Pizzicletta

Pizzicletta at Flagstaff, Arizona

In my honest opinion, Pizzicletta is by far the most overrated of all Flagstaff restaurants. Despite winning many awards, including being named one of the best pizza places in the US, I would have to say I was extremely disappointed with my experience at this downtown pizza establishment. I have seen people say that they would drive from Phoenix or the Grand Canyon (2 hours away) just to dine here! Do not believe the hype! Pizzicletta is not even the best pizza in Arizona, let alone in the country!

To be frank, the pizza was bland and unappetizing, not to mention severely overpriced. A pizza (large enough only for one) will set you back at least $13. Keep in mind that this is for a bland, overcooked pizza with barely any sauce. To top it off, there is only one large table that seats about 12, so unless you like rubbing elbows with other guests and overhearing private conversations – stay far away. Service is horrendous – no one refilled our drinks or asked if we liked our meal.

Marinara pizza at Pizzicletta in Flagstaff, Arizona
The marinara pizza – burnt, tasteless, and barely had any sauce.
Margherita pizza at Pizzicletta in Flagstaff, Arizona
The Margherita pizza – also burnt, tasteless, and a little skimpy on the cheese and toppings.

For a place so highly regarded, you would think the service and ambiance would be spectacular.  Unfortunately, like the food, the service and setting were just horrible. It’s nice that they allow their dough to ferment for several days to make it more digestible, unfortunately that does not matter if the pizza has no taste. Maybe burnt, dried out pizza is not my thing. My recommendation: head next door to Fratellis for better tasting, more affordable pizza, a more spaced out comfortable dining room, and friendlier service.

 Criollo Latin Kitchen

Criollo Latin Kitchen in Flagstaff AZ

Update: Criollo closed

Criollo Latin Kitchen is another over hyped downtown restaurant to add to your skip list. This Latin inspired eatery is popular due to its’ prime location downtown and attractive Happy Hour deals. However, despite the generally positive praise, the entrees we tried definitely were a major disappointment. The breakfast burrito was bland and served alongside completely burnt potatoes. The veggie tacos were incredibly bland, as well as overpriced for the tiny serving.

Breakfast burrito at Criollo Latin Kitchen in Flagstaff AZ
Yuck – these potatoes were completely burnt and we had to throw them away. How could a fine dining establishment serve something like this?!
Veggie tacos at Criollo Latin Kitchen in Flagstaff AZ

The setting at Criollo is cramped and extremely noisy, so loud in fact that you cannot hold a conversation and will likely want to leave the restaurant just to get out of the loud bar like setting. Servers are unfriendly with an apathetic attitude, definitely a major downer for a place that classifies itself as a fine dining experience.

Dining space at Criollo Latin Kitchen in Flagstaff AZ

The one thing Criollo has going for them is their commitment to use local produce, meats, and tortillas, as well as the avoidance of GMOs. Unfortunately, many other places in town also do this, so there really is no reason to visit Criollo.

Criollo feels more like a college bar than a restaurant. If you are willing to pay a premium for a bar like setting, service, and mediocre food, than by all means visit Criollo. All others, you have been warned!