I stopped by Trattoria ZaZa for brunch on Sunday after church, and overall, I had a really enjoyable experience. There was a bit of a wait before my order was taken, but honestly, it worked out in my favor because it gave me plenty of time to look over the menu. There were so many tempting options that it was honestly hard to decide! I ultimately chose three items and enjoyed a few bites of each. Ham & Fontina Scone: This was my first time trying a scone, and I was pleasantly surprised. The texture reminded me of a dry biscuit, but the ham added a delicious savory flavor that I really enjoyed. Frittata Plate: The frittata was SO good! It wasn't too dry, and all of the flavors worked really well together. It was served with polenta, which reminded me of really fine grits, along with fruit. After trying it, I realized that one entrée would definitely be enough for me to enjoy on its own. Breakfast 'ZA: This was essentially a breakfast pizza topped with a fried egg, and the egg was such a nice touch. The 'ZA itself was really good, although I think adding something similar to a gravy or sauce would make it a little less dry. Even without it, though, the fried egg really took it to another level. Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso: I decided to try the Brown Sugar Shaken Espresso, which was the barista's pick. This was my first time having a shaken espresso, and I'm so glad I gave it a try! It was refreshing and perfect for a hot day. The inside of Trattoria ZaZa is nice, although it is somewhat small, so I opted to sit outside. It was a very warm day, but the awning provided plenty of shade and made the outdoor seating comfortable. I also appreciated that, even though the restaurant doesn't have traditional table service, someone periodically checked on me to make sure I didn't need anything else. Overall, I had a great brunch experience at Trattoria ZaZa. There were plenty of menu options, the food was flavorful, and I really enjoyed trying a few things that were new to me. I'd definitely be open to coming back and trying more of the menu! read more

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We came for dinner before a show down the street at the Lyric. First time here. She had the baked macaroni and cheese with vegetables added and absolutely loved it. I had the daily special, which was a broken lasagna. Also very, very good. Mixed greens on the side rounded out our table. The pizza looked very good and reminded us of pizza in a shop we love in Cleveland Heights, Ohio. It's walk up service, no ordering from your table, which was fine. The menu has a nice variety. The store is a downtown casual vibe. We probably should've opted for outdoor seating, because the evening was so nice. read more

This place is the best spot I been to downtown birmingham. Ive visited a few times now and the only time it wasnt great and smooth was sunday morning. I foun d out later that theyre very popular and busy for brunch so keep that in mind if you go for weekend brunch. I would suggest trying to get ahead of the 11 oclock rush or after the 1pm rush The pizza is amazing the owner cares a great deal and the menu is inspired read more

First time here and I can't believe it took me this long to try this place. I loved the special of the day pizza. All the flavors that you traditionally don't find for toppings were great! The red sauce and dough were really good too which is just a staple when being in the pizza industry. My salad was actually good. I would love that dressing recipe! I got another to go order of the 4 slices (not pictured because my husband devoured it) He said the pepperoni was his favorite. Will be back! Service was great! Workers were kind and friendly! Clean restaurant and restroom. read more

Trattoria Zaza - Salami pizza, cheese pizza, Mixed Greens Salad - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

This place is my type of vibe! Trattoria ZaZa has been on my list of places to stop at for several years. Parking often deters me but after attending the Italian Festival earlier that day, we had a craving for pizza. I ordered the combo that includes 2 slices of the day with salad. Since I wasn't overly hungry, I offered him one of my slices and he added another slice to the order. We paid and were given a number to place on our selected table. Jazzy music played in the background while we waited on our order to be brought to the table. The natural lighting, while beautiful, made it a little warm in the building. One of the waitresses propped the door open that leads to the restrooms (which are in the hallway near the elevators) in order for cooler air to make its way in. That wasn't a deal breaker, but do be aware of that on warmer days. Our food came out after a short wait. I kept my 3 cheese slice, and gave him the pepperoni one. The cheeses were very rich and the salad, while simple without the frills, was perfectly sized and drizzled with a balsamic vinaigrette that was just the right amount. While I enjoyed my meal very much and the ambiance, he wasn't overly impressed with his. He didn't want the fresh herbs on his slices and knocked all of them off, lol. He's a simple guy with simple taste. This is definitely a place I will be revisiting with one of my girlfriends and not him next time as he didn't appreciate what ZaZA had to offer. Everyone we encountered was helpful and courteous. Our food, including drinks, was around $28, which was not bad for a cute, eclectic spot downtown. If you haven't been, make sure to try them out soon. Just don't wait as long as I did to visit! read more

