Gio Italian Grill

Traditional Italian fare meets progressive flair at this husband-and-wife owned and operated tasty trattoria.

WHAT’S THE VIBE LIKE?

It’s a family-friendly neighborhood hub where you can order the full menu at the bar, relax in the dining room for a leisurely dinner, or just swing by to pick up a take-out meal. Come in a few times and you’ll be a regular, where the bartender knows your drink and Tony knows your pizza order when they see your car pull up in the parking lot.

CHEERS

One thing you won’t find anywhere else is the Cactus Pear Martini. Cactus pear is a neon fruit that tastes similar to watermelon, which creates a refreshing vodka infusion. Mixed with a housemade port wine reduction and pineapple, the final drink is bright, hydrating, and offers a delicate sweetness.

WE LOVE

We’re obsessed with the Giovanna Pizza. It’s made with “Tipo 00” flour in the dough, hand-rolled and stretched fresh every day. Topped with San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, salami picante (thinly cut spicy salami that cooks like pepperoni), long hot peppers, and crumbled housemade sausage, it’s definitely a must-try.

Q&A WITH GIO ITALIAN GRILL

HOW LONG HAS THE RESTAURANT BEEN AROUND?

Gio Italian Grill just celebrated its 10th anniversary!

WHY IS THE PIZZA SO GOOD?

Probably because owner Tony DiMaio has 32 years of pizza-making experience—and he makes every single pizza himself in the open pizza kitchen. Not only did he grow up throwing dough, but he interned at Antica Focacceria San Francesco in Palermo, Italy, where he learned a few tricks and brought his knowledge back to the restaurant.

WHAT’S THIS ABOUT NOT USING ANY SUGAR?

You won’t find any sugar in the dough—or in the sauce. That’s because the restaurant only uses certified San Marzano tomatoes—which are full-bodied and naturally sweet—in all of its red sauces.