding and give them a rating based on food and not service. Hopefully they'll continue to improve overtime. I don't think I'll ever go out of my way to come back, unless I'm near the area and is really craving for pizza.
(4)Chad K.
I don't even eat pizza, and I LOVE Pupatellas. The guys in my house and I even nicknamed it "Pupes" because we value brevity, despite that nick-name's potential misreads. If you're going for the first time, get your feet wet with their Margarita pizza. Great salads also - my favorites have turned into the Chorizo (spicy sausage, so dank) and Prosciutto Arugula (as it sounds). They serve special beers and quality root beer in bottles, as well as Peroni on tap. I'd say the place is great for any occasion, but if you're going on a first-5 date and want a relaxed, affordable atmosphere hosting impressive, light food...pick Pupes!
(5)Susan H.
Some of my Yelp friends have been here and wrote such great reviews that I had to bookmark it. Then I kept saying "someday soon we'll get there". Recently Marianne L. wrote a review describing the calzones which had me thinking we had to get here the sooner the better! So...we went on a Saturday around 4 p.m. This was deliberately done to avoid peak dinner hours. As others have pointed out, parking is very limited in this small strip shopping center so getting there early, it was very easy to park. For first timers, I strongly suggest going to their website and reading "what to expect". Not only does it tell you what to expect when it comes to their pizzas (good idea for anyone expecting it to be like Domino's or Papa John's) but it explains the whole ordering process (go to the register, place your order, get a number and pick a table). Upon getting to the door, you are greeted with "for pizza addicts only" which gave us a smile. The sense of humor extends to the small, cramped bathrooms. My husband reports that writing on the men's room mirror told him that he was the handsomest man in the room. The ladies room mirror says "Ciao, Bella (Hello, Beautiful) I think you look exquisite". Why thank you, mirror! And to think---I didn't even have to ask you who was the fairest of them all. But, alas! I bet you say that to all the girls and women! Ok, ok! Now on to the food! We started with a Caprese salad. According to "what to expect", ordering an appetizer was a good idea since the pizzas take a long time to prepare. This was an excellent caprese! It had tiny, very ripe cherry tomatoes, creamy buffalo mozzarella, basil, garlic and olive oil plus slices of light, crispy homemade bread drizzled with olive oil. The basil and garlic were in proper proportion which meant that you could easily taste the flavorful cherry tomatoes. Before we even got halfway through the caprese, the pizzas arrived! So much for taking a long time to prepare! Of course, when the place is busy, this is probably a different story. I got a Margherita DOC pizza which had buffalo mozzarella, basil and olive oil. This was a simple but well made pizza. My only complaint was that the char on the crust was just too much in some areas. The right amount of charring adds flavor to a pie but too much can be somewhat off putting. My husband had the sausage and onion pizza. The sausage portion was very generous with the mild sausage crumbled rather than sliced. The onions were sauteed which kept them from overpowering the pie. While he liked his pizza, he said (and I agree) that the sausage pizza at Tagolio has better flavored sausage on it. Tagolio's sausage has nice fennel flavoring in it. Will we be back? For sure! However, seeing how small and cramped the seating area is, we will always make it a point to go during off-peak times. And next time, Marianne, I'm going to give in and try their calzone!
(4)Andy S.
Great pizza. I definitely recommend the eggplant and red pepper pizza with smoked mozzarella. Based on some other reviews, it sounds like the service can be slow sometimes. I would say don't expect to be in-and-out in under 40 minutes if you are dining there. I went with friends on a Saturday afternoon and none of us were in a hurry, so no problem. I am already looking forward to going back.
(5)Chuck C.
Oh my God, Delicous White Garlic Spinach individualized Pizza.High quality ingredients. Just as good as those Pizza joints on the French Riviera; (and they're good) Decided on a sampler appetizer while settling in for the 30 minute wait on a Saturday night and were glad we did. Delicous. Parking very tight. Had to park a block away on the street as adjacent businesses had tow warnings. Going to Pupatella on a first date might be a little nerving as the ambiance and decor are a bit lacking but at least she'll know you have good taste in food. You will not be disappointed in Pupatella.
(5)Mary L.
Delicious! Best pizza in northern va.
(5)Shellie D.
I am an American Pizza snob and wouldn't have came here if I had known that 'Italian' pizza differed so much from American style pizza. It was pretty good but not what I expected. My friend who was with me lived in Italy for a few years and he really enjoyed it.
(3)Saritah K.
Yum. The dough is outstanding. Great flavor. If I'm rating just the pizza, I give it 5 stars. However, the kid hell that one experiences while dining here penalizes them one star. Why so many kids? And why is every good Neapolitan pizza restaurant always full of kids? (i.e., see my review of Tutta Bella) It is really good pizza though.
(4)Jeremy C.
This place is to die for! Probably one of the best pizzas I have eaten. This is not your Dominos, your Pizza Hut, or even your Papa Johns. This is Neapolitan pizza at its best. Located in a small plaza with literally about 5 parking spots, you will be welcomed by a strange dining area with neon colors and murals. Awesome. Also, the red dome stone oven will be firing up pizzas as you watch the cooks prepare the next order. I generally get the prosciutto arugula pizza. It is amazing!!! The flavors are simple, but work in harmony. The salty prosciutto is perfect with the clean/bitter taste of the fresh arugula. Also, you cannot go wrong with the margarita pizza. Pros: Crazy good pizza! Enough said! Cons: Tiny parking lot, seating can get sparse when it gets busy. Overall, if you are looking for the perfect Neapolitan Pizza, look no further than Pupatellas!
(5)Lauren S.
Pupatella's is a great brick-oven pizza place, which are somewhat hard to come by in VA. As others have mentioned, it does get pretty crowded during peak times but I've never had a problem finding a seat since tables turn relatively quickly. You also choose a table after you wait in line to order food, so by then I have usually been able to either get a seat immediately or had to wait maybe 5 more minutes. Their parking lot is ridiculously small, so just park across the street at Safeway and walk over. I have done that pretty much every time I have eaten here (only got a spot once in front of the restaurant). For food - the Classica Doc and the Chorizo pizzas are delicious. They also offer some free toppings you can add to customize your pizza if you want. The Margarita is also good, but the fancier type of mozzarella on it is more watery and tends to make the crust a bit soggy. Before switching to the Classica, I ordered the Eggplant & Red Pepper pizza which was not very good - the eggplant was diced into super small pieces and it was kind of bland. The Frittura Sampler app is okay, but you only get one of each item. They also have homemade donuts and gelato available for dessert (but beware, the donuts can run out during peak dinner hours if it's super busy).
(5)Kathy R.
I've eaten here a few times and have always enjoyed it, but not so much last evening. My friend and I both ordered our own pizza, and both pizza crusts were exceedingly flimsy and soggy, which then blended into the pizza toppings, which made for almost yucky pizza. Now we did share an order of meatballs which were wonderful, but I won't be returning for pizza....as another reviewer said, too many other good places in Arlington that offer delicious pizza.
(2)Abbey B.
Excellent Neapolitan-style pizza. We got the spinach pizza and the arugula and prosciutto pizza, plus the sausage risotto balls. Only two risotto balls, though they are salty and flavorful and huge. Spinach pizza was good, but not memorably so. Arugula and prosciutto was excellent--salty, bitter, cheesy, with a perfectly chewy and charred crust. I'd get that again, but to be honest, I'd rather go to Menomale. It's still my favorite Neapolitan pizza place. I'm glad I tried Pupatella, though! It's a contender for sure, and if someone suggested it, I'd eagerly go back. Though I'd feel guilty cheating on Menomale...
(4)Olga S.
OMG! This pizza is out of control. I haven't got a better pizza in a while or maybe ever. Super moist crust. Never been so excited to eat leftovers after.
(5)C R.
Food is pretty good. The pizza is good for wood oven pizza but I wouldn't say the "best" as others make it to me. But still defiantly worth a try. I personally prefer the white pizzas over their red. The calzone is much better than the pizza in my opinion. It is deep fried and one of the best ive ever had. Based on the food alone I would rate Pupatella a 4-4.5 but unfortunately for the service, I rate them a 3. They never deliver the food to our table on the time promised. This last time it took an hour for our pizza to come out to us and it was cold. I believe their lack of kitchen space and seating space may be a cause for the slow service. The waiting area is always crowded and parking is a pain. I hope they have plans on a new and bigger location.
(3)Chris C.
Burrata pizza! Note: they are closed on Mondays and daily 3-5 Also they up-charge if you change meats without telling you.
(4)Pascal L.
Question: Who makes a better pie in Arlington? Answer: Easy. No one. I personally love the Margherita D.O.C with beef pepperoni. If you don't know what D.O.C. is, then do a bit of research to find out it means delicious pizza or fine wine. Pupatella is the best tasting pizza I have had in Arlington. When bringing my friends from Brooklyn or Manhattan, I have to show them how Pupatella represents. It's so good, I tell my personal training clients that it is one of their mandatory "treat" meal destinations after they have earned it from a tough workout. Keep doing what you're doing.
(5)Karen J.
This is hands-down our favorite pizza place in Arlington. Everything we have tried is delicious - appetizers, various kinds of pizza, and gelatto. Highly recommend. Our only complaint is that it is sometimes difficult to get a table.
(5)Perla F.
Really wanted to like this restaurant; but ultimately the pizza was subpar. The mozzarella balls were fantastic and that's pretty much all I enjoyed about my meal. The pizza was doughy and so soggy. It looked delicious as they set it down on the table but once you picked up the slice, it was oily wet and it just flopped right down. I had to fold it and fours in order to be able to eat it. The crust was soft and deli; not like Napoletano pizza should be. Very disappointed.
(2)Mark F.
This is by far the best pizzeria in Northern Virginia they make a Neapolitan pizza that is so thin and fresh it melts in your mouth although occasionally there is a line it's well worth the wait I give it my highest rating.
(5)Linda S.
Amazing, magical, and unbelievably delicious. It's worth the wait, no matter how long. Try the chorizo or make your own white pizza with fresh garlic.
(5)Alejandro B.
Worth the wait to dine in! We had their classic pepperoni pizza and a sausage pizza. Both exceeded our expectations. The crust is delicious and you can taste the quality of ingredients especially the cheese. A must try for those in DC/VA/MD area!
(5)Courtney O.
If you like Napoli style pizza you will LOVE Pupatella. The wait can be a little long sometimes but it's completely worth it. I've been coming here for over four years and have never been disappointed. One of my go to spots for a good meal and great pizza. And I love bringing friends or family when they are in town visiting. Some favorites are the brussel sprouts, the salad #1 and the grilled eggplant and roasted red pepper pizza (I like to add pepperoni to mine). The gelato is absolutely phenomenal as well - cookies and cream, salted caramel, pistachio and figs marscapone are some highlights. Treat yourself to some Pupatella - you will be glad you did!
(5)Rahul J.
wow..hands down best pizza in DC. Got the Magarita DOC (made with italian buffalo moz.) and garlic (free) + artichokes. I've eaten at 2 AMYS, Franks, Matchbox and this beats them. Mind you the style is Napoletan so the dough is soft and chewy / airy...almost like a naan bread. They nailed the dough + sauce + cheese which is incredibly hard to do. 2 Amys for example can't get the sauce right.. Well worth the drive from DC. Good service is icing on the cake. In DC do &Pizza on U and H st.
(5)Anthony E.
Don't be fooled by the unassuming store front, this wood-fired pizza is the best in the DC area. They get it right every time. I get so excited for it that I stare down every waiter with the hopes that in their hands is my warm, hot and delicious pie! They also manage to make brussel sprouts delicious and the only possible reason you could have for wanting dinner to be over is so you can experience their gelato. For my money this is the only place in the DC area that can keep up with the pizza in Italy.
(5)Stefanie K.
This is the best pizza in DC, and one of the best pizzas I've had ever. Unfortunately the service at this place is so atrocious that I couldn't give them five stars. The good: We tried the Eggplant and Red Pepper pizza and the Sausage and Onion pizza. Both were fantastic. I normally don't like eggplant on pizza, but this eggplant tasted great and was not overpowering. The crust is the perfect level of chewy, crisp, and charred. The smoked mozzarella also has an amazing flavor. The bad: One of the workers is the rudest, most unpleasant person I've come across working at a restaurant. The bald guy needs to get his attitude in check. We asked if we could sit in a booth since we saw a couple getting up and he rudely said "No, there are two many people!". I can think of 100 less rude responses he could have given us. He also made another snarky remark when we were not lined up the way he wanted and when we got plates from the further of the plate and utensil stations. The fresh fried mozzarella is not good. The cheese doesn't have much flavor and the marinara is too salty. I wouldn't order this again and wouldn't recommend that anyone try it. The decor here needs to be revamped. The place looks run down. I get that it isn't trying to come off as chic, hip or fancy, but I don't think it needs to look like a dump in order to achieve a non-pretentious look. For a place with such amazing pizza, it's sad that it seems people don't take pride in what they're doing. The staff and decor could use some help. In conclusion: I'll be back, just because the pizza is THAT good
(3)Rachel L.
I'm one of those. You know - one of the pizza/sub/bagel snobs from NY/NJ that insists all of the above sucks down here. So is my fiance - and he is a pizza LOVER. He's been begging to go here since we moved here because it's always written up on the Best Of lists, etc. We finally make it here on a Sunday night and it is HOPPING. We got a high top right next to the register - not ideal - but people who came in after us had to scrounge for seats! The servers were great at helping though (so you didn't have to stalk people about to get up). We started with the sausage arancini and they were delicious. We were starving so this held us over until the pizzas were ready. The pizzas finally came out! Margherita & Meatball. I feel like when you go to a new place you should always try a plain-ish slice to know really how good it is. So basically - this is NOT NY pizza - it's not thin and crispy or what you'd expect on any NYC corner - but it is GOOD. The ingredients are fresh, the crust is chewy, and it really is perfect wood-fire oven, Neopolitan pizza. We frequent Matchbox and RedRocks a lot and this blows both of these away. We were very very happy and glad that the hype was worth it!
(5)Sonia K.
For anyone who craves it, this place has beef pepperoni! The real treat for me was the meatball pizza. It was divine. I also tried the Nutella gelato.... I really don't have to say much there. Certainly s must try and worth the wait in line. If you go with just one person, you won't wait long at all.
(4)Kate B.
Try the burratta pizza - perfect!
(5)Stayce J.
Amazingggg pizza!!! The delicious pizza takes me back to Italy! The wait is totally worth it!
(5)Greg F.
1st visit. Everything I saw looked good coming out of the oven, what I got, the Chorizo, tasted OK, but was disappointingly soggy pizza. In hindsight, I could see how floppy they were coming out of the oven. I read that traditional Neapolitan pizza is soupy, but the dough was undercooked too. 6.50 for a draft seems a bit much for this place. The ordering/pay/wait system is weird. I wanted to like it bc of the reviews but didn't work out that way. The place was packed for a Thursday night, which was unexpected.
(2)Lisa And Charlly E.
Wow.. this place felt like NYC. Small, cramped, restaurant in a strip mall with some of the best most authentic pizza we have ever had. My husband and I were so excited to find this place and we can't wait to go back. The only thing we dislike is that they are closed on Monday's when we are most jonesing for a pizza fix. Must try!
(5)Ryan O.
This place is what's up people. I've tried all the top pizza places in the DC area and Pupatella is in the top five without a doubt. Incredibly fresh and delicious hand made neapolitan pizzas made in a custom wood fired oven that was imported from Naples. Service is great. Value is good. Ambience is good, however they need a bigger spot as the wait to get seated on the weekend can exceed 45 mins. Nevertheless, this joint gets five star props cus the one thing that really counts, the pizza, is absolutely heavenly from start to finish. My recommendation: pepperoni pie (made with beef pepperoni) and a duckhead amber ale to wash it down.
(5)Ben E.
I've never been to Italy, but I'd imagine the pizza wouldn't be as good as at Pupatella. Seriously. Try the white pizza and prosciutto, then try the all-beef pepperoni. Not to mention the craft beers they have on tap and the deserts. The only issue is that it's so popular that you have to wait for a table to open up and the dining area can get crowded, but what do you expect for an authentic brick-oven pizza joint? Don't change a thing Pupatella, unless you feel like expanding!
(5)Krista K.
This pizza has ruined me for all other pizza. Spicy salami and mushrooms on a margherita DOC... heaven in my mouth... AND the nutella doughnuts are pretty amazing also. Their burrata platter is very good. The homemade bread served with it is incredible.
(5)Nolan C.
Went here for a friend's birthday and it was pretty awesome. Although admittedly a Papa John's pie is definitely more than enough to satisfy me, sometimes you just have to eat the "real" pizzas-- I tried slices from the Chorizo, Classico, and Capricciosa, as well as the Frittura sampler and a brussel sprouts in green apple/balsamic reduction. I really liked the brussel sprouts appetizer; a lot of different textures and flavors. All the pizzas were very yummy! Although I am certainly not Italian, it was very similar to the pizza I had during my travels in Italy. The crust was very light and cooked just right. The ingredients all tasted very fresh. The atmosphere is very casual (I dig the music choices with Justice, The Twelves, and Phoenix remixes) with very Euro-esque artwork (not as in chic, but instead gaudy yet delightfully trippy). Overall, I'd come back again--but I would also make sure to come early. The place fills up fast, and parking is not easily found. In any event, definitely worth it.
(4)Euler U.
Love the crust, sauce and toppings. Also tastes great the next day.
(5)Aryn C.
Wow Wow Wow this place is amazing! My roommate and I placed an order to go (note on busy nights they don't take phone orders and you have go to there to place the order... believe me its worth it the wait!). I ordered the Salami panini (Salami, brie, roasted tomatoes, argula) and the brussel sprouts side. The panini is out of the ordinary for what I usually order and it was amazing... just enough brie to not be too overpowering. The brussel sprouts were roasted perfectly with tart apples added in. Not to mention the price... $16 for everything and I have half the panini left over for tomorrow. Will be returning and trying out many other menu items!
(5)Kerry M.
Great pizza! Very close to Two Amys but without the Georgetown crowds. I love the neighborhood feel the restaurant has. The staff is very nice and knows their customers as they come in. The menu is not overwhelming and everything is made with quality ingredients.
(4)Lauren B.
Pupatella is a casual yet cool Neapolitan pizzeria that also serves wine and gelato .. I am in heaven! I called for carry out and ordered the grilled Eggplant and roasted Red Pepper pizza with smoked mozzarella. WOW did it smell fantastic and I couldn't get it home fast enough. If you call ahead make sure you time it perfectly, this not the type of pizza you want sitting around. Their crust is very soft and thin in the middle but that is the way it is intended. I live about a mile away and had to pop it in the oven. Personally I prefer it to be a bit firmer, but that didn't take away from how delicious the pizza was. Their sauce was simple yet amazing and toppings fresh. Next time I want to try their Arancini with eggplant (fried risotto balls) which seem popular, and I would most likely dine in to try their pizza hot right out of the oven. When I was there they were projecting European football (no sound) on their wall which provided the perfect atmosphere while waiting on their couch for my order.
(4)Tuesday's S.
FANTASTIC brick oven pizza. Space isn't too huge, no fountain soda, gelato is just OK. Parking is in short supply. But all of that doesn't matter because the pizza is excellent. And it's fun to watch them make it.
(5)Robert A.
Every once in a while, you have a transcendent food experience. Pupatella was just such an experience for me today. This is the kind of restaurant you may pass by - it's unimpressive from the outside, and parking is limited -- DON'T. This is the best pizza I have had in a very long time. It's crust is both crispy and chewy - the sauce is perfection, and the slight smoky aroma and flavor seal the deal. We also enjoyed the friend brussels sprouts and green apple salad with balsamic vinegar. It was also delicious! Go enjoy Pupatella. You won't regret it!
(5)Theresa S.
This place is kind of amazing. I went here within a week or two of the opening. I remembered eating from their little food cart near the Ballston metro on a random weekday off from work. I liked the pizza and crepes I had then, but was sad at not working in the Ballston area to enjoy it more frequently. Then this place opened. YES. I've had about 4 different pizzas from here so far, including bites from my dining partner's food, so I've tried about 8 different pizzas. ALL ARE GOOD. Watching your pizza being made, firing it up in the cool oven from Italy, and taking it home in a box emblazoned with their cute kid or dining in and sitting at their modern/futuristic Ikea furnished restaurant: all of it is good. Best one I've had is the real margherita. Hands down. I guess I like classics. But they're all good. Quality ingredients. Great technique. Friendly service (they remember me!). Haven't tried anything else but the pizza, though. Saw a calzone being deep fried and became intimidated. I'm very happy to have a great pizza place in the Ballston area.
(5)mario k.
I was really disappointed in Pupatella. I have just returned to the States from a trip to Italy and I was really hoping to re-live my Italian pizza moments. Instead, I was served a very bland ball of dough. Pizza was very chewy, sauce was very tasteless. Besides dough, all I could taste was very strong basil and cheap, generic whole foods style olive oil. Combine this with a horrid parking situation, awful decor, and a bill that adds up quickly, I would never recommend this place to anyone. I have to give 2 stars though, because the staff was very friendly. Weekday dinner, dine in, Margarita pizza, zucchini blossom appetizer, white wine, and gelato
(2)Judy S.
Another DMV yelp overrating. The margherita was cold, soggy and didn't use quality cheese. The fired zucchini flowers were overbattered and tasteless. Very disappointed .
(2)cynthia l.
Spoiled pizza eater that I am after (spending a 3 weeks in Italy ~1 in Naples) this summer I still need a weekly dose of pizza. Pupatella meets my fresh pizza needs. Its as close to Neapolitan pizza as you will get in the DC area. Yumm...Fresh sauce, dough, mozzarella and basil. Small location, no table service (you order at the counter) a couple of parking spaces in front or park across the street. Don't be fooled by the location the pizza is divine.
(4)Tanya C.
I'd grabbed lunch here a few times and loved it. Excellent Neopolitan pizza with quality toppings. So good, so so good. And an amazing lunch deal of a simple margherita pizza, a salad and an italian soda. Edited! Sorry for the delay in updating this guys. ] Pupatella now does pizza's everyday for lunch. The owener Anatasiya responded to my previous post to update me that their days without pizza was a thing of the past. (how awesome was that?) If you're in Arlington..Or even if you arent...drive here. Give this place a try..amazing pizza and the business owners are super nice as well. A+
(5)Casandra M.
Definitely delicious--I'm hooked. The salads are huge and fresh and a nice light precursor to pizzas or sandwiches. The prosciutto arugula was the first pie I tried here, and it's definitely a winner...but so are the other two pizzas I've had, and the sandwich was great, too (bonus points for the homemade bread!). They have homemade tiramisu and gelato for dessert, but I've never had room, since I keep shoving the amazing pizza in my face until I'm stuffed.
(4)Larissa M.
My friends joke that I'm a walking ad for this place - seriously! I'm always taking photos of my pizzas and posting them on facebook. I've turned at least a dozen of my friends into avid PUPATELLA fans. I highly recommend their Margherita and the Pizza Fritta (calzone - which is officially my new favorite item on their menu by the way) The calzone is most certainly not your typical Italian joint baked doughy calzone. PUPATELLA's calzone is fried to perfection and the dough itself is perfectly seasoned with sea salt. The filling is bursting with flavor from the San Marino tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, ricotta, fresh basil. It's orgasmic I tell you. Trust me, I'm a die hard fan of this place :)
(5)Robert P.
Wow!!!!!!!!!! My nephew has been raving about this place for months. And now I know why. As I type, my mouth is watering for another slice. When they say fresh they mean it. I must have driven my friend crazy. I think I had a comment after every bite. When the pizza arrived, I thought to myself that I would take half of it home. Ha!! That thought left my brain after one taste. If it had been three times larger, I would have consumed it all. Oh, I had the Margherita CO-something pizza. Deeeeee-vine. Also had one of the donuts. WHAT WAS I THINKING!!!!!!!!! Very good, but after a pizza one does not need a donut. So you enter the joint and order at the counter. They bring you the pizza. It's easy. The waitstaff is friendly and very ready to chat (it was not too crowded). Wine as reasonably priced by the glass. This is a pizza joint. If you want ambiance, go to Madame Chi-chis's on K st.
(5)Neil S.
