First, let me say that I LOVED Rub, so I couldn't help but approach Hersch's sort of like a six year old meeting daddy's new girlfriend. So what follows is just IMHO, and YMMV. Because I wanted to like Hersch's more than I did. Everyone there seems super friendly and eager to please. And after the smoky dark interior that was Rub, the renovated space feels shiny, cheerful and new. For that matter, so does the wait staff. They were positively chirpy. We started with an order of the prosciutto balls. They were basically fried croquettes of prosciutto and cheese. They weren't at all greasy, and were just the right size, with a beautiful brown crust. We both wished the crust had been a little crispier, but more than that we both agreed that the filling was somehow lacking in flavor. Maybe the prosciutto wasn't carrying through the cheesiness, or maybe it needed something else to balance the flavors, but in the end we were both underwhelmed. The tomato sauce that came with the balls for dunking was quite tasty on its own, but also seemed to get lost when eaten with the balls. That's how we felt about the pizza as well: close, but not quite there. We ordered the clam pizza, and I was delighted with the look of the pie that was brought to our table. A beautiful puffy crust with a lovely char in places. And the topping was nice and garlicky and buttery. But it was also a little soupy, and that left the crust feeling soggy and slightly underdone. Also, the clam was completely lost in the mix, either overwhelmed by the garlic, or else just not enough of it present to hold its own. I don't know that using minced clams was the best choice. Finally, the crust on the pizza...well it again seemed out of balance, upstaged by the topping. We both agreed that it just didn't have enough flavor to compliment the topping, which reduced it to something more like a conveyance. Hersch's is brand new, so maybe this is just some unsteadiness as they get on their feet, and I'm all for another good pizzeria in this town, if only to keep everyone at the top of their game. I'll definitely be back for another try. But at this point, I'm a little discouraged. read more

I didn't really know what to expect when I came. I usually imagine pizza places to be a bit fast paced, crowded, and loud. I was really surprised by the ambiance when we arrived. It was a quiet corner of the neighborhood, although it could also be that we came at an off hour. We sat outdoors, which might have also helped, but I thought it was a very relaxing atmosphere and didn't feel crazy rushed like other places. We started off with the lamb meatballs and the bone marrow crostini. The meatballs were good, but didn't really wow me. I really enjoyed the bone marrow, though, and I thought the topping of shallots, capers, and parsley was really good. It reminded me vaguely of chimichurri sauce minus the capers. As for pizza, we ordered the Kale and Pistachio, and the Tre Porcellini (sausage, braised pork, guanciale). Both pizzas were delicious. The crust reminded me of naan. I enjoyed the Tre Porcellini, which was really saucy, and I thought that the Kale and Pistachio, which is a little more subtle in flavor balanced it out well. Not sure if I would want Kale and Pistachio by itself, but the combo of the two pizzas was very satisfying. Overall a really nice experience. read more

Visited here a couple weeks after they first opened. They did a great job with the remodel - a little on the dark side but very cozy/intimate. They keep a nice selection of craft brews on the menu and also have some cheap can options (I think they have a 24oz PBR for less than $3 for you real beer conossieurs). The sage and achovy fritter appetizer was delicious and I probably could've eaten three more orders of those alone. We tried two pizzas - a margherita with their homemade sausage and the pistachio. Both were enjoyable but not yet outstanding. I would have liked more sausage on the margherita and the kale & pistachio, while interesting, also needed more of its namesake star ingredients. Service was good and not overly attentive. One of the managers was walking around and chatting with the customers, which is always nice to see. Apparently they have a pretty nice happy hour with two 10oz craft beers for $5, but I'd like to see them offer some specials on their food as well, as it's just pricey enough to keep from going there regularly (this may be a blessing in disguise as I live very closeby). read more

