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I have been here almost everyday since I've been in DC! The service was absolutely amazing. The young lady whom I never got her name was so sweet and professional. She remembered what I liked and was very personable. The sandwiches are so amazing!!! This morning I tried something a little different until they start serving sandwiches. This is also on my places to return when I come back to DC!!
Piccolona has an upscale feel and a delicious pork sandwich. Delicate bread with a flavorful inside plus a side salad. There are other food offerings but they are limited. Service was efficient although you order at the register and the food to brought to you. The restaurant has a warm ambiance and decor. This is a good place to order and sip your latte as the day goes by.
Stopped here for lunch, quick and easy and some tasty pizza. The white pizza, cheese was a little over cooked and hard but otherwise good flavor. The outdoor seating is what caught our eye, enjoyed a nice outdoor lunch with limited noise and traffic. The service was fine once seated, a bit confusing upon arrival, no one to seat you and didn't see signage about open seating. Approached staff at the register but communication was limited.
I was out walking looking for something to grab for lunch. I turned down the alley way to see a few restaurants, but my nose was greet with this pleasant aroma from Piccolina. I stepped inside and I was greeted immediately upon crossing the threshold. Everyone was so nice and attentive. I placed my order to go, a Margherita pizza that was freshly made to order. The food here is delicious and I can't wait to come back again to try something new.
In the heart of city center, it's a nice spot to drop by for a snack. My mom and I took our doggos on a day trip on my day off for some shopping and needed to brunch somewhere. We landed here for an outdoor meal. The service was good but the food was meh. I got the Arucola salad for myself. The dressing itself tasted great but there was too much of it. Got my mom a Puffy Egg on a Brioche - added on braised greens and crispy pancetta. They forgot the pancetta so they brought it out separately. She informed me the whole meal was lacking flavor, bland, and genuinely forgettable. I'd say we'd stop by here for the convenience but otherwise, there's really nothing to sing home about. The coffee was fine. My ice tea was fine as well.
Feeling such exuberance after my first experience at Piccolina that I'm going to have to break my rule about not writing a review for a restaurant in the city I live in until I've had a second try. I organized a happy hour event for a nonprofit group I lead, and in looking for a woman-run business with a sustainability focus, I discovered Amy Brandwein and Piccolina - by the end of the night I was wondering how I've never heard of the restaurant before for the pure in general! First off, I have to express sincere appreciation for the service - when I arrived at the restaurant on a Wednesday evening shortly after 5, I was quickly greeted by the host, who seated me at exactly the table I wanted, which happened to be the best table in the restaurant. The server for my party was Vidal, and from the beginning, when he assured me that it was totally fine that I was expecting maybe 10ish people? and I don't know what time they're arriving? to when I paid my check at the end of the evening, he was fantastic. Flexible, attentive, friendly and just so darn nice AND cool - give this man a promotion! I arrived in time to get the happy hour menu, which meant I got a great price on the delicious Hugo spritz, as well as the option of the delicious piatto misto appetizer platter. I had a hungry crew so I only got to taste the fungi skewer, but it was super good. And many others in my party ordered delicious looking pizzas that I absolutely have to return for. The restaurant interior is elegant and minimalist - it's kind of got a bakery aesthetic while also projecting low-key romantic-casual restaurant vibes (that's why I'll be coming back with my partner). I'm so happy to have had a reason to discover Piccolina, definitely one of my new DC favorites!
DO NOT GO! $72 for an espresso martini, a small pizza and a 2"x 2" eggplant parm (nothing came with this bite size $21 eggplant parm - no pasta or vegetable / salad. The portion would very small for an appetizer). yup, its DC - but I don't see this place staying in business. couple more things added to the 1 star rating. they added a 5% service fee for increased costs (a left over covid surcharge?) ... just up the prices, enough with the BS add on fees. not sure how they get away with a single bathroom for a fairly large restaurant / coffee bar. just before the bathroom is where the staff stacks dirty dishes, I didn't want to look very closely, I had not received my food yet. absolutely DO NOT go to this restaurant.
