Rose Pizzeria is a rare, excellent Berkeley date night spot - Review - San Francisco - The Infatuation

"Rose Pizzeria is the rare intimate date-night spot in downtown Berkeley. The closet-sized wine bar has some old-school airs about it thanks to nautical blue and red accents and vinyl banquettes. You’re here to exchange sweet nothings (or conduct a much-needed catch-up) over some of the best pizza in Berkeley. The pies are a bit New York and a bit New Haven with thin-crust char, but they do the California thing, too–think seasonal rapini or high-quality burrata, sausage, and garlic confit. Start with the spicy caesar salad, and anything from the always-changing wine list. And make sure you have a reservation, or you’ll likely get seated on the covered back patio, chatting next to some eavesdropping heat lamps. Food Rundown Classic Pep Exactly as advertised—the best version of a classic pepperoni pizza. The thin slices of jalapeño are an added bonus. And the slightly sweet tomato sauce balances it all out. photo credit: Julia Chen Spicy Caesar A decadent way to kick a meal off. They don’t hold back on the miso-chili dressing and parmesan that touches every inch of the little gems. photo credit: Melissa Zink She Wolf You like burrata and garlic confit? Then you’ll love this. The garlicky pie, which also gets a nice burst of salt from capers and olives, is always on our table. Old Faithful A heavy behemoth that’s a bit too loaded with goat horn peppers, green onions, pork sausage, and tomato sauce—pick up a slice, and you risk their typically sturdy crust giving way. Still, it’s a great choice if you’re into a hearty pizza. photo credit: Melissa Zink Fancy Anchovies The orange vinaigrette and dill that covers the cured anchovies makes this starter worthwhile. It comes with a side of perfectly fried housemade potato chips. photo credit: Lani Conway" - Lani Conway