Overall Rating: Excellent (****) ($1/2)
Pizza type:
Neapolitan Inspired
Pizza ordered: Margherita
Crust: Roberta's knocks it out of the park with a near-perfect Neapolitan inspired crust. This crust has a nice rise and hollowness on the edges, although not bready. It has a slight crispiness on the bottom and edges and just the right amount of tough chewiness in the heart of the slice. The wood fire oven gives the crust a wonderfully even char and, of course, a hint of wood smoke flavor.
Sauce: The sauce is a delicate, crushed tomato with subtle spice and very little acidity. Roberta's sauce imparts a nice garden-fresh tomato character to the pie without upsetting the balance of flavor. It's a nice support, as a good sauce should be.
Cheese: The Roberta's pie is made with an excellent quality fresh, natural mozzarella. The light, even flavor of this cheese blends perfectly with the spices of the sauce and the other toppings. This cheese also displays that wonderful natural mozzarella stringiness.
Other Topping(s): The fresh basil has just the right presence. It is cooked just enough to release the delicate overtones of the herb.
Atmosphere: Well, Roberta's is loud, crowded and urban-hipster chic, but yet it still provides a cozy neighborhood vibe. It's a rather eclectic atmosphere, but the open kitchen and partially communal seating give it a relaxed, laid-back feel as well. There are several seating areas ranging from bar seating to picnic tables to traditional tables. Something for any individual, couple or group.
Service: The service is not fast and seems a bit hit or miss at times; however, when the server does get to you, you'll receive excellent attention to your party and to detail. Even with the chaotic pace of this pizzeria, you'll have the patient, professional and cheerful attentiveness of the server.
Utensils: Sturdy silverware and substantial paper napkins.
Overall: The relatively short hop on the L train from Union Square and about a two-minute walk brings you to the former garage, in a somewhat desolate neighborhood, that now houses Roberta's. Quite frankly, I've never had a better Neapolitan inspired pizza. If you are a pizza enthusiast of any level, a visit to Roberta's is a must! Be prepared for a wait...but it's well worth it! Enjoy!Payment: Cash /Credit cards
