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Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria
Categories: Restaurants Italian Restaurants Pizza Italian, Pizza [Edit]
11750 Jasper Ave NWEdmonton, AB T5K 0N3
(780) 732-0700
- Hours:
Mon 11 am - 10 pm
Tue-Thu 11 am - 11 pm
Fri-Sat 11 am - 12 am
Sun 12 pm - 10 pm
- Good for Groups:
- Yes
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Private Lot
- Attire:
- Casual
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Good for Kids:
- Yes
- Takes Reservations:
- No
- Delivery:
- No
- Take Away:
- Yes
- Waiter Service:
- Yes
- Outdoor Seating:
- Yes
- Wi-Fi:
- No
- Good For:
- Dessert, Lunch, Dinner
- Alcohol:
- Full Bar
- Noise Level:
- Loud
- Ambience:
- Casual
- Has TV:
- Yes
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- Yes
45 reviews for Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria
Review Highlights
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"Sweet BBQ Chicken Pizza 14.5/Feeds 1-2." In 2 reviews -
"I recommend their Nutella Pizza pizza." In 9 reviews -
"The crust was thin and chewy; the ingredients combination..." In 3 reviews
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45 reviews in English
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Review from Deanna S.
4/13/2012
Best Pizza in Edmonton.
I recently went back to Edmonton to visit my family for Easter weekend. They wanted to go out for dinner the first night I was there and they were suggesting we try out Fatburger (they don't get out much...).
I was like, Um... can't we go somewhere good?
I was hoping to go somewhere that I missed in Edmonton since moving to Vancouver. So they left it up to me. Hmm... where can we go?
Famoso's. I'd been trying to tell my parents to check it out ever since I first came here years ago. But my parents tend to stay away from busy downtown hot spots (my dad hates waiting in lines... and waiting for food... just waiting in general). And if I can't be in Edmonton to offer Famoso's my business... I felt it was my duty to spread the good word.
My father was a little hesitant at first since it's downtown and would likely be busy... so we arranged to leave the house at 4:30, hopefully to get there just before the 5 o'clock supper rush.
We didn't have to wait at all (thank goodness... I didn't want to disappoint my family), and we sat down right away. I pointed out my favourites to my fam so that they would have a few suggestions as to what they might like (I love the Santa Fe in the summer and springtime... Put avocado on anything, and I'm sold).
A gentleman came to our table and told the story of the pizza and how it is made, and explained the ordering process. My traditional family was a tad freaked out (seriously, was I adopted?) and was a little uneasy about the ordering process. I told them to just pick what they wanted, and I'd handle the rest. My dad of course didn't trust me to order for all 4 of us, and insisted on coming up with me... but there were no catastrophes so he relaxed after that. We had San Pellegrino's to drink (a first for my family... seriously, they live under a rock) and that was the first thing that impressed them.
And then they had the pizza. Oh! THE PIZZA!
So. Good.
I had warned them that this was no Pizza 73. I explained what it would be like but words can only go so far. I was a little nervous for them to try something new... but super relieved when my dad raved about how impressed he was. He was even more impressed when he saw the bill. It wasn't as expensive as it tasted.
Honestly, this is the best pizza I've ever had. I was really glad I got to go back while back in Edmonton, and I'm really looking forward to them opening a location here in Vancouver. I told my parents that they MUST go back in the summertime to sit on the patio, because that makes the whole experience even better.
I successfully converted my family into Famoso lovers, and I think they'll be back soon. I see a lot of people complaining about the wait times ... easy solution: try it out during non-rush hours.
And a quick tip: save room for the Nutella pizza for dessert!!! -
Review from Mike W.
2/20/2012
Excellent review for the food but terrible for Comfort!!
The pizzas and salads we ordered were fantastic and tasty. I wish I would have noticed the squiggly drawn pepper on the menu as the meatball pizza was pretty spicy. You have to walk up to order your food off the menu and then they bring it to you, kind of a strange arrangement.
As for seating this restaurant sucks! Half of the seating is uncomfortable high tables with wooden and very wobbly stools!! Everyone is scrambling for one of the booths once they are empty. Get a grip Famoso, your food is fantastic but your seating gets absolutely no points for customer comfort! Those stools do not seem safe at all. -
Review from Joanna F.
1/6/2012 1 Check-in Here
Not bad!
I've had better - both in Italy and in Alberta - traditional neopolitan-style pizzas, but these guys are affordable, the atmosphere is comfortable and friendly, and the food tastes pretty good.
Little sad they wouldnt put two different pizza toppings (especially as they had the same base) on one pie so I didn't have to choose between two, but that's fine.
Inclined to think the crust should not be falling apart that much, and that the prosciutto should have been heated before adding it to the pizza, but those are personal preferences.
Really want to go back and try out their goronzola, pinenut & pear pizza they have as a winter special - it looks amazing!! -
Review from Lauren S.
Edmonton, AB
4/13/2012
My favourite pizza in Edmonton! It's authentic Italian pizza! If you're a greasy, tons of cheese, heavy crust kind of person...you probably won't like Famoso. The pizza is so light, I can eat an entire pie myself!
