Penguin Pizza

Penguin is not the place for you if: you're in a hurry; you're looking to do shots; you're unwilling to smell like delicious, delicious pizza for the rest of the night.

Service is incredibly friendly and knowledgable, but don't expect things to be quick. If you're ordering a full pizza, try the Blanco (ask for it extra crispy, and with a stupid amount of garlic); slices are a quarter-pie, so order accordingly. Classic (pepperoni) is my go-to slice. Small salads aren't on the menu, but you can order a small mixed green or caesar to counter the slice of Classic you just wolfed down.

Penguin is small, often packed and the temperature can vary pretty widely. Plan for it to be warm due to the open kitchen, but if you're by the door in the winter you might end up staying in your coat.

Monday nights are wing nights, and the only nights they won't take reservations. Unless you're there for the wings, and early, it's not worth waiting in the cold to get in. Trivia on Saturdays is competitive, and the prizes are worth it - don't wait until start time to get there, or you won't have a seat.

The beer selection is enormous, but they don't carry everything all the time, so don't be shocked if what you order isn't around; they'll be happy to recommend something similar.

I'm a big fan of this place, but I've been coming here a long time - it's not for everyone, or for every occasion, but it's my favorite pizza in the city, the beer selection is terrific and the atmosphere is comfortable and laid back. It's easy to lose hours here.