Salvio’s Pizzeria (Cary, NC)
Salvio’s in Cary appears, in nearly all respects, to be a prototypical (e.g. boring) strip-mall pizza joint. It’s all there – the nondescript signage, the incongruous burger+fries or wings specials, the bare bones interior. But it just takes one taste of the pies and to know this is someplace special.
The inside features a number of large booths, a few tables, and a couple of large TVs tuned to ESPN. A recent remodeling has added a tasteful air to the simple accommodations: fresh black paint and new marble table tops are a step up from the old plain wooden booths. It’s still a counter service restaurant where you get your own drink, so it’s best for take-out or a quick lunch.
The menu covers all of the standards – pizzas, subs, wings, Italian classics. Since it’s pretty close to where I work, I’ve had the pleasure of dining at Salvio’s numerous times, but I’ve only tried the pies. For a quick meal, you can order pre-made “gourmet” slices from the counter window display, of which there are generally a half-dozen or so choices. On a recent visit I chose a slice of mozzarella/feta/spinach/tomatoes and a slice of ricotta/parsley, which, with a soda, came to just $5.75. The slices are enormous – I can’t imagine eating more than two. The friendly staff pops them back into the oven, and, a few minutes later, you’ve got piping hot pizza delivered to you (on paper plates).
Salvio’s crust is exceptional – thin and super crisp, you can just about pick up a whole piece without it collapsing. The crust gives a satisfyingly shatter-like crack, and the crumb still has a nice chew to it. Toppings are generous but don’t stand out for exceptional quality, the way they do at, say, Bella Mia. Both pieces were very good, but the winner was the one with soft mounds of delicious ricotta. It was a fantastic lunch.
Among NY style pizza in the area, Salvio’s stands head and shoulders above a place like Fuhgeddaboutit. In fact, Salvio’s comes in behind only the aforementioned Bella Mia in my Triangle pizza hierarchy. And compared to your average strip-mall pizza place, it is awesome.
Tags: Bella Mia, Cary, crust, fuhgeddaboutit, Pizza, Salvio's
November 20th, 2012 at 12:57 pm
Salvio’s is by far the best pizza in the area, it is delicous! The crust is light and crisp, it has a wonderful taste…I usually do not eat the crust but I will finish every bite of theirs….they also make delicious calzone’s, packed with lots of cheese, meat, or veggies.and their steak and cheese, delicous! You can only achieve a good taste when you use the best of ingredients and they do. And not to mention the staff is also pleasant and friendly. Love the remodel of the pizzeria, it is very warm and cozy, nice place to dine in…nothing too over the top but tasteful. I am from NY and I know what a true pizzeria is and this truly a pizzeria, the way it is meant to be. They also cater….had them for an occasion I had, ordered trays of baked ziti, chicken parm, pasta salad, salad….it was great my guests commented on how delicious the food was. I am a true fan….love this place!