Papa's Pizza & Deli

Photos:

If there was ever an unassuming restaurant located in an unassuming neighborhood, it’s Papa’s Pizza and Deli. This mom-and-pop style shop, located in the Victory neighborhood of North Minneapolis, exudes a charm that fosters not only its own bustling sense of community but also its connection to the Victory neighborhood.

Owners Mick and Kris Brogan leveraged his Jersey boy focus on pizza and subs, and her community development background, to open Papa’s in June 2005 with the goal of serving quality food at affordable prices. But their priorities didn’t stop there. Equally as important is their passion for the community, proven by their “Papa’s Deli Gallery”, which celebrates artists from the Northside Arts’ Collective, and their support of the nearby Workhouse Theater.

And the quality food at affordable prices? A sure menu bet is the garlic cheese bread—pillowy Italian bread generously smeared with garlic butter and covered with salty provolone and mozzarella cheeses. Another menu winner is their house-made traditional meat lasagna—a hearty one and a half pound pasta dish featuring four cheeses, three meats, and served drowning in their signature tomato sauce. I don’t know how they do it, but even given its heft, the lasagna tastes light and practically melts in your mouth.

Their pizzas are also a source of pride. We tried their non-traditional pies, both the Anna Kaari pizza (created for and named after a Victory neighborhood activist) and their Trenton, New Jersey inspired East Coast Tomato Pie. Papa’s crust is crisp and browned, although it takes a backseat to the fresh toppings and tomato sauce that really shine.

For dessert, gelatos are the feature of their adjoining deli, which also offers deli meats, cheeses and salads. Sampled gelato flavors were the lemon, mango and tiramisu. If Papa’s was in my neighborhood, I would be walking there every night to get my lemon gelato fix.

If it’s breakfast you’re after—try their new Saturday and Sunday menu featuring favorites like French toast strata and breakfast pizza. Or beat the recession with their special of one egg, one meat and one slice of toast for $1.00. Who said a dollar couldn’t buy a lot these days?

Add a comment