Pizzeria da Laura — Restaurant in Berkeley

My partner and I came here a recently with very high hopes. Overall a super disappointing experience.

We were looking to get the Detroit style pizza but were informed that only the NY style was still in stock (still 2 hours before close). We attempted to order the Chi Town but were informed that one of the toppings (giardiniera) was out of stock. Bummer on top of bummer. This was at least a month after opening, a little concerning to not have that ironed out yet. 3/4 pizza options out of stock???

We settled for the Ray J and it was just sloppy and floppy. Lacked flavor overall, not even in the top 100 most memorable pizzas in our life. Was not a true NY style slice as the crust was super thick, fluffy, and overall just huge.

We also got the calzone and it was pretty much a soggy fried mess. Needs serious help. Why are we deep frying a calzone to begin with? The "prosciutto" inside seemed more like a thick cut of some skeezy packaged ham from Safeway. Worst "calzone" of our lives. Would've passed as edible if it was just baked... as it should be.

Oh and can't forget, the meatball appetizer failed as well. Tiny portion of 3 meatballs 1.5" in diameter. Pricing that at $12 is baffling. Not tender not juicy. No type of flavors happening... Garlic & herbs have left the chat.

Lastly a glass of wine for like 15 bucks and it was the smallest pour either of us have seen in our lives. No idea what happened...?

Will not be back, definitely a one and done restaurant. We were rooting so hard for this place to be good, as it would be such a great addition to the area. Pizza generally sucks in California but there are still many better to throw $80 at.

Giving 2 stars for the atmosphere and server quality. Hope that this place gets it together or it won't be around...

Came here on a Saturday afternoon. Got the Ray J Pizza in the Detroit style. Shared it with my bud. Was seated near the window on the first floor. There was a large birthday party group next to us and the rest of the floor was filled. They had a TV showing college football and another one showing the tennis tournament. Well positioned for occasional glances. Good lively energy in the house. Our server explained to us the pizza setups and gave suggestions. Referenced the chef and which types were the most acclaimed. We agreed to her suggestion and it worked out. The pizza itself came out in 15 or 20 minutes. I enjoyed the presentation. The pizza itself was the perfect temperature and texture. The crust was crisp, soft, and hot. The cheese was cooked to a good consistency. It stretched and detached just the way it should. Messy but not messy. The flavor was poignant but not overpowering. Cloth napkins with a knife and a fork were provided. Good for me because I'm not a hands-on pizza guy. There was chili oil (?) and Parmesan as well. I did not get bored with the flavor so I did not use either. The server came back to check on us periodically. We split the check with cards no hassle. The restroom is in the basement and locked by a key card. You need to take the elevator down. There is a second level that was not used when I was there. Flavorful pizza, pleasant service, & cool setting. Solid...

This was a crime of opportunity. I walked in here with a vague recollection that it was supposed to be good but didn’t know I was walking in to like one of the best pizza joints in the world. I had just left the body shop that ruled my car totaled and saw parking like nearly in front of the restaurant, which is good because I broke my foot two days ago (not related to totaled car). I’m having a bit of a week. I ordered off their website for pickup and hung out in the car for a few so I didn’t have to stand around with a boot on. I got bored doom scrolling and decided to go in and see if maybe my order was ready early. I am so glad I did. They were SO NICE, and the pizza is maybe as good as my favorite pizza in the world (I won’t say what it is. They don’t need the good reviews or the crowds). This won’t be a help to anyone reading this review, but the woman helping me even walked my order to my car with me and gave me several useful tips on life with a boot on your foot (if you’re reading this, the thickest soled shoes I had were a set of crocs. I’m wearing one today and my hip does feel quite a bit better so thank you!). I can’t even express how much this restaurant improved my week. My whole outlook for the rest of the day changed. Perfect comfort food and a perfect atmosphere. Thank...