Piccolina had been on my list so I was excited to try it. It is confusing upon entering, because you can order at the counter, order cannoli in the cannoli section, or be seated with table service and the signs are unclear. I wanted table service and finally a staff member approached. He told me I didn't need to take a menu, as the sign said when I walked in. He seated me and I was brought a menu. It is a cute cafe. I ordered the porchetta panino, which was tasty, but small for $18. Even though I liked it, I left hungry, as there really wasn't anything else to order on the menu. I wanted a cannoli but the server told me I couldn't order it with him. And I also asked him to confirm hours but he didn't know the hours, which was odd. If you aren't starving and need something quick, Piccolina is good. I wanted to return to try the pizza, but after my odd experience, I think not. I'll go elsewhere for a good meal.
Although the wood-fired oven is promising, the Echo other Yelpers - try the divine Bombolini! - Margharita Pizza (5/5) - The wood-fired oven is perfect for the pizza with charred crust. Adding the dollops of Buffallo mozzarella cheese was worth the $4 upcharge. - Eggplant Parm (3/5) - While the 10 layers of eggplant smothered in sauce were juicy and tender, it was very greasy. - Caprese Scacce (3/5) - Similar to a calzone oozing with tomato and cheese stuffed inside a thin crispy flaky crust. While I LOVE cheese, more veggies which would have elevate the flavor and cut down on some of the super rich cheesiness. Fun to try, but felt stuffed before I got to the end and sadly had to throw in the towel. My stomach felt like a block of cheese for the rest of the day. A Veggie Scacce would be a great option to add to the menu! - Rosemary Focaccia (4/5) - The large block of crispy was moist with olive oil that I didn't need to ask for some on the side. Worth trying and paying $3! - Vanilla Bombolini (5/5) - Hands-down my favorite item on the meal. Saving the best for last! The fluffy scrumptious donut covered in cinnamon stuffed with creamy vanilla was divine! My hubby and I fought for the last bite! - Nutella Bar (5/5) - The decadent bar with granola, chocolate chips, graham cracker, nuts, and of course nutella hit the spot! If you love chocolate, get it! Almost as good as the Bomboli! Pistachio Cannoli (5/5) - I enjoyed the fresh filled creamy pistachio cannoli with chocolate chips. The Sunset Spritz Zero Proof - The non-alcoholic drink was refreshing with a bold OJ, citrus flavor. Will be back for some pizza and Bombolini! read more
Delightful lunch with excellent arugula salad with grilled chicken and salmon. All prepared gf df and with the best staff. A delightful outdoor area that's fabulous and enclosed. The BEST almond cake we got 2 slices !! Excellent dirty martini ! We'll be back! read more
The Agnello Panuzza proves that lamb with provolone and arugula inside a pita bread create the perfect sandwich. The lamb has the soft texture of a juicy burger, and the addition of honey takes this sandwich to another level, blending sweet and savory in every bite. My one wish was that the sandwich was larger, but the quality itself is second to none. Solid songs by Kali Uchis and PinkPantheress were playing in the background to elevate the ambiance. read more
1 month ago
4 months ago
I have been here almost everyday since I've been in DC! The service was absolutely amazing. The young lady whom I never got her name was so sweet and professional. She remembered what I liked and was very personable. The sandwiches are so amazing!!! This morning I tried something a little different until they start serving sandwiches. This is also on my places to return when I come back to DC!! read more
Piccolona has an upscale feel and a delicious pork sandwich. Delicate bread with a flavorful inside plus a side salad. There are other food offerings but they are limited. Service was efficient although you order at the register and the food to brought to you. The restaurant has a warm ambiance and decor. This is a good place to order and sip your latte as the day goes by. read more
Stopped here for lunch, quick and easy and some tasty pizza. The white pizza, cheese was a little over cooked and hard but otherwise good flavor. The outdoor seating is what caught our eye, enjoyed a nice outdoor lunch with limited noise and traffic. The service was fine once seated, a bit confusing upon arrival, no one to seat you and didn't see signage about open seating. Approached staff at the register but communication was limited. read more
2 years ago
I was out walking looking for something to grab for lunch. I turned down the alley way to see a few restaurants, but my nose was greet with this pleasant aroma from Piccolina. I stepped inside and I was greeted immediately upon crossing the threshold. Everyone was so nice and attentive. I placed my order to go, a Margherita pizza that was freshly made to order. The food here is delicious and I can't wait to come back again to try something new. read more
8 months ago
Great place in Palmer Alley. I had a salad with salmon skewer. It was excellent - plus a cab. I think it was house but it was good. read more
1 year ago