4.5 stars really. Great atmosphere.. excellent pizza... simple... and quick. Ordered the mushroom pizza. The pizza was great. As a pizza aficionado, I can't honestly say its the best I have ever had, but they are darn close. They nailed the neo style crust. Their ingredients were flavorful. The arancino was a fried ball that was OK. The crust was a bit to crunchy and the filling wasn't bad. It would be better served with some marinara. They also had a few unique beers like apricot which was pretty decent. When we went it wasn't too busy, so it was great. But because you bus your own tables so it may be tough when its packed.
(4)Lindsay D.
This place is awesome! I got the prosciutto and arugula pizza and it was delicious. My date got the sausage pizza which was ok but not as good as mine. I want to go back and try the margherita pizza - looks like it's their thing. Also, I got a glass of Chianti and it was a FULL glass for around $4.50...and they have several beers to choose from. I also love the atmosphere in this place, too cute. The owner has a great story too :) Only reason it's a 4 instead of 5 is that we waited a while to get our pizzas. A couple next to us actually went back up to the counter to check on the status of their pizzas.... worth the wait though!
(4)Rae N.
Stopped by last Sat for lunch since I was in the area. Has the real margherita. Agree with all other 4-5 star reviews. Only problem was lack of parking.
(4)Chris K.
really good food. have enjoyed every pizza i've ordered, and the caprese salad is great. burrata platter is a letdown, though--not enough cheese. the only real problem with this place is the location. we'd go here all the time, but it's too far from town. i wish they'd come to clarendon. full bar would be nice, too.
(4)Rob O.
Been meaning to make it over here for some time as I had been reading about their cart, the new pizza shop, and the authentic neapolitan wood fired oven! As others have described, you order at the cash register, grab a drink, find a seat, and your pizza comes out a few minutes later. We tried the mushroom along with the tomato and artichoke. Both were quite good with fresh toppings, flavorful sauce, and a chewy crust that was fantastic. Am anxious to try some of the other classic pizzas on the menu. Will definitely be back!
(4)Brent S.
I didn't think it was possible to top the pizza from their cart, but the pizza from the restaurant somehow manages to be better! Read the FAQ on their web site for info on their oven, this is a big difference, it makes the crust have a very different texture - more chewy than crispy, more delicious. Check out the weekly specials, they're pretty interesting. If it's your first time here, you've got to get the Real Margherita. I had to try a panini from here before writing a review, and I can say that those are delicious too. I had the PMT, very good. Although I thought it was pretty similar in taste to a pizza with the same ingredients, so I'll probably stick to pizzas. The arancino (fried rice balls with stuff in the middle) are awesome too, they're really big so if you get one of these and a pizza, you'll be saving part of your pizza for the next day. I haven't tried the gelato yet but it looks really good, one of these days I'll give it a try. They definitely have the best pizza that I've ever had, and are one of my favorite restaurants!
(5)Ana A.
The pizza is amazing. And even better is how friendly and customer service oriented the staff is. Even when they have a ton of people, they try to be helpful and welcoming. The place is popular, so if its your first time, I would recommend coming in off hours.
(4)Keely F.
Fantastic pizza! Made fresh while you wait--light, fluffy crust and an authentic Italian taste. Not many places to sit but you can carry out. Highly recommend!
(5)Jordan B.
Had the Margarita pizza. I found that it was way to salty and soggy. The fried potato fritter with mozzarella was also salty, but lacked taste. The Bruschetta was very basic, nothing special about it. It was just toast and tomatoes on top - I know that's what it's suppose to be, but come on...5 bucks for basic toast and tomato on top? It could have been unique bread with olive oil on top. I expected more. I give it that the place is popular with the locals, but my taste is more selective and discerning.
(1)Bruce D.
One bite and I had a flashback to Italy. This is how they make pizza in Italy and it's different from American style. It's a little expensive but most ingredients are imported from Italy to comply with the Vera Pizza Napoletana certification. Don't fly to Napoli; eat here.
(5)J C.
Awesome pizza! Everything just comes together so well. My wife and I thought they were trying to upsell us when they recommended one pizza per person. I ordered the beef sausage and onion and my wife ordered pepperoni. It was so money I could have killed a second pizza! However, guilt (or my conscience) got the better of me....
(5)Arthur V.
Ok, I'm not sure what's up with the few negative reviews I read; maybe they were just having a bad day, or don't appreciate the place for what it is. First time there with my wife and it was packed. Got in line and read through the menu deciding what we wanted, while at the same time watching the chefs prepare every pizza ahead of us - just made us more hungry and couldn't wait to order. The line moved quickly and although they told us 45 minutes, it only took about 30-35 before our pizzas were ready. Now, I don't think comparing this place to other pizza joints is the way to go; rather, it is stands on its own as just great pizza, period. The crust is tasty and soft and I could have enjoyed it alone, but my meatball pizza was fantastic. The sauce was flavorful and not greasy, the mozzarella cheese was fresh and not grated, and the meatballs blended nicely in every bite. My wife enjoyed the roasted red pepper pizza and had just as high a praise as me. Finding a place to sit looked like it might be challenging, but we seated ourselves almost immediately and most larger groups didn't have to wait long for an open spot. The food is brought to your tables by runners, who were very pleasant and quick to answer questions - don't forget to tip them at the register or bar; they deserve it and probably don't get enough tips since it's not obvious where to leave the tip. If you're looking for a fresh new place to get a unique and very flavorful pizza in a comfortable and casual setting, I'd highly recommend Pupatella; I didn't necessary like it better than some other pizza places, but it was certainly as good as any other I've eaten at, and unique in presentation and taste - worth the wait and easily worth the cost. Try it, you'll like it.
(4)Brian L.
I've been looking for a place like this in nova. Great wood fired pizza. I got the procuitto and arugala pizza and friend got a gelato. Both were awesome. Can't wait to come back and try some new stuff.
(5)Shadia I.
This is by far the best Neopolitan pizzeria this side of the Atlantic. Great selection of pizza toppings, menu items and drinks. Service is always friendly and the place has a very fun vibe. Nothing else in the DC metro area even comes close to their product. It's one of those places that you almost hope is kept secret so it stays unique :)
(5)Ryan S.
Best pizza I've had in a long time! I heard about this place initially through the Washingtonian's "Bargain Bites" and the stellar reviews on Yelp sealed the deal. Neither recommendation disappointed. I typically opt for the Margherita pizza, which is delicious and awesome in its simplicity. Pupatella is tiny and cramped but I've always been able to find a seat and have loved each pizza I've tried.
(5)Alyson D.
The BEST pizza around. Don't let the 'hole in the wall' look fool you. The pizza is absolutely delicious. It tastes so fresh. I recommend eating on the back patio. Cute little spot to enjoy the yummy food they have to offer. Complete your meal with their icecream and you'll be sure to return there.
(5)Margaux H.
You know that pizza place in Eat, Pray, Love? The one in Naples that has the best pizza in Naples, which has the best pizza in Italy, which has the best pizza in the world, and is therefore, by extrapolation, the best pizza in the world? I've been to that place, 4 times actually, and Pupatella's pizza is by far the closest I've come to having that experience in the U.S., let alone in the place where I live! I think the restaurant got off to a shaky start...when we tried to order a few weeks ago, we were told our pizza would take 2.5 hours to be ready. By last night, though, they seemed to have smoothed things out. I was able to order and pay for the pizza online, which is good because they never answer the phone. You can even put in a delayed order, and tell them what time and day you want to pick it up. I ordered a bit early, nonetheless, unsure that they had yet ironed out all the kinks. Got to the restaurant for pick-up, which I definitely recommend, because the place is *tiny.* My pizza was, in fact, ready within 10 minutes of my named pick-up time, so I was back home a bit before dinner and the pizza stayed warming in the oven for a little bit. The drive home, with the scent of pizzas torturing me from the passenger seat, was almost too much to bear. Now, for the pizza. Awesome. They have the dough just right. Doughy, a bit chewy and charred, not too sweet. The real neapolitan is the one that tastes like the place in Naples. If the sauce had been just a tad less sweet, I swear they would be identical. We also got the eggplant, which came with fantastically sweet roasted eggplant, red bell peppers, and fontina cheese. Although I think they were a tad heavy-handed with the salty fontina, this pizza, too, was awesome. Only two tiny pieces survived our gluttony as left overs. Tiny pieces. Definitely go. Definitely order online. And definitely do take-out. If I didn't still have a little bread guilt from former Atkin's diet traumatic stress, I would probably be returning today. (x-posted on blog)
(4)Arl G.
This place is very much hit or miss. Will you find a spot in the parking lot? Maybe. Will their website work or will they pick up the phone? Maybe. And, most importantly, will your food be good? Maybe. Sometimes our food here has been great- sometimes very disappointing- pizza has been soggy, under/over seasoned, etc. And honestly, their prices are at market with the rest of Arlington, so they need to really take their quality and customer service up a notch. This is a great idea, but to keep customers coming back it's about consistency.
(2)Jason C.
Puppatella has great pizza. The best in the area. But the service is slow and for some strange reason, they don't pick up their phone during busy hours.
(4)marc a.
Went there for the first time tonight for a take-out order. Even though I'm sure it would be better fresh-out-of-the-oven in the restaurant, it was still outstanding. The crust has a great elasticity, the cheeses were all fresh, and the tomato sauce was pure tomato-y goodness. Their special with butternut squash puree, roast pork loin and brussel sprouts was incredible as well!
(5)Erin M.
Pupatella is a great place for the whole family. It's a funky, modern place with really good vibes. It has really taken off since it first opened, and has now even expanded into what was once the store next door to it. Pupatella is known for it's authentic Italian pizzas, but it also serves some other Italian food. One thing that is very unique about it is that while in line to order, you can watch the professionals make the pizzas right before your very eyes! The delicious margarita pizza is to die for. At the end of your meal, yummy and creamy Italian gelato is available in a large array of flavors. Overall, I highly recommend Pupatella!!
(5)M B.
I've been dying to go to this place. It lived up to the hype. What a delicious meal, we had a Pizza and the fried calzone and it was amazing ... both dishes were delicious and some of the best food I have ever eaten. Will be returning over and over again!!
(5)Jay R.
I've had a couple of delicious dinners and a number of enjoyable lunches at "the Pupa", and I could've sworn that I'd Yelped about at least one of them. I scanned back to my reviews, but couldn't find one. Well, if I *had* written a review previously, it would've been four stars, and this would be an update/downgrade. Regardless, Pupatella has dropped precipitously down to one star in my eyes, for a couple of reasons. My best girl and I went there Friday about 7P for dinner. While we didn't expect to be the only ones there, we *were* surprised to hear that it would take about an hour to get a pizza. What? An hour? We knew that they had expanded and taken over the space next door. What we didn't know (until we got there) was that with the extra space/clientele, they've done nothing to expand their capacity. So for all the extra hungry mouths to feed, they still only have the one pretty small pizza oven. I have no idea if they've got another one on order, but I'm not sticking around to find out. Also, when I got to the Pupatella page in Yelp, I read a bunch of recent reviews about how they're not serving pizza for lunch. What? A pizza place that doesn't serve pizza? That's absolutely ridiculous. I'm scratching my head, wondering who the heck is giving them business advice. If they *are* getting advice, they're certainly not following it. I have a feeling that I'm not the only one who's been turned off by the direction they're heading. They need to get their act together, or they'll lose more business. It's a shame, the food's good, but they have no idea how to run the place.
(1)Lesley P.
My first experience with the Pupatella pizza was awesome. I went on an early Saturday afternoon and the rotation of patrons was fluid. Even if it weren't, the flavor of the pizza (Margherita) was off the charts. Will definitely recommend as well as return!!! Seemingly simple made to taste complex.
(4)Annie G.
I have very fond memories of this Arlington joint having visited with the same wonderful bunch of teammates both times, and Pups (poop-z) is likely the best thing about having to commute from DC to Ballston area for summer corporate league frisbee games. The pizza is oh so satisfying with its chewy wood-fired crusts and spicy cured salamis and robust red sauce. It's a relatively nondescript place inside and out back; patrons sit at low-key picnic tables (pretty much) in flimsy plastic chairs. In the back, there's a secluded patio of sorts and a toppings station that includes tin foil. I find the tin foil to be a particularly forward-thinking touch as someone who often tries very hard to save at least a piece or two to bring in to lunch the next day but could use that extra barrier between mouth and pizza to prevent subsequent picking-at-food scenarios during long post-dinner conversations. I've consistently ordered the diavolo pizza, which has spicy soppressata, red sauce, and mozzarella, but there's something on the menu to suit all tastes and moods. While I generally only make it out here once per year, I love this local spot for its warmth, down-to-earth family vibes, and delicious pizza. Do stop by if you're ever in the hood!
(5)Obby C.
I am not a writer or even try to leave positive or negative Reviews 99% of the time, I just continue to go and give my business and spread the word out within my inner circle if I am a fan of a place but this place impressed me so much that I am FORCED to leave a review. For Taste Test, order their Buffalo Cheese Margarita Pizza and any other regular Pizza you want and you'll know what I am trying to explain. Pupatella imports their Buffalo Mozzarella Cheese from Naples, Italy... no wonder my Italian friends are such a snob when it comes to American Pizza and food in general. The locals in Italy all over (Naples more to my knowledge) eat Buffalo Mozzarella at will. Pupatella knows the value and has incorporated the correct ingredients into their Pizzas. The dough is extremely airy and the minute you take a bite, it literally bursts into your mouth and a rainbow of flavors fill up your taste buds. Hands down the best Pizza I have ever had and I've lived in East Coast and most of my life in California but this little gem of a place in a non-flashy location steals the Pizza of Naples award in America.
(5)Jackie N.
Don't tell Pete's New Haven, but I have a new favorite pizza place. Ok no, I take it back! They are both my 2 go-to's for pizza in the Arlington area and they are both so different. Puppatella is a traditional Neopolitan pizzeria where you can literally order your pizza and watch as they form the crust, laddle the sauce, and arrange the toppings. After which they throw the pizza in to a huge fire pit over and the pizza cooks in like, 5 minutes! Don't be mislead, on a busy night a pizza can take over 45 minutes, so come on off-peak times or place a to-go order. My favorite is the Prosciutto Arugula. It appears simple as it has prosciutto, baby arugula, fresh mozzarella (the BF always asks for buffalo mozzarella_, and parmesan, but it tastes so fresh that the simple ingredients each stand out in their own way. The crust is thin and gets a little soggy from the ingredients, but I like it that way. We have also tried the Chorizio pizza (spicy chorizo, red onion, roasted red pepper and mozzarella) which is really good. The spicy chorizo is dynamite. The pizzas are about 11 inches and they recommend one pizza per adult, which I agree with. You definitely won't want to share!
(4)Dara M.
A weird place with some fantastic pizza--the décor is bizarre, the service is friendly, and the pizza is pretty darn good. Stopped by on my way to Dulles and had a side salad (simple but tasty, with organic baby arugula, cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and balsamic). I ordered one of the featured specials, a pizza with roasted zucchini, sausage, and pine nuts. Why doesn't everyone put pine nuts on their pizza?! Right--probably because they're outrageously expensive. But they're also so tasty. The pizza is best eaten with a knife and fork, and plenty for one person. I'm in DC quite often and will probably be back here soon!
(4)Keeley M.
Based on the reviews I was thinking that this place would have the most phenomenal local pizza. A total knock out. It wasn't. I'm not sure if they were having an off day, but the service was less than desirable, as was the pizza. I love pizza. I've tried many a pizza place in area, as well as others when I travel. There is no way that this place ranks in my Top 5. The taste was bland--there was nothing special about it or the experience. I did like how it was a local, casual place and staff wasn't hovering over you for turning over the table.
(2)Carrie H.
Went in for pizza, also ordered the panzarotti...OMG they are delicious. Will definitely be going back. Loved it!!
(4)J P.
YUMMM. Favorite pizza in the metro DC area by far. Wished they delivered!!
(5)Sherri D.
THIS is real pizza! It's as good as it gets if you want authentic Neapolitan, wood-oven pizza. Besides Rustico, this is my boyfriend and I's favorite and absolute go-to place for legit, delicious pizza. We've never been disappointed and there's a reason why this place is always so busy and packed! The staff is always friendly and tries to get you in and out or seated as efficiently as they can, and while the wait may be long -- trust me, it's worth it. My recommendations: brussel sprouts (delicious and the vinaigrette is perfect!), the fried mozzarella balls (the marinara sauce is tasty), and the chorizo and eggplant & red pepper pizzas. Both pizzas are super delicious and the chorizo one has a nice, slightly spicy kick to it. The eggplant pizza is my absolute favorite though because 1. I love eggplant and 2. I don't know what they do but it always has the perfect amount of peppers and and fresh mozzarella chunks. I love how they don't slather tons of cheese on the pizza. You actually get to TASTE the pizza and other toppings instead of the cheese meting and masking the flavor (don't get me wrong, I do love my cheesy, ooey gooey pizzas too). My only gripes: they're always busy and closed on Mondays! So, try to plan ahead or call ahead and order for pick-up. Coming on off-hours is also good too. The weekends are always busy, but during the week in the middle of the day isn't too bad. If you get a chance to call ahead and order for pick-up, they're actually pretty quick if they answer the phone. We got super lucky a few weeks ago and the pizza was ready in less than 45 minutes. In summary, it's a no-frills, casual place with delicious pizza. Oh, and did I forget to tell you that they have gelato?!? I mean, tons of different flavors on display :) and if you want to choose your own toppings... have at it. Their menu for toppings is ridiculously large and you'll want to put everything on your pizza. Pupatella will leave your tummy happy!
(5)Mary Kate M.
Here's the thing -- I really enjoyed the pizza. I think it was a great. I am definitely partial to Napoleon style pizza. There was not a single thing wrong with the meal. My problem and hence the rating -- service and organization of this place was absolutely horrible. I can't even begin describe how bad it was. No one knew where to seat us. It was Wednesday night...they told us to go look outside for our own seating and the we managed to find seating over near the bathrooms. We didn't get service when we sat down at that table despite telling a couple of servers we were sitting there. The whole place was dysfunctional and this really deters me from wanting to return regardless of how great the food was. At least I might get them for take out, but then again, I am not so convinced.... to be continued.
(3)Emily M.
Great pizza and friendly service! Be prepared to wait for a table because this place is always packed! It's definitely worth the wait! The meatball pizza was delicious as well as the Arugula salad with prosciutto and freshly shaved Parmesan cheese. It had a light balsamic vinaigrette that was perfect to have with a decadent pizza. The salads are big enough to share. My husband got the pepperoni pizza, which I made fun of him for because it was such a simple order, but this pizza was insanely good! I actually enjoyed it slightly more than mine. If you order 2 pizzas you get $10 off a bottle of wine! The staff was so nice and helpful!
(5)William M.
Pupatella is exceptional, in every sense of the word. It is one of the finest establishments in the DC metro area, particularly in terms of food quality. The Margherita DOC is nothing short of incredible. The Caprese Salad is superb. No matter what time of year, the cherry tomatoes are always perfectly ripe. The homemade bread and the buffalo mozzarella are outstanding. If you go here and order: 1. Caprese Salad 2. Brussel Sprouts 3. Margherita; you will walk away fully wow'd, amazed, and feeling that the reviews on this site are justified. If instead, you worry about parking/wait time/other items that have no relation to the food quality, then you might let your emotions get the best of you. Let me head off a few of the complaints on this page, and offer some recommendations to improve your experience: Parking: Is it a Friday or Saturday night? Do not even bother trying to park in one of the 5-10 spaces right outside Pupatella. Simply go across the street and park in the massive Safeway parking lot, which always has open spaces. There is a lovely crosswalk that will take you from the parking lot to Pupatella in 30 seconds. Do it. The wait: Yes, if you go to Pupatella on a Thursday-Saturday night, you will probably have to wait 30 minutes for a pizza. Their oven is small. Think of this as a popular restaurant in DC where you have to wait 45 min - 1 hour during peak times for a table. In this case, you are getting your pizza in 30 minutes. Plus, if you cannot find a table, the staff will help get one for you. If you go to Pupatella on a Tuesday/Wednesday the wait for pizzas is generally very short - if anything!
(5)L J.
Amazing pizza! We had grilled sausage and sautéed mushroom pizza. The staff were super friendly! Mozzarella balls were delish! It was great to see the staff making the pizzas! Pizza was cooking so quickly in the fire! Old bottles of pop were great. The place was so busy and packed with people, but we quickly got food and help finding our seats! The bathrooms would have been better if someone would clean up the old wall adhesive, dirty grout, spilled paint and spackle, and clean the entire bathroom including the door frame, door handle, faucet fixtures, etc.) The shaded patio was beautiful and quaint, but it also needed to be wiped down and cleaned of cobwebs. We will go back again next time we are here!! It was great!!!
(4)Carmen P.
If you want a cosy atmosphere with romantic ambience and attentive service- this is not the place. If you want delicious, hand-tossed, no nonsense pizza with very fresh ingredients served up in a speedy manner- this is the place to go! Their food is simply delicious, and this makes it worth the simplistic decor and the fact that you don't get table service.
(4)Lilly N.
This is a Neapolitan style pizza joint. It was my first time coming here and I'm a believer now. Their pizzas are definitely one of the best pizzas I've had in my life! We got a red and white pizza but I'm sure all the other pizzas are just as amazing. We ask tried the arrancini balls, and let me tell you - bomb.com ! It doesn't come with marinara sauce - so I asked for a side of it and it was so amazingly delicious! To top it off they have in house gelato next to the cashiers table. Overall, it's one of the best pizza places I've been to! I would go back more often if it wasn't so far from where I live :(
(5)Danielle M.
Big fan of their pizza. Authentic Italian pizza. Don't be surprised when it isn't the Pizza Hut pizza you were expecting. They have real ingredients not alot of cheese and have it cooked in a wood burning oven. You have to have a more sophisticated pallet than Pizza Hut to like the pizza they make. Also, they are almost always busy at dinner time. They will accomidate you but parking is a pain.
(4)Peter M.
I don't get it. The pizzas are soggy and way too salty. You can't pick up a slice without the cheese and the toppings slipping off. No gracias.
(2)Rich S.
Best. Pizza. Ever. This place gets crazy packed and for good reason. I've been in several times and have always had an all-around great experience. This is my old running club's go-to place after hard workouts nearby at Washington-Lee. For me, one of their fresh side salads, a classica doc and a stella = perfection. Bread is nice, light and chewy, the buffalo mozz is delicious. I'm a sucker for sauce and the sauce here is fresh and delightfully sweet. Staff friendly and knowledgeable. Even when it's busy, it always feel orderly. I miss it.
(5)Amy Z.
This is excellent Italian pizza and the back patio is much nicer than I expected. Tipping was confusing though. Ordering at a counter, I didn't realize they'd have the level of table service they provided.
(5)Yasmine B.
Wow, wow, wow! This tiny little mom-and-pop operation looks deceptively bleak on the outside. Assuming you find a parking spot, you will see a sign on the main door which indicates that what u r looking at is not the entrance. A scent of welcoming smoke that elicits the smell of good cooking and a comforting fireplace pervades the due. Enter through a smaller door to the right where u will be told to place your food order, and pay, before being seated. This is more of a pizza and focaccia place, and there is no pasta. However, the pizza is insanely delicious! I recommend the margarita - I gave no idea whether it's the creamy sauce, or the origin of their buffalo, but this knocks the socks of so many other pizzas I gave ever tried!
(4)Sara H.
pizza - 5/5 service/experience - 1/5. i used to RAVE about this place because the margherita pizza is really good. but after the service/experience tonight i dont think it's worth it. the wait was to be expected since we got there during peak dinner hours on a friday - so not complaining about that. but don't tell us a wait time of 30 minutes and then shove us into a corner like a pack of sardines for 45min and then have us waiting at our table for another 10min. it got a little frustrating when the hostess kept on telling us to go wait in a corner where there was obviously no space! the waiting area was so crowded that i was literally standing shoulder to shoulder.....for 45 min. pupatella - you need to expand or develop a better system of accommodating people who are waiting. not sure if i will be back given the terrible experience today, but who knows...their margherita pizza might beckon me back again. i guess this review just goes to show that their pizzas are just that good after all. ::sigh::
(3)Philip L.
This place is awesome. One of the best pizza you'll have. Original, fresh ingredients and great crust. The vibe is great and nice place to grab a bite to eat.
(5)Payal P.