I have yet to dislike anything I've tried on their menu. The tomato bisque is amazing, and my favourite pizzas are the San Andreas, Prosciutto Aruglua, Cappricciosa, Vesuvio and Conforto. I'm really looking forward to trying their new Funghi Tartufo! The Dolce & Banana dessert is to die for!
The downtown location, in my opinion, is the best one. It's the original, but it is quite busy...so get there early to grab a seat. There's also a table in the back that is for reservations of 6 or more people. The service here has always been top notch, and I've never left unhappy or hungry. -
Review from Matthew L.
Edmonton, AB
12/12/2011
Famoso is taking the concept of Wood Fired Pizza and franchising it across Canada. But I believe this is the original location.
And while Famoso is committed to using the authentic "00" flour for its dough, Famoso isn't above offering pineapple as a topping. My wife insists on eating her pizza with pineapple as topping. As Famoso's thin crust tends to be spongy and flexible, rather than cracker-like, Famoso crushes its pineapple, rather than serving it with larger chunks. Larger chunks would create too much of a mess and make the pizza difficult to eat. Famoso's crust may not be stiff, it never becomes soggy. The pizza was a winner - by far the best I've had in Edmonton, but I'm still no Edmonton pizza expert yet.
We also ordered a sandwich made out of the same dough - the Sophia Loren. But as the sandwich lacked a sauce, I found it to be dry and boring. I need tomato sauce, or cream sauce, or mayonnaise, or aioli on a sandwich. The extra virgin olive oil, oregano and minced garlic spread didn't cut it.
Also, a significant number of tables at the pizzeria are bar-style high tables. And these tables do not have a place to rest your feet, resulting in the placement of your feet on your chair directly beneath you. I did not find this comfortable. And I like comfort when I go out to eat.
I have to give Famoso props for offering a great Groupon ($20 for $40 worth of Food and Drink) and for employing servers who believe in the Famoso concept. -
Review from Nicole B.
Edmonton, AB
3/10/2012
Amazing!! The pizza here is unbelievable. We will be repeat customers for sure!! Staff was very nice and friendly. We went in the restaurant to order the food to take home. Cute little place!! Definatly 5+ stars!!!
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Review from Lori F.
Wetaskiwin, AB
2/29/2012
The downtown location is the best by far. Great place for a quick pizza but seating is a little uncomfortable.
Not the best pizza or salads i have ever had but great for a little better than fast food restaurants. -
Review from Kim H.
Updated - 9/18/2011 ROTD 11/20/2011
Back again last night. Yes, its a fave, and yes I eat out this often!
Food and service was great! The restaurant was BUSY with tons of people waiting for tables. Went with a friend I hadn't seen in a while, and we just wanted to catch up. We were in no way rushed by staff to turn over the table.
I had the usual (Walnut Gorgonzola Salad & Sweet BBQ Chicken Pizza) and my friend tried something new (Napoli Salad & Conforto Pizza). For dessert, I the Blueberry Gelato, and her the Tiramisu. Both of us left happy and full. Prices are right too!!1 Previous Review: Show all »
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9/10/2011
I absolutely love going here. Visited the Jasper Ave location today with my Mom & sister after a spa… Read more »
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Review from Yo U.
4/21/2012
I enjoyed their prosciutto and arugula pizza. The roasted tomato bisque topped with feta and basil was pleasant as well. What does need some serious attention, however, are the tomatoes used in the Caprese salad. As tomatoes are meant to shine in such a salad, they should use truly flavourful tomatoes and not the same flavourless Sysco abominations that end up in inexpensive salad bars and sandwich shops across town.
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Review from Brittany K.
Edmonton, AB
6/25/2011 3 Check-ins Here
Obviously, the pizza, the staff, and the gelato are all, how do you say? Perfecto! Pizza is a favourite food of mine, and the flatbread style at Famoso is cooked in their magical super hot oven to perfection. I basically love every single item on the menu here.
This is the smaller-ish of the restaurants in this Edmonton pizza parlour group, but it makes for an intimate, date-like setting. One gelato, two spoons, please!
And to top it all off, this cheese-and-sauce-aganza is conveniently located right along the heart of the city, our own Jasper Avenue.
Why not 5 stars? I popped in late one summer evening recently and strolled in excitedly, thinking they were still going, because the front door was wide open. Sadly, nay. Why keep the door open when you've closed of the night? Trickery! -
Review from Megan A.
Edmonton, AB
6/27/2011
If the Apocalypse rings my doorbell tomorrow, Famoso Downtown will be the last place I beg to dine. Casual pizza is an understating choice, right? Famoso and I have a longstanding love affair for three reasons: low gluten crust, fior di latte mozzarella, and a sweet seemingly caramelized tomato sauce!
The crust! I can't find this chewy, crispy, impossibly thin platform at any other pizzeria, and dang it, I'm an aficionado! Expect a line-up out the door from 6-7PM but this is a quick-dine establishment. The pizza cooks in 90 seconds in an imported fire oven. My mother and I were at the tail end of the line a weekend ago and still had seats in 15 minutes. Warm, busy, and buzzing with talk. Trendy-casual as you might expect.
