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I was recommended to try this place for a nice Italian lunch. I was in a rush so I called in an order for takeout. The food was ready for pickup in 20 minutes. They also have a parking lot. When I walked in to pick up my food, the whole place smelled amazing. The style and ambiance of the restaurant was authentic Italian and they also had plenty of outdoor seating. I would definitely go back and eat in person. I was torn between the pizza and pasta but I ordered the cacio e pepe and it was amazing.
This place really stands out if you're looking for authentic Italian pizza and fresh pasta. Coming from someone who loves the classic New Haven bar pizza style, this felt different in the best way -- much more traditional, with an incredibly fresh, flavorful tomato sauce and a pizza where the sauce and cheese truly shine in every bite. I also ordered the cacio e pepe, which is one of my favorite dishes anywhere, so I'm picky about it -- and this version easily ranked in my top 3. Rich, balanced, and done the right way. What impressed me just as much was how fast the service and food were. Everything came out quickly, but nothing felt rushed or low quality. The staff was friendly, attentive, and welcoming the whole time. The restaurant itself was clean, authentic, and had a great vibe. If you're looking for fresh Italian food, great pizza, homemade pasta, and fast service, this spot is absolutely worth visiting.
Had an awesome meal here! Came at around 11:30 on a Sunday and no wait, we had a pizza and a pasta and both were excellent! We sat outside and it was really nice and well covered/shaded, the inside was also pretty big and had great AC. We talked to the owner for a little and he was super friendly, very generous with his time chatting with us and helped advise on what to order. Would highly recommend and will def come back next time we are in the area!
I have never tried this pizza place, but sad that I haven't. We started off by sipping on some wine at the bar, a nice peach Bellini and a sauvignon blanc Service was quick and the bartender and staff were very friendly Their margarita pizza is very good. Fresh basil and fresh sauce. The pizza is a little thinner than I'm used to, but it's still very good! Their cacio e Pepe is very delicious, especially with their freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Still excellent. The best pastas and pizzas. I'm so happy Zeneli has become part of the fabric of Wooster Street. Tip: if you're flying from Tweed - Zeneli's makes a wonderful pre flight stop for some great food. And then it's very easy to get onto the highway for a quick trip to the airport. We love absolutely everything we get here plus the amiable staff.
You know a place is out of this world when you can hear customers around you going mmmmmm with every bite they take. Today was totally epic. In honor of my birthday, we splurged with a number of items on the menu. From the prosciutto appetizer to the limoncello dessert and the peach Bellini's, every thing made you feel like you were in heaven.
Wow Just discovered one of the best pizza spots in New Haven , Connecticut . We started off with arugula salad, then we had prosciutto and fresh mozzarella sprinkled balsamic vinaigrette and grape tomatoes. It was delicious. Then We tried many different pizzas to include margarita pizza, truffle and sausage, original cheese, prosciutto, and basil. They were all good. I think my favorite was the margarita pizza. We also had meatballs with sauce and cacio e Pepe topped with fresh grated parm cheese. The food here was amazing. I would definitely come here again. The owners of this restaurant are brothers and you could tell they really care and take pride in what they do.
I was in Venice, Italy around 9 years ago and I had a very tasty, house made, brick oven pizza. Of all the pizzas I've had since then the pizza at Zeneli's is the most like the Venice one. Zeneli's is a very small Italian pizza restaurant in New Haven. From the wood walls, to the exposed oven, to the almost 700 4.5 star reviews, I knew my friend and I made the right choice by choosing to dine here. We got a serving of Gnocchi alla Sorrentina and a Calzone Napoletano. Talk about homemade, comfort food in the dead of the winter. This is it! The gnocchi were super, super fresh and tender. Surrounded by the freshest red sauce. I actually ate the sauce with a spoon, once the gnocchi was gone, that's how good it was! The Calzone was equally as fresh. The charred edges and the uneven shape give it so much character. While the edges were charred, the center was thin and stuffed with prosciutto and fresh mozzarella. Of course it was topped with that dreamy sauce and mozzarella. This was so delicious and made to blow my mind. I absolutely cannot wait to return to try more of their specialties at Zeneli's.
Best pizza in the state. The pasta dishes are also very delicious.We try to come here as often as we can.