Small but it's a super busy place! Went on a Sunday evening and it was packed. They have many varieties to choose from or you can even make your own. One pizza is more than enough per person. We ordered the pepperoni pizza with basil and a custom made tomato sauce pizza with fresh mozzarella, roasted red peppers, kalamata olives, basil and garlic. Both were very delicious! Definitely would recommend and I'd go back again.
(4)Nikki B.
The best pizza I've ever had. No joke. And I've had a lot of pizza. When we went to order our pie - the line was out the door and around the block...now I know why! I'm so glad I didn't let that deter me. The classic cheese is perfection... Make sure you get the risotto balls!!! You're welcome.
(5)Alice W.
Pupatella is the place to get truly authentic Neapolitan pizza in this area. While there are some other contestants like 2 Amys, Pupatella cinches first place for me. The owner, Enzo Algarme, was born in Naples and grew up around pizzerias. I would highly recommend sitting at the counter and watching the staff cook the pizzas in the magic that is their brick oven. You know what you're seeing? Pizza being made in a brick oven that's built using volcanic ash from Mount Vesuvius and shipped from Naples. Yeah, beat that 2 Amys. That means the quality of heat retention is higher and the oven gains a more even temperature. Their margherita pizza is awesome. If you are eating a margherita pizza and your pizza is not slightly wet in the middle, it's because you're not getting fresh mozzarella. Pupatella makes their margherita pizza with fresh buffalo mozzarella cheese, so yeah it'll look a bit "wet" in the middle. Go with it. I've also had their prosciutto arugula pizza and it was also really, really good. It's hard not to like any of their pizzas. The menu also boasts of some friggitoria, or fried food that's common in Naples. Pizza is delizioso. Try Pupatella for an authentic Neapolitan pizza experience.
(4)Charles M.
Pizza is like religion, everyone gets to pray to their own god...and there is no disputing that Pupatella is a phenomenon. People like their product, willing to endure long-wait times to be served. As for me, I like to regard the overall restaurant experience. I found this restaurant far from satisfying and would not go again, even though it is 5 mins from my house. We went during the week, there was not much of a wait. Despite that, it is not pleasant to enter a restaurant and immediate find yourself herded into a cafeteria style line and asked to hurriedly make your choice from a lengthy, small type menu---while moving through the line. When it comes time to order, you don't feel like holding everyone up while you ask a question or two. You feel rushed to order while hoping to get a seat. Perhaps 30 years ago all of this might have been ok. But at this stage in my life, this experience does not feel at all cool. The restaurant itself is simply dingy, but the staff is pleasant and efficient. For our group, the pizza seems doughy and a bit undercooked. The toppings were unexceptional. It's hard to argue with success, but my point is that one should go with eyes open with an awareness that Pupatella may not be for everyone.
(2)Laura S.
I have always heard rave reviews about Pupatella so maybe my expectations were high. But my experience was not the greatest. #1 We ordered drinks & paid for them at the counter. They sat us relatively quickly in a booth. We were told we had to pick up our drinks at the bar. However, there was no bartender at the bar. So we had to wait in line a 2nd time to actually get the drinks. #2 Our pizza arrived....at it was luke warm. Very disappointing! the flavor was good, but that didn't matter because the pizza tasted like it wasn't in the oven long enough. #3 We arrived 1.5 hours prior to closing. We finished our 2 drinks and pizza. Then we were chatting for a bit. However, the servers were busily working around us and it was not pleasant. They were turning chairs over on tables loudly, replacing sugars and ketchup on our table (without saying excuse me or asking if they could), sweeping the floors and it was not even 30 minutes before closing. Overall, I felt we were being rushed and under served. Not a good experience. I will give it another try and hope my 2nd experience is better.
(2)Ashley S.
Pupatella exceeded my expectations and then some. Having visited all of the obligatory pizza joints in DC, particularly the Neopolitian ones, and greatly enjoyed them, I questioned how much better Pupatella could be. Wow. Just. Wow. The crust is soft, with a crispness on just the outermost layer, flavorful with a hint of char. The cheese were produced or purchased by someone that clearly knows their stuff. The mozz was just extraordinary in both smoked and fresh forms. The tomato sauce tasted like real tomatoes, not the GMO sadness you typically find inhabiting the shelves of your local giant. Everything had a extreme freshness to it, coupled with an expert preparation. The ingredients were simple, at peak perfection and used properly, demonstrating a clear knowledge of how good Italian works. The place was packed and for good reason. I highly recommend this Arlington joint.
(5)Luke T.
i live within a 3 block walk of Pupatella. I will walk here during the day if I work from home, for a quick bite, so cannot speak to how it is during dinner hours, but the parking lot is always PACKED in the evening. The service is quite fast, and the pizza is great. I recommend the meatball pizza, very good. I have a large appetite, so always get an entire pizza myself. Keep in mind, they only have 1 size pizza which is Neapolitan style, very thin/light, divided into 4 slices, so if you're hungry, plan on getting your own pizza. a great "unknown" brickoven pizza place in Arlington, that doesnt require you to have a heart attack trying to park (like in Clarendon). It's a bit pricey, but they clearly are using quality ingredients.
(4)Brock L.
Pepatella represents a solid pizza option in Arlington. The pizza was well made and tasted great coming out of the brick oven. The beer selection was good. The restaurant's flow is a bit odd - get in line to order, wait to be seated at a table, take your receipt to the bar to get the drink you already paid for. Weird.
(3)Scott B.
Let me start out by saying this review is solely based on my lunch experience. I have been a patron of this establishment since it opened. I moved away and haven't been to Pupatella for lunch in several months. Today I went there for lunch and they didn't have pizza on the menu! It's unbelievable to me that a place that calls themselves "Pupatella Neapolitan Pizza and Friggitoria" would not have pizza for lunch! The restaurant recently expanded to the Lebanese(?) place next door, so maybe it's a cost saving effort. They did however have a "fried dough" pizza which I was skeptical of. Two of my coworkers and I were convinced to order the pizza. We asked the cashier if it was heavy and she said "not at all!" Boy was she wrong. The pizza tasted like we were eating a doughnut with pizza sauce and cheese on top. Worst lunch ever. Must have been 2000+ calories. I don't know what I was expecting, but this was not in. To top if off, my meal with a bottle of Coke was $15 something. Stay away from this place for lunch! Dinner it gets 5 stars in my book, but if a place is too cheap to have the one item that the specialize in for lunch, you should stay away during that time period.
(1)Josh F.
Authentic pizza joint that has a really cool ambiance. Always crowded -- expect to wait. The pizza is actually not entirely similar to what I used to eat in Florence, IT -- it has a crisper, fuller crust which I prefer. Ingredients are top notch. It can be a little pricey if you order multiple things.
(4)Adam H.
Puppatella now has a lovely back patio and have expanded to table dining. I think you still serve you self, but that keeps down the costs. Also, they have several new menu choices, including Burrata Mozzarella in a platter with crostini, garlic, tomato, and arugula, and the same Burrata on a pizza. Burrata is an amazing quality mozzarella cheese.
(4)Lauren D.
Cute place with open kitchen so you can watch them make food! Appetizer sampler + pizza w. buffalo mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, basil, & pine nuts...delicious! Friendly service, order at the counter and they bring your food to your table. This former food-truck restaurant is simply amazing!!!
(4)Michelle M.
The best Pizza i have ever had in my life. We go to Pupatella once a week now. There is a bit of a wait, but it is totally worth it. The Margarita DOC is by far my favorite but the entire menu is outstanding. The owners are clearly incredibly passionate about what they do and take a lot of pride in their restaurant. Service is very good and they are always very kind and thoughtful to young kids, most times bringing out etch-sketch's for our daughter. Over all a must try.
(5)Tom K.
Amazing. By far the best pizza I've ever had. I haven't had all their selections, but I haven't had a bad one yet.
(5)Daniel K.
Neapolitan Pizza @ Pupatella is down right phenomenal! I've been a fan ever since I met the owner and his wifey when the made their pizzas on a food-cart stand in Ballston three years ago! My favorite pizzas out of the menu are the Proscuitto Arugula, Capricciosa and Margherita Doc. Each pizza is light, small, not overwhelmed with toppings. The crust is very soft and there is slight char on each one to make your experience even better!
(4)Nicole P.
We had the meatball pizza, the artichoke and tomato and a custom made pizza with (pepperoni pizza with sausage and ricotta). We also had the zucchini blossoms. We came during happy hour so we had half priced beer and wine. Everything was great! Very comfortable and casual environment. Very authentic Italian pizza. Very reasonable prices too! If I could award half stars, I would give pupatella 4 1/2 stars.
(4)A.R. P.
While it is helpful to have eaten a few Neapolitan pizzas, it is not really necessary in order to assess the Neapolitan pizzas here at Pupatella. Sometimes, when food (whatever it may be) is unadulterated, pure, and of the highest quality (and just outright delicious), these traits speak for themselves in a way that is both intuitive and universal. When I tried the "Real Margherita," one of the true Neapolitan pizzas featured at Pupatella, I was won over. First, the sheer freshness of the ingredients is just striking and made immediately apparent by the magnitude of flavors that each delivers. The tomato sauce, made from San Marzano tomatoes, which are grown in the rich soil near Naples itself, is just so naturally sweet. The buffalo milk mozzarella is so moist and creamy...like clumps of melted clouds. And, the basil that tops the pizza, which is sprinkled with olive oil, permeates the surface with its natural herbal essence. Suffice it to say, on the whole, with the individual ingredients working in concert, the complex final flavor is an artful and beautiful symphony. However, in the end, what truly stands out may ultimately be the dough itself. It just seems obscenely fresh and intensely earthy. True to Neapolitan form, the dough is made from the best stone ground organic Italian wheat flour. The final product, as a result, is a pizza that is thin, pliable, soft, and appropriately chewy. After a quick one minute treatment in Pupatella's signature wood burning oven, which is constructed of bricks made from volcanic ash (and with an exterior that reminds me of the heat resistant tiles found on the Space Shuttle), parts of the bottom and spots on the crust are, furthermore, nicely charred. This charring effect, in the end, adds to the overall flavor as much as any of the aforementioned ingredients. Is the Real Margherita pizza flawless? No. At times, the char on the bottom of the pizza is more of a burnt patch; and, the taste, although not pronounced, is, as a consequence, a bit harsh and bitter. Occasionally, a random and unexpected bite is a tad too salty (as a result of either the tomato sauce or the cheese). Those are the only demerits that I can think of because, in total, the pizza that I ate was as good as a pizza can hope to be. Aficionados of other styles of pizza may complain that the pizza is too thin, that the pizza is not crispy enough or too flimsy, that the sauce is too runny, that the pizza is "dirty," or "sooty" (due to the charring on the bottom), perhaps, that there is not enough cheese or that it is not widespread enough (in a gooey, uniform way that is generally associated with pizzas). However, this is Neapolitan pizza (certified Neapolitan pizza no less). The Real Margherita at Pupatella is approved by a body called VPN (Verace Pizza Napoletana) that certifies pizzerias based on adherence to strict Neapolitan principles. At Pupatella, that certification no doubt carries a lot of clout. However, when all is said and done (and the last bite is taken), there may not be any greater endorsement than a customer's resulting unforced smile or any greater stamp of approval than the nearly divine experience of a just completed meal. Peccati di gola!
(5)Foodrunner F.
The pizza over here is unique. The pizza I got was not very good. I got the pizza with eggplant and smoked mozzarella cheese. The other pizzas did look awesome. They mostly have sausage and ham pizzas which was unfortunate because I don't eat either. These pizzas looked really good. The white pizzas also looked better. My wife got the margherita pizza. These pizza was better. I like cheese and the pizzas we got did not have much cheese, but again other pizzas had more cheese then ours. I would go back here but would try another pizza. The gelato was excellent. One pizza is enough for one to two people depending how hungry each person is. The atmosphere is pretty cool, very casual but cool.
(4)Richy R.
I just have to start that some of the reviews for this place made it seem like this was the pizza spot equivalent to the second coming therefore my expectations were set way high. Admittedly, I was not blown away by the place as I thought I was going to be based on the reviews, but the pizza is quite good and is unique compared to other pizza spots that are around in terms of freshness and flavor. For that, I am happily giving them 5/5. My meal: Fried risotto stuff with eggplant and cheese ($4), the Real Margherita ($12) and a bottle of coke ($2.60). The fried risotto came out in two balls each about the size of a small plum. These were really good. The first one I dug into the cheese had not melted all the way but the flavor was spot on. By the time I got to the second one the cheese had thoroughly melted and it is was amazing. I suggest you order these and if you have a bit of self control wait a minute or two before opening to ensure the cheese is melted. The pizza, as mentioned in the other reviews, came out extremely fast. I cant really add to what has already been said. Fresh, tangy cheese, chewy crust, soggy center, and simple tomato sauce. A very good pizza. Since I was sitting at the counter watching make pizza I was also near additional condiments. Never one to turn down condiments that are in front of me, I added a splash of olive oil to a few pieces which added a new dimension to it. Try adding some when you are there. The reason I'm handing out one of my elusive 5 stars (unlike some yelpers I don't hands these out like hot cakes) is the uniqueness of the place. There is a relaxed atmosphere, friendly staff, along with a range of personalities and styles that dined while I was there. In addition to the quality of the food (which stands on its own), I liked that everything is imported from Italy, I normally hate when places so "we only use _____ that are imported from _____." and usually just roll my eyes. I mean, how different can they really be with all the agricultural homogenizing going on. But, instead of the one or two items that the other places try to advertise, it seems like everything is imported - tomato's, wheat, prosciutto, etc.. I appreciate that they are trying to keep it as completely authentic as they can. Being able to view the whole cooking process is pretty neat as well.
(5)Andrea S.
I am a pizza lover and Puptella is the one of my favorite places for pizza in the DC area. I've had the Capricciosa and Prosciutto Arugula pizzas and loved them both. The Panzarotti are also amazing. I've been four times on different nights of the week, and it's always crowded. I think the great food is worth it, but it can be overwhelming (particularly when there are a lot of children running around.) Delicious as the food is, this would not be a good place to go for a first date or more intimate dinner. Overall, highly recommend it for the amazing pizzas!
(5)Jennifer S.
Brussels sprouts were great, pizza was ok, service was bad. When you are a single diner, there early with tables open, and get ignored while others around you get attentive service (plates, drinks, "anything else I can get you?"), it's not a good feeling.
(2)James S.
Truly is a cheap eat: paid $13.00 for a pizza that can feed two. (and that is with a tip) But not cheap in quality. Pupatella uses fresh ingredients and their pizza "crust" is amazing. It has a chewy quality unlike most chain pizza joints. According to a sign in their store, the pizza is in the oven for merely one minute. Which also means that they are able to process their pizzas quicker: dining eat, we got our pizza within 7 minutes of ordering at 6:30p on a Thursday with a dinner crowd. Each pizza could feed two people (who are conscious of their health, do not overeat, workout regularly during the week), with two slices per person. If you are a food fiend who wants to take leftovers home, you may want to get your own pizza if you are with your crew. Five stars: If you appreciate a well made pizza, go here. If you don't want to spend too much money, go here. If you have acid-reflux, they use low-acidic tomatoes where I did not feel the usual post-pizza heartburn, so go here!... Recommend: Spinach pizza (white pizza), add pepperoni
(5)Aaron G.
Very good pizza. Possibly as-good-as Pizza CS in Rockville. Will need additional data points to confirm.
(5)Collin S.
GREAT. Just went here for dinner tonight and it was REALLY good. The sauce tastes so good and real...and the crust is perfect. Such a good pizza place...the only downfalls are the somewhat cramped seating and the location being a little out of the way, but it is worth a trip (if its not rush hour!) Definitely check this place out. Had the Classic pizza and mozzarella balls...the mozzarella balls were VERY good as well. Everything tastes fresh and not-processed. I will be back very soon. Really enjoyed it. Oh there's gelato too but I didn't get any (not big on sweets) but I've heard it's also really good. Oh and this place is affordable for the quality! Sure it's $9 for the classic pizza but it tastes like they flew it in from Italy.
(5)Trevor F.
Wow. Chorizo and meatball were so good. Authentic, fast, and delicious!
(5)Samantha E.
The DC area is absolutely obsessed with thing crust "authentic" personal pizzas. I have been to most of the pizzerias that serve this sort of pizza and Pupatella is best of them all. The restaurant is quite inconspicuous from the outside and small on the inside the the pizza really packs a punch. I came for a late lunch and tried out the chorizo and white pizzas. The made the pizza fresh in front of you and it took only 5 minutes in the oven for the pizza to cook. The crust was perfect and everything was very flavorful.
(5)Katherine H.
My first yelp goes out to my friends Enzo and Co. at their delightful pizzaria, Pupatella. My awareness of this authentic Neapolitan-style pizza was first realized as I watched this hard-working Italian couple peddle pizza from a kitchen based in their garden apartment. Their food cart, formerly located near the Ballston metro grew in success. Accused of being hyper-critical, I find this joint to be a refreshing retreat from the pretension of current popular cookery. Good food starts with good ingredients and masterful technique. Pupatella, a VPN-certified pizzaria, succeeds in both. Pizzas here taste like...pizza. The crust is chewy and thin and bready with little bubbles on the edges from the heat. The tomato sauce is fresh and light and bursting with flavor without overwhelming the rest of the ingredients. I generally get the prosciutto arugula or capricciosa ($12 each). They are spectacular--the ingredients perfectly fresh (or aged!) and never appear or taste tired. I've strayed a few directions on the menu and always come back to these two, but you can't go wrong with anything. While Enzo may be the trained pizza-guy, with his traditional techniques, imported brick oven and fresh Italian ingredients flown in weekly, the fun environment and nod-to-modern-art design is all his chick's...and like many real family-run joints, expect to see their adorable kid weaving in and out of the kitchen and dining scene.
(5)Peter Z.
This is the best pizza I've ever had, anywhere. We also tried the fried brussels sprouts and the meatballs, both were really good. The gelato was a nice treat afterwards but the pizza is simply astonishing.
(5)Brad W.
IN SHORT: BEST brick-oven pizza that I have ever had. 100% Authentic. Go there NOW! But if you want my extended opinion read on... My wife and I were traveling to PA from NC and back over the Independence Day weekend. And since I had a huge void in my life (the lack of the perfect brick-oven pizza) I searched for "Best Brick-Oven Pizza in DC" on Yelp. Upon reading the reviews for Pupatella, I was highly impressed with the amount of great ratings this place was getting. I was not disappointed... well, I was kind of disappointed at first, but then I got educated, and that rid my ignorance in regards to what a brick-oven pizza is and is not supposed to be. I learned that, once assembled, a brick-oven pizza is cooked in about a minute (oven temp: 800 to 1000 degrees F). I knew it was fast, but I had no clue it was that fast. The speed was a huge plus, because I was very, very hungry! I also learned (and this was my only concern when I ate the pizza) that a brick-oven pizza with FRESH mozzarella is going to be a little soggy in the middle of the pie. If a pie is not a little soggy in the middle, the pie was not made with fresh cheese. Pupatella uses the freshest cheese possible, and since it is packed in water, it has a higher moisture content. Even at 800+ degrees the pizza is going to be a bit on the droopy side when you pick up a slice. No worries, just fold it in half length-wise. The taste is the same. TASTE: Crust is BEST that I've ever tasted. It had that perfect brick-oven char. Mmmm so good! Sauce (made with nothing more than crushed tomatoes and salt) was thee BEST that I've ever tasted. I don't know what kind of tomatoes they used, but my oh my, they were sweet and just made that entire pizza heaven. Cheese is fresh and silky smooth. I will only put fresh mozzarella on my personal pizzas from now on. Toppings were AMAZING! 'nuff said about those. PRICE & SERVICE: I was happy to see that the advertised lunch special was indeed available. Just $9 for a Simple Margherita Pizza, Organic Arugula Salad, and 12oz. Italian Soda. My wife got the lunch special (we shared the salad) and I got a Capricciosa Pizza and bottled Root Beer. Our cost was (tax and 20% tip included) about $30. And though we weren't there in peek hours (I think we arrived at 1:30 pm on a Tuesday), it took less than 5 minutes after ordering, and we were eating pizza (not including the minute I took to take pictures of our food). Order taker was friendly and very helpful.
(5)Jared O.
Awesome Pizza, and really unique for the area. Definitely try it. Try to stop by at an off hour since the seating is very limited.
(5)Brian H.
It's a bit of hassle but it is so worth it .... first the good: Had a meatball pizza and it was freaking amazing. Easily one of the best pies I've had life. The potato croquette was also very, very good. Called in an order at 6pm on a Thursday and was told food would be ready at 6:55. Showed up at 6:50 and right at 6:55 my pie came out of the oven and into my hands. That's how to keep customers happy. Why is it a hassle? Leave yourself a while (see below--but they are accurate) and their parking lot is tiny, nearest side street is across the street. But it's worth it .. i'll be back and soon at that.
(5)Dave J.
Pupatella, One of the top 2 or 3 pizza's I have eaten. Thanks Yelp. I took my son and family to see the Capitals practice at the Kettler Ice Arena for his birthday. Once practice was over my son wanted pizza so a quick yelp search should Pupatella just down the street. Pupatella is located in a very small strip shopping center, maybe 4 stores so it's very easy to miss. Very nondescript from the outside. Inside we found the place quite busy but enough open seating for everyone. Be forewarned this is not the best place for a large group due to the limited seating. The pizza. This is not NY, Chicago or American style pizza. It's Neapolitan style, the type you would find in Naples, Italy. Baked in a wood oven at temperatures around 1000 degrees for all of about 1 minute. Pupatella tends to keep things simple, 12' pies, lightly dressed with house made sauce using only fresh tomatoes, no dried herbs and not over whelmed by pre-shredded cheese, fresh mozzarella is the cheese of choice here. The crust comes not so much charred as blistered and not crunchy but soft, pliable and very thin. The whole family enjoyed their individual pizzas. Prices may seem a little high at first, but when coupled with the quality of ingredients I find the prices to be quite a good value. I had the lunch special fo $10 - pizza classica, salad and soda. My recommendation is that every true pizza lover should try Pupatella. I'll will be back.
(5)Charles C.
I despaired of ever finding exception pizza in the DC area after Pizzaria Paradiso's quality inexplicable went waaay downhill. Then in the past couple of years, not one, but two great discoveries. Best by a nose is Pupatella -- truly scrumptious and truly authentic Neapolitan pizza -- best I've had since I lived in Milan. And for those craving the kind of pizza you used to be able to get at the old Paradiso, surprise, surprise, you can find it in Petworth on Georgia Avenue. Go to Marino's. The chefs?... A Salvadoran couple who learned their trade at the original Paradiso in Dupont. And great papusas too. Go figure... Pizza and Papusa at the same place.
(5)Kirsi G.
The first word that came in my mind when I took a bite of their "Real Margherita Pizza": Bologna. This pizza totally brought back the memories of my days in Italy and that incredible pizza I ate in Bologna. It is thin. So light. SO flavorful-- you can taste the basil, the buffalo mozzarella and so light tomato sauce. I will drive out of the District just for this pizza. Serious. I love you guys, Pupatella.
(5)John H.
excellent low-key pizzeria. you can see the owner making pies as you walk in and everybody was really friendly. I got the margherita with mozzarella di bufala and it was delicious. The pizza was the perfect size (didn't feel like i was getting a kid's pizza, which can be common with neapolitan-style places), the ingredients were fresh, and it came out fast, probably 5 minutes after i ordered it. i loved that they carried some lemon soda as well as sprecher root beer. bottom line: it's a little out of the way, and isn't a place you'd necessarily want to spend a leisurely meal, but if you love pizza - definitely put it on your list.
(5)Ian N.
Pizza is super italian authentic. Brick oven is unlike any others and fresh ingredients. Eat there for the real experience, pizza isnt as good taking home - gets cold
(4)Jill M.
I believe this is the best, most authentic, Neopolitan pizza I have had in the DC metro area. To describe the classic Margherita, the crust is thin and doughy with the perfect amount of dark spots from the baking process, the San Marzano tomatoes are spread on enough to get the tart flavor but not so heavy as to overpower the imported buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil... just like the pizza in Naples, based on my memory. Their other pizzas are also amazing, with wonderful combinations of fresh ingredients, some imported from Italy, but the simple, perfect Margherita is my favorite. The restaurant has some limited seating up front, a nice view of the pizza making process while you wait in line, and a cozy tented patio in the back with small tables and pretty lights.