The pizza menu isn't modest, including authentic red and white pizzas and a few "new world" favorites too. If you're not a pizza fiend you'll enjoy the salads with equally fresh toppings. Dessert lovers should try the nutella pizza or an affogato with a scoop from the rotating gelato menu. Keep an eye on the seasonal menu for truly unique pizza selections.
My modified favorite:
Primavera with a red sauce substitution and pepperoni added. $17.50/Feeds 2
What my friends order:
Sweet BBQ Chicken Pizza 14.5/Feeds 1-2
Spicy Thai Pizza 14.5/Feeds 1-2
Caprese Salad $12/Feeds 1
Don't Miss:
$16 Margherita Pizza & A Movie (cineplex movie pass included) every Mon-Thurs -
Review from Kristin K.
Edmonton, AB
6/28/2011 1 Check-in Here
I came to Famoso's original location on Jasper Avenue last night for the first time with a group of 5 girlfriends and my mother. I was so excited to bring them here as I have had such wonderful experiences at the St. Albert Trail Famoso location and three of them had never eaten at a Famoso before.
Unfortunately, our experience was anything but pleasurable.
We arrived around 830pm and sat in the outdoor patio section. The glass window that was against our table to the street had been broken - all the other panes were in tact... I began to wonder...
Our server came and explained the Famoso process and we soon went to the front to order.
Approximately 10 minutes later our appetizers arrived.
I ordered the TAPENADE TRIO $9
Kalamata olive tapenade, roasted artichoke tapenade, bruschetta. Served with flatbread.
While the 3 tapinades tasted fresh - the miniature and I mean miniature flat bread that came with it wasn't enough for even half the toppings nor were they cut big enough to even hold one piece of the chunky bruschetta. Upon us finishing the miniature bread - I requested more and another super small basket of miniature bread arrived about 5 minutes later.
At about the same time everyone's entrees in our party arrived - except 3 of the 6 entrees were incorrect. Soup when there should have been salad - onions on my pizza when I requested no onions.
Okay... 5 minutes later everyone's food is back except mine. I was told it would be just another minute or so.
10 minutes later... still no food.
We had to flag down our server to inquire what was going on and request refills of pop and water even though we had already been here for an hour at this point.
Another 5 minutes later... my entire party of 6 has finished their entire meals and I'm still waiting on my pizza sans onions even though it only takes 90 seconds to cook the pizza in their 900 degree farenheit oven which the server had proudly explained to us.
The manager came over and apologized and said my pizza was being cut up and would be here in a minute.
5 minutes later... my pizza arrives - part of the curst burned black... Okay, whatever. I take my first bite and the middle of the pizza isn't cooked - it's doughy/raw in the middle!
I had ordered the SAN ANDREAS Pizzetta described as:
Extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and oregano base, fresh mozzarella and chili-lime marinated roasted chicken. Baked, topped with avocado, diced tomatoes, slivered red onion, cliantro, drizzled with light cream, lime wedge.
I have had this pizza previously at a different location and LOVED it... however, this time was not love at first bite!
The server comes to ask how my pizza is and I tell her but add that I don't want to wait for another one to be cooked as my entire party has already finished their meal.
I nibble at my pizza but couldn't bring myself to finish the raw and burnt dough.
A few minutes later the manager comes by, apologizes and says they will be taking care of my portion of the bill. I thank the manager - everyone pays their bill - and we are on our way.
So disappointing! And I had been so excited to introduce 2 of my girlfriends and my mother to Famoso's for the first time.
Unfortunately this will be our last visit to this location - I haven't given up all together. But next time we'll stick to the newer location on 137 avenue and St. Albert Trail where it's clean, bright, airy, and modern!
Sorry Famoso's... Don't know if this was just bad luck or ??? But it's enough that I won't be returning to this location. -
Review from Tess R.
6/12/2011 6 Check-ins Here
This is not your typical pepperoni or hawaiian pizza joint. I'm told this is Italian-style pizza: soft thin crust, a few simple ingredients, quick cooked in a fire oven at high heat. I don't know if this is authentic, but I do know that it is good. Very good. I like pizza that isn't drowning in cheap cheese and economy meats. They use high quality ingredients and don't smother the pie with cheese, so you can enjoy the taste of each element.
We try to alternate between the rosa and the bianca styles, these have tomato sauce or olive oil-garlic-oregano base. I love the vegetarian options, but have also enjoyed the arugula-proscuitto as well as the spicy sopressata.
The summer features are good. Their version of mohito is basil and limoncello, despite not generally a being fan of limoncello, I am a huge fan of this drink and now order it every time whether we eat in, or to enjoy while we wait a very short time for takeout.
They also have several gelato flavours, which look tempting, but I haven't tried ... yet.
The order system is a bit different, you order deli style at the counter and then they bring it to your table. Staff are quick and pleasant. It gets crowded at times, and you'll know why after your first bite.
