Have a Slice

Italy has its fair share of world-altering inventions including the mercury thermometer, the espresso machine and good old cursive handwriting.
While we can’t get enough of the espresso machine either, our fave Italian invention has to be pizza, made famous about two hundred years ago in Naples. Fortunately we can enjoy the original Italian flat breads in several Calgary restaurants. And kids love pizza at least as much as grown-ups do, so a visit to a real Italian pizzeria is a treat. However, we still recommend developing a restaurant strategy to ensure an enjoyable experience all around.

First, go early. The best time to enjoy a fresh melt in your mouth Napolitano pizza is right before the lunch rush. Aim for 11:30ish. Your school aged child will love to be picked up for this special treat and your preschooler will still make it home for nap.

Second, while pizzerias are casual enough for a preschooler, they are no Chuck E. Cheese. Come prepared with small toys or coloring supplies. (Remember that mom stash in the car.) You may also opt to bring a booster seat and sippy cup.

Third, Italian pizza is all about simplicity so skip the excess toppings. Pizza crust, olive oil, garlic, tomatoes and mozzarella are delicious, healthy and plain (kids love that too).

Lina’s Italian Market is located on Centre Street NE and is the most economical of our recommendations. If you haven’t visited Lina’s before, you’ll wonder why you waited so long. A small bistro sits front and center surrounded by fresh produce, meats, cheese and scrumptious baked goods. Personal pizzas start at about $6. The Margherita pizza fresh out of the oven is shockingly tasty.