(5)Gwumpykid D.
If i could give this place no star for their gelato I would have done so. I was not impressed at all with their gelato especially the owner stated in a tv show that he was influenced by Naples pizza and gelato and brought it in to the states. I thought that their gelato will taste as good as the gelato I had in Italy during my studies but this gelato was way way off from what a real Italian gelato taste. I now doubt how their pizza tastes! I suggest he revisits Italy again and learn the right way of doing gelatos! Also, I didn't get what is up with wearing sunglasses inside your business. Is it trying to look like an Italian mafios! And we had to wait up to five minutes in front to be served because owners were busy doing something at the back. Nobody leaves the front house empty! Anyway we were so disappointed and the money that was spent on their gelatos was just a waste. Ciao!
(1)Jim M.
Great pizza and salads. Wish they had more parking and would take phone orders on weekends. But it is great they are doing so well.
(4)Jon A.
Probably the most over rated pizza joint in the DC area. Have gone twice - once not to long after they opened, and the second time about a week ago. Tried on another occasion on a weekend, but with a line out the door, wasn't about to try. I think the lines are as much about an inefficient ordering / payment system as anything else. I've given two stars because at least the ingredients taste pretty good - including the soggy pizza dough. The main unforgivable sin is that the whole thing is not properly cooked, leaving you with an overly soggy and chewy crust that you can't pick up even if you wanted to. Don't give me the "it's the real italian deal, not pizza hut". I've eaten pizza in Italy, and this isn't it. Good pizza there is thin and with minimal & very fresh ingredients, with a nice balance between crispy & chewy (yes, and that does mean some burn and/or blisters on the crust on occasion). The "D.O.C" standard must apply to the ingredients, maybe the oven, but not to the "cook" or his/her ability....... Washed down my mushy pizza w/ a "Sangria" special - but in this case not so special. Too acidic, though the bartender was kind enough to ask & poured a little more lemonade to sweeten it up a bit. Sorry, I lived in Spain & real sangria doesn't employ "lemonade" out of a jug. It may use cheap table wine, but real sangria at least employs real fresh fruit. Anyway - if you want something more approaching real italian pizza in the area, I suggest Pizzeria Orso. They sometimes also err on the side of undercooking, but at least its somewhat more localized to the center vs the whole pizza. They also better understand table service vs the more free-for-all cafe environment of pupatella.
(2)Jessica M.
Have you ever wondered what real Neopolitan pizza tastes like? This place serves the best type of this pizza, this side of the Atlantic. On a recent trip, my dining companion and I first split the arugala salad. Perfection. Crisp light and the perfect starter before the pizze. This wasn't my first time at the rodeo-- I knew exactly what was going to be the best on the menu, "the real margarita". The crust was airy and light, while the center was molten lava of sauce and cheese. I eagerly sliced into the gooey mess and began to devour the heavenly creation. Each bite was constant, a juicy swirl of flavors on my palate. There was nothing complex about the taste, but the simple natural ingredients of wheat dough, San Marzano tomato sauce, buffalo mozzarella, oil, and basil, melted into a divine delicacy I never wanted to end. It did end. And then we ordered some gelato. Hazelnut and chocolate (although creme caramel is perfered!) hit the spot. If you are looking for New York Pizza, this isn't it. If you are looking for drunken faire, this isn't it. This pizza is suppossed to be droopy, splotted with cheese and anything unlike "american' pizza. If you want what you are used to, go elsewhere. But if you want to transport yourself to Italia for a few moments, this is as good as it gets.
(5)Karen A.
LOVE IT! I wish this was in Philly, but also I don't, because I'd eat there way too much. I'm a simple pizza eater and thus got the simple margherita. It was amazing in every way. My brother got the prosciutto arugula and was a huge fan as well, and he is quite the critic. The pizza has been reviewed plenty, obviously it's great. The place itself was wonderful too though. So unpretentious. You wait in line, you order, you sit, the service is great. We got the deal of $10 off a bottle of wine with the order of two pizzas, and had ourselves a great time. Also topped off the meal with their gelato, yum. Next time I'm home, and every time after that, I'm going back to this place.
(5)Kevin T.
Cool pizza joint. I had the eggplant and red pepper pizza and loved it. Decent little beer selection too. My only gripes were the parking lot is tiny (had to park across the street at the Safeway) and the restaurant can get pretty loud when all tables are occupied. The decor was cool/unique too.
(4)Gio D.
Simply the best italian style pizza in the DC metro area period. The only reason I can't give Pupatella a 5 star rating is because I've had 5 star pizza in Italy (both in Rome and Naples) and couldn't with good conscience give it the same rating as the pizza I've had in Italy. However, unless you're willing to either go to NYC or Italy, this is as good as it gets for italian style pizza. For those if you who don't know, the difference between NY style and Italian style is that NY style pizza is made with shredded mozzarella and thin crust and Italian style pizza is made with fresh mozzarella and super thin crust.
(4)Peter V.
I'm happy to make Pupatella my first Yelp review. I'm only giving it four stars for now, because they are just growing into the new space and getting used to the oven, clearly a far cry from the small cart they had in Ballston. Once they've had more time, I have little doubt that this will be the best pizza in the area. I think people who give this place negative reviews are basing their opinion on either (1) the hiccups many restaurants experience when they first open, or (2) misconceptions about what to expect from a Neapolitan restaurant. I've tried numerous pizzas on their menu, and I must say that while the variety of toppings that you can choose from is great, for the best pizza, you should really stick to the basics - the Real Margherita or the newly added Filetti, for example. I think these let you better savor the quality and simplicity of the ingredients. The San Marzano tomatoes, bufala mozzarella, and wonderful flavored crust with a nice char really come through. A hint: pizza overloaded with toppings needs a thick, standard gas oven-type crust to survive. Not what Pupatella is going for. Now, onto some of my criticism: I think it's important to note the super-high temperature they cook pizzas at - this ain't your neighborhood slice joint. This leads to a lot of inconsistency, particularly as they perfect their dough formula and transition from the cart to the wood burning oven. I've had some pizzas that come out almost like a flatbread, disappointingly crackery and thin. But I've had others that have come very close to some of my favorite Neapolitan pizzas in New York - with a big, puffy crust all the way around. Yet at the same time, the flavor of Pupatella's pizza is already 100% there - just like when they had the cart, they have the basics down. Even if the crust on every single pizza doesn't respond as well as they would like right now, the oven gives it a nice char, and, like I said, the flavor is all the way there. I think 2 Amy's probably puts out a more consistent crust at this point, but I'm giving Pupatella the advantage on flavor even this early in the game. The experience: the owners are super friendly, and they always seem happy to talk to customers and get to know people. Just like when they had the cart, they seem proud to be a part of the community, and that makes it more fun to stop by. The ordering system is pretty straightforward - I've never really been there during a major dinner crush, so I don't know how they are handling it, but the pizzas bake really quickly, so I can't imagine a line would take too long. Prices might seem a little high for individually sized pizzas, but from my experience I think that's standard for Neapolitan. I like the funky decor. Maybe the chairs could be more comfortable, and the space could be a little cozier overall, but I think it works for the aesthetic they are going for. And, really, does anyone come here for anything other than the top-notch pizza?
(4)Eric D.
Aw gee... let's consider it 4.2 stars. I definitely enjoyed my first visit to Pupatella today. Since I was unsure of how busy this place could get, I decided to go as soon as they opened the doors at 11:30. For the record, the place didn't start getting busy until about 10 minutes after noon (it's a Tuesday). I ordered the spicy salami pizza with kalamata olives, goat cheese, and added a Mexican Coke on the side. My concern was that the salami and olives together would make for a pizza that was too salty, but the goat cheese did a great job of balancing everything out. The tomato sauce was very fresh and tangy and also helped balance the salami and olives. Some of the knocks that I'd heard and read about this place were from people who found the crust to be soggy and disappointing. Maybe they were expecting slices that you can pick up and eat by hand, like 99% of the pizza out there (I mean, they do cut the pizza into slices, so what are we supposed to think). But I see this more as fork and knife pizza. Instead of having stiff and/or crunchy crust, you get this soft, fresh, pillowy baked dough with a very thin layer of crunch and char on the outside to add flavor and texture. It's not too thick or too heavy... it's just right. The only knock on this pizza that I can give is that the goat cheese wasn't distributed very well. Most of it was in a large blob in the center of the pie. That aside, this was one of the best pizzas I've had in Northern Virginia, and will definitely be going back. The price seemed fair for what I received (I didn't leave hungry). Oh yeah, and due to the deal on Yelp, I snagged a free gelato just for coming in on a Tuesday. Definitely jump on that deal if it's still around. I tried the chocolate with hazelnut pieces (named after some Italian candy... though I couldn't understand the name enough to repeat it). Need I explain it? It was awesome! Go get some. Now!
(4)laur l.
Same as everyone- amazing pizza. Best I've had in USA and perhaps better than some places in italy. Tip: If you have a flexible schedule- you can come at lunch and get a regular pizza, salad, and soda for 9$ which is cheaper than 1 neapolitan pizza ($12)
(5)Daniela M.
What can I say guys, this place really blew us away in many different levels. As soon as I walked in, I noticed the oven, the charm of this little pizzeria, and mostly the hard work that was put into this place to make it what it is now. That was my first visual impression, soon after we sat down I did a 360, the place, the people. After reading the base of the pizza box realized that the owner is the guy behind the counter making the pizza, the oven the ingredients all shipped directly from Naples. How good can this place get? Well, now to the most important part of our journey to Pupatella, the pizza, yeah the pizza guys, its truly an experience itself. I don't eat a lot but let me tell you, I crushed that pizza. It had the right ingredients, the texture, the dough, I can go on and on. I haven't been to Naples, but I think the pizza took me to the third largest city in Italy, that's how close it gets to the real thing, I heard. Perhaps IT IS the real thing. I'll leave that up to you to experience. I give it 5 stars on my first trip to Pupatella, we discussed what rating we would give this place. I immediately said 5 stars, I know that this place has a lot more to offer than the two different kinds of pizza's we got, there's a lot more that I have to try on that menu, I'm sure that my next visit will be just as good or better than my first. I am surprised at the owner's talent to make this little place his own and offer delicious pizza. Congratulations Pupatella!
(5)Pablo N.
Simply the best pizza in Arlimgton. Good beer selection too. Down graded for never having any parking.
(4)Harvey D.
I have lived in Naples, Italy for 4 years and Pupatella is the real deal with Neapolitan-style Pizza. I absolutely loved it and will be back to try every single pizza on their menu. Enzo and his wife are very gracious and friendly and the place is always packed and rightfully so. My buddy and I had the Margherita and the Sausage, it was FANTASTIC!
(5)Jim O.
I've given Pupatella 5 stars because it is the best pizza I have had in NoVa. My first visit was on a Friday evening at 6:30, by 7:00 the place was packed mostly with young couples with small children. The staff was welcoming. I had pizza with tomato sauce, fontina, eggplant and sausage. The crust is thin but chewy not crisp. The edges slightly seared from the oven. Everything tasted fresh and delicious. I had a Peroni with my pizza from the decent collection of bottled beers for $3.50. I parked at the Safeway and walked across the street at the light. A delightful addition to Arlington's world of food, and its not Thai or Salvadoran!
(5)Courtney C.
I called ahead for a takeout order on a Tuesday night. At first I couldn't get through and my iPhone wouldn't load their webpage to place an online order. I was about to give up when I decided to call one more time in the hopes of getting through. And I am so glad that I did. My pizzas weren't ready when I arrived, but the free gelato for Yelp readers on Tuesday nights helped to ease my wait time, about 5-10 minutes. The restaurant is small and casual. the decor is very modern and there are several small tables and plenty of room to maneuver around. The orange couch was a nice place to sit and wait--better than taking up one of the few tables since I was taking my pizza to go. I also liked that the pizza makers wear straw fedoras...it adds some style to the place. the oven is out in the open, giving the place an open, fresh, casual feel. I ordered the "Real" Margherita and their special fig and prosciutto. The crust on both pizzas was excellent...thin, but chewy with a rich flavor. The real margherita was excellent and absolutely met my expectations. It easily ranks with the best napoletano pizza in the area, but I would need a side by side comparison with Red Rocks in Mount Pleasant to be sure. The fig and prosciutto was a little disappointing because it lacked flavor. It needed something else to punch it up a bit...maybe a stronger cheese or some garlic? It is topped with fresh arugula which helps. I am not a good judge of prosciutto and ended up removing it entirely, but that's not the pizza's fault. Overall, I am very excited that Pupatella is in my neighborhood and within walking distance of the metro and my house. It's a perfect stop on my way home from work. I felt the prices were fair...I paid $12 for the margherita and $14 for the fig and prosciutto. One pizza is for one person and was filling without being too much food. The Nutella gelato was okay...a little grainy. I'll probably be back next Tuesday to try a different flavor. I can't wait to go back and try their arancini. I highly recommend that Pupatella either develop a mobile webpage or a smartphone app for placing orders on the go. That would have made my experience even better. Perhaps a text messaging order system would be a possiblity?
(4)E M.
I know what I like with pizzas and hot sandwiches, and let me tell you: their Margherita is out of this world, and their prosciutto-based sandwiches also get 2 huge thumbs up. Unfortunately you can't call in orders, and their hours are somewhat strange. I have had to drive sadly by when they were randomly closed for business.
(5)Meghan W.
I suppose I'll never know if I like it. Here's the rundown: I called to ask if they have happy hour. Hostess picks up phone and says "Will you hold please?" I say, "Sure" . She puts phone down- no hold music, just the very loud background noise in my ear. Over 5 minutes go by with her talking to what sounded like the bartender and I hang up. I wait to call back. I get voicemail, which is full so I guess they never check it. It also means no one has yet to come back and hang up the phone ten minutes in. I finally got through and ask, "Yes, I was calling to see if you offer a happy hour?" She says, "Uh..... WHAT?!?" I speak louder, "Do you offer a happy hour?" "No" I say, "Wow. Ever?" "Um, no. We dont do that," she responds in a snotty tone. Fine, you don't have a happy hour. No need to be a total snob about it. Great reviews, but after being stuck on hold and the cold reception, I have no interest in going anymore.
(1)David B.
So the layout is basically a pizza pub vs. a full-on restaurant like Orso, 2 Amys, etc but the decor, well, if you're an Ikea fan, you'll love this place. The margherita is the Ramones of pizza. Simple, pure, and will simply blow your mind if done correctly. Especially if you're used to cluttering up your pie with tons of toppings transforming it into an italian casserole. Their Real Margherita is just that, very legit, very tasty, and is about as close as you're going to get to being in a small town outside of Naples. They carefully prepared and cooked the pies and you can sit by the oven and watch them work their magic. The pie had a good balance of dough, sauce, cheese, olive oil, and basil, but maybe a little bit too much salt. If you close your eyes, it would be hard to tell the difference between Pupatella and Orso. Where Pupatella faltered for me was the Arancini. You only get 2 risotto balls. They're larger, but with that, the fried shell was a lot thicker and very chewy (denture wearers beware!). Also, they were VERY salty, which made me salty. It's a small place which would be great for lunch or a quick dinner, but if you're going to bring the whole family, you might want to consider carry-out. I would go back, but if I had to wait like some other yelpers, well, there are other places in NOVA with shorter lines and similar pizze.
(4)Max M.
I've always found myself on an endless search for good pizza in the DC area, and after reading the reviews for Pupatella, I felt like I needed to try it for myself. I was worried it might be more of the overpriced, hyped-up mediocrity that plagues the DC area more so than anywhere I've ever been. The continued success of institutions such as The Big Cheese food truck make me increasingly suspicious and pessimistic about food in the DC area. Anyway, I initially tried Pupatella a few weeks ago and was pleasantly surprised. The pizza isn't cheap, but it also isn't grossly overpriced since it does genuinely taste like the ingredients are fresh and authentic. I have been back a few times since my first visit to try different pizzas and paninis. I've had the meatball and pepperoni pizzas, the meatball panini, the arugula salad (referred to on the menu as Salad #1), the sausage and pea arancini, and the fried mozzarella balls. Everything has been very good with my only complaint being that some of the mozzarella balls were still cold on the inside, which is likely because the balls are only flash fried. I also like that they post what to expect in terms of the pizza being authentic Neapolitan. The pizza is definitely better when eaten right out of the oven and not taken to go. The one time I called in an order for take out, the crust got soggy within about 10 minutes, which isn't any fault of the restaurant or a knock on the food, just a suggestion for others.
(4)Ron G.
The best Pizza in the DC area. The quality of ingredients and the way the Pizza in cooked in the volcanic oven make this restaurant unforgettable. Try the MARGHERITA DOC Pizza!
(5)Megan D.
One of the best pizzas I've had in the DC area. It's one of the few really true wood oven pizza places in the area. Would highly recommend for quality of ingredients. My only reason for not giving 5 stars is that it's not open on Sundays or Mondays...really wish it were open Sundays!
(4)Alan W.
I LOVE this place. I come here with my girlfriend pretty often, and it's absolutely amazing!!! I tell everyone I know how much I love this place. I lived in Italy for a year and travel back every now and then, and this is by far the best pizza I've had, whether in the US or Italy (ok, it ties one place I used to go in Italy...but that's it!!!). The ingredients are fresh and the pizzas are incredible. Definitely try whatever specials are advertised on the yellow piece of paper on the register because those are always delicious. Fig & PIg and the Burrata pizza are inredible.... I want to take these pizzas shoe shopping, I want to listen to how their day was and talk about their coworkers, I can't get enough of these delicious pizzas..... Sometimes I wish I had never found this place because then I wouldn't miss it so much and think about going every day..... mmmmmm...... I wish I was there now....
(5)J M.
HOLY FREAKING CRAP THIS PLACE IS GREAT! This has got to be the best pizza in Arlington by far. Try it, you won't be disappointed.
(5)Theo C.
I love Pupatella. For me it hits a sweet spot, affordable, but still high quality. The place is not full of itself. The owners are behind the counter and making the pizzas in front of you. My favorites are the Arugula and Prosciutto pie and the Ham and mushroom pie. The toppings really stand out here, fresh and flavorful. Crust is exactly what Neapolitan crust should be, which means its softer than american style. The salads are really good too. WIth the DC metro improving pizza, it's no small feat that it's my favorite pizza joint right now.
(5)matt f.
Great Pizza, my favorite pizza place in Arlington/Dc area. I have never been to towo amy's (too far from arlington). But his place rocks. I;ve been goi ng since they opened up. I have not had a bad pizza, I have tried about 6 of them. The Real margharitta is my favorite. The Desserts are good, decent beer selection, and good vibe. It can get busy at times, but worth the wait.
(4)Kenny S.
I don't understand what all the fuss is about...pizza wasn't that great. Kind of over priced for what you get. Pizza did not have enough cheese. The sauce lacked flavor. And the dough was dry. Pizza looked & tasted like it was microwaved. Maybe when I went there, they were having an off day. So if I get a chance to eat there again, I'll update my review. Otherwise there are much better places in & around Arlington that offer much better pizza at a much lower price.
(2)J P.
So I've waited a good bit before reviewing pupa because I wanted to get my impressions correct and truly call it as it is. I have gone to pupa at least once a week for last few months and here's my review in bullet points, pros and cons mixed together, plus random thoughts -Simply the best pizza in DC, possibly the best I've ever had. You will find no better crust, tasty sauce, cheese, or toppings. A pupa pizza hot out of the oven is like heaven on a plate. Yes its that good -The gelato is apparently legit (the real italian kind) and I love it, as does everyone else who i've heard talking about it. -The inside is small, and it can be very busy during lunch on saturdays and every day for dinner. If you come then, expect to maybe not get a seat immediately, and expect to wait about a half hour for pizza. I know they only take a minute to cook, but when busy, all the prep can make for a long wait -I wouldnt come expecting to have your pants blown off by the pizza if you're just a cheese pizza type of person. The topping are phenomenal, the tastiest anywhere, but the cheese is put on in chunks, so a plain cheese pizza will not have much on it and will look like a lot of sauce -Drinks are cheap and the selection of beer changes but isnt bad i guess, diet coke $1, glass bottle of coke with real sugar $2, beer $3.50, buy two pizzas, $10 off a bottle of wine -My biggest problem with pupa is that they get orders wrong enough to make it really annoying. CHECK your receipt and when you order make it clear what you want. For example, if you ask for a pizza with chorizo they will give you their speciality chorizo pizza, which comes with lots of other stuff. Check check check your receipt -If your're a hungry guy one pizza may not be enough. They're not small, but the dough is thin. I can eat one easily. The average pizza runs for around $11 -The owners are real chill and take the time to get to know you. They're awesome and even make the effort to remember your name. -NO reservations, bus your own table -Parking outside can be tough at times, feel free to park along N. Emerson because its all nonpermit parking that no one really takes advantage of -Child friendly, even have juice boxes for like $1, I havent seen the kid pizzas but I know they have them. I'd def say to bring your children. Its a cool looking restaurant and the bright colors and cool lights will make for a fun dinner. -I have seen ALL ages eating here. Babies, young couples on dates, groups of friends, and even an older crowd -You have got to try this place, I honestly expect pupa to get pretty well known as it gets written about more and more. A gem like it will not go unnoticed long and I pray that once it gets the fame it deserves the pizza stays as good
(5)Good E.
Probably one of the best pizzas I've ever had in the whole nation. Although be warned that this type of crust is not similar's to Pete's Pizza so if you prefer Pete's type of crust, you may not be a fan of Pupatella. We are very fortunate to have a pizza place like this right here in the VA/DC area (even better than some NYC slices). My favorite pizza : CAPRICCIOSA Better than 2 Amy's and Pizza Paradiso. Would I return : YES
(5)Elissa O.
4 stars because I think these guys are too pricey, parking sucks, and I hate the dining area. Otherwise, the pizza is outstanding (a 5) and they stock my very favorite peach ice tea (a 10!). The pizza is heaven. I used to love Two Amy's in DC but this place blows them out of the water. Last time I went I noticed a few people were trying the special, which had a big runny egg on top. Those pizzas remained uneaten. However, I appreciate that this place does have interesting specials. In my opinion, skip the fried risotto balls. Mine tasted like a big dry tater tot. Bottom line, if you like wood fired pizza, go directly here and enjoy the outstanding cheesy goodness.
(4)Jack M.
Great pizza but the interior is a bit rough.
(4)dennis a.
Amazing pizza. We had the regular margarita and the artichoke pizzas. They were super thin, yet soft and very tasty. The gelato is to die for too. Really liked the fig and marscapone.
(5)Jennifer S.
Very good brick oven pizza here. I had the margherita pizza. The crust was soft and thin. The toppings were frest. Prices are good. Fast and friendly service. There was a 20-minute wait for a table. I would return, but I would go during non-peak times.
(4)Autumn C.
Pupatella is an excellent spot for Neapolitan style pizza. If you're a meat eater, I recommend the pizza with arugula and proscuitto on top. They import their proscuitto and it's to die for. Admittedly, I've always had to wait a bit for my pizza but as long as you come mentally prepared to wait, it's worth it. They also have pretty good gelato & wine. The only reason they aren't 5 stars is because of their appetizers. Their arancini are too crunch and their caprese salad leaves much to be desired. All of that said, I love them and recommend them to everyone.
(4)Matt L.
Let's start with this - They have very good pizza. And if you are in Arlington, best around besides Piola in Rosslyn, which has a much different feel but also excellent pizza. If you go to Pupatella I would suggest you dine in, their pizza like 2Amys is not made for a long takeout. All this being said, this is no 2Amys. If you're in Arlington and don't want the drive or the wait, Pupatella has excellent pizza. But you are going to have to drive and wait if you want 2Amys Denominazione di Origine Controllata pizza.
(4)X P.
