Da Pizza Bar and Restaurant
Overview
Da Pizza Bar and Restaurant is a multigenerational family-owned establishment built around a classic family recipe and a wood-fired oven. Founded in 1918 by Mario Liberato, the restaurant has remained under the Liberato family's care throughout it's entire existance. Even today, the restaraunt is currently run by Valentino Liberato, who is now also in the process of training his daughter Ribelle to continue the tradition of managing the long standing restaurant. The kitchen emphasizes simple, high-quality ingredients, and an approachable dining experience suitable for families and community gatherings.
History
Mario Liberato arrived in the United States in 1909 with only 17 cents in his pocket. He worked in one of the several plastic game piece factories before eventually settling down to open a small neighborhood restaurant in 1918 called Dall'Italia con Gusto (roughly translated as "From Italy with Taste"). Originally a bakery-restaurant offering Italian breads, antipasti, and rustic cooked dishes, the business gradually began to focus more and more on pizza as local tastes and supplies evolved. Over the decades, not only did they shorten the name to just "Da Pizza" but the Liberatos also modernized the restaurant while still preserving its family recipes and commitment to local suppliers. This has naturally turned the restaurant into a long-standing community pillar.
Menu and specialties
The menu centers on pizzas baked in a wood-fired oven, producing thin crusts with a signature char and smoky flavor. Offerings include:
- House Margherita with fresh mozzarella and basil
- Smoky cheese pizza and rotating seasonal pizzas
- Antipasti boards, salads, and simple, homestyle desserts
- A concise wine list, rotating local craft beers, and house cocktails
Atmosphere and design
Warm lighting, exposed brick, an open kitchen, and long communal tables create a cozy, informal environment that encourages conversation. Family photos and vintage baking tools decorate the space, celebrating the restaurant's history while maintaining a relaxed neighborhood vernacular.
Features
- Wood-fired oven delivering characteristic crust and char
- Compact bar with craft cocktails and a rotating beer selection
- Commitment to local suppliers and seasonal ingredients
- Long-established neighborhood presence and active community involvement