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It took me 5 years to make it back around to Zaza. I like the vibes here. Ok!!! This place is always packed and was no different when me and some friends met up here for Sunday brunch. The long lines can be discouraging but actually moved pretty fast. The staff here is amazing and definitely hardworking. As you can see from the pics we ordered a few different things. I was not happy with that overcooked bacon I was served. For $7 it really could have been better. I also had 2 eggs ($3 each) / side of hashbrowns ($6) and a $12 itty bitty mimosa. See pics. My friends seem to have enjoyed their food. They also enjoyed their cold coffee drinks. For me a $31 dollar check wasn't what I was expecting. Thankfully their pricing already factors in the tip. Overall, this visit was fun, catching up with my gal pals. I hate to give 3 stars since this is really more like 3.5 stars based on the food quality and service received. read more

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Had the half order of biscuits and gravy (highly recommend) and my friends got the French toast, which was incredible. Everything tasted fresh and amazing. The orange juice is a must! This is a small gem that's perfect for a small group brunch! read more

Trattoria Zaza - French Toast - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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Casual ambiance and fast service. Great value for what you're getting. Not the best Italian I've had but decent for the price. People rave about the baked feta, but for $14 I don't think it's worth it at all. The pizza is pretty good and they have creative flavors of the day. The chicken parm was the best, as it was crispy and flavorful. read more

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We had a girls brunch here, and it was such a beautiful day. They offer both indoor and outdoor seating, and we chose to sit inside. The food came out quickly, and it did not disappoint. The salmon was delicious! They also offer complimentary water, which was a nice touch. The location is perfect for a nice walk afterward. Definitely give them a try! read more

Trattoria Zaza - SMOKED SALMON CREAM CHEESE BAGEL - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Went here on a girl's night. Got the Saturday special (has since changed but was - rigatoni, vodka sauce and chicken cutlet) and the rosemary bread. OH MY GOSH! I have been craving it ever since. It was delectable. Price was very fair especially with the portion size. I really like that gratuity is built into the menu prices. Food was so fresh. We sat outside on the patio and it was just beautiful and wonderful. Despite it being fairly busy, we got our food quite promptly. Staff were very polite. read more

Trattoria Zaza - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Stopped in for a bite with a friend and was pleasantly surprised! The food was super delicious and priced and portioned nicely. I don't know if this is worth sharing, but new silverware would be a nice touch especially with the noodles. Ambiance was great and honestly, I wish I would've added a pizza it looked so good! read more

Trattoria Zaza - Chicken parmigiana Fettuccine with Garlic-Pecorino Cream - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

A solid option while downtown. I got the breakfast pizza on a Saturday; with the added egg you can get a substantial meal with two slices. read more

Trattoria Zaza - Breakfast Za (by the Slice Only) - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

If you want an absolutely delectable dessert, Za Za is the place and the blueberry poppyseed cake is the item! This cake was everything you could possibly want! Served warm with a fresh blueberry cream sauce, the cake had a slight crisp on the outside with a delectable buttery taste. The inside was warm and soft. The flavors melded perfectly! Not too sweet with a hint of salt. Mmm, my mouth waters just thinking about it! Go here. Get this. You won't be sorry! read more

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I absolutely love Zaza for being such a well rounded and consistent fast casual spot. Over the years, I have tried the brunch, pasta, and pizza and not once have I left dissatisfied. They have different pizzas every day which makes going each time fun and they can get creative with the toppings but every time it works! read more

I recently stopped by Trattoria Zaza for lunch during the work week for a friend's birthday. It was a super rainy day so we sat inside, but I always see people sitting outside and it looks absolutely lovely. The space is small, but it definitely makes me feel like I'm in a small Italian café. Since it was cold and rainy, I opted for the soup, salad and bread special. The soup was a curry based and had so much flavor! The salad was so simple yet so delicious that I felt like I could not even re-create it, but the rosemary focaccia was 10 out of 10! The service was nice and quick, and it was nice that we were able to take our time during the lunch hour and not feel rushed. read more