I like this place a lot. It's family friendly, has a helpful staff, and is beyond chill... as long as you don't come during normal eating hours. I've had about 4-5 of their pizza's and they are all pretty good. You can't go wrong with the Neapolitan or anything with meat on it. Sausage and pepperoni mean grease, but that's why it tastes so good. If I had to guess it's their oven that makes the pizza special. The pizza sizes are a bit awkward though. It's just small enough where you can't satisfy two people, yet too big for one person. No big deal, they give you a kick-ass box to take with you if you can't finish. Box is good for causing jealousy among office mates. I think Pupatella would make an awesome place for a first date. The place serves beer and wine so if things are boring, you can always revert to alcohol. If that isn't an option, be sure to sit facing the window and watch cars drive by. This might get boring after 15 minutes, but at least you've passed some time. Another strategy would be to turn to the pizzamen and talk about how their business is doing. Their story might be more interesting than your date (or maybe you). In addition, you can take advantage of the awkward pizza sizes. You and your date could order 1 pizza and go for some desert later. Or if you are hungry, order two pizza's and then the bottle of wine is $10 bucks off. If things go really bad, at least you didn't invest that much into this meal. But really, it won't go bad because your date will think you are awesome for taking him/her to such a yelpity hip place. Low risk, high reward what else do you want? I dock this restaurant from a 5 star rating because I actually liked the cart better. Waiting in line on a nice spring lunch day was the best. The smell of the half smokes grilling in the back would make the first bite of pizza so much sweeter. With no tables, you could only eat slowly and carefully with the box on your lap. Seating was ample, and you can't really feel rushed sitting outside and eating. It was as if these pizza's were made to be eaten from a cart.
(4)Isabelle C.
This pizza is great. It tastes best eaten right out of the ovens so pull up a chair and dig in. If you are looking for ambiance you are not in the right place but if you are looking for great brick oven pizza at a good price in a local neighborhood favorite location you are at the right place.
(5)M H.
I have eaten at Pupatella many times and keep coming back because the place is nice, the people are nice and the pizza is great. Tonight, it was a horrible experience. Not the pizza...it was characteristically wonderful. The bartender wonderful, as always. The tall man attempting to "run/organize" the dining room was rude, offensive. We ordered at the cash register, as is customary, then proceeded to find a table (it's seat yourself style). This man came over to me and asked me to move because we onIy had 2 people and sat down at a table for four. (Two booths for 4 also had 2 people) We moved where he asked us to move (also a table for 4 but a smaller table). We put our drinks down and every touch of the table spilled our drinks. So we picked up our drinks and moved to a table in the far corner. The tall man hurried over and said we couldn't sit there either. ( all of this at a restaurant that is seat yourself) he moved us to a high top that really is suited for drinks only, not drinks, a big pizza pan, and plates to eat. He asked if this was ok,,and I said, no it isn't. I told him I really didn't appreciate being moved twice when there were empty tables and no one waiting. he said he was trying to keep the other tables for bigger groups. There were no groups waiting, no people at all waiting. There were 3 empty tables. While we ate at our "little" table, 2 booths sat empty. I have waited in line at this restaurant many, many times. When it's busy, you wait. When it's not busy (like tonight) there is plenty of room. we got there at 5:45, ordered, ate, and were gone by 6:20. There was never anyone waiting tonight at any time during our visit. Yet we were moved from table to table to table. Seems a senseless way to lose good customers...we were made to feel unwelcome.......Still love the pizza...will try to find another like it somewhere else.
(1)Sara G.
I know I'm one of the few to give less than 4 stars, but I think it might be because I'm into a different style of pizza. It was a little doughy and soft for my taste. I guess I just heard "brick-oven" and thought it was going to be a more flaky crust. Overall, it was just fine. Anyway, another reason why I'm not giving this a rave review was because they didn't pick up their phone. It says on the website that they take orders via phone to be picked up. Uhh.. no. I called probably 2-dozen times (I was really hungry, okay?!) before I decided to show up in person. I totally understand if they don't want to take orders in that way, but then don't advertise that on your website! Just sayin'. Maybe would try again, but I think I'll look around Arlington for other places before I go back.
(3)Joshua T.
Good pie! Come here if you want to indulge in delectable pizza and not just scarfing down a slice. Appreciate the ingredients and care to make the pie here, otherwise it isn't worth coming. Top notch quality, comparable to Pizzeria Paradiso (still haven't had 2 Amy's and need to try Orso).
(4)Michael W.
I would never order a pizza with salmon on it, but it was there in an order brought home by a friend for a small gathering, along with three other varieties one night last weekend. POW. It was fantastic. This was my second take-out experience at Pupatella. In both of those visits, our group tried a range of pizzas, including margherita, sweet italian sausage, pepperoni, and others I can't remember. It's just really, really good. A very good addition to the DC area pizza scene.
(5)Wendy M.
Pizza was absolutely wonderful! We had two smallish children with us and 3 teenagers plus the two adults and everyone agreed it was excellent pizza. My husband ordered the antipasti and while I didn't have any, he said it was tasty. with seven of us, we ordered six different pizzas and all was consumed. I'm not sure I would take kids there again though. Seating was not great for a larger party like ours and the drink selection was too pricey for sodas and bottled waters but i will totally do take-out or go alone with my teenager or husband anytime. Love, Love, Love, that Arlington has a great Neapolitan Pizza restaurant. Now we don't have to trek to 2Amy's when we are in the market for the perfect pie.
(5)John W.
Awesome pizza! Papa Johns and Dominos taste like circles of garbage compared. Outside area is great for a date. The toppings are all awesome everything from Mozzarella to the Italian Sausage to anchovies. Garlic bread is awesome! Never a disappointed trip. Pizzas only take 1 minute to cook in 800 degree oven so super fast. Also great root beer and coke bottles. Everything is fresh and great. Always a crowd in there for a reason. A little on the pricy side but worth it. Usually about $20 a person for Pizza and drink.
(5)Jelli F.
Very good pizzas. Soft crust and high quality toppings. Arancini are good, but I probably won't get them again. Highly recommend the fig and mascarpone gelato!
(4)Jonathan L.
Excellent pizza -- likely the best fresh pizza in Arlington. The only reason I gave it 4 instead of 5 stars is because of the price -- ca. $30 per couple for two sodas and two pizzas is a bit much but with this place's popularity I guess they can get away with it. My only other issue is that its closed on Sunday!
(4)Kristin C.
I love that this place sticks with what they know and does it with near perfect execution. They're not trying to be everything to everyone. My favorite white pizza is the Mushroom, the truffle oil just puts it over the top. For a red pizza I usually go with the Diavola...but I've never had one I didn't like. Also, make sure to try try the Sausage Arancini, just awesome!
(5)John S.
I can't believe I've lived in Arlington for 6 years and have never eaten here till today. It's always great to find local Italian and Neapolitan places. The guys making the pizzas with the wood burning stove prove that this is a science and art form. I had the meatball sub and it was great. I'll be going back for the pizzas sometime.
(4)Simona B.
It was the best pizza i've ever tried, I would like to have it again and again...:)
(5)Peter D.
I don't understand how so many people love the food here. Maybe we just had a bad experience, but my girlfriend and I were both VERY underwhelmed. Both of our pizzas came out so watery and soggy that you literally couldn't pick up a slice without it falling apart. Trying to salvage the meal, we opted to finish with a piece of tiramisu. It is no exaggeration to say it was the worst that either of us have tried - so bad that we couldn't finish it. I almost made this a one-star review but the taste of the pizza was decent (not great), so it barely gets two stars overall.
(2)Ra C.
If you like the soft crust and ooey gooey center of a Neapolitan style pizza, then you must come here! Enzo does an amazing job of using fresh ingredients and simple flavors to make an intoxicating pizza. I definitely recommend the simple margherita pizza, simply amazing!
(5)Lynne R.
Life-changing pizza, worthy of a spot on your "Once a Week" (or more often) list. Outstanding food, warm and welcoming owners, and friendly patrons make this our favorite local spot.
(5)mike s.
Really good neapolitan pizza. They have this really good lunch deal, where you get a pizza, small salad, and an authentic Italian soda for around 9 bucks. For the quality of the pizza, and a little Italian authenticity, it's a steal. Another establishment that will keep your tummy happy in DC and not yearn for a NYC trek.
(5)Ruby K.
We just discovered this little gem this past weekend and we were very happily surprised. Four of us shared three pizzas; the Filetti, mushroom and prosciutto. All were absolutely mouth watering. And if you bought 2 pizzas, you saved $10 on a bottle of wine. The pizza is made right in front of you and cooked in a small woodfire oven. Make sure you try this place out. It is now one of my favorites!
(5)Scott H.
After eating 2 Amy's for a couple of years now, I have to say that I am not impressed with Pupatella. It is ok, but I prefer 2 Amys.
(2)Josh B.
I really wanted to love this place. I seem begin half of my reviews with those words, but that's the truth. I popped in for a quick bite for lunch on a strange 70 degree February Friday. The staff is efficient, and I got my Real Margherita pizza in a flash, maybe a bit too quick. It could have been hotter, and honestly, the flavor was meh. The 4 crumbs of Basil added nothing. I did enjoy the crust, but I guess I'm still a New Yawker who grew up in the gutter. I like Italian American pizza, not the Italian variety. $12 is expensive for lunch as well. Oh well, live and learn. After seeing the reviews and the pics, I had to try Pupatella. Now I have. I won't be back.
(2)Reba K.
sign of a 5-yelp-star restaurant: when i'm not eating here, i want to be eating here. all. the. time. the spinach pizza with roasted red peppers, pine nuts, and cream sauce is my favourite neapolitan pizza IN THE WHOLE WORLD. the flavours are so wonderfully bold that it's almost a shame to say the crust is the best part. it's nothing like that dry, dense lump of dough that you usually get from delivered pizza. this crust is chewy. it's thoughtful. it lets you know that it's the product of a wood-fired brick oven. the place is always packed and i once had to wait almost 2 hours for my pizza. i've since learned my lesson and usually get there right when they open to avoid the lines. but it's no wonder that this joint is always popping.
(5)Chris C.
My God this Pupatella!! I Just came back from this fantastically tasty and surprisingly hip(especially for Arlington) little ristorante and MAN, let me tell you, one bite of that prosciutto arugula pizza and I had restrain myself from back-handing my mom out of sheer joy. I actually removed the arugula and the prosciutto and ate them separately as A little side salad because I thought the pizza was actually better without it. The crust was something I had never experienced before on a pizza. It reminded me of tandoori bread you would get at a kabob place but perfected; consistently moist and slightly chewy throughout(not hard or burnt). It was honestly one of the best and most unique pizza's I have ever had. They also have gelato here to my surprise. I got the salted caramel and vanilla chip, really great. I noticed donuts were available on my way out so I took one to go(I'm a fat boy I know). The one I bought was filled with pastry cream but they also had plain and Nutella varieties. I took one bite when I got home and involuntarily dropped to my knees. Full mouth orgasm(no homo). I've never had a donut this good. You must visit this place. Serious.
(5)Doug K.
You've had the rest now eat the BEST! Salad #1 and a Real Margherita with Pepperoni - life doesn't get any better than this! Oh wait, it does - add a bottle of inexpensive but very good Red ($10 off when you order two pies - currently (Aug 1010)) and a staff lead by Enzo and Anastasiya (chef/proprietors) that really couldn't be warmer and happy to see you. Arlington has for many years not had outstanding pizza but Enzo has eliminated that Gap! With an authentic wood burning pizza oven delivered from Forno Napoletano in Naples to Arlington - there aren't many of these in the states but yes Enzo has one and it's churning out some incredible Neapolitan Pizza! These pizzas are done in true Neapolitan style - thin and chewy crust with flavors and aroma from the wood burning oven. They import their Buffalo Mozzarella from Naples and is some of the best that I've had in a long time! Pizzas are fast here, once Enzo crafts your pie it only takes one minute in the 800-1000 degree oven. I've had the Panini too, a nice diversion when you've had pie two or three times during the week! The atmosphere - I'm imagining a pizzeria in Naples, the aromas from the wood burning in the oven, a hint of garlic - PIZZA! The decor is funky! contemporary and very euro, simple and colorful - even the bathrooms remind me of restaurants frequented in my past on the Amalfi coast! this place gets busy and seating can be at a premium but be patient, tables turn pretty quickly and don't be afraid to share the larger tables with other diners - we're all there for this incredible pizza which means we all have that in common. I love the hats that Enzo and the crew sport - reminds me of what you might see in the center of Naples and Enzo's signature sunglasses complete the look as he orchestrates the assembly of many incredible pies. Ask Anastasiya for wine recommendations as you check out, she has bottles that are on display in a wine fridge behind the counter so you will get the wine at the proper temperature. I will update my review as I get through things like the Gelato (haven't had room for desert - need to skip the salad one night and include Gelato), I haven't had the Arancino yet either but they look great. Tips - if carrying out, ask Enzo or Anastasiya about how to warm the pizza back up once you arrive at home, this makes a huge difference, also if you are not familiar with Neapolitan style pizza you are highly encouraged to go read the FAQ on their web page to get an understanding of the style. I've seen so many posts where people don't particularly care for some aspects of this pizza but like beer and other foods there are many styles. For those that want your pizza cut when delivered to the table, ask Enzo - they will cut it and the best way to eat this pizza is to pick the slice up and fold it in half. Wow, now I think I need to go order a pie! Too bad it's Sunday - yes this small business is closed on Sunday and Monday so that the too have a few days to rest and get back to making us incredible pizza! We've really hit the jackpot here in Arlington, do not miss the opportunity to dine here - you won't regret it! pupatella.com/_/restaura…
(5)Conor Q.
This pizza was pretty goddamn good, and the staff seemed genuinely nice. Interesting atmosphere, although I got my pie to go. Not too expensive either for the quality of the food. Worth a look if you want some fancy pizza.
(5)Chris J.
Fantastic Neapolitan pizza, low-key and affordable. The crust was soft, fresh, and perfect. The cheese and toppings (I had chorizo--awesome) were a bit quirky, but fresh and high-quality. I'd say it's a bit like Two Amy's, but closer (to me), a bit cheaper and not trying nearly as hard to be too hip. Hard to beat. Might try a calzone next time.
(4)Cynthia C.
Expanded menu - even better. Delicious pizza good salads, appetizers and some side dishes, like fried Brussels sprouts. Wine and beer. Gelato. Indoor and outdoor seating - bus your own table. So good.
(5)Glen J.
Great neapolitan pizza and definitely better then Pizzeria Orso currently. The Caprese Salad is very good and highly recommended. The restaurant is not fancy, basically a neighborhood place, but it is very good and very reasonably priced. In fact, the pizza at around $12.00 may be underpriced!
(4)Matt H.
Very good neapolitan pizza. The beef pepperoni are delicious. Anyone who says the crust is burnt either got a very rare burnt pizza or doesn't know how a wood oven neapolitan pizza is supposed to taste. The charred specks add to the delicious flavor. Crisp-yet-chewy crust. Great sauce. Fresh toppings. I'd like to give it 4.5 stars because it can be cramped at times and seating can be tough. But overall, the pizza wins out so it gets 5.
(5)Adam C.
Always amazing
(5)Paul W.
Outstanding. I had the arugula and prosciutto pizza and my friend had a spinach pie. They're delivered to the table piping hot from the oven. We also had a yummy grilled Brussels sprouts appetizer.
(4)Bob S.
If I could give it 2.5, I would. This pizza isn't bad, it's just not worth the price or annoying ordering system. $12 for what boils down to a slice of pizza you could make in your own oven in 10 minutes. Pros: - Fresh ingredients - Novelty of a brick oven, euro-style pizza - tastes pretty good Cons: - Lack of meaty topping options - Uncomfortable space - Long wait - Bad ordering system - Expensive
(2)Matthew W.
I wish I could keep this place a secret, but that is just not going to happen. This is great pizza within a great atmosphere, not the strip mall. However, once inside you don't remember the strip mall part and just love the food and team that put it together. If you have not gone, make the trip. If you have been, well then you already know. Keep up the great work. I cannot wait to go back tonight.
(5)Jim W.
Great find. I would have driven right by without yelp.
(4)Paul W.
When I pulled up to the front of this place, the first thing I noticed was that the door was wide open. When we walked inside, it was actually hotter than outside, probably around 85 degrees. Even so, I figured no big deal, as long as the food is really good right? A friend and I ordered the arancino, the fried calzone, and a Neapolitan pizza with sausage, onions, and mozzarella. By the time the food started coming out, the bottle of coke I bought was completely warm. When I asked for a cup and ice, I was told they had neither. Again I thought, no big deal, it's only warm coke right? The pizza came out first. Immediately I didn't like how the toppings were distributed across the pizza; one of the slices barely had anything on it besides sauce and some cheese. When I picked up a slice, the entire first third was wet and soggy. Again, no big deal, it happens... usually when you order deep dish pizza and it's delivery and the delivery guy gets lost on the way because he can't see the apartment building numbers and ends up coming 30 minutes late, but it happens right? We finished our first pieces, but left the other half of the pizza uneaten. The arancino and the calzone came next. The calzone was basically deep fried donut dough wrapped over pizza sauce, ricotta cheese, and slices of ham. Other than the dough, the rest of this dish might as well have come straight from Mario's. As the calzone sat, I noticed the dough was progressively becoming chewier. Half way through cutting into the calzone, the entire dish became a sloppy mess. At that point, I turned my attention to the arancino, which was probably the highlight of what was turning into one of the most disappointing meals I've had in a while. This little deep fried ball of risotto was the only thing that didn't end up a sloppy, watery mess. However, I found it overly rich, unbalanced, and lacking in stuffing. Similar to everything else, we only finished half. These guys better get their act together, because I can run down the street and have an order of magnitude better dining experience at Bertucci's of all places. I'll give them six months when I expect the weather to be colder and them to have ice.
(2)A A.
I heard of Pupatella from my fellow Yelpers and I'm so happy to say I found my new go to spot for Neo style pizza. The parking situation is a little bit of a show and I suggest to utilize the street parking down some of the side roads with 2 hour parking. Upon walking in the place seemed high energy. The decor was quirky and fun and although things didn't seem to match, it all went well together. There was a long line of happy people waiting to place their order, meanwhile behind the counter, the staff was turning out the pizza. They made everything right there in front of you and they worked hard to rock out the high volume pizzas in the wood burning oven, demanded by the constant flow of traffic in a timely manner. It was tough to catch a seat but we were lucky and caught a spot right next to the guy flipping the dough, which we later found out was the owner. The one thing I noticed which was pretty funny, was that the carry out people would come up the side to collect their phone orders and I've never seen someone SO EXCITED to pick up their pizzas (which feature the owner's son on the pizza box). People were overcome with joy and I seriously think I saw a guy bow to the guy who handed him his pizza. It was pretty funny and awesome to see people so happy for pizza. Not sure if the seat up front watching every single pizza before ours was a good idea, as it made me hungrier and hungrier by the minute! Finally, our number was called. It was finally our turn to experience what everyone else was raving about with their smiles. We had the Real Margherita ($12), and the Chorizo ($12). Delicious! They also had Coke in the glass bottle made with real sugar as opposed to corn syrup (nice touch!). I'll definitely be back time and time again. Now, if someone can tell me what "Pupatella" means....
(4)Brian S.
I stopped by here for takeout and tried the Real Margherita, Prosciutto Arugula, and Sausage. All of them were quite good, but the Margherita was incredible. I would definitely head back but would try to stay and eat in person next time. By the time we got to it, the pizza was a bit cold (but still awesome)
(5)Geordie K.
Good food and good people. I've been a customer of theirs since back when all they had was a food cart and I've never been disappointed. That being said it's high-end pizza not fine dining. It fits into my lunch rotation but I don't ever feel like "oh, I need to go to Pupatella".
(5)Sandi P.
We will never know if the pizza is any good. Called on a Tuesday night at 7pm for carryout, and the call went STRAIGHT TO VOICE MAIL...a voice comes on and says "You have reached Pupatella." Then a voice comes on and says "The voice mailbox is full...please hang up." This happened twice in a row. Seriously???
(1)Anpan W.
Inexpensive but lacking flavor. Maybe if you take the pizza home and throw some hot red pepper and grated pecorino. In restaurant, fresh pepper and olive oil improved the pizza. Skip the gelati. We had to park at the grocery store across the street.
(2)SN D.
Been here for lunch a few times, they are quick, tasty and great price.
(4)Milan R.
If you are short on time and want this review in a nutshell, then here it is : Yes, i like their pizza and gelato. Now that we've settled that, let me continue.. Location : If you don't have a car, then be prepared to walk 0.6 miles from the Ballston Mall. It is no big deal when the weather is fine, but some folks may find it a tad too far to walk on mid-summer/bitter winter days. Decor : This is the best thing about this place, there is no decor to speak of! And that in itself gives it a 'cool' factor that you go there to enjoy their food and nothing else. Food : Their pizzas are soft,moist and melt in your mouth unlike other margherita pizzas that tend to be rough and dry. They undercook their pizzas (1 minute) , but thats enough for it to capture the smoky flavor of a well baked clay oven. The sauce,they say, is made from tomatoes that are imported from San Marzano in Italy. The sauce has a sweet-sour tinge to it. Overall, this isn't exactly the greatest pizza ever, but it is definitely among my top5. At around 11$+ for a small pizza with little or no toppings, this isn't exactly a steal, but for the quality and taste,it is worth it once in a while. Gelato : I'm not sure if this is made in house or ordered from a vendor, but it is quite tasty. I ordered a scoop of white-choco hazelnut, although it tasted a lot like regular ice-cream and not-so Gelati like, it was still very very good. They have 7-8 other flavors, and apart from mojito, the rest of them are your everyday flavors. At 3.30$ for a small scoop, it isn't exactly cheap. Overall , i'd definitely go there if i'm in the neighborhood. And would recommend it to others. The downside is the cramped place and some expensive food.
(4)Bridget G.
I have been here multiple times and have had nothing but great experiences. It gets a bit crowded on the weekends and you may have to wait a while for your pizza, but you will be pleased. It is delicious and fresh, and the staff are always very nice!
(5)Brenden J.
I don't get what all the fuss is about. It was decent enough pizza, and I guess for the DC area it's above-average. That being said, it was just expensive pizza with fancy toppings. Don't see the appeal.
(3)Jason D.
I have to agree with Ken's review. Pupatella is tops when it comes to Neapolitan pizza, but I generally like more than dots of cheese on my pizza. That said, crust, toppings, and sauce are all good. I would suggest staying away from meats on the pizza, because while delicious, it can overpower the other flavors. Beer and wine here is relatively cheap and they have some quality selecitons. Also, if you buy two pizzas, you get $10 off a bottle of wine at which point you have no choice but to order a bottle. Also, defintely save room for gelato. They have a small, quality selection. The one annoying part about this place is that there is very limited seating. If you have more than 2 people, it's going to be tough to get a table. The artwork is interesting and the place has a uniqueness factor that's rare in Ballston.
(4)Ryan W.
I'd been hearing about the famous Pupatella pizza cart for months and months but never was able to get over to Ballston to try it out on the days they were serving lunch. Well, now that they've got their bricks 'n mortar store on Wilson Blvd., I finally made it. I gotta tell ya, I thought it was just so-so. I had no idea what to expect re: atmosphere, but I can tell you, there isn't any. It's barely a step up from a food cart, in fact I'll bet the cart had more charm. The whole place is furnished, litterally, out of IKEA (check out the IKEA name on the silverware). It is what it is, but I hope they can make the place a little more comfortable to sit down and have a pizza. Speaking of pizza, it was just ok. The chorizo and red pepper pizza I had was WAY too greasy. In fact, the pools of oil from the chorizo soaked right through the thin, neopolitan-style crust, so it ended up being a floppy mess. Maybe they should pre-cook the chorizo a little to reduce the oil? Also, I though the flavor combination was a little off. My dining companions seemed to enjoy their pizzas, but I couldn't help thinking that their opinions were influenced by the renown of Pupatella. The gelato for dessert was ok (better than Boccatto) but nothing too remarkable. I wanted to love Pupatella, but ended up thinking it was just ok.
(3)Whitney T.
This is a great place to have happy hour, 2 pizzas gets you $10 off a bottle of wine. Took a co-worker and we had a blast, a definite place to have dinner next time you're in the mood for Neapolitan pizza.
(4)Becky C.
yumyumyum. went to their new storefront on wilson blvd for the first time saturday night and was blown away. the real margherita pizza reminds me of time spent in italy - they are perfectly cooked and slightly rustic and so delicious. i wish i had ordered more! went AGAIN on tuesday night (as they are closed sundays and mondays) and tried the calzone this time. i had never had a fried calzone before, but it was amazing. highly recommend pupatella!!
(5)Heather W.
