Steve A.
Yelp
It was an oh-yeah moment when my wife picked Pietro's for her birthday dinner. It had been a 1990s go to but I'd bet we hadn't eaten there in 10 years. It's as if we'd forgotten about it despite the good food, ambience, friendly staff. Part of it could be its random location on 28th street, sited in non- descript retail section and not close to Woodland nor 131N.
The interior was just as charming as we remembered, and it is scrupulously maintained. Everything looked the same, finely aged like antiques. The seating is perfectly molded by decades of sittings, the tables vintage but not run down. We were greeted warmly by the host & staff.
The food was vintage also- I can't say for sure, but I don't think the menu has changed in decades. I'm not a gourmet, but the food was fresh, delicious, and smartly portioned. Like the décor, it does not need to change, it maintains a timeless pure, cared-for aspect. If you're a raw tomato hater like me, the Bruschetta con Pomodoro will change your mind. I also generally avoid fish, but Tavernier Tilapia is firm, smoothly textured and flavored.
It was a busy Saturday night, and I think like most places Pietro's is having trouble finding staff. But no one missed a beat hoisting heavy trays, refilling drinks, or checking in while we waited.
It's sort of/not really out of the way, but worth remembering and braving 28th Street. A Grand Rapids institution offering food and service that lives up to that status.