Trattoria Zaza - Soup salad bread lunch special - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

Fast casual, and they have a special dish for every day of the week! I was here on Saturday night and got the rigatoni with fried chicken on top. The fry on the chicken was amazing, and the flavor of the pasta was great, I could've gone a little spicier. My dish came out a little bit cooler than I would've liked, but nonetheless delicious. I also tried the strawberry basil lemonade mocktail. Very refreshing for a hot summer day. My recommendation is to come here for lunch and get the pizza/salad lunch special. I believe it's two slices of whatever they've got made (usually cheese, pepperoni, and something special) and a side salad. But, if you're in the mood to try an interesting pasta dish, they do pasta very well, too! The vibe in here is much more family than date night. Some people kinda treat it like a coffee shop and do some work from the counter seats. Overall, I love Zaza and think it's a great addition to the downtown area. Street parking can be a little bit challenging around here, so come prepared to walk a block or two. read more

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Zaza continues to be one of our favorite casual spots for a quick Italian meal in a trendy environment with friendly service. You can see everything being freshly prepared in the open kitchen. We stopped in on an early Thursday evening just before the dinner rush. Parking can be a little tricky, so be patient as you may have to circle a bit for a close spot or just take a longer stroll in this usually active and walkable area of downtown Birmingham. Printed menus are available on the counter as you enter and specials are posted on the chalkboard just behind the little cart where you place your order with the hostess/cashier. We started with the delicious baked feta that comes with a generous side of warm rosemary bread. The rosemary bread alone is worth the trip downtown! For entrees, we chose the fettuccine alla panna with chicken and the baked mac & cheese. Both were excellent, and yes we ordered an extra side of the rosemary bread. There are lots of things to try, including an assortment of pizza options, some by the slice; beverages, including coffees, plus their very popular weekend brunch. They have some of the best French toast and scones in the area! Overall, I give Zaza an A+. read more

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Where to start? Went on a weekend, place was packed. The Bad: 1. SLOW. Waited in a line inside of 4 people in front of me. There was someone at the podium at the end who i thought was a server. Was not. After a 15 minute wait (why did it take that long?), we got to the podium person. And found out they were there to take our order, not seat us. Can only assume the 15 min delay was because people were trying to figure out what to order. No signage anywhere saying, please have what you want ready while you wait in line. 2. No menus, anywhere. Yes they can be printed and people in line could take one and figure out what they want. Yes, the menu could be put on the wall behind the server in large lettering. But no, they make you scan a QR code on the wall and view the menu on your phone, so that's inconvenient and a bit obtuse. 3. When we finally place an order for pizza, was told that, "they dont serve pizzas on the weekend, but we could order their "brunch pizzas", instead. Which on the counter, was small anemic cut slices of thick bready pizzas on the cutting board/table. Those each were $8.50 according to the menu. Figure the math of 2 small slices of pizza per person for 2 people vs just ordering a large pizza. But they don't serve pizza during brunch- Trattoria literally has the word "Pizza" in their last name- twice actually- yet you have to order a nearly $9 slice of pizza sitting out on a table for who knows how long, and of the flavor of their choice, not yours. It was flat out insulting to go to a pizza based establishment and be told they won't serve whole pizzas. We left and went to Uptown to a pizzaria there, and had a really good whole pizza, salad, dessert, and drinks, and all for half the price then if we had gone to Trattoria. Wanted to give this place a chance for years, but did not work out the way i had expected it to. read more

Popped in to Zaza on Sunday morning for brunch after a long Saturday night. I was looking for my regular breakfast pasta but the one I love was not on the menu this season. I ordered the biscuit and gravy instead. I waited at the bar for my to go order and ran into an associate, so we chatted while we waited for our orders. The place was bustling and the indoor and outdoor seating was almost full. It took a while since they were busy, but I wasn't in a rush. The dish was so flavorful and the biscuits were light and airy under the chicken gravy. I'm not a pork eater, so options for biscuits and gravy are extremely limited here in the south. The dish came with a salad. I know...it doesn't sound like it goes together, but trust me, it works. It was a mixed greens salad with a balsamic vinaigrette. I devoured it. It was the perfect balance for the main dish. I'll be back to get it again before the menu rotates again. Fyi...I devoured the food in the car so there are no pix. Sorry...I will get them next time. read more