I went in thinking, "Awesome! Finally a REAL pizza place!". The service was excellent. The salted caramel and the fig and marscapone gelato were icy in texture but had wonderful flavor. The "rice ball fritter" was good. The potato fritters and the bruschetta were awful. The pizza was HORRIBLE and it got my husband very ill. The red sauce tasted off, the Neapolitan crust was horrible and burned on the bottom and the toppings were awful. I've had much better pizza elsewhere. I chose this place as it reminded me of pizza places I had been to overseas and because it got such great Yelp reviews. I ordered a custom pizza, the sausage and onion and the ham and mushroom pizzas....all of them were horrible. Don't waste your money....unless you're getting the sausage balls or gelato.
(1)Jesse S.
Pretty cheap, and great atmosphere. Only complaint is that they get very busy so calling in for carry out is not an easy task. Take it as a sign that its very good.
(4)Emilio V.
Appearance and cleanliness: The place is not elegant or attractive. It is industrial space that has been cheaply adapted to become an eating place. Do not go there for a nice, romantic or impressive evening. It ha a grungy feeling underlined by the extremely informal and drab way of dressing of the patrons and staff. The bathroom is disgusting. The overall area is also not that attractive. It is next to a gas station/garage with the typical feeling of embedded dirt everywhere. The food: the pizza is OK. Nothing extraordinary as some people claim. It is basically a pizza pie with some tomato sauce on it, very little cheese, and whatever you order to be added. Very basic. If you like pizza with extra cheese, this is definitely not your place. One of our pizzas was burned and had a bitter, smoke taste. To the credit of management, they changed it without a fuss. Some types of pizzas are better than others. In our opinion the arugula-prosciutto is better than the eggplant one. Price: for being in such a basic and grungy space, price wise it is at the same level as other a bit more tony pizzerias like Piola. Even Mario's is better and cleaner looking. Wine prices are quite high for the cheap wine being sold. It is extortion. They are at least $10 higher than the top price with ample profit that they should ask. The place is very noisy and definitely not romantic. Do not bring your first date there. The furniture, tables, chairs give the impression of having been bought here and there at some flea markets. Crowd: overwhelmingly on the younger side, very poorly dressed (on par with the place). If you go there dressed to "go out", you will feel out of place. Noise level: very high. Service: the policy is apparently that most of what you need, you have to find yourself, like self-service, yet they still expect tipping. You order first and then go and sit down and wait. When you approach the cashier, be ready to order everything, including drinks. For water, there is a jug of water, hopefully filtered, in a corner for you to get, self-service, in plastic glasses. Overall, an OK place to eat an overrated pizza and go somewhere else to have a good time or a decent conversation.
(2)Rob R.
I've been lucky enough to travel around a fair amount. My last trip included a few days in Rome, which made a meal at a few notable pizzerias a certainty. The results were fair to very good. But before booking a ticket and retracing my steps, know that you can find pizza just as good right here in the DMV. I know that pizza can be a personal thing to some people, and they might curse me for saying so, but it's true. Get yourself down to Pupatella for some of the best pizza (of this style) that you will find anywhere. After you satisfy your appetite, stick around for a small treat with some gelato. Minus one star for seating. Sure, it might not be the business' fault that they have outgrown their space. But if you hit this place at anywhere near its peak times, you will be getting your pie to go. And know that these pies doesn't necessarily travel well. Highly recommend!
(4)Mike J.
Simple, fresh ingredients baked old world wood-fired oven. Don't expect to be overwhelmed in Cheesecake-Factory style - that's just not what they're aiming for here. And do NOT get your order to go. The pizza should be eaten right out of the oven and not steamed in a cardboard box. Arancini were a nice touch!
(4)Sarah H.
I was always a 2Amys die hard fan, but Pupatella won me over on the first visit and I think I'm a convert! I can't say much that hasn't already been said... But I will say that I was blown away by the tastiness of the crust alone!! The ingredients were all fantastic and it was just an over all fantastic and delicious experience! We will go back!
(5)Natalie G.
My kids love Pupatella; it's probably their favorite pizza place. I like it, but not as much as they do. The pizzas are tasty, but the middle often doesn't seem to get cooked. That said, the flavor combinations are excellent, and the ingredients are always first rate. The last time we were in, it took more than 30 minutes to get our pizza. The explanation was that they had a lot of phone orders. Why wouldn't they give priority to the people already in the restaurant and tell the phone orders they'd need to wait a bit? I'd give it a 3.5, but Yelp still doesn't allow that. I'm not sure why...
(3)Deborah N.
I liked the pizza a LOT! The skanky strip mall location didn't bother me much. Thought the prices were too high (but you do get quality ingredients here). Loss of one star for the crowded yogurt shop atmosphere. Get a real dining room and then you can charge $15 for a pizza.
(4)Daniel B.
What a great little pizza place! Small and tucked away in a generic strip mall I have passed this place a number of times. I am so glad we took the time to stop by. The only annoying parts were the wait (20 minutes) and the pitifully small parking lot. The pizza's were top notch. Thin crust with classic ingredients combined with an intensely small and hot pizza oven that just kisses your pizza's before they are ready (really, it looked like they literally put them in and then pulled them back out). Definitely a great add to the pizza scene in Arlington!
(4)Wayne L.
Pupatella is probably as authentic as it gets when it comes to neopolitan Italian pizza. It is located right outside Ballston and is easy to get to. It is a small restaurant and can get crowded, but you get to see the pizza-making in action. My only gripes are the tiny, tiny parking lot and the long wait. If you saunter in on a busy night, the wait can be upwards of 45 minutes since they make the pizza fresh. It is worth it, though, for the pizza is unlike anything I've had. The parking lot is definitely a joke - I parked one time across the street at the supermarket, but am unsure as to how safe it is. Towing and whatnot. I usually try to get lucky, and was able to park right in front of Pupatella a few times. For those seeking an 'authentic' experience, give Pupatella a try. The wait and parking lot can be off-putting, but it is worth it for the pizza.
(4)M H Z.
we went to try Pupatella after reading a glowing review on the Post. Though it is not the Best pizza we've had, its also not the worst either. that being said, the dough which was the main selling point in the review didnt live up to expectations. it had the nice char of the brick oven, but we found the centers to be a bit soggy and lackluster. interiors are a hodge podge (old adverts in frames), it can be loud and filled with young families. not cheap either. we had a margherita and a chorizo pizza with a fried mozzarella appetizer, no refill sodas was around $30 between 2 people. service staff harried and unhelpful, so the "bus your own table sign" was irksome at best. So, not bad, but not something we'd drive out from Fairfax to re experience.
(3)Laura L.
I'm no Neopolitan pizza whiz but I do know a good pizza when I taste one. I popped into Pupatella on a Tuesday afternoon for lunch-- I was a little scared that there were only a few patrons there (always a bad sign... especially around lunchtime- maybe I came after the rush?). I had the arugala and prosciutto pizza-- best pizza I've had in awhile! Due to the lack of other hungry customers, my pizza came out pretty quickly. Had I been hungrier, I would've gotten the free scoop of gelato on Tuesday deal (as mentioned on non other than Yelp) but was pretty stuffed as it was. It's no wonder why everyone loves Pupatella-- the restaurant design is pretty unique, what with the cool art, theiir space age-y, colorful stools and tables and of course, can't forget about the huge red-tiled pizza oven. I also like that they take pride in keeping costs down by making patrons bus their own tables-- in all seriousness, I don't mind a bit of moving and shaking anyways after this hearty meal. If all this doesn't make you want to dive head-first into a pizza, maybe the service will. The gal working the register was nice and the guys making the pizza were quick on their toes and even hand delivered my order. Did I forget to mention the pizzamakers wear fedoras? Awesome.
(4)Karen E.
So while I am not a fan of Neapolitan Pizza personally, and prefer the bread-like pizzas that taste like fresh bread that was just baked (not to confused with NY-style) I gotta say... this place is great. Best pizza I have ever had in Arlington? No. But good and fresh? Aye with a capital A. All ingredients taste really fresh, It is authentic Italian Neapolitan style pizza that is handled, baked, and delivered the right way. I was especially impress by how authentic they try to keep this place; Great pillow-y dough, and flavors, you might as well think you're sitting in Napoli eating a casual early dinner, - with only thing missing would be the house-wine served in an Italian wine glass (those look like the orange-juice glasses in the US) What I do not like, however, is the atmosphere of a mall's food court... I guess it's ok for a casual lunch, but not always I am in the mood for sitting on metal chairs with a bunch of screaming kids running around with sticky hands. All the authenticity they achieved in flavor, they completely missed with the atmosphere... Worth trying though....
(3)Joe S.
I like fire. I love pizza. I freak out over Pupatella. Get the prosciutto arugula. You haven't seen or tasted anything like this in the DC Metro area. Enzo, the effortlessly cool owner, forms the dough with an apparent ease that suggests his hand's are operating on muscle memory alone. After applying his simple no-nonsense sauce and fresh mozzarella (I order mine with buffalo mozzarella), he slides it onto the peel and shoves it straight into his Nebuchadnezzar style oven. After about one minute the pizza comes out. This is the key step: he puts the prosciutto on after the pizza comes out of the oven. Prosciutto is so often dried out and charred to a crisp by the time it gets to the plate. Not here! Prosciutto has no business being subjected to the 800+ degree oven. Finally, Enzo tops his masterpiece with a mound of fresh arugula, fresh shavings of Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil. Just typing this out is messing with my head! Also, order two pizzas and get $10 off a bottle of wine! Can't beat that. This place is not the easiest for large groups. You may have to split and sit at different tables. They do have 2 big tables in the back that will seat around 8 each.
(5)Jennifer D.
We went to Pupatella about a week ago, based mostly upon Yelp hype. First of all, there is next to no parking. We parked across the street at the Safeway. When you walk in you order at the counter, they hand you a pager and then you find your own seat. More about the pager later. We ordered the Frittura sampler - sausage, eggplant, panzarotto and mozzarella balls. I tried the panzarotto and the mozzarella, my husband had the rest. It was good. So here's where it got weird: the pager started buzzing and my husband asked me: Do we need to go get the pizza? Someone had brought the appetizer to our table, so we were unsure what to do do next. As it turned out, the same lady that brought our appetizer brought our pizza to us. This begs the question: why use pagers? Why not use numbers to identify who has what? I had the Margherita Doc. Very little cheese and the crust was black in many places. My husband commented that his pizza needed just a smidge more time in the oven. I pointed out how black my pizza was. When I was retelling this story to a good friend (who had wanted to try Pupatella) she commented that the temperature was probably too high if the pizza was a combination between not tasting done yet black. My husband had the Capricciosa (mushrooms, artichokes, ham and mozzarella). When I asked him tonight what he thought about his pizza he remarked about the burnt on the bottom, not quite done on the top. I asked him, "Well, aside from that?" He chuckled and said the toppings were good. Considering the wacky schedule - only two days open for lunch and closed Sunday and Monday, the lack of parking, and the lackluster pizza we will not return.
(3)BJ L.
The greatest pizza in the western hemisphere, hands down. Go there now! Wood fire, no nonsense ingredients, what more can you ask for?
(5)Mattie C.
My roommate would probably kill me if she saw this low rating because she LOVES this place. Maybe my expectations were just incredibly inflated because of all her ravings about the pizza. She eats here a lot. I finally had this pizza when she brought home some takeout boxes from there. My excitement turned to disappointment just looking at the pizzas. None had enough cheese on them and most of what you can see is sauce. The dough looked kind of dry and like it had some white powder on it. I would never spend money on a pizza that looked this unappetizing. I still decided to give it a chance, and the pizza tasted just like it looked. Really saucy, the mushrooms on top were rubbery and the crust was dry and just wasn't very satisfying to bite into. I didn't even finish the slice. I don't think this was just an isolated, one-time bad pizza, because she brought home about 5 of them and they all looked like that. They just don't seem to want to put a lot of cheese on their pizza. But cheese to me is one of the best parts! I see there are a lot of great reviews, and a lot of people seem to really like this place. So maybe I just have weird pizza taste or something. I have no desire to go to Pupatella's and try again. Sorry!
(2)Mike R.
Employees are extremely rude. Everything is insanely expensive... $3 for a bottle of coke you can buy from costco for the average price of $1 a bottle. I guess their fridge is magical and worth adding the additional $2. Dining area has virtually no seating whatsoever. Parking lot also holds about 5 total cars so plan on parking at the 7 eleven or scouting around side streets looking for parking. Pizza is admittedly awesome (something about that smoked cheese and slightly burnt crust and pepperoni makes it great), however plan on waiting through a 30 minute line to order, fighting for one of the 5 tables in the place and then waiting 40 minutes for your pizza. Unless you want to eat at 10 pm at night just save yourself the trouble and order to go (that's if they pick up of course - good luck with that). Last time I was here we waited through the line which was about 20 minutes and were told the wait was 45 minutes after ordering... ok fine. 60 minutes later we did not have our pizzas. After complaining I think we got one of them 10 minutes later... and the other got lost some how? They pushed that one to the front of the line and we got that one maybe another 10 minutes later? To sum it up... pizza AWESOME... everything else - blah. If they picked up their phones I'd actually order more often and then just show up in and hour and get it to go. Maybe they should work on some online ordering if they don't want to pick up phone calls?
(3)Rò A.
I dream of this place!!!!! I am italian and this pizza reminds me of Naples!!!!
(5)Jay R.
Oh man! GREAT pizza spot! Cool atmosphere, amazing food, good service too. Although one side looks like a homey Italian restaurant and the other looks like it was decorated by a guy on acid, it is a great place to bring the family, date, or to come and get it to go in your sweat pants. I've had a bunch, but my favorite is the chorizo! Also give their donuts a try.
(5)Paul D.
Update: You can no longer Order Online. They said it was just too much business and they weren't able to keep up with all the orders. What a great problem to have. So, call ahead or walk in and wait. I prefer going during off hours to avoid the dinner throng. Also, the Arancino's are now about half as big as they once were and are two to an order instead of one. I like this change, since I just ate a Real Margherita Pizza & 3 Arancino's (Don't judge me). Thus leaving a whole one for later, instead of just a half eaten one. Finally, The correct way to eat a Neapolitan Pizza is to roll it up. That way you get the soft, crust along with all the other fresh ingredients that just melt in your mouth.
(5)Ali B.
Absolutely delicious, authentic, neopolitan-style pizza. I get the Margherita Doc every time I go! I also recommend Salad #1 - arugula, proscutto, and parmesan cheese with a balsamic dressing. Great, causual atmosphere, and amazing pizza.
(5)Ni C.
The "real" margherita is precisely that: perfect san marzano sauce, a bit of basil and olive oil,creamy buffalo mozzerella, and a pillowy delicious crust. Its worth the $12 and a return visit. Also had the eggplant arancini which were piping hot and tasty. Drinks include san benedetto ice teas and san pellegrino fruit drinks. Wine is sold by the bottle and glass and priced fairly. If you want to be transported to Italy--Pupatella is your place.
(5)Dhaval P.
Loved it!!!
(4)Taryn L.
Started with Salad 2 - pretty big, so glad we split it. They were happy to put my dressing on the side. My fiance had the sausage pizza, and though I don't usually go the meat route, I traded him a slice, and ALMOST liked his better than mine. I had the eggplant with roasted red peppers, totally delish. We both pretended like we weren't going to each eat our whole pizza and then totally did. The crust is light and airy, so the middle can get a bit sloppy, but it wasn't overly wet ... just right. I could still pick it up without everything sliding off. Not a whole lot of cheese going on, but that worked for me - great tasting crust and sauce and toppings means less need to slather it with dairy. You can finish off your crust by dipping it in the olive oil they have placed around the restaurant. My fiance made me pass up the fried brussel sprouts for fear of too much food but I'm really crossing my fingers that they have them next time we go back, since it was a special. Other specials also looked intriguing. We had two pizzas, a salad, a glass of wine and a beer for $39+tip. A bit pricier than the Chipotle we'd foregone for the evening, but pretty reasonable for a meal out if you ask me. I'm rarely up for pizza, but I'll be back here. They kept their word and served up a pretty big scoop of gelato for free on Tuesday. Attitudes of hostess/cashier and cooks also very upbeat and pleasant. Were served quickly.
(4)Bob T.
This is NY Pizza. Perfect crust made with 00 flour and toppings choices like you expect in a NY pizzeria. The only complaint is they only make one size pizza which serves 1-2 people. I wish they did a standard 18" pie. My first visit but I will be back.
(5)Michelle S.
Delicious pizza and wine! Half priced bottle if you buy two pizzas? Needless to say, I'll be back.
(4)John A.
Stopped in here for dinner because of all the fantastic reviews. Sadly, my experience did not live up to the hype. Their pizzas are small, so they recommend one whole pie for each adult. We got three small pizzas, an order of fried polenta (also small), two beers, and a juice, and it rang up as $60 (!). Ouch. Anyway, the polenta wasn't anything to write home about, and the pizzas were a bit of a disappointment. The toppings were okay, the sauce was a little bland for my taste, and the crust was soggy. And it wasn't an anomaly with one pie, all three had soggy crust. So to summarize, crust was a big disappointment, and the price was way too high for what you get.
(2)Adriana B.
I got the Neopolitan DOC pizza and side salad, and they both tasted very fresh and delicious. I only regret not ordering the caprese salad because it looked amazing. Great, friendly service and cute atmosphere. Can't wait to go back!
(5)Carla D.
4 1/2 A Long overdue review. Pizza is my favorite food, hands down. Having grown up on NY pizza, I am always on the lookout for a good slice. While I will always crave a slice from NY before any other, having lived in Nova has given me a new appreciation for the Neapolitan pizza and the beauty that is a well made pie. Puppatella's pizza is bar none my favorite in the area. The ingredients are fresh, the crust is perfectly cooked so as not to be soggy, and the sauce is spot on- each time. The consistency here is why I never regret suggesting Puppatellas for a meal. My most recent visit was with a friend who had not been so we decided to order: -Garlic And Mozzarella Bread Very standard, and tasty. Wish they had some sauce on the side though. -Frittura Sampler 1 of each: sausage arancino, eggplant arancino, mozzarella balls and panzarotto. I love croquettes so my favorite was the panzarotto. I enjoy the others but I am here for fritturas. Also I wish these came with a side of sauce to dip them in. Pizza: Margharita with meatballs. Divine. Prosciutto Arugula: I think the arugala is too large for the slices. But it is delicious and necessary for the prosciutto. We also had some gelato. I got the big one so I got the cookie :) So while I share the same irritations as others mainly that this place is too popular, and parking can be annoying, both of which I can deal with as I love the atmosphere and the quality. I do wish they would up their wine game and offer a few nicer siggestions then again my waistline does not need any more reasons to come by...
(4)Rory J.
Have lived in Italy for 3 years so I know a good pizza. This place is off the charts by American standards. Pupatella blows Motorino in NYC out of the water, which is pretty impressive for a shop nestled between a few stripmalls in Arlington. Highly recommend the margherita with crudo and arugula, and the arancini are top notch...
(5)Margery T.
I have been to Italy many times and eaten pizza in places that tourists would never know about since we have Roman friends who own a restaurant. Pupatella is the REAL deal.....best pizza I have eaten outside of Italy. The lines on Friday nite are so long. We prefer weekdays for lunch.
(5)Edward C.
Wow. Ok, so I can see what all the buzz is about. See, the last time there was such hype over authentic Neopolitan pizza in Northern Virginia, I was slightly disappointed at the good but remarkably just-ok pies at Pizzeria Orso (Falls Church, VA). So, when I heard that some dude was making pizza from a little red food truck in Arlington, VA that challenges 2 Amys, I couldn't help thinking, "I've heard this one before." Well it just so happens that this food truck pizza dude shut down his truck recently and opened up a full blown restaurant. And his pizzas are still getting rave reviews. I figure it was time to try what the masses have been talking about. I show up tonight to a small restaurant taking up the end unit of a rather crammed strip mall. Decor was interesting, with neat lighting and the signature brick oven that's necessary for making Neopolitan pizzas. I wasted no time getting in line, and after asking the friendly cashier which pizza has the most meat, ordered myself the Sausage pizza. I also ordered a deep fried calzone for good measure. Man, I was so hungry, I tell you. We grabbed a large table in the back and eagerly awaited our food. Seriously not more than a few minutes later, our pizza arrived piping hot. Seriously. I hear this place only cooks their pizza for no more than a minute in the oven, as to create a crispy crust and not dry out the fresh ingredients. My pizza of sliced sausage and caramelized onions was absolutely fantastic. Flavorful onions. Flavorful sausage. Thin neopolitan crust, chewy, slightly charred, and slightly crunchy. And then there was the deep fried calzone -- delicious! It was crunchy, but very light. It tasted like a donut stuffed with fresh ham and ricotta and mozzerella. In all fairness, I do admit that I was starving beyond belief. But with 5 friends around me throwing up thumbs-ups in approval for their pizzas, it was confirmed. This is easily the best pizza I've had this side of DC, and quite possibly equal to that of 2 Amys. Yup, I said it. Pupatella makes pizza that I will equally enjoy as much as I enjoy eating 2 Amys. And throw in the fact that it's essentially closer to my house by almost an hour? No competition. I am a new Pupatella fan and I can only say it's probably in your pizza loving best interest to become one, too.
(5)Beatriz B.
Please, please, please come to this place if you're in the D.C. area. Actually come if you're anywhere in the VA, Maryland area. This is not only the best pizza in D.C., but the best pizza I've ever had period. My husband and I love it so much that anytime our family is visiting from out of town, this is a must-go-to place and everyone has loved it. The service is fast and the pizza is out of this world. The Margherita is still my favorite one. I dream of this place.
(5)Irene H.
The pizza is good. I had the eggplant, red pepper and mozzarella pizza. The crust was good.
(5)Amanda L.
Don't even live in DC anymore, but anytime I'm in the area I insist on having one meal here. Love the pizza - so good, and definitely better than 2 Amy's! I really like how they have specials so there's always a new pizza to try. I've tried a variety of pizzas here and absolutely love them all. The arugula prosciutto one is pretty popular. And if you don't want one of the ones on the menu, they let you make your own too. The wait can be long sometimes because of the popularity and the amount of people that come, but it's definitely worth it! Some people complain about the prices, but I think it's completely reasonable for the high quality of ingredients they use, and come on, it's DC.
(5)Gdawg W.
Pizza was very delicious ... Much like Italy
(5)Byron L.
Pizza is real good, it has a fresh taste and the ingredients are fresh. Be ware if you order take out, they do not give you plastic ware to take with you.
(4)J V.
Best pizza I have ever had! Worth the wait and creative parking.
(5)Elida M.
Can never go wrong with their pizzas or their arancinis..hmmmmm
(5)Jaime B.
Excellent pizza, hole-in-the-wall feel. Very good place to come any time of the week. I went there anytime I wanted pizza while in DC an it is probably the best Neapolitan pizza I have ever had in my life, I still need to go to Naples, but when I go, I will be holding their pizzerias to Pupatella's standard.
(5)D R.
This is my favorite pizza spot in the DMV area! The pizza is like eating a pie in Naples. They really know how to do Italian style pizza right. If you are in the area you need to go here.
(5)Hannah B.
With a 20-minute wait for a pizza you might as well sit down and enjoy some wine and appetizers while you wait for you pizza. But once they put that baby in the brick oven expect yumminess within minutes. We got the margherita and chorizo to go. Delicious! The ingredients are fresh, the dough is chewy and everything tastes great. Can't wait to go back and try the salami pizza and maybe some gelato for dessert,
(4)Joshua H.
Pupatella offers authentic Neapolitan cuisine. I, personally can't get enough of it. However, if you are expecting "really good Americanized pizza" you may be surprised and/or disappointed. The dough is hand tossed, they offer real buffalo mozzarella, and the pizza comes out of the brick oven piping hot with a crisp but soft, slightly blackened crust. I have known people who did not care for this taste. I like it very much. There are several other delicious offerings including my favorite, the potato croquettes. The prices are a little steep but worth it for the quality if the food.
(4)Yoeun P.
