Northwestern University and Evanston's Only Daily News Source Since 1881

The Daily Northwestern

Northwestern University and Evanston's Only Daily News Source Since 1881

The Daily Northwestern

Northwestern University and Evanston's Only Daily News Source Since 1881

The Daily Northwestern

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Open Tab: DeSalvo’s Pizza puts creative spin on ’za by the slice

Two+white+plates+with+a+Raccoon+slice+%28topped+with+pepperoni%2C+sausage%2C+pickled+peppers%2C+caramelized+onions+and+goat+cheese%29+and+Margherita+slice+and+a+brown+tray+with+three+garlic+knots+and+marinara+dipping+sauce.
Rachel Schlueter/The Daily Northwestern
DeSalvo’s Pizza offers specialty pizza by the slice, which makes for the perfect on-the-go lunch. We tried the slices of the Raccoon and Margherita pizzas.

Located in the heart of Central St., DeSalvo’s Pizza is your next go-to spot for a quick, quality slice.

DeSalvo’s Pizza, located next to Welsh-Ryan Arena, is a short ride on the intercampus shuttle or 201 Central/Ridge bus away. On a Friday afternoon, the pizza joint was bustling with restaurant-goers, and a glass case brimming with Italian food promised delight.

We started off the meal with an order of garlic knots. The dough was stretchy and delicate, while the flavor packed a strong garlic-and-onion punch. We drenched the knots in DeSalvo’s sweet marinara sauce, making for the perfect bite.

Whether you’re craving a traditional slice or feeling adventurous, DeSalvo’s has something for everyone. The restaurant sells whole pies and pizza by the slice. DeSalvo’s specialty pizzas include creative topping combinations, including Mediterranean-inspired feta cheese and olives, BBQ chicken, and pesto veggie pies for diners who know what they like. For those who enjoy options though, DeSalvo’s also offers a build-your-own pizza. We went the untraditional route and ordered some of DeSalvo’s specialty flavors.

At DeSalvo’s, pizza doesn’t have to be strictly savory. We tried a slice of The Raccoon, which is topped with sausage, pepperoni, goat cheese, pickled peppers, caramelized onions and a generous drizzle of hot honey. The sausage and pepperoni were salty, while the goat cheese added a touch of creaminess. The caramelized onions and hot honey tied the slice together with hints of sweetness.

We also opted for a slice of the Margherita pizza, which was a garlic oil base topped with tomatoes, mozzarella and basil. Each bite was warm and full of flavor, the juiciness of the tomato adding the perfect kick to a classic pizza dish. Pair it with a crisp Diet Coke, and the results were scrumptious.

Although we stuck to their pies, DeSalvo’s Pizza doesn’t just serve pizza. The restaurant also sells calzones, sandwiches and salads. Whether you’re craving a traditional Caesar salad or a chicken pesto sandwich, DeSalvo’s is sure to provide what your stomach desires.

You can’t leave DeSalvo’s Pizza without a sweet treat. We ordered the vanilla and chocolate swirl soft serve, which was creamy and nostalgic. We also tried the chocolate chip cookie, warmed up of course. Flakes of sea salt added a slight kick of flavor to the gooey chocolate cookies. There’s nothing better than a spoon of ice cream on a warm chocolate cookie, and DeSalvo’s did not disappoint. We left with our hearts and stomachs full.

DeSalvo’s is a must-eat for college students craving a quick, inexpensive bite. With most slices listed at $3.75, we could enjoy a whole meal without breaking the bank. As the weather warms up and the hot girl walks resurface, consider checking out DeSalvo’s Pizza.

Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @kunjal_bastola

Email: [email protected]
Twitter: @rschlueter26

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