Visiting my son for parents weekend at Yale University. After a very long day of travel, we were tired and hungry with New Haven pizza on our mind. We drove through little Italy and it was already getting busy. There are many options but Zeneli's is one of my son's favorite. We walked in and were seated pretty quickly for a party of three. Most tables were filled all around us! You can see them hard at work behind the counter. (Great story of how they came to America on back of menu.) We ordered two pizzas, salad and some beer and wine. The salad came out first. Simple with arugula and shaved parmesan cheese and light oil and vinegar. Delicious! The pizzas came out piping hot! Pulling a slice from the pie, careful to hang on to your toppings. The pizzas came margherita is one of my favorites. The sauce was delicious and it complimented my salad. The room was buzzing and filled with conversation, clinking of glasses and happy customers. Everyone was so friendly. At the end, the owner took the time to take our picture. Good all the way around
Always the best meals here! I have come multiple times and never have a bad experience. Everything is always delicious and the service is always fantastic. Forever a favorite spot! I love when I have family visit and we bring everyone here as part of their Connecticut experience!
First time trying Zeneli's and I was pleasantly surprised! The ambience was warm and welcoming, and the staff were super friendly and attentive. I ordered the Spaghetti al Pomodoro and Cacio e Pepe--both were absolutely delicious. The flavors were fresh and authentic. I also had the Margherita pizza with mushroom toppings, which was perfectly baked with just the right balance of cheese, sauce, and mushrooms.Would love to visit again and try more.
Came to New Haven for a quick trip, used to live in the area. Wanted to go to either Sally's, Pepe's or Modern but friends recommended Zeneli's. We ordered 2 margarite pies. There were 4 in my group and only the ladies were asked what we'd like to drink. My son was overlooked or ignored. The pie came out pretty quickly, but def should have been cooked longer. The cheese and sauce slid right off the dough-which tasted under cooked. Not what I hoped for.
3 months ago
We were on our way back home and wanted to give New Haven spots another try. The usual spots had a line of people. We laughed at them and moved on. We don't do lines. Found this spot and were glad we did. Pizza was absolute perfect. We tried 3 different pies. read more
2 months ago
Delicious FRESH food! 4.5/5.0. I wish Yelp would allow for the .5 in reviews! Went here yesterday to meet up with an old friend. We had the ricotta and honey on toast, meatballs, prosciutto/mozzarella to start, some white wine and of course PIZZA! The pizza was light and cooked perfectly. We had the Dolce Salato and the Diavolina. We loved the Dolce Salato! The Diavolina was good, but I think some more spicy salami or maybe an additional spicy component would have been a good addition to the pizza. It needed just a little bit more on the flavor side. But still everything here is high quality and I would recommend! Service was excellent. We were immediately seated and had the option to sit inside or outside. I first sat inside, then we moved to a larger table outside. What I really appreciated as a new mom, was their openness and flexibility for coming in with a stroller. I was nervous to be a burden to the restaurant, but they were super accommodating. Thank you On room for improvement, I think on a hot day, having the inside space being much much cooler, than the outdoor seating (especially for newborns/really young kids/elderly) would be beneficial. Yesterday it was cool inside to start (and remember I chose to move outside), but they started to leave the front door open to allow for easy movement of staff and guests between inside and outside, which made the indoor space get warmer over time. And I totally get that for the ease of movement for staff/guests, but maybe consider keeping it super cool on the inside, so that kiddos/elderly have a cool space on a really hot day to not overheat. The vibe here is great. Chill, warm and light! Come with family and/or friends and enjoy! read more
The pizza my roommate brought back from Yale! Incredibly delicious! Bufalina: It was tremendous! The sugar from the San Marzano tomatoes and the nutty aroma of the prosciutto di parma combined perfectly after baking to create a warm caramel aroma. The fresh, smooth olive oil base creates a rich, syrupy texture. The basil aroma emerged in the aftertaste, adding layers to the rich, creamy cheese. The cornicione was crispy but not dry, and the crust was very chewy. Tartufella: Relatively less impressive. The black truffle aroma wasn't strong; the main flavors were the savory, sweet, and meaty notes of the Italian sausage. read more
2 months ago
I was recommended to try this place for a nice Italian lunch. I was in a rush so I called in an order for takeout. The food was ready for pickup in 20 minutes. They also have a parking lot. When I walked in to pick up my food, the whole place smelled amazing. The style and ambiance of the restaurant was authentic Italian and they also had plenty of outdoor seating. I would definitely go back and eat in person. I was torn between the pizza and pasta but I ordered the cacio e pepe and it was amazing. read more
7 months ago
This place really stands out if you're looking for authentic Italian pizza and fresh pasta. Coming from someone who loves the classic New Haven bar pizza style, this felt different in the best way -- much more traditional, with an incredibly fresh, flavorful tomato sauce and a pizza where the sauce and cheese truly shine in every bite. I also ordered the cacio e pepe, which is one of my favorite dishes anywhere, so I'm picky about it -- and this version easily ranked in my top 3. Rich, balanced, and done the right way. What impressed me just as much was how fast the service and food were. Everything came out quickly, but nothing felt rushed or low quality. The staff was friendly, attentive, and welcoming the whole time. The restaurant itself was clean, authentic, and had a great vibe. If you're looking for fresh Italian food, great pizza, homemade pasta, and fast service, this spot is absolutely worth visiting. read more
Had an awesome meal here! Came at around 11:30 on a Sunday and no wait, we had a pizza and a pasta and both were excellent! We sat outside and it was really nice and well covered/shaded, the inside was also pretty big and had great AC. We talked to the owner for a little and he was super friendly, very generous with his time chatting with us and helped advise on what to order. Would highly recommend and will def come back next time we are in the area! read more
16 days ago
Business owner information
Jeshar Z.