Count us in as members of the Pupa fan club. We're hooked. This neighbourhood joint in a gas station parking lot by a decrepit Safeway is a short walk from our place and we make the trek almost once a week. First of all, this is an *authentic* Neapolitan pizza place. Certified authentic by Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana. It's as close as you'll get to the pizzas made in Italy. That means 10 inch pizzas on a soft delicate thin crust with a basic tomato sauce. (Only tomato and salt permitted in the sauce) If you're looking for Pizza Hut or New York style pizza, you will be disappointed. The pizzas come in one size and the crust is not stuffed with cheese, covered in popcorn butter or showered with "Italian" seasoning. Your Yelp review is rendered moot. Now, if you *are* looking for Neapolitan pizza, then you came the right place and you will enjoy the delicious pizza, the convivial atmosphere, friendly staff, creamy gelato, mouth watering bruschetta, and cold bottles of real sugar Mexican Coca Cola. Our go-to pizza is capricciosa with arugula. I don't know why people are complaining about the size. My girlfriend and I always share a pizza. If you want super size, go to McDonalds across the street. The bruschetta is orgasmic. Where do they get these tomatoes?
(4)Khyati D.
My husband and I had been wanting to check this place out based on the reviews and we finally did last night. We were kicking ourselves for not trying it sooner. The pizza was delicious!!! Keep in mind that the style is Napolitano and it was true to the name. We had been to Italy and had pizza in Napoli and it was just as good. A few tips: 1. Eat there. We had leftovers but we can't imagine eating it cold. So avoid take out and enjoy a hot, fresh pizza on site. 2. Lower your expectations about the ambience. It's small, crowded, and does not have the best seating. You won't be going there (or back) for the ambience so keep that in mind when you go. Think of it as a short order place in Napoli. 3. Go for the pizzas on the menu. They know what goes well together and what brings out the right flavors.Lean towards selecting one of the pizzas on the menu as opposed to making your own. We had the Spinach white pizza, the margherita, and my husband got a meat pizza. We also got the appetizer sampler. Everything was delicious! So, if you're in the mood for a casual yet authentic Napolitano pizza, go to Pupatella! And they have wine and beer and yummy gelato!
(5)Jeanie B.
Best pizza I've ever had. Ever. I also can't remember the last time I enjoyed a meal so much. The garlic roasted tomatoes are a must-add to any pizza. We had the Diavola with Fallangina wine. Though it was after a hectic day of work and the chattering line of patrons was out the door by the time we left, I felt like I had died and gone to heaven after such a treat. I recommend a taking home leftovers to leave room for dessert. The gelato is almost as delish as the main course. Pistachio was much better than the too-sweet "salty caramel" in my opinion.
(5)Xi H.
This is the best pizza I've had outside of Europe. Period. It's better than any place in Chicago, NYC, and anywhere else in DC. Convinced? They have quality ingredients - none of the cheap oils and corn meal chain-stores use - and their certified DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) pizzas are cream of the crop. They're cooked in an authentic brick-oven pizza, and the crust is just delicious. Order one pizza per person minimum - they're only 12" and so good you'll eat it all. Wait times can get really really bad (45 minutes for in-store!), but you know a good restaurant when demand far outstrips demand. On busy nights (Friday, Saturday, and sometimes Thursday and Sunday) they stop taking phone orders, so walk in, order, go grocery shopping, and then come back and grab the pizza. For some added zing, ask for extra fresh garlic on the pizza - it's free.
(5)T M.
The pizza is just as good and authentic as 2Amys, but with a more casual atmosphere and no wait.
(5)Jennifer I.
I went here for lunch on a Friday with coworkers and was pretty impressed. While I ordered a panini I soon regretted it once I saw everyone's pizza but it was delish! The decor is fun and modern and the staff is friendly--they even wear these cute little fedoras which are a stylish way to keep hair out of my food, so I like. The only thing that turned me off were the flys that seemed to be buzzing around the top of the pizza oven and it made me wonder how many had met their fate in that fire...My only recommendation to the business: get some fly traps and keep them out of the public eye. To the customers: get the pizza...and please tell me how their gelato is. It looked so good but after I ate way more panini than I should have (really, all you need is a half to be stuffed) I didn't have room to try it!
(3)J L.
I LOVE Neopolitan pizza, and Pupatella hits the spot. I'm a purist so I prefer the Margherita DOC, but hubby loves the Diavola. If I can tear myself away from the Margherita, the eggplant and red pepper pizza is also highly recommended. Thank goodness they made the crispy brussels spouts with green apple part of the regular menu. The side salad with argula and thinly sliced cherry tomatoes is always a hit even with my friends who don't like vegetables. Save room for the pistachio gelato!
(5)T S.
Pizza is again served for lunch. And what a pizza it is! The dough is soft yet traditionally charred in an authentic Neapolitan oven (imported from Italy). Pupatella is one of the few VPN authentic pizzas, which means that they follow a very strict process in creating/cooking the pizza. It takes a mere 1 minute to cook -- but it gets tremendously busy, so expect a wait. It's worth it, though.
(5)Tricia B.
Nice place to chill & get take out. There will be a wait, it's all good though. Nice folks that work there. I've only order to go. Bimbi pizza, Eggplant & Red Pepper pizza, fried mozzarella balls, and gelato are delic. Haven't gotten the chance to try the donuts. Hopefully, one day!! :)
(4)Mike J.
Some of my favorite pizza in the area. Not your standard american pie, so if you only like stuff like Pizza Hut and Papa Johns, this may not be your thing. Their homemade dough and fresh ingredients are the key. I highly recommend the Real Margherita. Clean and fresh tasting, and the buffalo mozzarella is awesome. I'm in love with their sauce... tastes to be freshly pureed tomatoes with simple seasoning. Only thing I've had close to this taste is in Napoli. Others to try... Chorizo pizza is great if you're a pepperoni fan. Rissotto balls are a great appetizer as well. And if you want some greens in your diet, add an arugula salad.
(5)Cameron H.
Anyone who doesn't give this place five stars is an idiot. The food is simple, made from fresh ingredients, and tastes amazing. Best Napoli style pizza I've had outside of Napoli itself. Yes, seating is limited, the wait can be long, and there are usually tons of people BUT that's also part of the charm. Go, have an amazing meal, you won't regret it.
(5)David J.
Oh my goodness gracious me. Pupatella's pizza is DIVINE. Just simply and utterly divine. Perfection in a box with quality ingredients. It is a VERY casual place, with tables almost awkwardly crammed in to the establishment to cater to those folks who thought it would be a good place to visit and actually have a nice out. Bottles of beer that you pick yourself from the fridge at $4 a pop, and then go drink it while devouring your pizza at plastic but hip looking tables & chairs. Don't expect the place to pick up their phone if you're calling in take-out. The 'hip' owners decide when they're going to pick it up (if at all), so don't expect traditional service here. We called a minimum of 20 times on a Friday night, over an hour period and they just don't pick up. It's frustrating but bizarrely comical that they just don't care. I think the thought process is 'we're as busy as we can be, without you calling in. If you want some, come get in line!'. Very admirable in an odd way. Expect a long wait at peak periods, but you get to watch them work their authentic magic while you wait. The deep fried risotto balls are a perfect intro to your pizza. And lastly, do NOT put their pizza boxes in the oven directly to heat up your pizza. They're oddly covered in plastic to display their high-res image of some lovely place in Italy, which will melt and stink up your house, probably while coating your pizza in some delightful concoction of chemicals. Bottom line...DIVINE, visit them!
(5)Lawson E.
This has quickly become one of my favorite places. The fried calzone is incredible! Very speedy service although they can get slowed down a little during the lunch rush... worth the wait.
(5)Kareem B.
Best pizza in town. Try the brussel sprouts with apples it's amazing. Service is great. If you're not coming during lunch or dinner hours call because they do close the kitchen for a little while in the late afternoon
(5)Ryan B.
I feel this place is simply over hyped. The pizza was mehh.. Size,..small, Taste,...bland, Wait time,.... too long, toppings,.. not enough. I know this is Neapolitan Pizza but I have had better.
(2)Christa M.
Best pizza I've had in a while!! Everything was ready in 10 mins (2 personal pizzas) and tasted simply amazing. Definitely hit the spot for brick oven pizza. I honestly can't wait to go back and show a friend this place.
(5)Amanda A.
Pupatella's is my family's favorite pizza haunt. It's casual and has beer. We avoid it during peak dinner rush on weekend nights.
(4)Chris D.
WOW! All I can say is this place rocks. Great food and decent prices.
(4)Jean C.
Great Pizza! best Pizza I have had outside of NYC
(5)David S.
Best pizza in the area, there are no competitors even close.
(5)Simplehiccup D.
My husband came home from work, looked at me with puppy dog eyes and asked: "Would you mind if we get pizza tonight?" I had been pushing vegan leftovers at him for the past week, and it seems he was at his breaking point. The usual and easy choice for us is our local pizzeria, because it is very close, inexpensive, and delicious. But hey, I had this place b'marked and we were up for trying something different. We jumped in the car and made the drive into Arlington to give Pupatella a try. We got there around 4pm and we had no trouble finding parking in their little lot, but I could see how it might fill up fast on busy nights. We ordered two red pies off the menu: Hubby ordered the sausage and onion and I ordered the eggplant and red pepper. Hubby said that it was like eating a hamburger in regards to the size and amount of sausage on top....so much so that he could not taste much else. We both thought my eggplant pie was truly outstanding and the better of the two pizzas. Magnifico! We read Pupa's website before visiting: there is a section about what expectations you should have when eating/ordering here- it is very helpful: What you get here is real old world/Mother-Country style and flavor: fresh dabs of smoked mozzarella dot the pie, blistered crust fresh from the oven and fresh minimalist toppings. This is not New York/Jersey style pizza with tangy sauce, herbs and tons of cheese smothered on top. I enjoy both styles of pizza and think they both have their place. There do appear to be a number of reviews that tout the dirt cheap prices here, and I find that to be slightly misleading. You will pay around $12 per personal-pan pie. That is certainly a fair price for quality imported ingredients, but it is by no means the one lonely Yelp "$" in my mind's eye reserved for the $8-10 entree. To be fair, they are slightly less expensive than their main local competitor (who serve a similar style), but they are more expensive than our beloved local pizza joint where we can get double the amount of pie for around the same price. To clarify, each Pupatella personal-pan pie is about the size of a restaurant entree, cut into four 4 slices. We were not hungry afterwards, but I could have eaten more. I would say it leans more towards $$ and less $. The service was friendly and not intrusive. They left us alone to get drunk off our wine and enjoy our pizza but were efficient and pleasant all the same. A great balance! In closing, this is a great place to get your Napoli on. While Pupatella pizza is similar in style and portion size to a competitor, I prefer Pupa's friendly service, dining atmosphere, slightly less expensive prices, and the flavor of the ingredients. We would like to try a white pie if we wind up in the area again- but we will probably mainly stick with our local pizzeria due to overall convenience and price.
(4)Zach M.
Coming down from New York, pizza & deli's are two of the things I miss the most. This is the only place I actually enjoy, down here, when it comes to pizza.
(5)Drew S.
You have the radio set to 97.1 WASH FM??? I hear more progressive music at my children's dentist. Go get a Pandora or Spotify acct. and it would be so much better. But other than having to sit through 'Feel the rain on your skin', I did enjoy my margherita pizza, but wished the pizza was hotter when it came out, and I definitely wished it was warmer inside while eating. I was freezing inside while eating. While I still hold Pizzeria Paradiso as my favorite pizza spot, I liked the taste of my pizza, and felt it a slightly better value. With only one size to choose from, I thought $12 for my pie was a good deal. Had a nice chewy texture to it. Just wished it was hotter.
(4)Alan S.
I was really excited to try this place as my friend raved about this place as well as it having such a high rating on Yelp. I must admit that I was disappointed. The ingredients were fresh and the toppings were plentiful, but it didn't taste as amazing as I would like. When I got the pizza the pizza was barely sliced. It had the indentations, but all the slices of prosciutto was still whole. I got the arugula and prosciutto pizza and the taste was pretty good but a tad burnt. The pizza itself was not burnt, but I think it ended up picking a lot of soot from the oven on the bottom of the pizza. On top of having to cut every piece individually, the pizza was just too limp. I prefer pizza to have a crispy crust. I don't like how the slices were so limp that I basically needed to fold the pizza into a taco shape to eat it. Overall a mediocre experience. Generally a good tasting pizza, but the limpness was not my style.
(3)Kemi J.
Best pizza in Arlington!! I go every chance I get. Always consitent, fresh ingredients and great customer service. Authentic Italian pizza with no gimmicks. What more could a pizza lover ask for?
(5)Mikie S.
Great Pizza!! But only come if your eating in. No phone orders after 5pm, basically when most people want to call in. Because of that you have to fight for parking then sit in a small lobby and constantly move or be moved while you wait 20-30 min for your pizza. Great food not so convenient if you want to take out.
(3)Sarah S.
Much needed Chianti and Napoli pizza... This pizza hot-spot gives 2 Amys a run for its money. Wow. Perfect, lightly charred crusts, the right amount of soppy-ness to the dough, fresh toppings (my favorite being the buffalo mozzarella and cherry tomatoes), and ever-so authentic Napoleon. I adore this place, not only for the delicious pizzas, but also for the casual ambiance and inexpensive glasses and bottles of Chianti. Buon appetito!
(5)Dino V.
Great pizza. Ordered a chorizo and a margharita and i enjoyed evey bite o it
(5)S L.
not enough seats, and it's best if you eat in. but really good napolitano pizza
(4)Nila C.
Though expensive, the pizza is well worth the buck! Which pizza you asked? Any pizza-- their ingredients are so fresh and they cook with an ole school pizza oven with coals. This place is great, I'd come here every week if it wasn't for the distance and price. Seating is very iffy, had to kind of awkwardly hover around until a couple was ready to leave-- the place can be very packed at times. All in all, good stuff! Get some gelato while you're there.
(5)Adena B.
After noting the wildly popular reviews on here, I decided to head over to Pupatella (tee hee, the name gets me every time). I ordered the arancini with sausage (essentially, fried risotto in a ball, stuffed with mozzarella, peas, and sausage), which I gobbled up in a matter of seconds. I also got pizza with spicy salami, mozzarella, and kalamata olives) and washed it down with some Birra Moretti La Rossa. Even after a meal like that, I went for some stracciatella gelato to round out those calories. Might as well, right? It was amazing, in case you were wondering.
(5)Claire C.
Had the pesto pizza. Fantastic! Just the right blend of pesto, walnuts, and cheese. A little heavy on the oil but not bad. Also the salami on the pizza was a flavor explosion in my mouth. Great thin crust pizza establishment, if your in the mood, go here.
(4)Peter V.
There are a few Neapolitan pizza association certified places in DC like Puptella, but this one is generally considered to be the best. I went looking for the authentic Naples pizza experience (I used to live in Naples and have sampled waaaaay too much pizza) and I mostly was not disappointed. They use more sauce and fresh basil than your standard Naples pizza, and less oil. The cheese and the crust are of course the hardest to get right. I'm not sure if they were using cow milk or buffalo milk mozzarella (it seemed douchey to ask), but it was quality. It lacked the richness of the Campania region buffalo mozzarella but was still tasty. My friend got the burrata pizza, which was more like ricotta cheese than burrata - and anyway who wastes burrata on pizza? The crust was perfectly cooked - crispy and with nice burned patches. I missed the sourdough-ish bitterness of Naples pizza dough, though. All in all, this is some good pizza in a very casual atmosphere - you stand in line, order, get a number, find a table (not always easy) and they bring you your pizza.
(4)Anjali K.
405 reviews. 4.5 stars. I REALLY wanted to like Pupatella. I wanted to like it so much, I tried it twice before writing this review and my opinion still hasn't waivered. The hubby and I tried pupatella several months back after reading these amazing reviews. We went close to closing time however, so we quickly ordered a sausage pizza and fried mozzarella balls to go. When we returned home, we devoured the balls -- which were in my opinion, large, and most delicious. The pizza left us both wanting "something" more. The crust was very thin in the middle and thick on the outside, with an extremely liquid-like sauce. Okay, it was closing time. Perhaps we just caught the end of the dough, sauce, and everything else. So we tried it again on a Sunday afternoon for lunch. We had family over and though we could get a variety -- the margherita and the eggplant with roasted peppers pizzas. The hubby and I were again underwhelmed. Why the use of this soury, runny pizza sauce with the so-thin-it-breaks-in-your-hand dough. Unfortunately, after the second try, I do not think we'll be heading back here again.
(2)Rick G.
The pesto pizza is the best pizza ever!
(5)Kim L.
True, the pizzas here are wonderfully flavorful and made with fresh ingredients. However, the best Neapolitan crusts should have a thin crispness with a warm interior that is moist and cloud-like with a nice, stretchy chew. Though it had a delicious spotted char, Pupatella's Margherita DOC crust was flaccid and soupy in the center. The mozzarella balls are good, but must be eaten quickly before they harden into white rubber; arancini are just not worth your time. Salads verge on inedible: pre-made, they sit in the fridge until ordered, leaving the parmesan flakes waxy and tasteless. I mean, decent pizza, but I'm sorry to report that, overall, Pupatella is nothing spectacular.
(2)Brandy Q.
A solid 4 stars rating for our first visit. Great pizza, friendly service and good value ($10 off a bottle of wine with 2 pizzas). Each pizza is larger than any one person can eat. ENJOY!!
(4)Matthew S.
First I have to say to the employees that I am sorry. We arrived to this restaurant just minutes before they were about to shut down their oven and as someone who has worked in the service industry this used to bug me to death. They still gladly took our order and we took a seat and waited for our arugala and priscuitto pizza and aroncini. The pizza came out quickly and was amazing, the aroncini just minutes after and was equally tasty. My wife and I are not in the Arlington area often but I can tell you when we are we will be back. Highly recommend.
(5)Feven A.
It was good but not the best. They don't put a lot mozzarella or tomato sauce. I have had an authentic Pizza in Miami south beach. Very close to Italian pizza. It was good but not the best best best. I will still come cus it's better than other pizza places I been too in DMV area so far.
(4)Marissa B.
Solid. We went here based on my co-worker's recommendation and all the hype is true! If you've never had Neapolitan pizza, be forewarned that it's not your typical pizza- it's better. They use quality, fresh ingredients and the oven makes all the difference. Some people may be put off by the texture of the pizza and the moistness of the crust but that's when you know they're using quality mozzarella. I ordered the margherita and the hubs ordered the meatball pizza. Both were equally delicious. If we're in the area, it'll definitely be a spot we'll head out to, as I'd be interested in trying their other entrees as well as the other pizzas.
(4)Andrea A.
Love this place. Great pizza and quick service!
(5)Jessica P.
An unoriginal five stars to Pupatella not necessarily for serving me one of the greatest meals I've ever had, but for superb execution from start to finish. Don't get me wrong, the food was delicious, but what really stands out about this place is that they have a clear vision of the type of establishment they want to be, and they deliver on that vision pretty flawlessly. For starters, major props for having a website that is appealing, streamlined, informative, and preempts all customer complaints that they have to bus their own tables or that Neopolitan pizza looks, feels, and tastes different from Dominoes (thank god). I knew immediately this would be a no-frills joint focused on good food. Expectations appropriately calibrated. Once there on a Thursday evening, the restaurant was busy but not packed. We ordered at the register and waited maybe 10-15 minutes for our appetizers, 30 for our pizzas. Homemade meatballs were KILLER. I was a little disappointed by everything in the frittura sampler save for the delicious panzarotto (prosciutto and mozzarella croquettes), but the pizza and gelato were everything I had been promised - simple, fresh, wonderfully flavorful. My friend and I split the Margherita DOC and Burrata pizzas. The incredibly lovely man who *did* bus our table for us (you only have to bus it yourself during lunch) told me the fig and mascarpone gelato was "different but good," which was exactly right - absolutely loved it. The area by the register gets a little cramped when you're ordering, but otherwise I dig the comfy/casual atmosphere. The friendly staff and the attention to high-quality ingredients sealed the deal for me - I'll be back sooner rather than later! I'll need another pizza or two literally under my belt before deciding for sure whether I think Pupatella is squarely superior to 2 Amys or Seventh Hill, but for now I'd say they're all quite comparable in terms of quality (which is to say, very yum). Cheers to good pizza options in the area!
(5)Kat J.
Delicious!! Great food, great atmosphere! Best arancini in the area!
(4)Melissa C.
Want a little piece of Italy in Arlington. This is a must try if you haven't been there. Pizza is delish and authentic. Fresh ingredients. Love the pizza with prosciutto and arugula. Risotto balls are yummy. Tip: there is a outdoor patio in the back which is great when weather is nice.
(5)Kanchi S.
After reading so many glowing reviews, I expected really good pizza. This place was a total let down. Burnt pizza with mediocre sauce does not warrant such high reviews. Both the pizzas we ordered were relatively dry, and tasted like cardboard. Maybe I just had bad luck. Or maybe this is how they always make pizza. I know I'm not coming back.
(2)Steph S.
So good, especially the pepperoni. Beware of long lines and wait on weekends...they do not take reservations. Worth the wait!
(5)Rob H.
Pizza was outstanding! Service was outstanding! Pricing wasn't cheap but not crazy. Would I come back?? Most certainly! Only negative would be the execution. Having spent most of my adult life in the food business, I'm somewhat jaded I guess. The flow of ordering your pizza, being given a number and having the pizza delivered to your table, is somewhat difficult when you have a larger party. We decided we needed more pizza and we're told we'd need to get back in line to order it, which made us uncomfortable because we would have taken up a table for so long. My advice if your a first time visitor, would be to make sure that you order enough food when you place your order! Also, if you want drink refills, head to the bar! From a food quality and service standpoint.....home freakin' run!!!!
(4)Karen A.
Before I start, I've never been a big pizza lover. Came here for lunch on a Saturday. I agree with other reviewers - the pizza is absolutely the best pizza around. So good!!!! I had a red pizza with artichokes on it and another with eggplants. Also had the brussel sprouts appetizer. All of it was fantastic! While we did not order a salad this time, many of the other dining patrons did and it looked very tasty and fresh (something for next time). It's a small, older restaurant, so there isn't a lot of room to really sit and eat nor is there a lot of parking. I parked in the Safeway parking lot across the street without a problem and we managed to get a seat. It was a tight squeeze for the stroller, but there were plenty of clean highchairs. Plus, the baby loved the pizza as well. One more thing to note - they have glass bottle coke products, which adds to the dining experience there. I highly recommend this place and will be returning with friends and family.
(5)An B.
Maybe it's because I prefer thicker crust on my pizzas, but I thought this place was just ok. We tried the Margherita DOC (neapolitan buffalo mozzarella, basil, olive oil; the best of the three, really liked the chewy crust), Diavola (not a fan of the spicy salami, but fresh mozzarella and basil were good) and Mushroom (enjoyed this white pizza, but a little too much garlic). Glad I tried it considering how many people rave about it, but wouldn't go out of my way for it again. (Parking is a hassle and we ended up across the street in the supermarket parking lot.)
(3)Michelle A.
I am from Brooklyn, and moved to Arlington this past summer. Have been searching and searching for good pizza, and I have finally found it!! Best pizza in NOVA/DC! Must go!
(5)Anne N.
Wonderful pizza! Get there early... the line and the wait get long! Definitely worth the trip.
(4)A D.
The best pizza in Arlington, always worth the wait!
(5)Tram P.
The only bad thing I can say about this place is the limited parking. Otherwise, the pizza was delicious. The beef pepperoni is my favorite. They also have various flavors of gelato which are all pretty great. Probably one of the best pizza joints in the Washington metro area.
(5)Marion B.
Delicious pizza! A little bit of a wait, but they have a good system. Great experience overall.
(4)Cyndy K.
Cyndy's Bottom Line: Excellent Neapolitan style pizza! Good value at a great price! The four stars is solely for the food. This is what we ate: 1. We decided to create our own pizza and selected our own toppings. The pizza was absolutely delicious!!!! Generous amounts of toppings were nicely distributed on the pizza. You could taste the quality ingredients which came through in every delicious bite! The sauce made of San Marzano tomatoes was flavorful, the mozzarella cheese was creamy delicious. The taste of the crust in a wood-fired oven sets it apart from any other pizza. 2. Homemade beef meatballs - there were (5) meatballs covered with the delightful, robust tomato sauce with shaved pieces of cheese on the top and a generous slice of homemade bread crusty on the outside and soft on the inside. Ono, yummy bread! 3. Homemade Tiramisu - the tiramisu was very decadent with a thick creamy layer of mascarpone cheese, the lady fingers were not overly saturated with coffee or liquor instead it was nicely balanced and sprinkled with chocolate chips on the top.
(4)Ariel G.
