Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria

By Annabelle Goodman –

Famoso Neopolitan Pizzeria
386  Bloor St West
647 748 2333

Our family is on a conquest to find the best pizza in town. We have checked out all the ‘hot spots’ of Neopolitan Pizza. This is the new kid on the block. I have noticed the long lineups and the crowded restaurant. I figure all the crowds must mean something. Four family members met here to try out ‘the new digs.’ Thanks to the manager for even taking my name. Reservations are not made and the place is crowded. We did arrive early and it was a good thing. What an amazing renovation from the past Irish pub. The Gelato corner greets you when you enter. All the preparations are made in an open style kitchen. There is a large staff. That translated into great service.

I love the concept. A menu is placed on each table. You write out your requests and deliver them to the front counter. Your order appears in a very short time and it all seems very magical.

Four of us were dining on this occasion. I ordered the Margherita Pizza ($11.50) with an additional side of cooked mushrooms. ($1.50) We were told that the pizzas are all prepared with  Italian flour that is low in gluten. The taste was wonderful. No wonder the tomato sauce was the best. I later read that the tomatoes are imported whole from the southern region of Italy. They hand grind the tomatoes and cook them in the intense heat of the fire oven until they caramelize to sweet perfection. The flavor burst on the palate. Extraordinary! The mushrooms were tasty. The hot chili oil made it a perfect selection.

The Cappricciosa is a popular Italian standard. Italian ham, roasted mushrooms, artichoke hearts, Kalamata olives and extra virgin oil made this a winning combination.($14.75)

Funghi Tartufo is offered with white mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, white truffle oil and parmesan reggiano.($14.75)

The Sweet BBQ chicken is prepared with honey smoked BBQ sauce, fresh mozzarella, fire roasted chicken, and smoked mozza. It is baked and served with chopped tomatoes, slivered red onions and cilantro.($14.74)

Red Pizzas and White Pizzas are available. Many of the guests were enjoying the Pizzettas. A small pizza is paired with a soup or a salad. ($10.00) A bowl of fire Roasted Tomato Bisque is served with a Margherita or Marinara Pizzetta. You can substitute the soup for a salad. What a deal.

The Gelato counter beckons to all. We all shared in the Salted Caramel Dark Chocolate. Layers of caramel drizzle and flakes of fleur de sel are served in an ocean of chocolate. ( 2 scoops $4.50) We devoured it all in no time. We also were tempted with the Salted Caramel Panna Cotta. A sweet Italian custard is made with caramel and sea salt. It is topped with pecans.($4.50) The coffee arrives in very large mugs. Very generous. Nothing was   spared to make this a gourmet feast.

I think we have found the perfect pizza. The annex will never be the same. This is a welcome addition.