Pizzeria Via Stato
WHAT: Pizzeria Via Stato (Part of Osteria Via Stato)
WHERE: 620 North State St.
OUR RATING: Do it!
(photo courtesy of osteriaviastato.com)
If you want to enjoy a casual meal in an intimate and traditional setting, Pizzeria Via Stato, the lunch section of Osteria Via Stato, is the perfect combination of downtown dining at lunchable prices. From delicious pizza to healthful salads, we’re sure this pizzeria will pique the fancy of even the most seasoned traveler of the Italian peninsula (and, trust us, we’ve both trekked through it).
The room was a bit dark, but tread a nice border between being intimate and fun, almost with an upscale tavern feeling. Your table, made from recycled wine boxes, is laid in a simple style, with the essential Mediterranean garnish of bread (crusty and warm!) and olive oil. As far as prices go, salads averaged at around $8, sandwiches around $10 and pizzas around $12.
Adam chose to order the simple mushroom tavern pizza. Topped with tomato sauce, mushrooms, vidalia onions, and mozzarella, this pizza’s crisp and light crust proved a welcome change from the heavy (and, might we say, stodgier) offerings of the deep dish available elsewhere in town. Although not identified specifically, the mushrooms seem to have been the common white variety and added an earthy level to the overall flavors. This was complemented by the sweet vidalias that lent this uniquely Italian dish a hint of the American. The mozzarella brought the whole confection back to its Italian routes. Overall the pizzas were generously sized and more than enough for one person (we would consider either splitting or taking some home in the future).
(photo courtesy of osteriaviastato.com)
Meanwhile, Alicia ordered the chopped salad with romaine, roasted chicken and a sweet mustard vinaigrette, which was amazingly delicious. The salad was gigantic and the roasted chicken practically melted in your mouth along with the sweet mustard vinaigrette, which fortunately did not overdress the romaine. All of this was complemented by the lovely crunch of fresh celery. They went a little heavy on the parmesan cheese, but other than that, it was definitely a must-order.
Experience an Italy more intimate than Little Italy and try Pizzeria Via Stato!