If you're looking for a euro-style café, this is your place. I have eaten here for dinner, brunch, and just a cup of coffee. Each time has been spectacular thanks to the friendly and attentive staff, the unmatched vibes, and great food! Love coming here, absolutely on my top 5 spots in Birmingham. read more

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Trattoria Zaza did not disappoint for a weekday meal. Location and parking can be tricky, but once you get inside, you find a cozy dinner spot. Another review mentioned flies inside which still held true during our November dinner. Tried a few different items tonight! Highlights for appetizers were the baked feta and the Brussels sprouts. The rosemary bread was a delicious pair to the baked feta. Enjoyed the penne, but I tried my friend's fettuccine garlic-pecorino cream pasta which was so good. Wanting to come back to order the fettuccine for myself and try the spicy swineapple soon! read more

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We got take out from here to take to a park to enjoy. I ordered ahead of time and used Toast on their website and there was no mark up on pricing. The food was ready on time and I was able to find a spot t pull in just down the block from this downtown restaurant. We had to fill the fountain drinks we ordered ourselves though as they just gave us cups for those. Not sure how that would have played out if we had ordered curbside. I got the Saturday daily special and it was amazing! The rigatoni alla vodka...the sauce really made the dish as it was one of the best vodka sauces I have had. It was a good amount of food and the chicken was nice and crispy, as the description of the dish implies. The stracciatella cheese was a nice touch as well. I tried some of the T Bone pizza as well and the unique topping of potato worked well! read more

The pizza was a little greasy but overall it was good! We ate on it for 2-3 days! It was quick and easy dinner though and the price was good! Order at the counter when you walk in so not a lot of service to judge off of! read more

Trattoria Zaza - Three Cheese Pizza - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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Located in the heart of downtown. Very walkable area with plenty of shops around. Walked right in with no wait, a few outdoor tables for seating as well. Scan menu and order at counter. Can see them cooking behind the glass counter & all of the yummy pastries. Scone flavor specials on the chalkboard. A busy environment, but attentive and friendly servers. Bathrooms are located in the old bank and they are super clean and nice. Small breakfast/brunch menu but yummy options. We ordered several things: orange chocolate scone, goat cheese pepperoni scone ~ FANTASTIC. Nice, warm, and soft with great flavors. The two egg plate with carnitas, grits, and pickled onion was delicious and filling. One of the plates eggs weren't runny and didn't ask how we wanted eggs cooked. Frittata was absolutely amazing. Great flavor. Served with fresh fruit and grits - Yum! Brunch pizza was stacked with breakfast potatoes, bacon, egg, cheese. Looked great! {sold by the slice} We had to try the Plum mimosa, server said it was her favorite juice they had. Great tart flavor. Only reason 4 stars, waited a little long for food (40+ minutes) but we didn't mind read more

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I love Zara! It is one of my favorite places to go, especially when I want some pizza! That is what I usually get, however one day I went and they had a steak salad special that was AMAZING! I still think about this salad often lol. The staff is always so friendly when I visit and I love the vibe of the restaurant! One of my favorites in the city read more

Trattoria Zaza - Steak Salad - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

I Went out looking to try a new place. Stopped by and the food and service were great! The staff was so friendly. Ambiance was nice! I would definitely stop in again ! We spent hours talking, laughing, and enjoying each other's company. It turned out to be a perfect night out. read more

The French toast was simply amazing and the biscuits & gravy with the cubed potatoes/hashbrowns were so delicious! The black cherry and orange mimosas were refreshing! Love the fact that you can sit either inside on hot days or outside on sunny cool days. The staff all were super friendly and helpful. the line to wait to order was about 25 to 30 minutes long, but it was Easter Sunday so hopefully this was just a one off day. Otherwise can't wait to go back to this place!! So cute!! read more

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One of the best restaurants in Birmingham. I have been a patron since they opened their doors -- before they redid and expanded their space and when they had weekly breakfasts and Friday night dinners. The quality of the food is still great, their variety is lovely and their service has always been wonderful. Although we have moved, we make it a point to grab brunch whenever we are in town visiting. I will always love this little restaurant -- it's still one of our favorites. read more

Pizza was ok. The fact that you pay for service upfront but get no service. Basically order at counter, given a number, meal delivered. the end of "service". Glass of wine $15. read more

Food was great and at opening time the line to order was out the door. I'm definitely going back!

