NeoPapalis: Not Your Average Pizza Joint

Pizza will always have a special place in my heart. With endless options for the Italian specialty here in Ann Arbor, I thought it was time to try one of the newest kids on the block: NeoPapalis.

Located on E. William Street right off of State, NeoPapalis specializes in Neapolitan-style pizza, a type of pie originating in Naples, Italy. Neapolitan's are known for their simple ingredients, small size of 8-12 inches and cooking time of only about 2 minutes in 800-degree stone hearth ovens. Pretty much the perfect style for a busy, hungry college student.

When I first walked into the restaurant on a chilly Friday night, I was immediately struck by the bright and welcoming atmosphere. After being greeted by the friendly employees and putting our coats down at a table (there are also high-top tables and bar seats) a few friends and I took to the menu.

If you're going to NeoPapalis for pizza (which you should be), you have the option of creating your own pizza by selecting one of the four bases and then adding your choice of meats and fresh vegetables. Specialty pizzas with the chef's pre-chosen combinations of toppings are also available and, let me tell you, it may be worth giving up the control to the experts.

The three of us decided to share two pizzas and splurge on an order of sweet potato fries, and it was the perfect amount of food for only about $10 for each of us. After much deliberation we agreed upon the Bianca-North Beach: white pizza with Gorgonzola,  figs, arugula, Parmesan and Balsamic vinaigrette and the Bianca BBQ: white pizza with barbecue chicken, red onion and bacon.

My mouth may or may not be watering right now.

If you're not into white pizza you can't go wrong with the other three bases, all of which include crushed San Marzano tomato sauce, which just sounds authentic in and of itself.  If you're not a pizza person in general, NeoPapalis has build-your-own salad and sandwich options, giving you the artistic freedom to be as simple or creative as you'd like.

Customers at NeoPapalis grab their own plates, silverware and napkins, making the experience as personal as being at home. Even better, the food is prepared quickly, so there's no need to worry about the people at the table next to you hearing your stomach growling.

Check out NeoPapalis...it just may be my favorite pizza in AA.

Location: 500 E. William Street Ann Arbor, MI 48104

Hours of operation: Sun – Wed: 11 am – 11 pm, Thurs – Sat: 11 am – 12:30 am

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