When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Grimaldi's Pizzeria
Why Grimaldi's Pizzeria is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Grimaldi's Pizzeria is a renowned pizzeria chain best known for its original location under the Brooklyn Bridge in Brooklyn, New York. Founded in 1990 by Patsy Grimaldi, who was trained from a young age in the traditional art of pizza making, Grimaldi's offers a distinctive Neapolitan-style pizza characterized by its thin crust, fresh mozzarella, and flavorful tomato sauce, all cooked in classic coal-fired brick ovens. The ambience evokes old-world charm with cozy interiors and high-arched windows that enhance the dining experience. Its commitment to authentic, high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques makes it an excellent destination for friends and families to gather and enjoy a meal that celebrates the heritage of New York-style pizza. The pizzeria places emphasis on whole pies rather than slices, adding to the communal and social vibe. In addition to pizza, the menu includes appetizers, calzones, and classic Italian desserts like cannoli and tiramisu, complemented by a curated selection of wines. Whether at the flagship Brooklyn location or any of its over 40 locations across the United States, Grimaldi's remains a favored spot for pizza lovers seeking both taste and atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Grimaldi's Pizzeria
As of recent, Grimaldi's Pizzeria holds a 4-star rating based on 605 reviews.
Customer reviews of Grimaldi's Pizzeria reflect a strong appreciation for the authenticity and quality of the pizza. Many reviewers highlight the perfect balance of crust crispiness and flavorful toppings, especially praising the Margherita pizza for its tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil. The coal-fired brick oven cooking technique is frequently mentioned as a key element contributing to the pizza’s distinctive taste and texture. The ambiance, described as cozy and reminiscent of a classic Italian pizzeria with attentive and efficient staff, enhances the overall dining experience even during busy periods. Positive feedback often notes the welcoming environment, quality ingredient sourcing, and the nostalgic New York pizzeria vibe that transports diners to an authentic pizza tradition. On the negative side, some customers mention long waits during peak hours due to its popularity and the lack of pizza by the slice, which may not suit those looking for a quick meal. Additionally, some reviewers feel that pricing can be on the higher side, reflecting the premium ingredients and dining experience. Despite these minor drawbacks, the general consensus remains highly favorable, affirming Grimaldi's as a must-visit destination for traditional, delicious pizza made with passion and expertise.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Katkam Akhil
I had no idea how good this place would be! The ambience was top-notch, and the food was absolutely delicious. We tried the Margherita pizza, with the draft beer which was really good. I’ll definitely be coming back!
Jocelyn S. Davis
Over the weekend I visited Grimaldi’s Pizzeria at The Domain in Austin. It was my first time and let’s just say — the pizza was definitely doing what it needed to do. I ordered a pesto + sausage combo that was flavorful, crisp, and had that fresh-out-the-brick-oven feel. But the real star of the meal? That tiramisu. Creamy, perfectly portioned, and just the right finish after a savory slice. Shout out to Xavier, our fabulous waiter, who made the entire experience memorable. From his menu suggestions to his attention to detail, he made us feel right at home. ⭐ 4 out of 5 stars Would absolutely return for a post-branding brainstorming session… or just dessert.
PHrost Byte
Well we were welcomed by the best host I've ever seen in my life. He was so full of energy and opened the door for us. Very prompt with instructions and guiding us to our table. I felt very comfortable from the start. Our waiter took our order but I wasn't to happy about him not knowing about the drinks alcoholic content. We ordered a drink that he suggested after telling him we don't drink alcohol. The drink he suggested was alcoholic unbeknownst to him. I would have been very upset simply because I'm recovering from alcoholism. We waited almost 35 min for out pizza to come out and did not receive our jalapeños with it. We notified our waiter and another waiter but still didn't receive. We finally got our jalapeños when there was literally one slice of pizza left. This definitely didn't sit well with me because I seen on 2 separate occasions of them just standing around and talking. The food was outstanding 👌🏿 the pizza was so fresh and the sauce was seasoned. I enjoyed it. I would recommend this place even after the hiccup. 6/10
xxsekoxx
The staff here is always helpful and inviting. The pizza is great. Fresh pepperoni, quality cheese, and a good undercarriage. My personal opinion is that the sauce needs a little bit more flavor. Very bland.
Amber Lee
Disclaimer: if you are eating here under the assumption this will be anything like the original Grimaldi’s in Brooklyn then you will be sorely disappointed. Unfortunately for us, we are a tad delusional and went in with that mindset. Let’s start with the good: the staff is very friendly and attentive, the options for pizza are great, and for how busy The Domain can be on any given night it’s nice to be somewhere a bit more relaxed and quiet. The subway station stop decor made us feel a bit at home, which is always a welcome feeling. And for the bad (or at least not good): the pizza is just severely overpriced, almost comically so. You’re telling me a 12 inch pizza with 2 toppings is pushing $30? If I wanted to be robbed like that I would just go to 6th Street and hand a vagrant my wallet. The food isn’t bad per se, but it just isn’t worth the price it’s set at. We ordered four pies: The Don, a white pizza with chicken and sun dried tomatoes, a white pizza with spicy sausage and sun dried tomatoes, and a tomato pie with Italian sausage. Aesthetically they all looked great, and the flavors were good as well. We poured a bit of hot honey over our slices which provided it a strong zip of heat alongside some sweetness. The pizza is well balanced and would be considered decent by NY standards. Altogether Grimaldi’s is a good pizza place handcuffed by the fact that they think they can charge NY prices for Austin pizza.
