Balistreri's Italian-American Ristorante
Milwaukee, WI 53213-3909
Phone: (414) 475-1414
- Price:
- $
- Best of Citysearch:
- Pizza 2004
- Hours:
- Mon-Thu 11am-11pm, Fri 11am-12am, Sat 3pm-12am, Sun 3pm-10pm
Editorial Review for Balistreri's Italian-American Ristorante – by Peter Behle
The Scene
There's always a crowd in this jam-packed casual Italian joint. Even in the dead of winter, expect to see folks linked up outside, waiting for a table. And, once inside, expect tight quarters--there's no room wasted as tables are set up with chairs nearly back to back. Service is friendly and efficient.
The Food
Start off with the French fried eggplant--sliced long and thin (like a pencil), then lightly battered and deep-fried, these are dangerously addictive, especially when dipped in the accompanying marinara sauce. Most everyone shares one of the huge pizzas, which are served on rectangular cookie sheets. The medium is more than plenty for a table of four. The crust is thin and hand-rolled, cooked to a crisp on the outer edge. It's best not to overload the toppings--the Balistreri's special (sausage, mushrooms, olives, onions) is about the max before you hit sogginess.
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Insider Tips
What to DrinkThere's a lengthy wine list, but the house variety is perfect for this kind of casual Italian food. Also, take note that draft beer is offered in full and half pitchers.
User Reviews for Balistreri's Italian-American Ristorante
02/23/2008 Posted by IWillTryIt
After reading so many positive reviews I was psyched to try the "Best Pizza in Milwaukee" The crust is not only cracker thin, cracker is exactly what it is. No yeast in this dough, it's unleavened. Crispy, crunchy, but no chewy goodness underneath. I've heard great things about the sausage, I ordered it, I saw it, but I never tasted it. In fact, the only thing I could distinguish was the overwhelming flavor of black pepper. Very disappointing after such a build up, ok, but nothing more.
Pros: Ambience
Cons: Pizza
10/14/2006 Posted by nathosp33
Being originally from Chicago, we tend to be extremely critical of pizza, italian beef and hotdogs. Balistreri's is easily the most flavorful pizza restaurant in town and rivals "home Run Inn" and "connies" from chicago. Both of their locations are equally great and only a couple of blocks apart from one another.
Pros: Great food, period! Who cares about the rest.
Cons: Can be the wait. Recommend going around the corner to their Bluemound location.
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