We've been going here since the very beginning and it's awesome. It has a great atmosphere and the staff is great. The owners are always around and so friendly. We traditionally stick to the pizza because it's just so good - we usually get the kale/pistachio pizza or some spicy Italian one. The apps are usually really good - ricotta crostinis, roasted brussels sprouts, and meatballs. They do half price bottle nights on Wednesdays. Can't say enough good things about this place and the staff - it never gets old and already looking forward to going back. read more

I absolutely love this place. Excellent food and great part of our neighborhood. The staff is extremely friendly and welcoming. They have great cocktail recommendations and an extensive cocktail menu. read more

Had a very nice meal at Hersh's. The bartender was very lovely and always checked back if we needed anything. The ginger beer is outstanding! Their pizza is really good. We were even offered complementary freshly made shrimps in salsa verde, just because. That was so nice! They were so good! Definitely coming back. read more

So...what kind of pizza crust do you like? It's something to consider before heading to Hersh's. Let it be said that I am a thin crust kinda girl... I went on a Friday evening with a group of 7. Five of my friends RAVED about the pizza crust: "perfect!" "outstanding!" "the best!". My opinion? Meh, it's fine. The crust is pleasantly chewy and lightly charred on the underside. I ate the pizza and liked it...I just wasn't as turned on as some others seem to be. My table ordered several appetizers. The anchovy fritters, prosciutto balls and sauteed mushrooms all looked fantastic and were happily devoured by my friends (I abstained, opting to save more belly-room for pizza) The pizzas I sampled were tasty with high quality ingredients. I ordered the cheese pizza because the quality of the sauce and cheese often speak louder than a stellar crust - I wasn't disappointed. I found the sauce-less kale pizza to be on the dry side. The crisped bits of kale and scattered pistachios were lost rather than enhanced by a liberal dose of garlic. The arugula and prosciutto pizza I found bland - prosciutto has such a delicate flavor - it's well pared with arugula but, in my opinion, NOT on a pizza: I usually love arugula on pizza but this version lacked richness. There was one dessert offered: three fried risotto "rice pudding" balls with a mandarin/anise sauce. Perfect for sharing when you want a little something sweet to cap off your meal. Hersh's gets 4 stars; the service was fantastic, the beer list was impressive and my wine was delicious but I found some of the pizza selections to be lack-luster . I'll go again and my next visit will definitely include a few of those appetizers! read more

Pizza is pretty average to somewhat bad, and I'm sorry to say it. Been wanting to try this place for awhile and the pizza we received was underdone, cold, congealed, and greasy. Reheating didn't really help, just made it droopier and the grease leaked everywhere. Brussel sprouts could have been more done and crispier, but the agrodolce was very nice. Overall, this pizza needed a lot of help with red pepper flakes and it was barely passable, especially for the price. I'm happy to support businesses and restaurant staff during COVID with additional charges, but not without a product to back it up. Pizza is a classic takeout food that shouldn't miss this hard. Disappointed. :( read more

Been here twice (so far, there will be more visits in the future as I live close). Each time I got something different and was pleased. Margherita pizza, cheese with sausage pizza, prosciutto and arugula pizza, mushroom appetizer, prosciutto balls, and the fried anchovies. Everything was good (esp the anchovies which I never thought I'd like). Let's not mistake though, the menu is simple, but that's okay. There are some interesting flavors and options, but the menu is pizza, pasta and apps. It fits in with the decor and attitude of the staff. For reviewers who wanted more, perhaps they should temper expectations for a place that is predominately a pizza joint (and good one at that). The pizza dough is darn good, soft, puffy, and tastes great coming from the oven. The drink list (cocktails, beer and wine) is pretty darn solid. Some interesting brews, and very reasonable (and tasty) wines. All in all, for the price, service, and taste this place gets 4 starts. I'll definitely be going back. read more