I went with the carbonara and it had the perfect creamy texture. Not too heavy but still rich and full of flavor. Bacon bits were crispy and added a good smoky taste. The pasta itself was cooked well and the sauce coated it perfectly. The staff was friendly and gave great service the whole time. Ambience was nice and quiet. Will definitely return for more. read more

Trattoria Zaza - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

One of favorite spots in bham for brunch. The food is always next level. If you can please make sure to get the pepperoni scone 10/10. Their lattes are perfect the wife says. We had this breakfast potato meal with beef and we cannot remember the name, and we couldn't find it in the menu the last time we went, but it was unbelievable. Good stuff from Trattoria Zaza. The service always rocks, and it is a very good vibe. read more

The porkalicious pizza was delicious, really some of the tastiest pizza I've ever had. I really don't like deep dish pizza because it's never done well but these guys hit it out of the park today, just the right amount of crisp...their Cabernet wine option is dreadful but the pizza more than compensated Well done ZaZa read more

Had a nice casual dinner here. Pasta was very good. Have not yet tried much else but will be back. Service was quick!

I came in for Saturday brunch on the recommendation of a close friend. I ordered the breakfast pasta, while my friend went with the summer tortellini salad. I really wanted to love my food, but unfortunately, it just wasn't quite to my taste. My friend felt the same about his salad (not bad, but not a favorite). That said, the service was excellent and the ambiance was lovely. It felt like we may have just ordered dishes that didn't suit our personal palates. I get the sense there's a lot more to enjoy here, especially on the dinner menu, which I'd love to come back and try. I'm still optimistic about this spot and willing to give it another shot. read more

Trattoria Zaza - Breakfast Pasta and Summer Tortellini Salad - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

If you say brunch, I'm saying ZaZa's! This is easily one of my go-to places for a weekend brunch. The decor is really cute and they have outdoor seating, which is my fav. They automatically add a 20% tip to each order, so keep that in mind when browsing the menu. I can't say emough good things about the french toast. It's thick, sugary, and big enough to share. This time I tried a steak and eggs dish, which did not disappoint. We also ordered a bottle of champagne for mimosas, cuz is it really brunch without a cocktail? Parking can be tricky, but doable, just plan ahead. It's sundress or slacks friendly, whatever vibe you're feeling that day. They also have an amazing lunch/dinner menu full of delicious pizzas and pastas! read more

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Got the lasagna and it was seriously comforting. Lots of cheese, layers of pasta, and a rich meaty sauce. It tasted like something out of an old-school Italian kitchen. The garlic bread on the side was a nice touch. The restaurant is simple but clean and cozy. Service was kind and laid-back, not rushed. I'd definitely come here again when I need a filling meal. read more

Trattoria Zaza - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

I love this is walk up ordering and that the business tells you up front that they include service in your total, so tipping isn't necessary. There is a cash tip basket by the ordering counter. The only negative I had during our visit was that our food was cold when it made it to us. Otherwise, everything was delicious and nice. I had the Wednesday daily special & regardless of temp, it was delicious. The cacio e pepe was perfect, and the penned all'arrabbiata was spicy but yummy. We tried a slice of cheese pizza (loved the basil), and 3 apps. The rosemary bread came with our entrees (also cold) but was nice to have to stop up the sauces. The marinated olives were our favorite and we dipped the bread in that as well. The seasonal sweet pea fritters were good as well. I had a double iced espresso drink with salted honey. So yum. We also ordered tiramisu and the lemon lemoncello dessert. Both were fantastic. The tiramisu is pretty large, so beware! read more

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I think it goes without saying, best pizza in town! The spicy pineapple pizza was excellent! We sat outside and the weather was so nice. We even brought our dog. It's a great place to bring the pup! The wait can get long but only because they are always packed. The servers are always super awesome. read more

Trattoria Zaza - Breakfast & Brunch Near Me - Birmingham, Alabama

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I've only ever tried their tiramisu and coffee but it is amazing!! There isn't a ton of seating but the service is fast and friendly and the location is great!! read more