Before Famoso, pizza had lost it's allure for me, now these circles of pleasure are back on my list. -
Review from Amanda F.
7/27/2011
So I must just be getting old but I have been hard pressed to find a pizzeria lately who's pizza does not make me feel like crap half an hour after eating a grease soaked slice. This place is soooo different! I personally like the location as I enjoy walking around downtown and around the Jasper Ave area when I find myself feeling a little restless.
Atmosphere - Kind of has a neighbourhood pub type feel to it - little darker decor, nice patio. We went at kind of an off time so it was not very busy at all but I can see it getting pretty crazy at peak times for sure - smaller 'lobby'/waiting area! You sit down, check out the menu, order what you want at the counter, and you are served at your table from then on.
Food - AMAZING!! Everything tasted really fresh - you could actually distinguish the tomato flavor in the sauce! Not at all greasy but also very different from any pizza I had ever had locally before (reminded me of pizza I had when I was in Italy a few years back - so I thought it was very authentic). Did take a little getting used to just because it's really not what you expect to get when you order a pizza. Weird pink juice/pop was awesome and I HATE carbonated drinks - but not too sugary. Caramelized banana dessert was actually OK given I don't like bananas at all (guy I was with ordered it despite knowing my strong feelings against bananas - needless to say we don't see each other anymore...anyway...). Best part - not feeling like crap half an hour later!!
Only been once but I will go back for sure! One just popped up in Sherwood Park (my stomping grounds) so I may be finding myself there a little more often! Looks like it might make a really good girls evening out spot for those nights when trying to avoid the super irritating, personal bubble popping, lame pickup line sputtering, way too sloshed men you find at most other bars/pubs. -
Review from Aditya R.
3/10/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I was quite excited to try this place out, thinking that it would be very authentic and all, but was a tad disappointed that the pizzas were just about decent, at best. I loved the variety that they exhibited, but I would probably rate Da Capo and Leva a star higher for their pizzas.
They've got an interesting list of salads that complement their long list of traditional and exotic "new world" pizzas pretty well. A decent selection of Italian wines. Yes, it really did look like they had only Italian wines.
The prices are very reasonable and the ambience casual. It's certainly not an expensive dinner place. I had the vesuvio pizza which was delizioso!! The spicy sausage (soppresatta) with basil went great. Actually the signature thing about the vesuvio is that the crushed red peppers are added before the pie is thrown in the 900ºC oven (well, the server made it a point to show-off that they had a 900ºC oven!) . So yes, red peppers in before baking is something unique, I realize today.
Yummy, delicious pizzas ... not the best in town, when it comes to the authentic Napolitana pizzas, but I'd come here again! Very affordable and enjoyable. -
Review from Rachel F.
8/1/2011 2 Check-ins Here
I first heard about Famoso's on the day we moved to Edmonton, when we asked a neighbour about good restaurants in the neighbourhood. We discovered this place early on and it has remained a favourite since our arrival. I am only half joking when I tell people that we bought our home in Oliver to stay within walking distance of this place. It's truly fantastic.
The salads? Outstanding. Every single one. And I have tried all the vegetarian ones. The appetizers? Delicious. Again, every vegetarian one. Desserts? Spectacular. All of them. (We sometimes even walk to Famoso just to get a scoop of their gelato). The wine? Fantastic. Every recommendation from the staff has been spot on. The coffee? Sublime.
But the main reason we come here is for the pizza. It is simply wonderful. Their thin crust is crisp, yet pliable, always cooked to perfection. And every pizza combination we have tried has been superb (and we have tried every vegetarian pizza, in both red sauce and white sauce - I love that you can switch up the sauces!). Their seasonal pizzas are always top-notch as well.
We've never been disappointed when coming to Famoso, oh, except when the line is longer than we were hoping. But an hour to wait for this meal is worth it! Totally worth it.Listed in: When the moon hits your eye…
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Review from Carina Z.
5/11/2011 1 Check-in Here
This is the original Famoso location and it is the only one that still feels "home grown" and least like a chain. It is great to see all the employees pitching in (you even see the owner making pizzas!) and really working together for the whole restaurant.
This location is not in the best neighbourhood... I was once enjoying my dinner in their outdoor section and an unkempt man off the street came up to us and started asking for money. Parking is also sometimes an issue. They have some dedicated stalls right in front of their restaurant but it usually isn't enough for all the patrons. Aside from that you have to fend for yourself when parking in the lot or on the street. I am only rating this place 4 stars because of the location...
Having said all of the above, the food is top notch. I love the thin crust pizza - all of the thin crust pizza. Every single one I have tried I have adored. They also have a small pizza and salad combo that is a nice change from time to time. The Napoli Salad is my favorite - such great flavor combinations with all the ingredients and dressing. Then you get to dessert... they have a nutella and banana calzone that is topped with whip cream and caramel sauce... to die for. I just cannot say anything less than superb for all of the food here. Only adding to the greatness is the knowledge that they use some ingredients imported from Italy (like flour) and all the rest are fresh. They hand make all the dough and sauces, so you know as little preservatives are in your food as possible. -
Review from Sarah W.