Delicious and creative food and drinks. The pizza is fantastic--great crust and surprisingly good toppings, from the house-made sausage (which was amazing) to the more unusual combinations like kale/pistachio. The appetizers (ricotta meatballs were awesome) and desserts were all hits too, especially the almond roll. The cocktails are also worth mentioning because it's not the standard list of 'tinis. Instead there are a lot of traditional and sophisticated (and some oddball) cocktails that were all super good. Great craft beer list too. read more

We went to Hersh's to celebrate our friend's birthday this past weekend, and I LOVED everything about this place. The food was amazing, the atmosphere was trendy but not pretentious, the service was excellent, and the cocktail, beer & wine selection was not your typical boring menu. The owner must of heard us tell our friend 'happy birthday' at some point during the night because the server surprised our table with an excellent bottle of sparkling red wine. That was such a kind, personal gesture, and it really made our celebration with our friend all the more special. We will definitely be returning to Hersh's frequently and introducing it to all of our friends. Thank you Hersh's! read more

Stopped by for happy hour. Asked about the 2 drafts for $5. ok 10 ounce pours, sounds good. Was there with my in-laws. My father-in-law were up for sampling a few so I proceeded to order two drafts and immediately confusion ensued. Did I want them both at once? Did I want two of each? Did my father-in-law want two different ones? Turns out they have to come out at the same time. Ok that works given that there are two of us. However when I then stated fine I'll order these 2 drafts now and we'll split them then order again, were told "you can't share". Really? Where are we that I can't share my beer order with my company? Moreover, why would I want extra glasses of beer just sitting in front of us getting warm outside? It was 5pm on Friday and the only table outside (plus fairly empty still inside). Do not tell me it's because it was too busy. I kindly asked for our check as our drinks came out and then departed. Yes we planned to stay longer and likely turn it into dinner...but c'est la vie. The inflexibility and irrationality of our server was a complete turn off. Too many restaurants in this city that I should re-visit one where I feel pressured/forced. My favorite part..."you can't share". Thanks. read more

This place is awesome!!!!!! I had a delicious chicken milanese. It was super inventive, delicious, fantastic, and only $9!!! The pizza proscuito and arugula was $13, and i assumed was going to be a small protion, but definitely enough for two to share (if you start with an appetizer or something), and it too was totally delicious. Really, this place is phenomenal. The food can't be beat, and neither can the prices!!! Definitely my new favorite place! read more

This is my favorite spot for a homemade Italian dinner - and my father and grandparents are straight off the boat Italian! The restaurant has a modern, urban feel and the servers are extremely nice and knowledgeable. Everything is handmade, down to the cheeses and bread. I am obsessed with the ravioli, Naples style pizza, their chili oil, and the tomato crostini app. Definitely recommend for a date, small groups, or special occasions. read more

One of my all time favorites! 5 star food in a casual, but upscale ambiance. Everything is fresh and made from scratch. The homemade pastas and pizzas are a must, but so is everything I've ever tried. Don't forget the drinks either! Staff is friendly and attentive too. Really can't say enough good stuff about it! read more

The kale - pistachio pizza is definitely crave-able! In fact EVERYTHING I had I want more of it! I am so thankful for my dear friend and co worker introducing me to this tiny gem in my old hometown! I can't wait to go back!! read more

Carry out review. Marinara pizza-perfectly charred crust, salty sauce and very salty cheese. The pizza was soggy when we sat down to eat. The crust was great but the rest was just ok. Chop house salad-a small shredded pile of veggies with amazing flavor. I wish the portion was larger. Italian wedding soup-great flavor, amazing meatballs, teeny tiny cup. The prices are a bit high and the portions are a bit small. Overall it was okay but not worth a special trip. I'll try eating in if I'm ever in the area. read more