Pupatella offers the best Neopolitan-style pizza I've had in Northern VA (there are some better spots in Montgomery County, MD though, but in a far different/ more expensive atmosphere). Well worth a visit to. They use quality ingredients and know how to cook a pizza correctly. There is limited seating and like 5 parking spaces total. You will probably have to park across the street at the Safeway, and don't worry, I've never seen them tow anyone. The other downside is that you have to stand in line to order, no waiters, just servers. This does keep the price down though, however this is a little aggravating. If you want water, you have to deal with that yourself too. Bottom line: the pizza is delicious and authentic. And you won't over pay for atmosphere like so many pizza places in the denser parts of Northern VA/DC/MD.
(5)Hunter H.
Very casual but the best pizza in Arlington or maybe even the DMV. The 2 pizzas and $10 off wine was a great idea and the secret patio is a must to sit at
(5)Eleanor G.
Great Pizza, I love the cheese and the ingredients are perfect!
(5)Nicole M.
I will start off by saying that I don't really like pizza. I usually only eat it when I'm extremely inebriated. Now that I have had Pupatella pizza, I can say that I do, in fact, like pizza! I was annoyed at first that there was not a smaller size offered (only one size) but was really glad that I had the entire thing as I gobbled it up! As many others have said on here: The crust is delicious, the sauce amazing and the toppings in just the right proportions. I felt like they had just milked the cow because the cheese was so fresh. Yum yum yum! When I went in here, I did not realize they had a good beer selection and was happy to split a pitcher while waiting for my food. There are water pitchers readily available along with utensils, napkins, cheese, crushed pepper, etc. No need to hunt down the necessities. It was really crowded when I went, but I had no issue finding a table and only waited about 10 or 12 minutes for my pizza to come out. They run a tight ship, so don't let the number of patrons discourage you! The only thing that I really dislike about Pupatella is that there is virtually no parking and that it is essentially in a gas station parking lot, which is odd.
(4)Christoph W.
Best Pizza in the DC area. Friendly staff. Very busy on the weekends, but this would be down to their great food. Regular special pizzas are offered as well.
(5)Shar I.
After reading several reviews of Pupatella being the best over 2 AMYS I beg to differ. It is a hit or miss place location wise. We found a space to park and looked that it is on a very busy street in Arlington. Don't expect table service because they don't have it. You will have to order first then they give you a number; there are plates and forks and knifes to pick up on a separate area. Good thing is they do however bring the food to your table. For starters we ordered the bruschetta; it was not the best so we did not finish it. Secondly we ordered an arugula salad that not tasty at all. The pizza that we ordered was the Marguerite pizza and also a an everything pizza. If you had to compare the two between 2Amy's and for Pupatella pizza I would pick to 2Amy's anytime. To end our meal we had some of the best gelato in the national capital area which was very very tasty and not too sugary. Overall we had a really good foodie experience the service was excellent the ask us how we were doing and was very very accommodating to make out dining experience a good one.
(3)Joli J.
The pizza, brussel sprouts, mozzarella balls and salads all rock....but I can't say the same for the employees. Came here at 2:55 on a Saturday and was greeted by a snobby employee who told us that we could no longer order pizza or would have to wait until 4:15 to get it if we did. The restaurant "cleans the oven" from 3-4pm therefore no pizzas can be made. I understand this policy but what I don't understand is the fact that we got there 5 minutes til, with no one behind us in line and she refused to let us order. This sassy employee cut us off from the people in front of us and we stood and watched the cooks continue to make pizzas *yet our simple 1 topping pizza wasn't able to be made. This was a frustrating experience to say the least. Like I said, the food is great but the staff giant MEH. Beware going here hungover on a Saturday during 3-4ish. But definitely get the Brussel sprouts. They're to die for.
(3)Amy D.
Based on the great reviews Pupatella received, I expected better. Luckily, we did get a parking spot right in front and a table for two immediately. We ordered a garlic and mozzarella bread ($4) for 4 pieces. It was so-so. The bread tasted like an English muffin with a mixture of regular mozzarella and some buffalo mozzarella with some slices of garlic. Didn't really taste like garlic bread! We also ordered the side salad ($3.50) which consisted of limp looking baby arugula, mushy, sliced grape tomatoes, olives and dressing on the side. Bleh. Then we ordered two pizzas: the Simple Margherita ($9) and the Real Margherita ($12). We didn't taste much of a difference and the bottom crust was soggy. My husband thought that maybe they hadn't cooked it long enough. We also ordered a beer and an San Pellegrino lemonade. Total bill: $37. I was highly disappointed. I've been to Italy and I have eaten Neopolitan pizza. Did not even come close. I would still go to Cafe Pizzaiolo on 23rd St in Crystal City. We took home the leftover pizza and hopefully it'll reheat nice and crispy on my pizza stone. But I won't be returning to Pupatella. Perhaps it was off night for the cook, but it wasn't good enough for me to give it a second chance.
(2)jason c.
For places such as Dominoes,Pizza Hut or Papa John's to call what they make "pizza" to me is blasphemous and an abomination. For so long have I and many others longed for a half decent pizza place in Arlington. Up until recently I either got my pizza from Z pizza, Italian Store, or went all the way out to Georgetown to paradiso pizzeria. Finally it seems my prayers have been answered in the form of Pupatella. From the outside it doesn't seem like much. Once you go inside however, you will be blown away. It's really comfortable, really colorful and is a good setting to just sit back and relax. Did I mention they have beer? Beer and pizza have to be one of the best meal pairings ever. They have the mexican coke made with real sugar, and they have about two dozen different flavors of gelato. They also have salads, subs and calzones. The only real gripes I have about it are the fact that the pizza's are only offered in individual sizes, the pizza isn't always cut for you and that they aren't open on Mondays. All in all Pupatella is on point. This is what pizza should be people!
(4)cristina c.
Great food, angry staff. The food was amazing. Fried polenta, pizza and wine were unbelievable and very authentic! Thanks goodness because they made up for the rude and abrasive pizzaiolo behind the counter who was obviously NOT having a good day.
(3)Richard R.
Awesome Neapolitan pizza. It's not your traditional American pizza. I had the Real Margherita Pizza. Wow, all the ingredients are fresh and delicious. However, the dough is the allstar - soft, chewy, dope!
(4)J A.
It's a fantastic as everyone says. Just go, and love it! :)
(5)Henry C.
I've been eating at Pupatella since they were just a food truck. Best pizza in the DC area by far.
(5)jack c.
Loved this place but it gets crowded.
(5)Matthew L.
Everything was great. One of the best pizzas around. The only complaint was that that the beer was warm.
(4)John R.
Great new pizza restaurant. The garlic bread is awesome due to the unique in-house dough they prep and bake in front of hungry waiting customers. All the ingredients are fresh and delicious. Best pizza I've had south of North Jersey. Decor is a bit Retro.
(5)nce s.
We went on a Friday night. It was going to be more than 45 minutes before we got our pizzas. Being too hungry to wait with kids, we went for quick pho instead. We went back for lunch the week after and had sausage pizza and ham/mushroom pizza. Both were delicious. Mushrooms must have been sauteed in wine. Sausage was perfect, not oily. Tomato sauce was just right combo of sweet and fresh. Will go back for paninis and arancinos.
(4)Douglas S.
I'm usually an enthusiast for hot new pizza places, but not this one. We were expecting great stuff but the pizza crust was a big letdown. We had a great salad first (#2), and the veggie panini was excellent, too. But we had a Real Margherita pizza, our friends had a regular pizza with spinach. Both of us liked the toppings, but both of our pizzas had soggy, uncooked crusts. Unsatisfactory. Doubt we'll be back.
(2)Ney Z.
Amazing. Pizza is delicious. Really really well made. The calzone is huge and was tasty, but nothing compared to the pizza, which is really the star of this place.
(5)JW L.
Absolutely the most authentic Neapolitan pizza in the area - more so than 2 Amys (and I do like 2 Amys a lot). Also, I really like the wine and beer selection. Ask about non-pizza specials (appetizers and desserts) - they've always been delicious. Love this place and wish it were closer to a metro.
(5)Franklin B.
The crust is delicious and perfectly cooked every time. The flavor combinations that they have developed are nicely balanced and delectable. There are many vegetarian options, including the ability to build your own custom pizza. The arancini are little deep fried scoops of heaven. Finish it off with some sweet gelato and you have a perfect evening. The decor is fun and funky and it's a good place to go with kids. (If the kids get too wound up, there's even a school playground across Wilson where they can go to burn off some steam.) And the staff is wonderful, fun and friendly. What are you doing still reading this review? Go to Pupatella already!
(5)Colleen G.
Soooo delicious. I really love this place! The pizza is amazing, it's inexpensive, and all around perfect. We bought too many pies last time and froze them (these are too good to waste) and they actually froze really well. It's a little out of the way for me but totally worth the trip. And if you have to go to the doctor at Virginia Hospital Center, it's right nearby :) Makes any doctor's appointment worth it!
(5)Todd J.
More like 3.5 stars, but i'll round down. Went on Saturday night, found a seat easily and had about 25 minute wait for pizza. This is great pizza. There's no bubbling vat of cheese grease that you have to blot off. The pizza's aren't very large - you can easily eat one by yourself, but I think it's a fair value for the price; $12 pizzas, $5 apps. The parking lot here is a show - be prepared for a little frustration. The dough / crust is great; both crispy and soft. The Neapolitan approach w/ simple 3 ingredient tomato sauce and straightforward, fresh toppings results in excellent flavor. Yes, the center of the margarita was a little wet and limp when I picked it up, but it didn't matter - it was easy to eat and tasted great. The prosciutto with arugula and parm was a fantastic pizza - they put the prosciutto on AFTER the pizza was cooked which is key - otherwise you just get ham jerky. The risotto balls were phenomenal; Crispy outside, risotto texture inside, and a gooey cheesy mozzarella inside - absolutely fantastic. The restaurant is very casual with a cafeteria-like vibe. But they have a waitress running around making sure orders are delivered promptly. $3.50 Beers? Yes please - a very reasonable price and a nice bonus. Suggestions for Improvement: Offer eggs cooked on top of the pizza like they do in the motherland (Italy).
(3)Rob T.
Love this place!! We find ourselves fulfilling our craving Pupatella pizza and gelato at least once a week. The place appeals to both the family man I am, and the cool hipster I once was (really!). Eclectic crowd, 80's music, and awesome pizza. The place is FUN! The pizza costs about the same as"cardbored" delivery- but the clearly superior ingredients and friendly staff make this the clear winner for me and my family. Try it!!!
(5)Andy G.
best. pizza. ever. Pupatella rivals two amys for the best pizza in the DMV. Great pie selection, cheap beers and a cool cafe-vibe. Pizza is authentic Italian style with top quality ingredients. You wont regret checking it out. Their oven is really cool too!
(5)Catherine H.
Go here. Or don't because it will get crowded and I hate waiting for pizza. More importantly, I hate driving across the key bridge to 2 Amys or Comet for the only good pizza around here and then waiting for it to come. As a true noo yawk- ah, I really get no satisfaction from the average place around DC. So when I saw that this guy Enzo shipped a ridiculous wood fired pizza oven straight from naples, I thought, hey, it's down the street, let's give it a go. Ambiance is not why you come here. In a tiny strip mall, looks like any other newly opened fast food place- but on cocaine in the 80s. WAAAAAYYY too much neon. Really. But on to the pizza. Ordered and savored the first delicious bite within 7 minutes. (hand made to order and only 1 minute in the 800 degree oven to obtain the perfect balance between chewy deliciousness and smoky charred heaven). I ordered the Real Margarita. Definitely as good as 2 amys. good selection of beer and wine, and a nice selection of gelato. In and out the door all while having scarfed down a 12 inch pizza in less than 30 minutes. What more could a new yorker ask for.
(4)Sammie L.
Boom! And your mind is blown. Get the argulua/parm/prosciutto pizza and try hard not to share with a friend. You'll want all four slices for yourself once this touches your palate. Arancinos are authentic but missable.
(4)Kit W.
I came here solely based on the great Yelp reviews. I love Neopolitan pizza and maybe my expectations were too high. First of all, the indoor seating is not great. Whatever, I let that go considering their recent upgrade from a food cart. The staff was sufficiently friendly, but for a small place with only a few other visitors around, I was expecting better service. The pizza itself was much too salty in my opinion. It was as though the pizza could not make it on the flavors of its ingredients alone. My pizza also came out kind of soggy. Also, the margherita piza had tiny dime-sized pieces of mozzarella sprinkled here and there...what?! Basically, it's not bad pizza, but it's not excellent either, and other Neopolitan style restaurants have better pizza and prices.
(3)Carrie L.
(actually, 4.5) I deduct a .5 star because the pizza seemed a liiitle on the small side.(I know Neapolitan pizzas usually are...but the ones I've had before were definitely bigger than this one) I went on an off-hour (3:45pm) on Saturday and I ordered right away. The taste and quality were excellent.
(4)Chris W.
Pizza was unique and pretty good. We did takeout and had to wait longer than originally told but appeared to be because they were so busy which is always a good sign. Next time we will do dine in and enjoy a beer with our pizza
(4)Jzargo V.
went to pupatella's for my birthday lunch. i knew i liked their pizza from visiting the traveling cart but was skeptical that i would like the tiny little restaurant. well, i should have known better. the yelp photos show the cool wood fired oven and they make the pizzas right in front of you too. the ingredients are extremely high quality and very fresh. i wish there was a little outdoor courtyard too, but the inside seating was MUCH nicer than i thought it would be. i think a Proscuitto and Arugula pizza with a Birra Moretti really was the PERFECT LUNCH!!!
(5)Jim M.
This place is pretty good! I've lived in Italy and it's on par with what you can get there. Pizza is fresh, the gelato is amazing, and the waiters are awesome. Next time I'm going to try the calzone and maybe give it four stars. Still- a solid place.
(3)Frank W.
YES ... 5 stars !!! I LOVE the pizza and the ice cream !!! Great & friendly service. Tasteful & hip interior.
(5)a g.
We were so excited to come here based on all of the positive reviews. Expectations were certainly high, but I still think all this place deserves is a couple of stars. We were, first and foremost, turned off by the atmosphere. On the website, the owner makes it clear that this is a bus-your-own table kind of place, and that they keep costs down by having visitors take care of themselves instead of hiring waitstaff. That was fine and all, but it felt far too much like an ice cream parlor in there and the "patio" felt like a dirty backyard. When we walked in, the warm crusty smell I associate with woodfired pizza was completely absent. When I'm going for woodfired pizza, I should be able to smell it a mile away, that's all I'm saying. We ordered arancini with sausage and peas, a basic spinach salad and two personal pizzas: a Margarita and a pizza with prosciutto and arugula. Arancini: Typically these balls of risotto come with a crisp, delicate crust. The ones we ordered at Pupatella were so crunchy on the outside it felt as though we were eating the "raspas" (translation for non-spanish speakers: the rice at the bottom of the pan that gets charred and crunchy). The sausage, motz and pea filling was disappointing as well. Salad: Spinach, anchovies and "garlic roasted tomatoes." Very basic. Not good, not bad, the dressing was unmemorable. Wouldn't order it again. The Pizza: this is certainly the main event, and it was admittedly tasty. We liked the Margarita pie the best, although we both found it a little bit salty. The prosciutto pizza was WAY too salty (not because of the prosciutto which is, of course, meant to be salty, but because the sauce was too seasoned with salt in the first place). We've been on the hunt for the best pizza in DC since we moved here from Boston, where the pizza parlor Picco sets a really high bar. This place just doesn't make the cut for us!
(4)Nguyen L.
Definitely worth experiencing. I'm thankful my friend introduced me to it. Pizza is excellent. Falls short of "The best I've ever had!" but still quite noteworthy and deserving of consideration. If your favorite part of a pizza is the sauce, then you'll especially love this place. I'm a sauce-man myself, and I feel the sauce is what carries this pizza. The balance between tangy tomato and salt was damn close to perfection. Where this pizza fell shy of perfection for me was with the crust and evenness. My friends and I ordered a total of 3 pizzas, and there was a noticeable inconsistency in done-ness/crispiness between each of them. By no means am I implying this to be unacceptable. In fact, the crust is still somewhere between above average and exceptional. Of course, the oven is still relatively new, and this place hasn't been open a long time, so I expect, and look forward to the consistency of the crust/ done-ness improving over time as the owner becomes more and more familiar with the idiosyncrasies of the oven.
(4)d b.
Great pizza - as good as it gets in DC. I enjoy the margherita (either with or without bufalo mozzarella) and the white pie - but I ask him to make it with mozzarello, garlic and olive oil only. Fantastico! I always tell him to make it well done - just a few seconds more makes a big difference (although it does get some tasty black marks on the pie.) This is the best pizza in the DC area. Forget 2Amy's, Red Rocks, etc. This is great pizza. He also has great pastries - (from the pastry shop on Lee Hwy.)
(5)Mickey C.
We gave it another try. We can't understand anyone giving more than one star. The night that we were there, we experienced the WORST pizza I have ever had in my 67 years of eating pizza. Crust very thin, which is ok, but the amount of sauce never exceeded a couple of tablespoons. Vegetables? Forget it. The pizza wasn't fit for dog food! AVOID this "restaurant" at all costs!!
(1)Jeramy P.
Great pizza. Draws a crowd like others have said. Its best to show up and try to get a table and have somebody order. There are some bigger tables towards the back, I am not sure if there is some sort of seating etiquette, it seemed like it was just a free for all.
(4)Luke T.
I lived in Italy for a while and truly, this pizza is as good as it gets. The best stateside without a doubt!
(5)Ej K.
MMMMMM! I'm not from the Arlington area, but will go every time I visit. I agree with another reviewer, sauce is a bit sweet for me (i'm used to americanized NY style pizza)...Oh, but the crust and overall taste and texture is awesome!
(5)John P.
Since they've opened the restaurant, my co-workers and I have considered this "Conference Room P" and hold frequent "staff meetings" at lunch time. The pizza is very good, a bit pricey, but I think it's worth it. The decor is excellent, including the awesome orange IKEA sofa that I totally want. I would expect nothing less from the people who brought us the distinctive red pizza cart in Ballston common.
(5)Ann J.
Wow. Thats really all I can say about Pupatella. Having traveled to Rome and Florence on numerous occasions, I like to think I know good pizza. Lets be real, the best kind of pizza is thin crust that has been baked in a traditional brick oven. you know, when the crust that is a little burnt burt but its fine because it give it adds to the flavor? Well thats EXACTLY what kind of pizza you can expect from Pupatella! My family and I ordered 4 pizzas, a traditional Margherita pizza, a white pizza with cherry tomatoes, a pesto pizza with mushrooms and spinach, and finally a red pizza with roasted eggplant and peppers. My favorite was definitely the Margherita pizza, with the white pizza coming in at a close second. Both were flavored to perfection and the mozzarella cheese tasted like it was brought in from Italy. The pesto pizza was incredible. The pesto wasn't too oily and tasted full of basil. The roasted eggplant and peppers pizza was fantastic as well. In fact, it almost had a smokey sausage taste which separated it from the other 3 pizzas. Pupatella is a one of a kind pizza place. In fact, it was rated one of the top 100 pizza restaurants in the country! With that kind of prestige, you would expect the pizzas to be a little pricey. But here is the great news....Its not! Almost every pizza with under $15! So really what more could you ask for. The pizza is crisp, the cheese is fresh, and the sauce is bursting with the traditional flavors of Italy. So do your self a favor, next time you want some pizza, put away the Papa Johns menu and order Pupatellas, you won't be disappointed. Side note - doesn't deliver, but is available for pick up and dining in. Also, the pizzas are really small, so one is a perfect portion for 1 person.
(5)Lena P.
Pupatella's neopolitan pizza is the easily the best pizza I've had in the DC area. In comparison to Chicago or NYC pizza- it is still very good but doesn't quite meet those places' standards. You order at the counter first then go to the wait staff to find a seat and they bring you your order. They also have a projector screen where they play sports. I ordered the bruschetta, salad #3 (which came with arugula, tarragon, grapefruit, apple and parmesan), and the diavoli pizza (which came with spicy salami, basil, and mozzarella). The pizza was perfectly cooked, soft and gooey, with just the right amount of spice. The salad we ordered complemented the pizza flavors perfectly, and had a delicious mustard-oily-citrus dressing to go along with it. The bruschetta was decent but I'd probably order something else next time. The portion sizes were also pretty substantial. Pupatella does takeout and has a happy hour so I will most definitely be back for that! It seems like it is a restaurant that is always busy, and I am curious to try more on the menu.
(4)John B.
Ok. They responded to the recent complaints with a charm offensive. A lovely wait person now attends to you. This, combined with awesome, genuine fare makes this THE choice for dine-in pizza.
(5)Lara E.
I love ordering pizza here. I have had it to go and for dine it, but I would recommend the dine in to get the best tasting pizza. They have a list of specialty oven baked pizzas (you have to try the mimosa white pizza with corn and prosciutto!) They also serve hefty salads that are pretty good, but salad will never win over pizza! When you dine in you get the full experience. you order at the counter and get a number and then someone will bring it to your table, its not really wait staff but there are still people their to help. each pizza is about 11" so try getting different ones so you can share! they also serve beer you can order at the front when you dine in. For to go orders I always have a problem with my pizza being cold. they tell you a time it will be ready which is usually almost an hour after you call, and I'm not sure if it is always done way before that or if their boxes just don't hold heat. the pizza is still good just not hot! go with dine in for sure! Tip: Parking is a pain here so try and car pool with your friends! and prepare to have to park down the street!
(4)Kevin H.
Best pizza in the area! The pepperoni is the best pepperoni I've ever had.
(5)Morgan W.
The pizza here is amazingly fresh and you get your handcrafted pizza pretty quick. I love that you can see the people slicing and chopping up the veggies, kneading the dough and even cooking the pizza, it makes for an enjoyable experience. The pizza is great, the dough is impeccable, the ingredients taste farm fresh and the cheese just completes the meal. I would for sure go here again
(5)Bryce A.
I had read a whole lot about Puputella's pizzas and had it on my list of places to visit for a while now. I finally manged to try it for a Saturday lunch. I expected there to be a wait since I got there around lunch just before noon and there were a decent number of people inside, but I was able to put my order in right away and grab one of the last open tables. I had the Margherita DOC. The pizza was delicious, with fresh toppings and (mostly) great crust. I think it's the lightest and chewiest thin crust I have ever had. Maybe a little soggy in the middle, but not so much that it lost integrity. I really enjoyed the pizza, though $13 seems a little on the high end for a personal sized pizza. On account of the pricing I'm not sure if I would eat here regularly, but the excellent quality makes Pupatella definitely worth visiting.
(4)Cis L.
This is bread and cheese , the ingredients were so little that I needed glasses to find them. Definitely the worst white sauce and average red sauce I don't get the 5 star rating Will not go back
(1)Ashley B.
When my friend offered to bring me here, I laughed because the name has "poo" in it, and I'm a grown up. Then I got here and tried the pizza. Now we come here every time I come out to her side of town. The place looks unsuspecting, ferreted away into a little line of shopfronts across the street from a supermarket, but the wood-fired pizza is fantastic, the staff are incredibly friendly, and I like the pizza makers' funny hats. Five stars.
(5)Rachel B.
Really frustrating approach to taking orders: you wait in line, order, then wait in line to sit down at a table, then wait for a long time for your pizza to arrive. Would prefer it if they had waiters like a normal restaurant. Pizza itself is pretty good but not worth dealing with the hassle you have to go through to obtain it. Might be OK if you were just picking up and taking out and not trying to dine in.
(3)Roxanna H.
This pizza is so fresh and tasty made right to order and pretty much an orgasm in your mouth. Best pizza I've ever had to be honest. Really authentic nowhere near a papa johns or Pizza Hut. I would recommend this for a date night it was so crowded so beware and also don't seat yourself. On a busy night they will seat you. oh and there's no parking except for across the street at Safeway. There's only 4 spots and 100 people haha kind of a pain but if you get over all that it's a great experience
(4)Kelsey I.
Damn, it really is as good as the reviews say.... The crust has a fresh, fluffy texture and an actual flavor. They must import special water. The tomato sauce is exceptional too. More importantly, even reheated, this pizza is some of the best that I've ever had. And I've had a lot of pizza. A whole lot. I got mine to-go, so I can't speak to the long lines, the service, etc. But on food alone, 5 stars.
(5)