I went here last night with my girlfriend. The Staff: The woman at the counter was clearly put off by the fact we chose to eat at their establishment. We came in without a "hello", or a "welcome", she walked up the counter and stood there staring at us silently, waiting for us to order. We had to look at the menu first, which took about 90 seconds, she was visibly annoyed. She took our order and money without a word, or even a smile. On the way out the door I even said "thanks much", and still she remained silent, instead looking up briefly with what I can only call contempt, as if she was doing me some favor. The Food: I had the spaghetti and meatballs. The only way to describe it was sub-par. There was almost no sauce, and the meatballs tasted like they had been soaking in a Sun City hot tub since the time of biblical creation. The bread was burned, and not just a little, it was black on 3 of 4 sides. The GF had the veggie pizza, and she said it was good. I didn't try it. Conclusion: I won't be giving my money to them again. Reading through the other reviews, I have to agree with Joseph S. You can get better food for less money from people who are happy to have your business. In all, the experience was so bad that it prompted me to write my first Yelp review, but I don't know, maybe I'm just a jerk! read more

This place has amazing pizza. It's been around for like 20 years and once you try it you immediately understand why.

Pino Martino owner of Pino's Pizza al Centro, immigrated to Phoenix from Basilicata, Italy approximately 30 years ago. Pino's specializes in Italian and New York pies with their signature thin crust. He also offers delicious specialty pizzas. Pizza is available by the pie or by the slice. It's the perfect spot for lunch or dinner. If you prefer an authentic calzone, Pino's is the place to get one. In all his dishes, Chef Martino uses only the best and freshest ingredients. He makes his own sausage and never uses the likes of canned tomato sauce or puree. If you prefer a sandwich or a salad, you'll find a nice variety to choose from. I especially like the caprese made of fresh mozzarella and basil. The thought of the Italiano panini made with Pino's home made Italian dressing and imported prosciutto, makes my mouth water. Chef Martino, himself, is always in the kitchen. If you go when it's not meal time, he might even have a moment to stop by your table and tell you some true tales of Italy. I LOVE Pinos! read more

With Pizza A Metro right down the street, I'm not sure why anyone would settle for Pino's. Uninspired with awful service AND a tiny parking lot. Heck, if you're too lazy to drive to Pizza A Metro, go to Z Pizza for a pie instead. read more

So, I get cravings for things every now and again. Today for lunch I had a craving for a nice Italian Chicken Parm sandwich. Having not yet tried Pino's Pizza, I went in for lunch and ordered take out. I had a beer while I waited and since the counter service was pleasant I left a $2 tip. Have you ever felt like you got ripped off? I mean, $20 for a sandwich and a beer for lunch.....wow. You'd think it was free range chicken imported from chicken heaven. But the bill wasn't the worst part. The sandwich ??? Noooooooooooooooooooo!! If I wanted boiled chicken breast, with a tablespoon of red sauce with mozzarella cheese, I would have gone to the local retirement village. This sandwich, though portioned right was AWFUL. The best thing about it was the roll. A chicken parm sandwich starts with italian bread crumb battered chicken, pan fried, with oh....let's say PARMESAN cheese, perhaps some melty provolone and a nice smothering of a FLAVORFUL red sauce. This had NONE of those components. First time, shame on you, there will be no second time despite the prior decent reviews. read more

Pino's should be your stop if your not in brooklyn, or Italia. His place has the best Italian Menu in town. Italian owner Pino is always smiling and welcoming his second family, his guest. The Menu definitely has it's New York flavor with just a simple folded paper with all the items. His Pizza's are delicious try something different every time you will not be dissapointed. One of Pino's specialty pizza's is the Pinos Pasta Pizza a very interesting pie that packs the carbs, but you will want it all the time. Calzones... What can I say about them? I will put anyone up against Pino's! His calzones are simply amazing. You can mix and match them to your liking. His ingredients are superb! If you like Prosciutto Di Parma make sure its on your calzone with some tomatoes, fontina cheese and he will do the rest. I can talk about this place for hours.... I have been a longtime customer and Pino is working on helping me with my Italian after all the visits I have made. Parking is tuff so be ready to walk. His place is small and cozy he does have some servers that can occasionally need a kick but the food and some good wine will erase that thought pretty quickly. Buona Fortuna read more

