Zarella Pizzeria & Taverna
Pizza restaurant · Chicago
531 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654
About
Located at 531 N Wells St in the heart of Chicago, Zarella Pizzeria & Taverna has become a notable destination for those seeking a modern take on classic tavern-style pizza. With a strong 4.9 rating based on over 2,200 reviews, the restaurant draws a steady crowd of locals and visitors alike. The menu centers on thin-crust, crispy pizzas and Italian-inspired pasta dishes, such as the popular radiatore alla vodka, alongside a selection of appetizers like mozzarella sticks and zucchini chips. The atmosphere is often described as cozy and sophisticated, featuring warm lighting and a layout that includes a speakeasy-style space, making it a frequent choice for both casual dinners and special occasions. The service experience at Zarella can vary, with many guests praising the attentive and friendly staff who provide helpful recommendations, while others have noted a more inconsistent pace during busier times. The restaurant’s approach to dining emphasizes shareable portions and a focused menu, which many patrons find ideal for group outings. While the bustling environment and popular reservation slots reflect its status as a busy River North hotspot, the combination of its distinct tavern-style crust and curated cocktail list continues to attract a loyal following of diners looking for a quintessential Chicago pizza experience.
Reviews Zarella Pizzeria & Taverna
Zarella is widely praised for its crispy tavern-style pizza, attentive service, and inviting, cozy atmosphere. While most diners have excellent experiences, some guests find the menu items inconsistent or overhyped, and others have noted issues with pricing and specific flavor profiles.
Strengths
- Crispy tavern-style pizza
- Attentive and friendly service
- Cozy and chic atmosphere
- High-quality mozzarella sticks
- Radiatore alla vodka pasta
Weaknesses
- Inconsistent food seasoning
- High drink prices
- Long wait times for reservations
- Small restaurant size
Best for
This restaurant is well-suited for date nights and small groups looking for a cozy, ambient setting for thin-crust pizza.
Opening hours
- Friday
- 11 AM–11 PM
- Monday
- 4–10 PM
- Sunday
- 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday
- 4–10 PM
- Saturday
- 11 AM–11 PM
- Thursday
- 4–10 PM
- Wednesday
- 4–10 PM
Contact
- 531 N Wells St, Chicago, IL 60654
- (312) 470-0250
- www.zarellachicago.com