"Tell us about your first impressions when you arrived. A wood-fired oven is front and center at the entrance, followed by two brightly lit dining rooms embellished with framed pictures of well-fed cats, a tribute to the restaurant's name: "la gatta mangiona" is a way of describing chunky felines. The place is packed every night, and although it's not loud, per se, it definitely buzzes with conversation. What was the crowd like? La Gatta Mangiona is popular with couples, groups, and families, who all flock here for the high-end pizza. What should we be drinking? Owner Giancarlo Casa is as serious about his ingredients—he only uses the best—as he is about his drinks, which include outstanding wines chosen to pair well with the pies. There are also many Italian and imported craft beers, a few basic beers on draft and affordable wine by the glass or carafe, and distilled beverages and infusions to aid in post-dinner digestion. Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss. The menu straddles classic (Margherita, marinara) and creative (romanesco and coppa; asparagus, duck speck, and asiago). Pizzas tend to be best Monday through Thursday nights, when it's less crowded than it is on the weekend. And how did the front-of-house folks treat you? If your server is helpful and efficient—which could be a crapshoot, depending on the day of the week—leave a couple of euros a head. What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here? La Gatta Mangiona is great for date night or for impressing your friends with an off-the-beaten-path spot. Groups do well here, too." - Katie Parla