6/21/2011
It would be safe to say that pizza is my favorite food. I mean this in the way that if I was in jail for something awful and had to ask for a last meal, it would be pizza. Seriously. And if I got to be choosy about where the pizza would be from (I doubt they give you those liberties in jail, but I digress) it would be from Famoso. It is that good.
I have never been to Naples, but I almost think that if I didn't go, I would be able to die happy knowing I experienced the closest possible thing to it's authentic pizza. The crust is just to die for - it's thin but chewy and moist and so wonderfully different than the american style pizza we consume regularly. It doesn't hurt that they use an imported low-gluten flour, so you can eat a whole pizza and not feel like completely garbage afterwards. The ingredients are fresh and authentic - I also love their seasonal pizzas. The summer San Andreas is one of my favorites, amongst many others.
The service is very good, all though they do it differently. You seat yourself at a table and go up to the counter to order. Then a server brings you your drinks and meal as they are available. They used to ask you to pay as you ordered, but I've noticed that they don't allow that option anymore (probably to keep the upsell option open - can't blame them, the gelato is worth a try).
The menu is different. I've brought friends here that were completely underwhelmed with the experience because they expected the typical pepperoni pizza slathered in rubbery mozzarella. Famoso doesn't do it that way - they offer a lot of 'authentic' italian pizzas. My boyfriend is a big fan of the proscuitto and arugula. I lean towards the quattro fromaggi with mushrooms. They DO offer some of the more 'americanized' toppings, such as ham and pineapple (all though I do believe it's a type of italian ham). Being a pizza lover, I don't really find an issue with the lack of 'normal' pizzas. But some people do.
I also don't mind the extra price you pay for the experience. The pizzas are cooked in less than 30 seconds and made right in front of you by a line of very talented chefs. They average around $14 a pizza. You can share a pizza (they are pretty big) or you can have your own. So the cost can be pricey if you are used to the menu of other pizza chains, such as Pizza Hut or Pizza 73. I do wholeheartedly think this is more of a "quality verses quantity" place.
The menu also offers wings, salads (so good - and you can order them on top of a pizza crust, which is a nice twist), desserts like gelato and tiramisu, appetizers, alcoholic beverages and coffee/espresso.
They have an option for kids - ordering a smaller size pizza (I believe it's a 5 inch, I may be wrong) and you get a free scoop of gelato. They've also been offering a "pizza and movie" option for the past year - only valid during the weekdays, I believe. You buy a pizza and add on an extra $6 and get a pass to go to a Cineplex movie.
The reason I didn't 5-star this review was because it is a small, louder-atmosphere restaurant and it can be difficult to find seats during the dinner rush. The majority of their seating is on high stools at high tables, and I find sitting up high to be a little bit uncomfortable at times. They do offer booths, all though I think the downtown restaurant only has 5 of them, and only one of them seats more than 4 people (so having a large group here can be a bit of an issue). The patio is quite nice, however it is just off the west end of Jasper, so you may see or hear from a colorful character on the sidewalk. Parking can be a little bit of an issue - Famoso shares it's parking lot with On the Rocks and a small grocery store. There are some meters across the street as well and you can always try and find parking a few blocks north in the residential area.
I love pizza, and I love Famoso. It's different, it's fun, it's delicious. One thing that they aren't lacking is passion for their craft and that alone is worth giving it a shot. -
Review from Char D.
Edmonton, AB
5/8/2011 1 Check-in Here
I came here with 3 other girls on a Friday evening and the place was packed. We had to wait about half an hour for a table but it was worth the wait!
This may be the best most authentic pizza that I've had in Canada. The crust is thin and floury and there were so many toppings to chose from.
We ended up sharing a large ceased salad, the meat wrapped cheese in tomato sauce, and two of their summer feature pizzas with fresh avocado on them. Everything was so delicious that we didn't have room to try one of their yummy sounding desert pizzas. Next time! -
Review from Sara M.
12/29/2010 3 photos
Oh hey there vegan pizza. In Edmonton. Alberta. What?!
SO EFFING GOOD. I had the Napoli salad and the Primavera pizza with pineapple instead of cheese. Aaaaand it was prolly the best pizza in life. Seriously.
Thin crust cooked in some magic Harry Potter oven so it only takes 90 seconds to cook. It's not greasy at all, so it helps the justification speech you are telling yourself about why it's cool you ate the whole bloody thing. My pal had the Spicy Thai pizza with cheese, and it didn't appear greasy either - just perfect baby amounts of cheese.
Then to top it all off the nutella dessert pizza came out. Woah.
The staff was super friendly, helpful and patient. The one girl gave me a lovely virgin speech about the low down of the place.
I might have to eat here a few more times before I head back to Vancouver. Or bring some franchise rights with me.
You Edmonton peeps win this Pizza round. Jealous. -
Review from Jeff L.
Spruce Grove, AB
1/2/2012
Great variety of pizza. Awesome gelato. Chocolate Fudge is the one to have if you are a chocolate fan!
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Review from Robyn W.
1/6/2011
Famoso has become our "go-to" place when we are looking for dinner out.