I've eaten at Pino's more times than I can count. It's been a while because I live far and have been busy. I went in for dinner last night with a friend and feel the need to do SOMEthing to spread the word about this little gem of a place with FRESH, authentic and delicious food. I'm Italian raised by FOB parents with a huge extended (Italian) family and lots of great Italian food lovingly made and offered at every turn. Last night I felt like I was at one of those extended family/friends gatherings with food that could only be made by . . . a real Italian who puts his heart into it. I could go on about the dishes last night: Caprese salad, Brussel sprouts with Italian sausage, Sfingiolone, THE HOMEMADE BREAD, and the famous pork chop with gorgonzola cream and a side of spaghetti marinara. . . but I hope you try it for yourself. He's always making new specials from the old country that I've often never heard of and they're delicious and always always fresh. A very modest, very casual place which looks like a pizza place at lunch, if you come for dinner, it can feel like you're at a much fancier place because of the good vibe and sense of privacy you can get at the farther away from the entrance tables. If you peek in the kitchen, you'll know HOW FRICKIN CLEAN this place is kept (and I value that a lot)!! This place has been around for 20 years or more and retains it's commitment to great, fresh, authentic (Pino is from Italy, can't help it) food from PIZZA to their delicious specials and pastas and HOMEMADE BREAD. Pino's humble always underplaying how great his food is and one of the hardest working owners I've ever met. He's (almost) Always there cooking, shops for his own fresh food before they open, you'll find him cleaning near close of day etc. etc. Lucia, his wife and co-owner is sharp as a whip, fun funny and runs the place like clockwork. WHY this place isn't packed every night is beyond me. If I lived nearby I couldn't help but frequent it more often. read more

Do not return anything to the kitchen that is not cooked correctly. Fair warning: the entree will remain on your bill. I will not be returning to this restaurant. Horrific service and manager contradicted himself several times. The customer is not respected at this established in my view. read more

Earlier this year (pre c19) I planned to have lunch with a friend of mine who happens to live near Pino's Pizza. She suggested we meet there for lunch. It looks uninviting from the outside, but the moment you walk in, all you can sense is Italian goodness. The aroma and sight of hot pizzas coming out of the kitchen made my mouth water. We had little bottles of Prosecco with the lunch special that day. Absolutely delicious! I mean really good favor and pasta made to perfection. Fortunately the servings were generous and we both enjoyed take-home leftovers. I can't wait to go back. read more

Amazing and delicious! I'm originally from the east coast and Pino's has THE BEST pizza in the valley hands down! The owner is always so friendly and welcoming too I used to live close to Pino's but now live about 20 minutes away, but I will always make the trip for their food! read more

I really appreciate having Pino's around the corner. Their pizza, sandwiches and plates are very good. I must state this: Their meatballs are to die for! Get 'em. They melt in your mouth. I'm also a big fan of their penne primavera. A wonderful combination of vegetables (Zucc, broc, and friends) in a nice sauce mixed with penne al dente. Pizza is reliably good. Though it is at a low volume, I'm not a fan of the music. Pino is always there. Say hi. read more

Sigh, so much for my favorite pizza place. I'm not sure if the place changed hands, I didn't see Pino when I went last night. The service was very slow and the pizza was so disappointing. I used to love this place and now I'm not even sure the pizza's average. read more

Ordered a pizza because I've heard good things from this place and let me tell you they did not disappoint it was very good 10/10 will order again pizza was cheesy and crisp had just the right amount of sauce and just enough pepperonis on if I would def recommend the pizza from here read more

