There are tons of pizzerias in Tokyo, but quite ironically, there are only very few good ones. Even though I enjoy American and even Chicago-style pizzas once in a while, sometimes, I just want that real nice thin crust Italian pizza. When the need becomes unbearable, I go to Pizzeria Ciro in Higashi-Nakano. Ask any Italian person in town where they get their pizza fix, many of them will probably answer the same way…
Pizzeria Ciro is a cute little restaurant specializing in Neapolitan pizzas. It has a tiny terrace, which is very enjoyable during the summer, and there are about 20 seats inside.
The Food
Pizzeria Ciro has a few good looking appetizers, including caprese, raw ham and homemade Italian sausage, but I usually just stick to the pizza.
Quattro Formaggi (1,680 yen for the pizza +150 yen for the honey)
The restaurant offers both pizze rosse and bianche, as well as a few other pizza specialties. My old-time favorite is the Quattro Formaggi. The crust is nice and thin and none of the desired cheese flavors are lacking! You can request some honey on the side for an extra 150 yen. I don’t think they should charge any fee at all for a tiny bit of honey, but it does make the pizza better…
Bismark (1,580 yen)
I also like the Bismark. The chicken and basil are on point, and the egg is perfectly runny. The crust is also thin so it is easy to shovel a few slices without feeling heavy afterwards.
Homemade Tiramisu (680 yen)
If Italian cuisine had to be summed up in one dessert, it would be tiramisu. If you have some space left and want to indulge yourself, try the divine Homemade Tiramisu. It is absolutely delicious!
Saltimbocca alla Nutella (680 yen)
Other than the tiramisu, the Saltimbocca alla Nutella is another very satisfying dessert. This heavy-loaded sweet is extremely enjoyable! Nutella really does make any dessert better…
Overall
If you are looking for traditional and authentic Italian pizza, Pizzeria Ciro is a no-brainer. They have over 25 different pizzas in their menu, as well as a good selection of starters and desserts. It is not cheap, but it stays affordable. It is particularly a nice place for a dinner with friends, or even a casual date.
Now, I would not say it is the best pizzeria I have ever been to, but it may very well be the best one I have tried in Japan! So far, it is the most authentic Italian pizzeria I went to in Tokyo.
Pizzeria Ciro
Opening hours:
Open from everyday from 11:30 to 19:30 and 21:30 on Saturdays (may be subject to change due to the Coronavirus)
Website: click here
Address: Phenix bld. 1F, 3 Chome−8−3, Higashi Nakano, Nakano city, Tokyo 164-0003
Telephone: 03-6426-0309
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