;) be positive don’t be Dawn……
7 months ago
I have never tried this pizza place, but sad that I haven't. We started off by sipping on some wine at the bar, a nice peach Bellini and a sauvignon blanc Service was quick and the bartender and staff were very friendly Their margarita pizza is very good. Fresh basil and fresh sauce. The pizza is a little thinner than I'm used to, but it's still very good! Their cacio e Pepe is very delicious, especially with their freshly grated Parmesan cheese read more
Still excellent. The best pastas and pizzas. I'm so happy Zeneli has become part of the fabric of Wooster Street. Tip: if you're flying from Tweed - Zeneli's makes a wonderful pre flight stop for some great food. And then it's very easy to get onto the highway for a quick trip to the airport. We love absolutely everything we get here plus the amiable staff. read more
You know a place is out of this world when you can hear customers around you going mmmmmm with every bite they take. Today was totally epic. In honor of my birthday, we splurged with a number of items on the menu. From the prosciutto appetizer to the limoncello dessert and the peach Bellini's, every thing made you feel like you were in heaven. read more
3 months ago
7 months ago
Wow Just discovered one of the best pizza spots in New Haven , Connecticut . We started off with arugula salad, then we had prosciutto and fresh mozzarella sprinkled balsamic vinaigrette and grape tomatoes. It was delicious. Then We tried many different pizzas to include margarita pizza, truffle and sausage, original cheese, prosciutto, and basil. They were all good. I think my favorite was the margarita pizza. We also had meatballs with sauce and cacio e Pepe topped with fresh grated parm cheese. The food here was amazing. I would definitely come here again. The owners of this restaurant are brothers and you could tell they really care and take pride in what they do. read more
I was in Venice, Italy around 9 years ago and I had a very tasty, house made, brick oven pizza. Of all the pizzas I've had since then the pizza at Zeneli's is the most like the Venice one. Zeneli's is a very small Italian pizza restaurant in New Haven. From the wood walls, to the exposed oven, to the almost 700 4.5 star reviews, I knew my friend and I made the right choice by choosing to dine here. We got a serving of Gnocchi alla Sorrentina and a Calzone Napoletano. Talk about homemade, comfort food in the dead of the winter. This is it! The gnocchi were super, super fresh and tender. Surrounded by the freshest red sauce. I actually ate the sauce with a spoon, once the gnocchi was gone, that's how good it was! The Calzone was equally as fresh. The charred edges and the uneven shape give it so much character. While the edges were charred, the center was thin and stuffed with prosciutto and fresh mozzarella. Of course it was topped with that dreamy sauce and mozzarella. This was so delicious and made to blow my mind. I absolutely cannot wait to return to try more of their specialties at Zeneli's. read more
3 months ago
Best pizza in the state. The pasta dishes are also very delicious.We try to come here as often as we can. read more
1 year ago
Visiting my son for parents weekend at Yale University. After a very long day of travel, we were tired and hungry with New Haven pizza on our mind. We drove through little Italy and it was already getting busy. There are many options but Zeneli's is one of my son's favorite. We walked in and were seated pretty quickly for a party of three. Most tables were filled all around us! You can see them hard at work behind the counter. (Great story of how they came to America on back of menu.) We ordered two pizzas, salad and some beer and wine. The salad came out first. Simple with arugula and shaved parmesan cheese and light oil and vinegar. Delicious! The pizzas came out piping hot! Pulling a slice from the pie, careful to hang on to your toppings. The pizzas came margherita is one of my favorites. The sauce was delicious and it complimented my salad. The room was buzzing and filled with conversation, clinking of glasses and happy customers. Everyone was so friendly. At the end, the owner took the time to take our picture. Good all the way around read more
Always the best meals here! I have come multiple times and never have a bad experience. Everything is always delicious and the service is always fantastic. Forever a favorite spot! I love when I have family visit and we bring everyone here as part of their Connecticut experience! read more
First time trying Zeneli's and I was pleasantly surprised! The ambience was warm and welcoming, and the staff were super friendly and attentive. I ordered the Spaghetti al Pomodoro and Cacio e Pepe--both were absolutely delicious. The flavors were fresh and authentic. I also had the Margherita pizza with mushroom toppings, which was perfectly baked with just the right balance of cheese, sauce, and mushrooms.Would love to visit again and try more. read more
Came to New Haven for a quick trip, used to live in the area. Wanted to go to either Sally's, Pepe's or Modern but friends recommended Zeneli's. We ordered 2 margarite pies. There were 4 in my group and only the ladies were asked what we'd like to drink. My son was overlooked or ignored. The pie came out pretty quickly, but def should have been cooked longer. The cheese and sauce slid right off the dough-which tasted under cooked. Not what I hoped for. read more
Business owner information
Jeshar Z.