Best pizza in town, hands down. Everything on the menu is spectacular. The specials will blow you out of the water. Pino - owner. He brought the taste of great Italian with him when he moved here. You can find him in the kitchen most Friday and Saturday nights preparing meals. I've been going here for years. I used to take my grandparents every Saturday. Taste, quality, and excellence of food has never, ever wavered. Do not be put off by the inside decor. It is simple. Not terribly attractive or nice or fancy or elegant. But that does not matter because it's about the food and getting authentic Italian you CANNOT make yourself at home. read more

Nice, simple pizza place on Thomas near Central...makes for a good lunch for those of us that work downtown and need to get out of the office occasionally for lunch. The inside is bigger than I thought it would be and it's very simple, which is fine. There are a few tables outside as well. The parking lot out front is TINY, but supposedly you can park around back as well. We parked in front of the CPA's office next door with no problems. Although I didn't see it advertised anywhere and it's not listed in the menu I took with me, you can buy pizza by the slice, which is very important for me to rate a place as a good pizza joint. Secondly, my slice of cheese was under $2...another plus. The slice was large, greasy without being too greasy, and had a healthy ratio of cheese to sauce. I also ordered a caesar salad...it was large enough so that I could have ate just that for lunch. The only negative was that for the size of the salad, it didn't have enough dressing. The speciality salad for the day looked delicious and my two co-workers who ordered it really enjoyed it. For my salad, slice of cheese pizza, and soda, my bill was $10. Service was quick and Pino's offers call ahead and delivery for those that can't enjoy a leisurely lunch. read more

4 dollars per topping on 16" pizza. That's like a million% markup lmao. The food is amazing but I'm not paying 4 dollars for some onions on my pizza get real!! read more

Mama Mia thats a good pizza! And I mean it! There are many places that seemed to be well liked on here for NY style pizza, but this one deserves a great rating. To start off I was encouraged they used the exact same pizza ovens as the places I like in NY, not some conveyor belt pizza over. The crust is tossed, not pressed, and well done is the way the pizza is done. From the online menu you may not know they sell pizza by the slice. Cheese slices are $2.50 + .50 per topping, but why mess with a good thing. Sicilian squares are $3.50 and stuffed pizza is $3.95 The cheese slice was great, the crust was crisp, the cheese was rich yet done enough to have some of the oils separate, the sauce was flavorful and not sweet and there was a hint of basil. The Sicilian slice was great to with a true twice baked crust, and just more of all of the great flavors of the cheese slice. The stuffed veggie pizza was good two. Like a mini Calzone sans cheese, the crust was crisp on the outside and moist on the inside the filling was subtle but fresh. Their menu also had pastas, salads and sandwitches. I must come back to try the pastas too. During lunch one orders at a counter and then picks up the food from the counter when your number is called. Bottom line, great pizza with out the crazy waits or prices at other good pizza places in AZ. read more

As a native New Yorker, Pino's is a godsend in the heart of Phoenix. EXCELLENT New York Style Pizza. Period. To those yelpers who had a bad experience, go to New York sometime. You'll never survive. read more

My husband and I used to frequent this place whenever we felt like going out to dinner. The pizza isn't the best in town, but we were fond of the service and neighborhood-y atmosphere (friendly, casual). The last 4 times we've been there over the past few months, the service has been actually awful. Once we had a new waitress, who said it was her first day as a waitress, for which I felt bad because...why wasn't anyone training her?! Last time, the waitress was actually rude, and barely checked on us, even though we would have ordered more if she had. Her loss, Pino's loss. Used to feel like an old friend. Sadly, no more. Not sure we'll ever go back, because you want to feel welcome when you frequent a place. If you do go, I recommend a plain cheese or quattro fromaggi pizza or the lasagna, which is often on special. Oh, they used to serve budweiser (regular, not light) in frosted glasses, and there was something old fashioned and delicious in it, but they don't seem to do that anymore either. There is also one great Italian waiter, but we never get him anymore. I guess we're not good enough to get real waiters?? Ha. read more