How to reach Grimaldi's Pizzeria
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Why Grimaldi's Pizzeria may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Grimaldi's Pizzeria with your friends?
Gathering your friends for a memorable meetup calls for a place that offers not only delicious food but also a lively ambiance where everyone can relax and enjoy each other's company. Grimaldi's Pizzeria perfectly fits this scenario, making it an exceptional choice to rally at. With its reputation for authentic coal-fired, brick oven pizzas crafted from real ingredients including fresh sliced mozzarella and a "secret recipe" dough, Grimaldi's offers a culinary experience that’s both comforting and exciting. This restaurant balances quality and casual dining, providing a warm, bustling environment that invites conversation and laughter. Its consistent 4.0 rating from over 600 reviews reflects a beloved spot for many who appreciate its unique taste and friendly vibe. Whether you're planning a casual hangout, a celebration, or simply a pizza night, Grimaldi's delivers on flavor, atmosphere, and a welcoming spirit, making it a natural hub for group gatherings looking for authentic New York-style pizza in a vibrant setting.
What activities and experiences make Grimaldi's Pizzeria perfect for a group meetup?
Grimaldi's Pizzeria offers more than just great food; it delivers an experience ideal for groups seeking a place to spend quality time together. The main draw, of course, is the pizza itself — coal-fired in brick ovens, creating a distinctive crispy crust and rich flavor profile that keeps pizza lovers returning. This focus on shared dining naturally encourages group interaction, as pizzas are perfect for sharing, fostering a communal atmosphere. Beyond the food, the layout and environment are designed to accommodate groups comfortably, offering ample seating to keep everyone close for easy conversation. The open kitchen concept often allows guests to watch their pizzas being made, heightening engagement and entertainment value for the group. Additionally, Grimaldi’s offers a variety of drink options including craft beers and wines to complement different tastes, ideal for toasting milestones or simply unwinding together. The restaurant’s lively yet casual setting ensures that gatherings feel festive without pressure, making it a versatile location whether for a laid-back meet-up or a special occasion with friends or family.
How does the food quality at Grimaldi's enhance the group dining experience?
The high-quality ingredients and cooking technique are central to why Grimaldi's Pizzeria stands out as an excellent choice for group dining. The coal-fired brick ovens used here produce pizzas with a signature smoky flavor and a perfectly crisp crust that can't be easily replicated elsewhere. Each pizza is handcrafted from scratch, with fresh sliced mozzarella and a secret dough recipe that combines tradition and artistry. This commitment to quality means that every bite is consistently flavorful, satisfying the varied palates in any group. The menu also offers a good range of options from classic pies to specialty pizzas and freshly made calzones, accommodating different preferences and dietary considerations. Such variety ensures that everyone in the group can find something they love, making the meal inclusive and enjoyable. This dedication to food excellence turns a simple pizza night into a memorable dining event where friends and family bond over shared plates of outstanding pizza.
What makes the atmosphere at Grimaldi's conducive to hosting friends and family?
The atmosphere at Grimaldi's Pizzeria is deliberately structured to foster social interaction and create a lively but comfortable environment for any group. The restaurant has a vibrant energy that buzzes with friendly chatter and laughter, reflective of a place where people come to enjoy good times together. The seating arrangements, while bustling, accommodate both smaller intimate groups and larger parties, facilitating dynamic social interactions. The open kitchen with visible brick oven fires adds an engaging visual element that sparks conversation and entertains guests while they wait. Staff are known to be warm and attentive, making groups feel welcome and cared for, which enhances the overall experience. Even with its popularity, Grimaldi's maintains a balance between energetic fun and relaxed comfort, ideal for groups seeking a casual yet spirited meetup spot. This ambiance is potent for strengthening bonds as people share food, drinks, and lively conversations in a setting that feels both special and unpretentious.
What additional amenities and conveniences does Grimaldi's provide to enhance group meetups?
Grimaldi's Pizzeria understands the needs of groups beyond just food and atmosphere, offering several amenities that add convenience and enhance the overall meetup experience. First, the restaurant provides easy access for parties of various sizes, often located in popular shopping or dining districts which make arrival and parking simpler. Gift cards are available both online and in the restaurant, perfect for gifting and planning group events or celebrations. The Grimaldi's Rewards App allows regular visitors to earn points with every order, giving groups an incentive to keep coming back and even saving on future visits. The menu is designed to cater to diverse tastes with appetizers, salads, and desserts alongside their pizzas, ensuring the whole group finds something delightful. Lastly, the staff’s hospitality and willingness to accommodate special requests, such as seating preferences or dietary needs, make planning a group outing smoother and more enjoyable. Together, these features reflect Grimaldi's commitment to being a convenient, rewarding destination for friends and family to gather, share, and celebrate around the unmistakable taste of their signature coal-fired pizza.