Akhil G.
Yelp
Every now and then, you walk into a restaurant expecting something modest and walk out thinking about it for the rest of the day. Trattoria Zaza is exactly that kind of place. It is a casual Italian eatery located in Birmingham, and while the setting is unpretentious, the food shows a level of thoughtfulness and execution that rivals more upscale establishments.
The restaurant specializes in Sicilian-style square pizza, and as someone who appreciates a properly made focaccia-style crust, I was immediately intrigued. Watching the chefs through the open kitchen--a feature I always admire--adds to the experience. There is something deeply reassuring about seeing your food come to life in front of you.
I ordered two slices: one of the three-cheese and one of the rotating vegetable special, which that day featured mushrooms, olives, eggplant, and asparagus. At my request, both slices were cooked well-done. I wanted a firm, crisp bottom with no sag or floppiness, and that is exactly what I received. The crust itself was truly exceptional--golden brown along the edges, with a satisfying crunch that gave way to a soft, airy interior. It was rich in olive oil but not greasy, and the slightly chewy texture reminded me of the best Sicilian bakeries.
The three-cheese slice was beautifully balanced. The combination of mozzarella, pecorino, and what I suspect was a touch of fontina created a creamy, indulgent base with just enough tang and salt to elevate the entire bite. The tomato sauce had a bright, slightly sweet acidity that cut through the richness of the cheese, and it was applied with precision--neither heavy-handed nor sparse. The daily vegetable slice was equally well-executed. The eggplant had been roasted until tender, the mushrooms earthy and juicy, the asparagus still retaining a pleasant bite, and the olives added a briny contrast that tied the whole slice together. Each topping retained its identity, yet they worked in concert with the crust and sauce to form a cohesive, flavorful experience.
While the pizza was outstanding, I must admit I was surprised by the pricing. Six dollars for a single slice is steep, and with two slices and a small side salad totaling sixteen dollars, the value proposition begins to feel questionable. A more economical option would be their four-slice offering for twenty dollars, which provides a better balance between quality and cost.
I also sampled their fettuccine alla panna, and it was a standout. The pasta was clearly house-made, with a delicately toothsome texture that held the sauce beautifully. The cream base was rich but not overwhelming, infused with roasted garlic that had been cooked until mellow and sweet. A touch of red chili flake added gentle warmth, while freshly chopped parsley gave the dish a clean, herbal finish. The pecorino Romano brought a sharp, nutty depth that balanced the cream, and the inclusion of tender green peas and young fava beans added a layer of freshness and seasonal brightness. It was a thoughtfully composed dish, restrained and elegant in its use of ingredients.
I saved a portion of the pasta to take home, and the staff kindly advised me not to reheat it in the microwave. They explained that the cream would separate and become oily, and instead recommended reheating it gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream and a fresh grating of pecorino. I followed their instructions, and they were absolutely right. The pasta reheated beautifully, and their advice showed an impressive level of culinary understanding rarely found in a casual setting.
Overall, my experience at Trattoria Zaza was deeply satisfying. The food speaks for itself--simple, focused, and executed with real care. Despite some concerns with pricing, the quality of ingredients and the skill in preparation are undeniable. In a city with no shortage of pizza options, Zaza easily secures a place among the top five. If you're seeking heartfelt Italian cooking with integrity and precision, this place is worth the visit.