I love me some Pino's. If you are star struck by local newscasters, you can almost always find one or two in Pino's. Some are pretty FOXy. The spaghetti marinara is great! But my fav is the pizza-- any kind. Strange hours, but that's an Italian for you (I am 1/2 Italian, so I am allowed to say this) read more

I'm pretty sure it's more than just the red bricks and neon writing that just screams "comfort". After having a buddy recommend this place due to a raving review of a lamb dish, I finally decided to give it a try. When you walk in you can just smell the aroma of fresh marinara sauce. For me, that's always the first test - does the place have a good red sauce or not? Well after plowing through the linguini side that accompanied some of the best pork chops I've ever had, I can say "mamma Mia!!" (and not to Abba tunes mind you, more like to That's amore). The special that I chose was 2 pork chops in a gorgonzola cream sauce that I found greatly enjoyable. The pork was cooked thorougly, and still moist. I can also say that the otger staples are highly enjoyable - fresh mozzarella and meatballs get an A+, as well as some of the crispiest salad I've had in a long time (barring my weekly trips to the farmers market). Go and mangia! read more

I have already eaten here twice and loved both what my husband ordered (The Pene Bos), a pizza with lots of meat and my calzone made to my preference (I ordered a calzone with chicken cutlets and mushrooms). All of it was excellent and the price is very reasonable considering other Central Phoenix restaurants we have been to. A calzone starts off at rouhghly $6.00 and the add ons are additional but very worth it. There is something addictive about the sauces they make, so just be warned. You can't untaste the goodness of it. read more

I love Pino's. They have a stuffed veggie calzone thing that is really really tasty and if you are if you are in the mood for something lighter, the salads are actually quite good as well. It's always super crowded at lunch but people cycle through pretty fast because everyone is in a rush to get back to work (this part of town is lawyer/business-type heavy). Word of warning - cash only. I don't have any funny stories about Pino's. I wish I did. As I am writing this review I am boring myself. But what can I say? It's consistently good and I am usually here with work people so I'm on good behavior. read more

As a former New Yorker, I judge a pizzeria on its cheese slice,and Pino's is out of this world. Throw in the personalities of the owners, and this restaurant is a little taste of Brooklyn in an otherwise drab market. read more

Pino's is a relatively new find for me, and I'm so glad my friend Brian was kind enough to suggest it for lunch one day. The other reviewers are right about the parking situation - there's not much of it! If you get there early enough, though, you won't have a problem. I'm a fan of simple pizza: not too much sauce, lots of cheese, and a great crust. Pino's offers just that. And even better, two people can go in, split a one-topping, 10" pizza and each enjoy a huge fountain drink for just over $12 total. That's a great deal and will keep me returning time and again! read more

Went here today for lunch after not being here in like 15-20 years. This place has been around awhile just like Johnny's Red Hots and First Watch. Others in the area are mostly new-comers and chains. Pino's was great then and still is! The front parking was full as were most of the tables with local business people, firemen, cops, etc. I ordered a couple of slices, one cheese, one with pepperoni and black olives. They were both fantastic. The crust was delicious and the flavor of the sauce and the pepperoni was outstanding. I'm not sure what the previous reviewer Kris M was talking about. This place is authentic. The place Kris refers to a couple of buildings down (Z-pizza) is not. Don't get me wrong - Z has it's place but anyone over the age of 14 knows the difference between authentic Italian and a funky California based chain. As for the pepperoni, they use an authentic aged and cured pepperoni, not some packaged and processed American version of pepperoni. And as for Kris M making fun of the name, IT'S THE GUY'S NAME!! Seriously, how immature are you to make fun of someone's name??? It's a common Italian fist name. Grow up!! Like the previous reviewer said - try them yourselves! If you're looking for authentic Italian, you won't be disappointed! read more

