Pizza Del Populo ('the pizza of the people') is a tiny place that looks more like an old-fashioned snack bar from the 60's which has never been upgraded. And factually it compares more to a shabby bar where you can consume cheap shots (tons of cheap shots!), a Strongbow, an Almdudler or a local bottle of beer. Quick and casually.
The ambiente is vintage labor-class but without annoying bums or alcoholics. The owner and his assistant are grumpily friendly and always open for a conversation. As it is the tradition among any authentic Viennese, even those who are first generation immigrants, they love to grizzle with you about the deterioration of the city's affairs.
It's surely not a place where you want to take your girlfriend to dinner. There are not even tablecloths. And you might have to ask separately for cutlery. But who eats pizza with a fork and knife? You have been warned.
If you are in the area, hungry, and pressed in time, however, you can compose your own pizza which is now prepared à la minute in a newly acquired wood stove. And those are awesome, amongst the best in the first district! If you like your pizza the way the Italians originally designed them, that is, namely on a thin slice of dough with a browning of the crust. Also available as a takeaway in small or large size. There are always current newspapers available which you can read.
Or you can come in the evening and watch tonight's football game on the big screen, sharing your emotions with the crowd.
Friday and Saturday nights, Pizza Del Populo is the meeting point of a diverse multitude of students, laborers, professionals, natives and migrants alike. There would be even more people if there were more space. There is no snobbery, and as the place is small and extends directly to the street, one can have great conversations and meet ever new people while tippling along. Or one has a single shot and moves on to the infamous 'Bermuda Triangle.' By the way, there is a great sausage stand and a tobacco vending machine just nearby.
Pizza Del Populo has long earned its own reputation as an insider tip -- for those who aren't cheeky and know what to expect. This is not a pizza restaurant, although it makes delicious pizzas. read more