Pizza Brutta

Perhaps some would beg to differ, but I believe that Madison is truly lacking in great pizza joints. Sure, there's always Paisan's, Greenbush, and Ian's, but nothing to rave about. (Like I said, some may disagree.) That's why I was so pleasantly surprised to find a new kid on the block. The newest addition to the increasingly vibrant Monroe Street, Pizza Brutta is a charmingly hip pizzeria that specializes in Neapolitan style brick oven pizzas.

So far, I've made two trips to Pizza Brutta since it opened in December. Both times, I've been very impressed by the simple and fresh ingredients, wood-oven taste, crispy crusts, and the quaint and modern atmosphere. I've now ordered the Margherita Pizza ($9) twice, which is topped by tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella (made in-house), basil, and olive oil. Other pizzas include the Pepperoni, Quattro Formaggi, Salami E Funghi, Siciliana, Greco, Prosciutto Arugula, Salsiccia, Caprino, and Gabriel. Salads include the Brutta, Caesar, Gorgonzola, and Greek, which range in price from $4-$7.50. Lots of vino as well, available by both glass and bottle.

As for the service and atmosphere, it's order at the counter, but the pizza is then brought out to your table, which makes for a cheaper and more laid-back dining experience. The restaurant itself seems very quaint, although plenty of comfortable seating exists, and the focal point is certainly the beautiful brick oven in back. The walls are painted in a cheery, subdued orange color and are dotted with large, black-and-white photographs of Neapolitan street scenes.

This place is just another great reason to spend some time on Monroe Street. Now complete with a Trader Joe's and several trendy boutiques and coffee shops, Monroe Street really does have it all. And luckily, I live within walking distance!