One star for customer service, three stars for food, so we decided on two stars overall. We gave it several tries, as we are always seeking a solid, consistent Neopolitan style pizza place, plus we moved to an apartment about five minutes drive from Castro.
To give context, places we have tried for Neopolitan style in the peninsula area (Terun, Howie's Artisan pizza, Pausa, Vesta, Napoletana Pizzeria, Mozzeria food truck).
We have only done take out from Doppio 3-4 times, all during covid, and may consider dine in one of these days. We understand the items we ordered were not really made to-go, and pre co-vid would not have considered ordering items such as neopolitan pie or fried calamari to-go.
However, throwing super hot fried food so hot it melted the plastic marinara container, and then sealing it so that when we opened the box I got an explosion of grease water all over my shirt and hoodie is just not common sense. This was a first for us in almost 40 years of takeout. Next time we included a note with better packing instructions (i.e. venting), which was ignored.
The first tiramisu we got was completely cream no solids. I love tiramisu and don't want to make it myself so I tried again. Second tiramisu was better, you did get some ladyfingers, but melted due to the way it was packed in with very hot foods.
Most importantly the pies. They are not bad, but lack consistency. Some char is fine but when there is just too much black burnt areas it is bitter, not caramelized. Crust can take up a lot of the pie which you may like, we don't, and toppings are sometimes crowded in the center instead of evenly distributed.
Our to-go order always included two pies, deep fried calamari & shrimp (there was never any shrimp, we really looked), and a tiramisu.
If you go, don't ask for napkins, or bother emailing or calling with feedback, you will not get a response.
The first time my husband went to pick up was when we had just moved in. He realized the to-go bag hadn't included utensils or napkins, normally not a big deal since we do own utensils and normally have napkins. But when you are surrounded by moving boxes, and don't want to make an extra trip to a store to buy napkins and plastic utensils, you ask the establishment where you just spent money. When he asked an employee for napkins, she gave him such a look of extreme horror?disapproval? We understand you could be annoyed because you are very busy, but her attitude and expression were so vehement we just didn't know what to think. Then he got exactly two very thin napkins, dared asked for more, and got one more! Side rant: When did to-go places stop giving out napkins and eating utensils? We do a lot of take-out (always $60+-$100 in Silicon Valley for two big eaters, and are very cheesed that you have to beg for napkins and specify number of utensils. If we order five entrees that require a fork, you can't just give...
Read moreWe came here on the insistence that this was an amazing eatery. This claim is backed by Michelin awards all over the entrance. But it doesn't deliver.
Atmosphere wise this place has the feel of a fast chain restaurant. It doesn't feel like a super fancy restaurant - even though you are about to pay super fancy prices for pizza. And thats what is most odd about this place. It doesnt feel like its a slow italian experience - that is authentic about visiting the country - because the service rushes you through ordering and the food comes out in five minutes. But the service - at least for out visit - was inconsistent, leaving us sitting for 15 minutes after being seated, with others being attended to who had been seated after us.
In our particular experience, a wait person brought water for the table after about 7ish minutes, told us they would be back to help shortly and then didn't return. Any attempt to get their attention was ignored. That has to be my number 1 pet peeve. I don't care if you've forgotten about us, or if you are waiting for someone else to come and help, or whatever... but don't pretend you cant see me. When we were leaving there were about 3 out of 5 wait staff taking selfies out front...
As I said, if this is going to be a more traditional italian experience, I expect to sit and eat for a few hours. Get a drink order in, order an appetiser, eat slowly, get main courses later. But the speed of the food coming out suggests that this is not the case.
As for the food. Its good, but not for the price. We had croquettes as an appetiser. For 5 small bites, its not tasty enough to justify $14. The pizza I ate was good but its price tag ($20) was wrapped in the application of truffle oil.
The highlight of eating was short rib tagliatelle at $24. This was a good dish and worth the price.
I've had the privilege of eating southern italian pizza. In italy its the same size, as delicious and will set you back five euros. The gourmet american italian pizza is sorely lacking for being 4 times the price.
For two people, with a drink each, a shared appetiser and two main courses, we spent just over $100. My recommendation is to spend that money at Tehrun in Palo Alto - you will get better service, better food and the experience is much more...
Read moreThis Italian restaurant is a true culinary treasure, and its multiple Michelin awards are a testament to the excellence it delivers. From the moment you walk in, you’re greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere that feels like home. The ambiance is a perfect blend of cozy charm and refined elegance, making it ideal for a family dinner, a romantic date, or a casual night out.
The food is nothing short of exceptional. The pizza is the undeniable star, crafted with precision and passion. The crust strikes the perfect balance between crispy and airy, with just the right amount of chew. Topped with high-quality ingredients like fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and flavorful herbs, each bite is a masterpiece. Classic options like Margherita are executed to perfection, while more creative pies offer unique flavor combinations that surprise and delight. It’s easy to see why this restaurant has earned its Michelin recognition.
The service is just as outstanding as the food. The staff is attentive, friendly, and incredibly knowledgeable. They offer thoughtful recommendations and ensure that every guest feels cared for throughout the meal. This level of service only enhances the overall dining experience, making you feel like a valued guest every time you visit.
Despite its Michelin-starred reputation, the prices remain surprisingly fair. For the quality of the food, the generous portions, and the award-winning experience, it’s an incredible value. It’s rare to find a restaurant that delivers both world-class cuisine and approachable pricing, but this spot achieves just that.
With fresh, authentic flavors, a welcoming atmosphere, and a proven track record of excellence, this Italian restaurant is a place you’ll want to visit again and again. The multiple Michelin awards aren’t just for show — they reflect the passion, precision, and love that go into every dish. If you’re looking for an unforgettable Italian dining experience, this is the...
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