"Tell us about your first impressions when you arrived. Ivo looks like so many Roman pizzerias: intense lightning, exposed brick arches, and brightly painted walls. Although there are four dining rooms, plus outdoor seating, there's often a crowd milling around outside—it's just that popular. What was the crowd like? Because Ivo is recommended by virtually every guidebook, the place is constantly packed with tourists. It's also in Trastevere, a popular dining destination for American college kids (many study-abroad programs and student housing are in the neighborhood). No matter; locals, a mix of Trastevere denizens and Romans from other neighborhoods, know to show up later in the evening. What should we be drinking? The wine is borderline undrinkable but the beer—industrial lagers—are cold. And in a down-home pizzeria like this, that's what matters. Main event: the food. Give us the lowdown—especially what not to miss. Skip the pastas and mains and stick to Ivo's traditional pizzeria fare: fiori di zucca (fried zucchini flowers), suppli' (fried rice croquettes), and pizzas. The pizzas are large, thin-crusted Roman-style pies with barely any rim. The best of the lot on the long menu is topped with prosciutto, thinly sliced mushrooms, olives, and a runny egg. And how did the front-of-house folks treat you? The service is quick, terse, and not exceedingly helpful; in other words, it's pretty much like anywhere else that serves serves Rome's signature-style pizza. What’s the real-real on why we’re coming here? Ivo is best for a light meal at night, either before or after an evening of drinking." - Katie Parla