Came here tonight (Sunday) with my girlfriends. What a great find! The three of us split the chopped salad, spring onions appetizer and the kale and pistachio pizza. I enjoyed EVERY part of this meal. The decor, the lighting, the company (naturally) and the food. Heck I even enjoyed the water pitcher at the table. I did NOT like that parking was a pain and there was validated parking on fri/saturday. The spring onions were really unique. They had romesco sauce and toasted almonds. YUM! The chopped salad (romaine, marcona almonds, red onion, parmigiano-reggiano, anchovies, & Calabrian chili tossed with lemon & anchovy vinaigrette) is also something that I have to make at home. The anchovies were also VERY mild. Great addition of some umami. We were all a bit drawn to the pizza, never having seen that combo before. It was a good one. With a very thin but crispy crust, it was light but hearty with the bold kale flavor shining through. Not bitter at all! It came with a side of red pepper flakes which I dusted all over. perfect. Need to go back to try some of their meatier pizzas (the coppa has pork loin and taleggio.. ummm can I go back tomorrow?) These little places are the stars of Baltimore's food scene - happy I got to try another gem! read more

In case you had trouble guessing from the title. This place has pizza and drinks, and they did not disappoint. It's a delightful little place is in South Baltimore, on the corner of Light and Wells - just far enough south of Fed Hill that you can easily find parking. The restaurant's exposed brick, and the metal tables and chairs lend an industrial feel, but when combined with the logo of a beehived Hon eating pizza and the sign "pizza for president" above the bar makes it utterly charming. We had reservations (yay points!), but snagged a few seats at the bar. It was happy hour - and they have great specials; cocktails, or wine, or 2 10oz mugs of beer for $5. My friends got a few of the Kir Royale (pictured) with Creme de cassis (a sweet, dark red liqueur made from black currents) and sparkling wine with a beautiful lemon twist. I had the adorable glass mugs of beer - and the 2 for $5 was entirely mix and match. There selection isn't large (10 or so), but is thoughtfully updated to match the season. I tried a few, but my favorites were a local brew by Brewer's Art, and a sour belgian wheat. IMG_0007We started with the Prosciutto Balls - chopped prosciutto mixed with ricotta, house made smoked mozzarella, and piave vecchio (a nutty parm like cheese) dropped in an egg wash and deep fried - creating a ball of oozy cheesy goodness served with a sweet and tangy house-made marinara. In fact, we ordered them again for dessert--so good! Despite the German style name- this place has fantastic Italian food. How could we skip the homemade pasta section and based on recommendations? We chose the salty Pork Cheeks. I didn't know I liked pork cheeks, but the meat was super tender and matched expertly with the smooth, creamy polenta and sweet, crunchy walnuts. Most importantly, let's get to the wood fired pizza. With seven house styles, who could choose just one? We got the Pork Piccante; a doughy crust covered with the piave vecchio, smoked mozzarella, braised pork, spicy fresno chilies and olives (there they are again, and I still didn't hate them). The winner of the night was the Margherita - the yummy marinara sauce combined with the smoky fresh mozzarella, and oh yeah, the fresh basil. I wish I had a better picture of these delectable uncut wood fired pizzas, but they were too mouthwatering to resist. Especially with the cute little side of crushed red pepper. I am excited to go back. But next time, I will be going on a Sunday. They have a $20 fried chicken and beer deal. I can't wait to try their unique Calabrian style double-fried chicken, sides of polenta and braised greens. Given the quality of draft beers, chances are great that you will find something you'll love. I'm not sure what means for a chicken to be double fried or Calabrian, but I can't wait to find out. read more

Have been a handful of times and never been disappointed. The menu changes regularly, the food is full of local in-season produce, and the service is is great. This past week, I had a snafu with a reservation for a large group (my fault, not theirs) and they were so incredibly kind and accommodating. They went out of their way to seat my group together and on time. Everyone loved their food. Will definitely return again and again. read more

