Mel's

"A wood-fired pizzeria known for its neighborhood pizzeria vibe, offering a variety of pizzas with great toppings, hot clams, cold beer, and a notable selection of ice cream sundaes. It was run by Del Posto veterans, chef Melissa Rodriguez and business partner Jeff Katz, along with their new partner, Tao Group." - Melissa McCart

"We actually think you should only read the dessert menu at Mel’s, a pizzeria on the west side. The pizza leaves a lot to be desired (we prefer a 2 Bros slice), but the gelato sundaes are certifiably delicious. Since you’re only coming here for dessert, order at least three of the five options. We particularly love the triclolore straciatella, which has a mascarpone-flavored gelato as its base, and comes garnished with shaved rainbow cookies. Our other favorite is the coffee coconut sundae, which gets a delightfully crunchy texture from cocoa nibs prepared two different ways. " - carina finn koeppicus

"Reservations are a challenge to get at this hot spot where a casual menu is perfectly poised for sharing. Salads and vegetable-focused dishes kick things off, and while it's tempting to skip ahead, don't. Sure, some of the first course items may seem perfunctory, but look again. That gem lettuce is marinated, then grilled and served with burrata for something far from typical. Then there are the pizzas. Chef Melissa Rodriguez has the necessary skills to make a truly good pie (think paper-thin crust with chew and char).The dessert menu is devoted to the ice cream sundae, but like the first courses, don't be fooled. These are all grown up with options including cara cara sorbet folded with meringue, and served with shortbread cookie and torched meringue." - Michelin Inspector

"Mel’s, built by Jeff Katz and Melissa Rodriguez from the ashes of Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich’s Del Posto, is selling to Tao Group. Mel’s will remain open as it is currently known and loved. Mel’s has been hosting pop-ups and inviting top chefs like Gabriel Kreuther to design limited-offer, signature pies." - Emma Orlow

"A wood-fired pizzeria opened by Jeff Katz and chef Melissa Rodriguez." - Emma Orlow