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ZipPicks Awards
Best Cheap Pizza in Sherman Oaks
Best Pizza in Sherman Oaks
Master Critic Review
MidiCi The Neapolitan Pizza Company
7.7
A fast-casual operation built around 90-second wood-fired pies using non-GMO Italian flour and ovens imported from Naples — the format prioritizes speed and technique over sit-down service. The open layout with communal tables and visible ovens keeps the energy social and family-friendly, making it a reliable group stop on the Ventura Blvd corridor rather than a destination dining experience.
Must-Try Dishes:
Nutella Calzone, Caccio E Peppe Pizza, The Margherita Pizza
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7.8
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7
What makes it special: Fast-casual Neapolitan pizzas fired in 90 seconds using non-GMO Italian flour dough and wood-burning ovens imported from Italy.
Who should go: Families and groups craving quick wood-fired Neapolitan pizza
When to visit: Weeknight happy hour for drinks deals without weekend crowds
What to order: Start with the Burrata Caprese, split a specialty pizza like the Caccio E Peppe, and save room for the Nutella Calzone with fresh berries.
Insider tip: Grab a table on the patio under the olive tree for the best atmosphere.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Paid parking structure behind the restaurant (~$1/hr for first 2 hours); metered street parking also available on Ventura Blvd
Dress code: Casual — jeans, t-shirts, shorts all fine; it's a counter-service pizza spot, not a sit-down restaurant
Noise level: Moderate to lively — open layout with wood-fired ovens and communal tables keeps it buzzy and social, but still conversational
Weekend wait: Expect to wait for a seat, especially for the outdoor courtyard — popular spot on weekends; food itself comes out fast (90-second oven)
Weekday lunch: Minimal to no wait — counter-order format and fast wood-fired cooking mean you're eating quickly
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong options — 7+ pizzas without meat (Margherita, Four Cheese, From The Garden, Truffle & Vegetable, Bianca, House Pesto, Tartufo), plus multiple salads, burrata caprese, and cheese boards
Vegan options: Limited — one standard vegan pizza (Red Marinara: tomato sauce, oregano, garlic, EVOO, no cheese); vegan cheese substitution noted as available; sorbetto for dessert
Gluten-free options: Housemade gluten-free pizza crust available for any pizza; gluten-free calzones also available; salads are naturally an option
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes, for a casual first date — the Italian-style courtyard with an olive tree and outdoor fireplace creates a charming evening atmosphere. The counter-service format keeps things low-pressure, and the wood-fired pizzas cook in about 90 seconds so there's no awkward waiting. The main caveat: communal tables and a social, moderately noisy vibe mean this is better for a relaxed "getting to know you" date than a quiet, intimate dinner. Request a smaller patio table in the evening for the best date setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — MidiCi is walk-in only with counter service, so no reservations are taken. During off-peak hours (weekday lunch, early dinner) you'll seat yourself easily. Peak times — especially weekend evenings — can mean waiting for a table to open up since the space is popular and not huge. Food comes out fast once ordered. For groups of 6 or more, call a day ahead so they can plan for your party.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — this is one of the better family options on Ventura Blvd. There's a dedicated kids pizza on the menu, high chairs are available, and coloring pages keep little ones busy. The casual counter-service format means no pressure if kids are restless, and the open kitchen where they can watch pizzas go into the wood-fired oven is genuinely entertaining for younger kids. The moderate noise level means families won't feel self-conscious. Best bet for families is before the evening rush.
Is it good for groups? Yes — the communal table layout naturally accommodates groups better than most restaurants. For parties of 6 or fewer, just walk in. For groups up to 18, give 48 hours notice by calling the restaurant. For 19+, they need at least a week's notice. They host events like birthdays and fundraisers with family-style service. No separate private dining room — group events happen in the main space — but the layout works well for larger parties. Call (818) 855-1420 to arrange.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — the standout feature is an Italian-style courtyard centered around an olive tree, with an outdoor fireplace. The patio has heated seating for cooler evenings. It's a modestly sized space with several tables rather than a sprawling patio, so outdoor seats fill up fast on nice evenings. Small dogs appear to be tolerated on the patio, though this isn't officially guaranteed — call ahead if bringing a pet. Coverage details not confirmed, so expect partial open-air exposure.
Best For
Better for: Outdoor courtyard hangs under the olive tree, casual group dinners with communal tables, family pizza nights, and weekday happy hours (Monday–Wednesday with $3 beers and $4 wine)
Skip if: You want a formal sit-down experience, an extensive non-pizza Italian menu, a quiet intimate date, or a wide range of vegan options
Hours
Monday11am - 11pm
Tuesday11am - 11pm
Wednesday11am - 11pm
Thursday11am - 11pm
Friday11am - 12am
Saturday11am - 12am
Sunday11am - 11pm