That roast pumpkin gnocchi, sooo good and so worth price for the (kinda small) portion. It's seasonal, but according to the menu, the roast pumpkin gnocchi had "crispy braised pork, fresh thyme, parmigiano broth, arugula-pumpkin pesto." It was straight up amazing, that slight chewiness as you bit into the gnocchi, but infused with the pork juices and parmigiano broth, and a tinge of sweetness from the argula-pumpkin pesto. I also got the carbonara, which was fine, but I think still too pricey for the tiny portion despite the pasta being hand made. Then again, it could have been because that gnocchi was so good, everything else paled. read more

The waitress we had was a 5. Such good service and what a friendly woman! She made the night a positive one. On the other hand, I wasn't impressed by the pizza, salad or prosciutto balls. Burned underside, the predetermined cheese for the pizza could have been way better. There were black olives AND green olives, which makes for an extremely high sodium pie. The salad was drenched and the balls were middle of the road. I had wished for a better experience due to the ratings and reviews, but alas! I would 100% suggest Johnny Rad's over this place, although I enjoyed the calmer, less crowded atmosphere of this humble abode. read more

Really relaxed place to hang out with friends. The pizza was the best "artisanal" style I've had in the region thus far (sorry Iggie's). Don't miss the pistachio/kale. There were a bunch of micro-brews on the menu and I had the Kolsch from somewhere in Missouri, I think. Unfortunately, it wasn't very good. Also, I was looking forward to the deep-fried anchovies, but they've been taken off the menu. read more

We came here to celebrate my friends birthday. The food and service were outstanding and very reasonably priced. The menu changes often so you get some of the best, most seasonal ingredients. There is also free parking for the restaurant about a block down the street which is a huge bonus. I can't wait to come back! read more

I have now been to Hersh's 3 times in the last month. I have tried a good percentage of the items on the menu nd i can say clearly this is one of the best restaurants in Baltimore. The food is Italian but not your typical Little Italy Italian. It is fresh and interesting. Every dish has it's own flavor profile and all are worth trying. Among my favorites, the Ricotta Meatballs, the Lemon Fettuccine, the Pork Ragu, the Chicken Milanese, and then there is the Pizza ( all I can say is awesome). Oh and don't forget the large beer selection, amazing interesting cocktails and nice wine list! Enjoy! read more

Ordered pizza, obviously, but I wasn't too impressed with it. The crust was soggy and thin. Toppings were okay, although I can't even remember what we got. The beer selection was very good, and the small plate we got was good, too. But really nothing to write home about. I might try the pasta if I was ever there again, but I probably wouldn't make it a point to go back. read more

Writing a follow-up to my review in 2012 to say that Hersh's just keeps getting better. One of the things I love about Hersh's is that it works for such a wide range of experiences--the atmosphere can play fun, casual, romantic, and special all at once. It's great for Sunday brunch, an after-work drink, or a weeknight pizza fix, but also the perfect place for a special occasion dinner, which is what brought us there this week for our wedding anniversary. We had great drinks, plus the Hersh's Greens So Hearty salad, the Fumo e Fuoco pizza, and the gnocchi alla norma. While the Fumo e Fuoco (smoked mozzarella and fried eggplant pizza) and the salad were fantastic (I'm already worried about when that salad is going to rotate off the menu), the gnocchi literally rendered us speechless. The gnocchi itself hit the perfect balance between light and substantial, a pillowy version of the dumpling that in less experienced hands falls victim to being too dense or (in the case of ricotta gnocchi) too meltingly doughy. The sauce was unctuous. It would make a believer out of an eggplant naysayer. Run, don't walk, to snap up the gnocchi alla norma before it rotates off the ever-changing menu! read more

I love this place and used to drop in semi regularily when we lived closeby! This is a great date spot. They make the freshest and the most flavourful Kale Salad that I have ever had. The Heirloom Tomato Crostini is juicy, rich and very tasty, the perfect companion for the Kale Salad! Around this time of year they do a Gambas al ajillo/Calamari Dish which is delicious and my absolute favorite. For dessert I would recommend the Budihino (a rich chocolate mouse) The food is consistently of a very high quality. However the menu changes seasonally so favorites come and go. For example the fifth anniversary pie would be a welcome come back. read more