Good pizza place ! Waiter is very friendly offering great service and generally very nice ambiance Pizza was delicious as expected thin and crispy *cannoli filling at the guest choice ( pistachio was excellent) Recommend read more
In the heart of city center, it's a nice spot to drop by for a snack. My mom and I took our doggos on a day trip on my day off for some shopping and needed to brunch somewhere. We landed here for an outdoor meal. The service was good but the food was meh. I got the Arucola salad for myself. The dressing itself tasted great but there was too much of it. Got my mom a Puffy Egg on a Brioche - added on braised greens and crispy pancetta. They forgot the pancetta so they brought it out separately. She informed me the whole meal was lacking flavor, bland, and genuinely forgettable. I'd say we'd stop by here for the convenience but otherwise, there's really nothing to sing home about. The coffee was fine. My ice tea was fine as well. read more
2 years ago
Feeling such exuberance after my first experience at Piccolina that I'm going to have to break my rule about not writing a review for a restaurant in the city I live in until I've had a second try. I organized a happy hour event for a nonprofit group I lead, and in looking for a woman-run business with a sustainability focus, I discovered Amy Brandwein and Piccolina - by the end of the night I was wondering how I've never heard of the restaurant before for the pure in general! First off, I have to express sincere appreciation for the service - when I arrived at the restaurant on a Wednesday evening shortly after 5, I was quickly greeted by the host, who seated me at exactly the table I wanted, which happened to be the best table in the restaurant. The server for my party was Vidal, and from the beginning, when he assured me that it was totally fine that I was expecting maybe 10ish people? and I don't know what time they're arriving? to when I paid my check at the end of the evening, he was fantastic. Flexible, attentive, friendly and just so darn nice AND cool - give this man a promotion! I arrived in time to get the happy hour menu, which meant I got a great price on the delicious Hugo spritz, as well as the option of the delicious piatto misto appetizer platter. I had a hungry crew so I only got to taste the fungi skewer, but it was super good. And many others in my party ordered delicious looking pizzas that I absolutely have to return for. The restaurant interior is elegant and minimalist - it's kind of got a bakery aesthetic while also projecting low-key romantic-casual restaurant vibes (that's why I'll be coming back with my partner). I'm so happy to have had a reason to discover Piccolina, definitely one of my new DC favorites! read more
3 months ago
1 year ago
A little hidden modern Italian restaurant in an alley that has nice decor and friendly staff. Pizza is fresh and hot. read more
1 year ago
DO NOT GO! $72 for an espresso martini, a small pizza and a 2"x 2" eggplant parm (nothing came with this bite size $21 eggplant parm - no pasta or vegetable / salad. The portion would very small for an appetizer). yup, its DC - but I don't see this place staying in business. couple more things added to the 1 star rating. they added a 5% service fee for increased costs (a left over covid surcharge?) ... just up the prices, enough with the BS add on fees. not sure how they get away with a single bathroom for a fairly large restaurant / coffee bar. just before the bathroom is where the staff stacks dirty dishes, I didn't want to look very closely, I had not received my food yet. absolutely DO NOT go to this restaurant. read more
9 months ago
Piccolina had been on my list so I was excited to try it. It is confusing upon entering, because you can order at the counter, order cannoli in the cannoli section, or be seated with table service and the signs are unclear. I wanted table service and finally a staff member approached. He told me I didn't need to take a menu, as the sign said when I walked in. He seated me and I was brought a menu. It is a cute cafe. I ordered the porchetta panino, which was tasty, but small for $18. Even though I liked it, I left hungry, as there really wasn't anything else to order on the menu. I wanted a cannoli but the server told me I couldn't order it with him. And I also asked him to confirm hours but he didn't know the hours, which was odd. If you aren't starving and need something quick, Piccolina is good. I wanted to return to try the pizza, but after my odd experience, I think not. I'll go elsewhere for a good meal. read more
2 years ago
Fast service, cute italian cafe with adorable cannolis in city center - feels like a corporate coffee chat spot but it kind of has to be with its location! Would go again! read more
