Pizza Nea

More artisanal than artsy (they like to tout their sea salt and imported San Marzano tomatoes), Pizza Nea is all kinds of tasty. Neapolitan-style pies are the backbone of the menu, and come rosso or bianco. Classics like the Margherita and Quattro Stagione are rounded out with an array of lesser-known combinations, such as the spicy Diavola, with its salami and pepperoncini; the Boscaiola (porcini mushrooms, smoked mozzarella), and our new favorite, the Carciofo (artichokes, roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella). At lunchtime, many pizzas are also offered in sandwich form, with the toppings tucked into crispy focaccia and served with a salad (the shamelessly garlicky Caesar is superb). With Italian food of this caliber, it’s impossible to resist wine, and the Nea folks know it – thus the well-rounded list and a nicely informed wait staff. The lack of flashy concepts or overbearing aesthetics puts the focus on flavor – just how we like it. 306 E. Hennepin Ave, Minneapolis; 612-331-9298; www.pizzanea.com