A hidden gem as far as I'm concerned! The food was great and staff was amazing!!! read more

This place is so cute. Came here for a friends birthday dinner and the waitress was super accommodating. We ordered champagne and a few plates to split. They gave us tiramisu for dessert with a candle. Reasonable prices and great atmosphere. Will be back! read more

One of the best "foodie" places you'll ever go to! They should change their name and take "pizza" out of it because it makes you think its just a pizza joint, but its far more! Not only do you get fabulous pizza, but you get great papparardelli, meatballs, salads and others. And, wow, what service! The staff greets you are right at side as soon as you're ready for the next order. I love this place and have recommended it to friends, clients and business associates. read more

If you're looking for some of the best Neapolitan pizza in the city, this is your place. Wow, so good. Charred and a bit chewy crust with great toppings. One had sausage and roasted red peppers and the other had arugula, pork belly, and candied plums. Both were fantastic. A little pricey, so be aware. Otherwise, no complaints. read more

I do not come here nearly enough! Some of the best specialty pizza in Baltimore. The kale and pistachio is a real crowd pleaser - even the heavy meat eaters at our table were wanting another bite! read more

Love Hersh's and what it brings to south bmore. We have never had a bad experience here -- and we go here often as it's down the street from us. The atmosphere is great, the food has never been disappointing, and the service is always stellar. read more

Here's the thing about Hersh's. The food is great. They have a nice patio, made even better via some COVID-era modifications. My only complaint is that they don't slice the pizza. The first time we went there, the server said it's because the pizza is a bit delicate and slicing will ruin it. Okay, fine, but since they don't slice it, you have two options. Try to tear burning hot pizza with your fingers, or sit and wait until it cools, or, as they suggest, use a fork and knife to cut it and eat it that way. I don't use a fork a knife to eat pizza - I'm not Bill Blasio. I eat it with my hands, the way pizza is supposed to be eaten. So when I eat at Hersh's, much to my husband's dismay, I bring a pizza cutter in a little bag and cut my own damn pizza. Does the pizza get a little smushed? Absolutely. Is it still delicious? Absolutely. I would love for Hersh's to at least offer pizza cutting if someone wants that. Other than their annoying stance on pizza cutting, I'm a big fan. read more

Came for an early dinner. The place was empty when we arrived, whicH made it weird that we were seated upstairs in the dark attic-like place. The food was okay, nothing exciting, and the service was all over the map. They seemed continuously perplexed by any off-menu request and seemed to breathe a sigh of relief as they left our table at any time. It was just a strange dining experience overall.. read more

Friendly staff, fresh and excellent food, and a reasonable price makes this a no brainer for 5 stars. This isn't new york or chicago style pizza, but if you like thin crust wood burning stove, this is excellent. They have a great list of house mixed drinks as well. Place is a little off the beaten path, but well worth the trip. read more

Definitely the most unique flavors I've ever tasted but an unforgettable experience. Ordered the kale and pistachio pizza and loved every single bite! We loved the atmosphere and the service! We will be visiting for Friday night dinner again soon! read more

Loved the ambience at this place! It's on the smaller side, but it has a cozy feel. Their pizzas are delicious. Their pasta dishes are a close second. The appetizers are all great, just a bit on the small side. Awesome happy hour deals on top of all of this! read more

Two words: wine Wednesday! I could not recommend this restaurant more! It has a fun vibe and incredible food. We had Anne as our waitress and she was fantastic! She was so friendly and had great recommendations on what to order. You could tell she enjoyed her job and actually liked the food. We started with the roasted brussel sprouts and I highly recommend them. We also shared the IL Duce pizza which was to die for. I will be going back many times. A+ food A+ service A + wine A + hip environment **a little noisy but not too bad **parking could be a problem but I live close so I walked read more