3.5 stars! Came to Piccolina on a Sunday for breakfast. I assumed it was a cafe but it's more of a restaurant. You either sit down and someone will come to you and take your order or you can order at the counter and take it to go. A bit confusing. It's very casual so I assumed it'd be more like a Tatte than a restaurant. I had a lavender latte which SLAPPED. Super delicious. I also got the egg and cheese on brioche which was just okay. The brioche is really good and light and buttery but the sandwhich has no real flavor and there's barely any cheese on it. For $12 sandwich is wasn't bad but incredibly mid. Also had a fruit cup and a cannoli with chocolate chips (you can choose toppings). The fruit was super fresh and sweet. The cannoli was a little on the smaller side but super crisp and flaky with a lighter citrus forward filling. I prefer a sweeter more decadent cannoli. This one was much lighter and not super sweet but still good. My server was friendly and the ambience was cute. A lot of natutal light and very approachable. Easy to walk in and grab a seat around 10:30am on a Sunday. The restaurant was mostly empty. There's a few seats outside. With that being said, at ~$40 for a small okay breakfast that didn't include alcohol, I'm not sure I would come back to Piccolina for breakfast but I would definitely come back for coffee. Overall I had a good experience and enjoyed my meal but the taste and portion sizes arent worth the price, especially considering its in an area with a ton of options where you can get more that's better for less. read more
What a fun place for a healthy brunch while walking and shopping in the city center. Walk on the alley was pretty and the restaurant joint Alana's a great ambience of Italian vibe. Friendly staffs and service were good. See pic below for the menu items we've devoured. All were tasty, especially the breads & light dressings on salad. We were bummed their specialty donut dessert was sold out, perhaps another time. Hope you get to stop by and enjoy! Bon appetite! read more
2 years ago
Perfect view of NYC and Hudson River from the outdoor seating. Spacious shop. The pasties were delish. I honestly don't remember the coffee but good thing is I don't remember it being bad. read more
1 year ago
Brilliant lunch. Light fresh healthy flavorful simple perfectly done. I had the Scarpo salad which was lightly dressed, tender escarole with grated Parmesan and Statler chicken. Wonderfully crisp skin. Perfectly al dente broccoli rabe with garlic and olive oil. Ended with espresso. Delightful lunch. read more
2 years ago
This is honestly my favorite place for a casually leisure breakfast or for coffee and maybe sweets such as a bomboloni. Everything here is prepared beautifully and well. Prices are reasonable, especially considering that it's in the glitzy CityCenter's Palmers Alley. And the stuff here is really Italian. read more
3 years ago
Confused at first but rewarded by perseverance. Ordered at the counter. Little help from cashier on what to order. Cannoli was very good, though didn't expect cream to be cold. Drip coffee was hot and tasty, good sized cup too. Meatball burger was meh, not worth the $18 IMO. Restrooms on-site. read more
1 year ago
10 months ago
2 years ago
Absolutely delicious cannolis! Very authentic Italian desserts. Friendly staff. Just wish I had room for more. read more
This is the best pizza in Downtown DC and nearby. $17-18 and it is just great! The place is not crowded usually. Also they have great coffee (Cortado is my favorite here) and cannoli. Also this place has fancy and beautiful interior. Great personnel and service. Definitely recommended. read more
4 years ago
so, this is rather unfortunate... very cute space, well designed interior. That is where all the two stars went... there are no more stars left to give to this place... concept is confusing: kinda a self service coffee shop, kinda a sit down restaurant and every employee tells you a different story... and only a single restroom for a sit down restaurant is odd as well... food is rather awful... ordered a cheesy biscuit from the counter, came with an over-boiled, grey "hard boiled" egg inside.... Biscuit was warm, egg was cold... odd... burger was awful, breakfast sandwich was awful... eggplant Parmesan was a bit like a frozen dinner version... Hope it will improve.... Really want it to be good. read more
1 year ago
6 years ago
I stopped here last Friday for a quick snack While shopping. The cafe is small and cute with outdoor seating. They are part of the centrolina restaurant I believe so they sell some of the pastries that were sold there. Which was a happy treat for me because I love the rainbow cookies! They are my favorite Italian bakery treat so I was happy they were here. I ordered the rainbow cookies, a vanilla cream donut, and a chai latte. First, let me say that the chai latte was one of the best I've had! Second, the cookies and donut were also delicious and just what my sweet tooth needed. They also serve sandwiches and little pizzas (flat bread pizzas maybe?). Which all looked good but I didn't try. The barista looked as if he really ensured each espresso was made perfectly. So if you are looking for a good coffee with some delicious sweets I definitely recommend this place. My only critique is the pastries are expensive. But it's also what I expect from the city center area. read more
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963 Palmer Alley NW
Washington, DC 20001
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(202) 804-5713
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http://www.piccolinadc.com
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3 years ago
Piccolina - italian - Updated July 2026
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