The pizza is really the best around. I also love the tomato soup and the sophia loren (veggie) sandwich.
However, as good as the food is, the staff is even better! Always friendly and attentive. The last time we went, our order somehow got missed in the system and we were left waiting for our food for over half an hour. But once they were made aware of it, there were several people around making sure that we got our food and that it was correct. We even offered dessert and the entire meal was comped!
This is one establishment that truly works to make sure that every customer leaves happy. -
Review from Liv V.
Edmonton, AB
Updated - 8/24/2011
My opinion of Famoso has changed and my review should reflect that. I've been back multiple times over the past month and must confess what a fun and positive experience I keep having. The service has improved so much since my last visit (on which my first review was based) and I love their house red wine. Some of their pizzas are better than others (for example, the whipped cream on the nutella pizza is messy and doesn't contribute anything in terms of flavour), but others (like the very spicy Vesuvio) are fantastic. Truly delicious pizza is a scarce commodity in this city and luckily Famoso fills the right niche. I'm not enamoured of the other locations, which seem a bit lacking in atmosphere, but the Jasper location has the right balance of "lively" and "cozy",
Listed in: The 30 Day Challenge, How and Where to be Italian
1 Previous Review: Show all »
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3/10/2011
Perenially busy, and this bespeaks Famoso's popularity. Famoso reflects a growing trend of thin… Read more »
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Review from Linda S.
5/12/2011 9 Check-ins Here
I could eat the caprese salad every day.
I could eat their gelato every day.
Their basil mojitos? Amazing.
Their pizza pies are out of this world. Who can argue with flour imported from Italy, really?
And of course, the reason a person goes to a restaurant is to be fed ... but what puts this place over the top are the staff. Every one is top notch. Friendly, efficient, knowledgeable ...
My only beefs are 1) the place is too noisy when busy -- they need some serious plants and other buffers in there and 2) the smoke isn't fanned out well enough. Fortunately, these complaints aren't big enough to keep me away. -
Review from Edda O.
5/17/2011 10 photos
Great selection of well made pizza, very reasonable prices and amazing desserts. We went in as a group of 20 and there was a "Group" selection for $258 - 12 pizzas and 8 appetisers! Amazing deal. There is no "unknown" extra charges and it could be any pizza on the menu.
My favourites were the smoked salmon, capers and a white sauce pizza followed by a Thai Chicken pizza then the banana nutella calzone!! Great bellini in a bottle as well~
who knew Edmonton had such a gem! -
Review from Kelsey C.
Edmonton, AB
12/14/2010
Food was phenomenal, wait staff great. Tiramisu to die for. Will visit again, likely repeatedly.
Was blown away by the value, dinner for two came out to 26.50 with sharing one of the pricier pizza's; and a slice of tiramisu- plus a latte and an americano. -
Review from Tomas N.
Edmonton, AB
12/30/2011
The home of the 90 sec Neapolitan pizza! We were greeted by a friendly server, who took his time to explain to us how the pizza process works. The pizza came out exactly as shown on their website: my spouse thought that it was a bit too moist in the middle (so next time we order we will ask them to have hers in for another 10 sec). The food was excellent, service very prompt and the price quite reasonable. We will definitely come back again.
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Review from Lauren N.
8/18/2009
I like Famoso because they're different from all the other pizza joints in the city. Their pizzas are made with thin and chewy dough, baked fresh in the oven. The selection is amazing, and you'll have a hard time choosing if it's your first time.
We ordered the Conforto pizza with Italian sausages, red peppers and mushrooms. Sooo good! Everything is fresh and melts in your mouth. You might want to eat this one fast though, cause the juices from the veggies soaks into the dough and makes it slightly mushy.
We also ordered the pizza with pruschuitto and arugula leaves for some variety. The pruschuitto was good, salty and chewy as it should be, but the arugula gave the pizza a strange, bitter taste. If you're not an arugula fan, you might want to skip this one.
It's good to order a couple of pizzas to share with friends, so you can taste more than one of their delicious pies. Plus, you're guaranteed more room in your tummy for dessert. The tiramisu is fabulous, especially with whipped cream and chocolate sauce!
The place itself was cozy and welcoming. You seat yourself and order at the till when you know what you want. They'll ask you for your table number and bring it over to you. The staff were nice and friendly, and let us stay til closing without saying a word. I'm definitely coming here again! -
Review from Bridget C.
Edmonton, AB
12/27/2011 1 Check-in Here
Famoso is one of my favourite restaurants in the city... but it's way too busy. I've never gone here and not had to wait 20 minutes for a table. The restaurant is fairly small, and the lobby is even more cramped, making waiting -- whilst breathing in the delicious aroma of gourmet pizza -- an agonizing experience. Thankfully, there's often wine samples to be had to ease your impatience. I've fallen so much in love with certain dishes, I rarely venture to try what they have new. The prosciutto mozzarella balls are better than sex, and I have no idea what else the restaurant serves as appetizers since I only ever get those. When it comes to the main dish, I'm a little more adventurous. Recently I had a delicious white pizza with pear on it. I ate the entire thing, much to my date's dismay (ladies, if you want to eat like a bird in order to avoid scaring off your male company, I suggest eating before visiting Famoso, because only an over-stuffed stomach will keep you from consuming everything in sight at this restaurant). Wednesdays are some sort of "wine club" night, which means we got plates of bruschetta with our wine. The only real damper to your evening is the guilt you experience enjoying yourself, while rabidly hungry customers wait at the door for you to give up your seat. I had to wait 20 minutes, you do too! Settle down! Famoso, please buy the entire block and create the largest restaurant in Edmonton and I will visit every night. And I will also then give you 5 stars.
