RVAFoodie Finds a Hidden Pizza Gem on Belt
There are no shortages of pizza options in our area but RVA Foodie has a post, including a not so good commercial on a pizza joint that many of us haven’t thought of trying. He hits up Armando’s Pizza at 146 E Belt Blvd. Armando’s used to be called Angelo’s but the name was causing confusion due to sharing the name with another pizzeria. I haven’t been yet and since they are closed on Sunday it will have to wait until next week. Their menu is on their website and they also have a Facebook page. I still have plans to host a Southbank Pizza Throwdown and it looks like I’ll have to add Armando’s into the mix.
I had a slice at this year’s Italian Festival and I’ve been wanting more of that light and crisp crust ever since (the sauce too, mmm. ask for extra on the side). For some reason, word hasn’t gotten around that the Belt Boulevard location has brought buzz-worthy pies into the City proper. “We serve the same pizza as Angelo’s. But our big seller is steak and cheese or chicken subs.” Even though he’s baking the sub-rolls fresh throughout the day, and he’s proud of his product, you can tell Armando isn’t too impressed with the repetitive orders of the sub-shop equivalent of General Tso’s chicken.
Update 5/9: Went by today for lunch at 12:30. Parking lot empty, front door locked. No sign explaining the situation.
H&H readers: What are the best pizza options in your area? In Byrd Park, we can go into the Fan, Carytown, Museum District, or down to the Bottom. But now, I’m wondering if crossing the river wouldn’t be worthwhile for a diamond in the rough, like Armando’s. And, if it isn’t as pretty as you might like, keep going and I bet that changes.
After seeing this earlier I definitely have added it to the list. I have had pizza in Brooklyn ( http://www.carminespizzeria.com/ ) so we will see.
E.A.T.
Not sure that measuring up to Brooklyn pizza is a reasonable expectation for Richmond businesses. But, Armando’s makes my top 5 for pizza in the RVA proper.
If it is a “light and crispy” crust, I am SO there!! Thanks for the heads up.
Went there today. Really good pizza, crust was flavorful as was the sauce and seasonings on the cheese. Only minor complaints service was apathetic to say the least and why can’t any pizza joints have really good pepperoni? Despite these nitpicks I’ll be back.
I’m sure the Hills and Heights community will get a rapport going with Armando and his staff. I know they’ll warm to anyone who appreciates their food (with a little persistence). But, as an aside, don’t greasy spoons with begrudging service often wind up being places with really noteworthy food?
Thanks for taking me up on my challenge, Richard. I hope others join you.
Ok, went there last night. Got there at 7:40 lights were completely off and they never turned them on while we there. We ordered a large white pizza (always our favorite) and mozzarella sticks to go. Sticks came out before the pizza was even made. I must say the pizza looked good and smelled good all the way home.
I will be kind and say the sticks were bland and very bready. Pizza unfortunately not good. No garlic flavor, very little cheese, and I am with others crust had a crunch which I like but too thick which gave it a gooey bready taste. We did not save for leftovers.
I vow and promise to give it another shot just in case they are off at 8:00 at night. Next time for lunch and order a traditional pepperoni pizza medium to go.
Delivery radius is 3 miles which really never gets you out of that part of town.
Sorry #fail for now.
Had a sub there the other day. Great bread. Far from a fail. The fries weren’t seasoned, but I’m not a big fry guy unless they’re exceptional.
I’ll say it again. The place has been cooking down to expectations and will probably take some encouragement to give you their best effort. Start with a slice of cheese pizza or a sub, sans fries.