I love this place. You can't get any better than a place that offers really good Italian food at great prices. I always have the pepperoni calzone that always leaves me feeling like I'm going to pop. This place doesn't try to be anything other than a great family run business. When you get there you can hear one of the owners in a heavy Italian accent yelling in the kitchen...it doesn't get any better. If you are near central and Thomas you have to try this place. You won't leave disappointed! read more

I love this place. The review about them being angry I've never seen. They were some of the nicest people I've met. When I said something about wanting more vegetarian options the reply was "we'll make it work! just let us know." There is no Alfredo on the menu, but the waiter guaranteed that it'd be no problem for them to make. The 4 formaggi pizza was fantastic. The spaghetti is great, so is the cal-zone. Everything on the menu is served with good sized portions, enough so that I have leftovers. Which is awesome as I am the queen of leftovers. I highly recommend this place and if you want something not on the menu ask, they are more than willing to accommodate. read more

Pino's is by far my favorite pizza in Phoenix! I actually haven't gotten past the pizza but other people I've dined with have and said the rest of the menu is good too. But the pizza is amazing!!! I recommend Pino's to all my friends. read more

I just found my favorite pizza joint in Phoenix. Without a doubt when my teeth sank into the awesome slice of Sicilian style pizza I knew I was coming back, and I was bringing more people with me. I am at a loss for words when it comes to that 4 sided piece of heaven. The mix of chewy and hot, crunchy and smooth all mixed together in such a wonderful manner becomes the canvas of the artisan. There are hundreds of ways to do pizza, and only a few ways to do it right. These guys hit the target. The crust was strong, the cheese was delightful, and the sauce supported its cast of sausage, pepperoni and spices like an oscar winner. For lunch I don't think this place has anyone in their league. Quick service, solid menu, salads that make even this meat lover think twice about what to order; this place made us smile as our eyes wondered about the room seeing what others ordered taking mental notes for future visits. read more

Love love love the Quattro pizza. The daily specials are always amazing and the owner is a genuine great guy!! Take the time to chat with him if he is not too busy. Signed, Jan and Tracy-The Vespa couple read more

Felt sorry for them and their unfortunately chosen name "Pino's? Pee Nose? Peniz?) as their parking lot was empty- felt hm perhaps the delicious pizza place adjacent to them was "stealing" all their business. Nope. Got one of their large pepperonis, it had these weird dime sized pepperonis that curled up at the edges. VERRRY salty, poor quality. Dominos, Papa Johns type stuff. Will not return. Suspicious of 5 star ratings, in fact. Don't believe me? Try them yourselves! You will be disappointed. read more

I have only had lunch at Pino's so my review is limited. However I have had lunch there over 50 times in the past 9 years. Positives, locaton, quick, hot greasy slices, decent sauce and cheese blend. A good fold type of slice. Clean and bright with big windows facing Thomas. You can be in and out in 20 minutes pre or post 12 Noon. Negatives - Cash only - feel free to use the atm with $3 + service charge. Overpriced across the board. Avoid the stuffed chicken parm slice, inside is a mystery breading with little to no chicken. Charging extra for a side of sauce when the chicken parm subs come with 1 drop of sauce - lame. Avoid these items like the plague. Negatives continued - Ordering a soda means the 48 ounce guzzler. You must order a small (in a to go cup) otherwise you get a prepoured extra large. Considering they frown upon free (see rude below) refills if you drink a lot of soda the 48z may be for you. On a serious note. Ownership and staff is mildly rude. Counter staff turns over frequently. Likely because the owner scrowls and jaws and hawks over the cash register. Having been here as much as I have I can't recall ever hearing a welcome to pino's or have a nice day. Ever. Bottom line here seems more about getting your money than atmosphere, service or attention to detail. Bottom line = A decent enough slice for lunch. read more

Pino's might be the best pizza I have ever had... Thin, crispy crust with small pepperoni's, and light sauce. Not sure how else to describe it, you just have to go and taste it. Pino and the other employee's are always very nice. For me, it beats anything else in the area easily. read more