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Review from John D.
Edmonton, AB
3/1/2011
Odd that I haven't written about Famoso before now. I love this place. I always go to this location. The staff are amazing here. The manager is very knowledge about wines and will recommend a great glass or bottle. The wine list is obviously a passion here. I've never had a bad glass, and am usually surprised at how amazing the wine is. Some of my favorite wines I had first at this Famoso. Become a member of the wine club. Every now and again you'll get a big discount on a bottle. Oh and the pizza is great too! Try the Primavera, but with red sauce, and the quattro formaggio with white. That and a big glass of wine will make your evening.
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Review from Jer B.
Windsor, ON
5/16/2009
The most strange experience dining out I've had in years. We sat down at our table and then was informed that after waiting for our booth we had to go wait in a separate line to order our food. There were no waitresses at Famoso's, instead you go and order your food and pay, then someone brings you your pizza. You get your own forks and knifes and napkins.
You pay everything upfront so you have to decide if you want desert before you order or if you want 2 or 3 beers with your meal. I guess you could keep running up and waiting in line to order them but I don't understand the system here at Famoso's.
When our pizzas came they were okay I suppose. Thin crust like I expected but very wet & soggy. Everything was made fresh though so I can't complain about the taste, just getting it into your mouth is the hard part as it sags just below the crust.
Also the place is very small and a lot of people are just kinda hanging around the place like its some club. They were waiting for take out pizza and for tables, and at one point I had a few people hanging around my booth actually leaning on my seat and his buddy was staring at me trying to get the soggy mess into my mouth.
I don't understand why this place was so much money for a pizza if it's mostly just self serve. The personal pizzas range from $11-15, and for a bottle of beer you are looking at $5 domestic $6 imported. -
Review from Yunn A.
7/4/2010
I love the pizza, the staff is spot on for the concept, and it's cozy. Only problem of course is that seating is limited, but that's because it's always so busy because it's awesome! When I lived in Edmonton I went here lots, and not only is the pizza good, but the beverage selection, the gelato, and the salads are great too.
I really hope that they open one in Vancouver soon so I don't have to travel to Alberta just to have their pizza. -
Review from Gwynnie B.
Edmonton, AB
4/19/2011
My fav pizza place.
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Review from Jessica L.
Edmonton, AB
10/24/2009 1 photo
I have been making homemade pizza from scratch for many years now simply because I can't find store bought pizza that doesn't have an insanely thick crust or too much cheese or unbelievably unhealthy ingredients. I was SO excited to hear about Famoso as they were described to me as making "real Italian pizza". I was not disappointed on my first visit!
The flour and tomatoes are imported from Italy for a truly Italian taste. I ordered a pizza loaded in hot meats and peppers and was thrilled when it came with thinly sliced meats, a reasonable amount of cheese and fresh veggies on top. I watched as the pizza was baked fresh in the oven. The taste was amazing! The crust was crunchy, yet somehow flavored with the juices from the other ingredients without being soggy. I couldn't get enough of the stuff and ordered another one to go for later that evening. -
Review from Jacqueline S.
Edmonton, AB
1/6/2010 11 Check-ins Here
I go to the downtown Famoso... a lot. I'm trying to cut back to once or twice a month instead of once or twice a week.
This is probably my favourite pizza in town. The crust on its own is delicious, and the toppings are good quality and fresh. And fast! I think my longest wait ever was about 10 minutes, and that was unusual. This is also a good place to go if you just want a dessert. The Nutella pizza is amazing, and they have tiramisu and gelato as well. And the coffee is good too. Mmm Nutella mocha.
The downtown location is probably the most popular, and I think the smallest. If you go on a late week/weekend at supper time, you might have to wait a little bit. But most of the time it's not too bad.
The way you order/pay is a little different here from your standard restaurant, and I think they are working on some new system where you can order and pay at your table. But mostly you just go up to the front to order and pay, and then they bring your food out to you.
They also do takeout. For those days when you want to eat fancy pizza at home in your sweatpants. No delivery though. Plus this stuff is best super fresh. -
Review from Tim R.
Edmonton, AB
12/16/2009
If you're looking for a great pizza restaurant in Edmonton, look no further. Famoso has the best selection of wine and authentic Neapolitan pizza in the city.
The environment inside the downtown location is nice and cozy, with tables or booths to accommodate you and your party of 4, or even if it's just for 2. The restaurant is small, medium to dim lighting, and they make use of every little space possible for tables. Do not let the small size fool you; the available patio essentially doubles the capacity and is great to sit in during the summer months.
