Thank god for all of the pizza joints that welcome the gluten-sensitive, because we all know it’s one of those foods that’s way too painful to give up. Luckily for you, DC is ridden with them, but only a few get it right. Pi Pizzeria is one of them. Serving up comfort food munchies and classics on some of the best gluten-free crust you’ll get your hands on, this restaurant is a must when your pizza craving hits…
Pi Pizzeria hails from St. Louis, Missouri, where its first sister restaurant got its start. The space, decorated with chandeliers among chalkboard walls and exposed brick, is light and open, making it a great place to bring both large and small parties. Don’t let the mouthwatering smells wafting from the kitchen make you nervous about the usual cross-contamination you’ll get in any other pizza place. Pi Pizzeria has two key advantages over the rest: there are no fryers, and there is a separate oven for gluten-free pizza. I repeat, no fryers, separate oven. Dreams do come true! The menu is also coded with symbols for gluten-free and vegetarian menu items to make it easier on those with sensitive diets. With no fryer, the baked wings are definitely a safe bet, and arrive piping hot and well paired with their cooling yogurt-cucumber sauce. They’ve also got olives, chips, mussels, and spicy pickles for nomming. See something you want to try but it’s not listed as gluten-free? There are several tweaks the kitchen can make to their dishes to accommodate a gluten allergy or sensitivity; have your server walk you through it. They’ll be quick to recommend their house-made hummus, which, instead of cornbread, can be paired with their perfectly toasted, warmed and crisped gluten free flatbread – and you’ll be smart to listen to them. But let’s get to the real talk. PIZZA! While the traditional offerings are deep-dish, the gluten-free crust is a thin crust – but you’ll be more than satisfied once you try it. It has a great crunch, a bit of softness, a buttery taste, and is far from “gummy.” Anyone would be a fool not to like it, even the die-hard gluten eaters. Choose from one of their pre-designed pizzas named after St. Louis neighborhoods, or do a half & half if indecision gets the better of you. You can also take the reins and create your own; there’s dozens of vegetables, meats, and cheeses that will please carnivores and veggie lovers alike. They’ll come piled high atop your choice of garlic oil or classic tomato sauce. And if you can’t finish up, you’ll definitely want to package them up for breakfast or lunch the next day – the crust holds up very well overnight.
All in all, great eats for a casual lunch or dinner with friends or family. Once you give this St. Louis star a try, you’ll be tremendously grateful that it’s made its way to the Capitol.