We love this place! The meals are always consistent and yummy. We love the meatball dish as an appetizer. I am a sauce snob and let me tell you, this sauce makes me write home to Mama about it! The calazones and pizzas are fantastic. The crust is perfect, chewy and crispy right where it counts. Our favorite pizza is the vegetarian with chicken and kalamata olives. My mouth is watering and I'm trying to give my hubby to call in an order while I type. On top of it, the owner, wait staff and crew are incredibly nice. We take our two year old in with us and they are very nice to her! Try the tiramisu for dessert. You will write gran-mama home about that one! Yum. read more

Great pizza! Crust is airy and crisp... Oh, so tasty! Seem to use high quality ingredients. This is hands-down my favorite pizza in Phoenix. I always seem to crave Pino's on Sundays, so I find myself frustrated that they are closed. Dear Pino's, We know you need a day to yourself, but please, please, PLEASE... stay open on Sundays! read more

Although labeled as a "pizza" place, this is one of the best rounded Italian restaurants in downtown. The pizza is great here, but it doesn't stop there. With calzones, pasta, sandwiches, salads and desserts, there is something good here for everyone. Pizza is available by the slice in both thin crust and Sicilian, however I prefer my pizza fresh, so I order a 10" for myself. My favorites are the Bianca, and the Carnivori. The sandwiches are large, and enough for even the hungriest of men, but I suggest having it on the homemade focaccia bread. The salads are huge and big enough for sharing or you'll have some to save for later. Parking can be an issue here with only a few spots out front...But us regulars know about the hidden spots in the alley behind the building... read more

Had never been here stopped for lunch before my son's Dr appointment. I actually thought it was closed judging by the appearance outside. Ordered a slice of cheese pizza for my son, and a cheese steak for myself. My son got his pizza in a few minutes as he got his order he asked the gentlemen who handed him his pizza for a side of ranch. The cashier yells across its .81 cents. Not a problem paying for extra but everyone in there turned and looked... As I was digging in my purse for the change a man I'm assuming to be the owner walked up and gave him the ranch I offered to pay it but he said no it's ok. I thought it was nice of him. I waited about 15 minutes for my sandwich when it came my son had already finished his pizza which was ok he enjoyed it and was full. He just got the cheese pizza as he is not a fan of toppings, the slices are pretty big, crispy... I didn't eat any so I can't elaborate on it. My cheese steak was pretty big, steak, mushrooms onions and spinach and tons and tons of cheese... I liked that my bread was so crispy and crunchy... I don't think it had much flavor other than cheese... I've had cheese steaks at other places and I can't say that this one was any better than I've had I actually could say I like another places better. At 12 dollars for it... I think I'll stick to my other spot for cheese steak. I'm not saying it was bad... Just not memorable.... The place is decorated nicely, pretty dim.. Bathroom was clean and pretty dim as well. This is not a place I'd come running to... For me and my 12 year old kid... We spent 23 bucks... Not that I can't afford it because I can but it's pricey compared to other places. read more

Pino's Pizza Al Centro - Cheese steak - Italian Near Me - Phoenix, Arizona

This Italian restaurant is located very near my company's headquarters and the hotel I stay in when I visit here. I have eaten here many times during the last ten years. During that time, I have always enjoyed every meal. Open for lunch and early dinners the pastas, pizzas and other menu items are always good. The lunch crowd is usually larger than for dinner only because of the surrounding commercial area. Counter service only. Parking is somewhat limited. read more

Everything is still great there AND- they've lightened up on the Debit thing- no more odd restrictions when you pay. That's gotta be better for business all the way around. A few more tidbits o' info: the sausage is homemade, so don't hesitate to get a sausage pizza; a slice of cheese pizza is sublime, needs no toppings at all; the 4-cheese pizza is dreamy, order one; try a pizza with pesto, mozarella and ricotta, you'll weep it's so good. Cheese steak sandwich is worth a repeat visit as well. read more