Not familiar with pizza and wine combinations? Famoso makes it easy by splitting the menu into 2 sections: 'red' and 'white' pizzas, with the color allocated to the wine type. 'Red' is also an indication that it is primarily meat-based, whereas 'white' refers to chicken-based toppings. Of course, you do not need to order any wine...
The staff are very friendly and knowledgeable on menu items. Ordering involves a different procedure however. You are seat yourself at a table and take a menu from the table corner, and although a server comes to take your drink order, you have to take your main order to the ordering till. Although it's not really a hassle, it can be complicated if you have a large party and offer to take down everyone's order (Wait, am I doing the server's job?). Dishes are brought to your side of the table thankfully.
Here comes the important part: recommendations! Their Italian Sodas are bubbly and full of flavor, even though it's really San Pellegrino. The Mediterranean Flatbread is an excellent appetizer. The Flatbread is warm and soft when you get it, and the house-made tzatziki and Tuscan hummus dipping sauce is made to a high quality. I found it easier to just take a knife and spread both on the flat bread instead of poking at the dip with the soft bread...it's just more efficient. The Siciliana pizza and Bella pizza were baked just right with fresh ingredients...this is definitely not your take out-style pizza. Still hungry for dessert? I recommend their Nutella Pizza pizza. That's right, Nutella and banana combined in a warm pita-like enclosure.
In a rush? Waiting time for the above dishes was under 15 minutes! Speedy, especially if you're on the run. On Wednesdays, they have their Vino night, which is a free wine tasting event. Also, if you purchase a bottle of wine, you get a free order of bruscetta. Not a deal breaker but it's a good alternative if you go down with a group and share the cost of a bottle! I will definitely be coming back again! -
Review from Jack G.
Edmonton, AB
11/7/2009 1 photo
In one word this place was Meh!
The pizza was burnt and the way payment works here is odd. Odd doesn't necessarily mean bad. You order everything at the front and pay right away (kind of like at McDonald's) but the problem with that is you pretty much have to decide on everything including desert and drinks up front. You can order them after but then you have to pay again and this just becomes annoying.
Like I said the pizza was burnt which made for an ashy taste and the meat ball (I cannot recall the actual name) appetizers were salty and mushy. I have to say the flat bread was amazing though and I would have been satisfied with just that.
I will give this place another chance and I hope it redeems itself, but I won't be holding my breath. -
Review from Steph B.
3/13/2009
I went for my second time yesterday...and it was just as amazing as the first!! The flat bread is to die for! They definitely know what they are doing!
I have had the mozza balls (I don't remember the actual name of the appy), they were wrapped in prosciutto...it was a tad bit salty...but over all very yummy. I have also tried the salmon dill with capers and spicy thai chicken pizzas...both which were amazing! I definitely could finish off a pizza on my own because the flatbread is so light and airy with amazing fire cooked taste. Oh yes...I almost forgot, they have amazing desserts...flat bread with nutella, fresh bananas, and whipped cream....really who could pass that up!!!
The atmosphere is very laid back, with customers going to the side to get their own plates, napkins, cutlery, going up to the counter to order your food and get your own drinks/refills.
They have a patio, which I look forward to trying out in summer. On the Rocks is next door, so it is the perfect location to go out for amazing pizza and then working it off on the dance floor! Haha!
I am sure this place is almost as good at the authentic pizzas in Italy...though I can not compare honestly. I would recommend to try it out...I am sure it will be hard to go back to Boston pizza or Pizza 73 etc. -
Review from Maria F.
10/15/2009
In Italian cooking, it is very important to use the best and the freshest ingredients possible because the food is rather simple. Italian style pizzas call for the best dough, cheese and tomatoes. The owners of Famoso have mastered this aspect of preparing their pizzas. Both flour for the dough and tomatoes are imported from Italy. The cheese is a freshly made mozarella. This is what Famoso is all about - fresh ingredients that result in amazingly tasting pizzas.
My friends and I came in one late afternoon, and the place was packed and it was very noisy. We had to wait to be seated but it was no problem since we desperately wanted to try Famoso's famous thin crust pizza. We ordered two: one Prosciutto Arugula and one Comforto. You have to pay for your order in advance, before you are seated and then wait for the waiter to bring your order. A little unusual but not inconvenient. When our pizzas came, we dug right in. The crust was thin and chewy; the ingredients combination tasted great. We could really taste the italian sausage and prosciutto, the olive oil and fresh herbs. Very yummy and fresh. Naples pizza in all its glory!
The owners of Famoso hit the nail on the head by opening their unique pizzeria in Edmonton. There are no pizza places like this in our little town. -
Review from Fallon H.
Edmonton, AB
9/13/2010
I LOVE THIS PLACE! I was introduced to the Jasper Ave. location in Feb of 2010 and I fell in love with the place. The pizza is amazing. The staff is friendly. Every time I've went, I've never had a problem finding a place to sit, though it's a busy place. Spruce Grove needs a Famoso Pizza! :)