Hi Nancy, thank you for stopping by!…
Truly a gem and staple pizza spot in Wooster Square. Staff is always so warm and welcoming and the pizza is phenomenal! The restaurant is spacious and they have outdoor and indoor seating. Perfect for date nights, events, and celebrations! Been here a few times now and the food is always consistently good! read more
4 months ago
Delicious and authentic Neapolitan pizza and pasta! The meatball appetizer was excellent! Loved it! read more
1 year ago
Came in for a dinner at the end of last week and was quickly seated on a busy (and hot) night. The oven was doing double-time work and the staff was also buzzing around the place trying to keep everyone with fresh water, great wine, and wonderful Italian food. I will say we were served a little slower than I would like, but I totally understand given the number of customers both inside and outside the restaurant at the time. But, the pizza was divine. Like: people always tell me about New Haven pizza and I haven't quite felt as connected to it as everyone who raves. But this was my favorite pizza I've had in New Haven. I liked it way more than Pepe's or Sally's, honestly. It was fast, the crust was paper thin, the sauce not acidic and not too sweet, and the toppings quite fresh and rustic. Really beautiful, and with that wonderful smokey aroma you get from a wood-fired oven. Overall, a wonderful meal and I can't wait to come back! read more
4 months ago
Holy moly! The pizza here is fire!! I've had Frank Pepe's both in Boston and in New Haven, and I feel like I've been missing out! We got the Bufalina and the Margherita pizzas, and both were amazing. The crusts had a perfect amount of blackening. The bufala mozzarella is really something you need to try if you haven't had it. Very unique and very good. The margherita is very simple, but there is truly beauty in the simplicity. Sauce, cheese, crust, all fantastic. For the Bufalina, my one complaint is that the prosciutto really comes off in one bite, leaving the rest of the bites of each slice prosciutto-less. Cherry tomatoes were so good. Service was excellent. The seating areas are also great. They have so much seating, both indoor and outdoor. read more
10 months ago
Very busy! When you first walk in the man at the register appears welcoming however the two women waiters were not. They looked like they were overwhelmed and overworked and it poured out onto their attitudes. Bottom line...If you want great pizza then go but don't expect great service! read more
5 months ago
10 months ago
An enjoyable introduction to apizza! The Ricotta e Miele was a great combo of sweet and savory flavors over nicely toasted bread. All pizzas had solid dough texture and taste, though we thought the crusts were slightly burnt. Tartufella pizza was our favorite: it had a nice truffle flavor without being too overpowering. Tre Carni pizza had a tasty spread of proteins. Margherita pizza unfortunately was a bit bland. We were seated at their pleasantly-heated side building. Worth the stop! read more
2 months ago
oh my God this pizzeria has to be in the top 5 of best pizzas in New Haven. I ordered the Margarita pizza and it was absolutely amazing. The flavors were fresh and balanced. The sauce had just the right amount of flavor, the cheese was perfectly melted and the dough was full of flavor. You can tell that they use good quality ingredients. Definitely I will come back to try their other options. read more
10 months ago
This is the best pizza in the state. Their pizza oven is a piece of art. Authentic Pizza served to you fast. Amazing atmosphere read more
This place was excellent - great service and a good to die for . Here's what we had : 1) bofalina pizza - the dough is incredible . Amazing . I have so many superlatives . The tomato sauce was to die for . And the persecute . 6 stars 2) ricotta e Miele - wife enjoyed it very much. The ricotta was incredible . 3) pizza margarita - classic and excellent . Very very good All together we had a blast and will come back for sure to try other options in the menu ! The Neapolitan pizzas were as good as they come read more
2 months ago
The place had great vibes and very quaint on the inside with 2 decent sized covered outside areas. Service was on point every step of the way. Got meat balls and a margarita pizza. The meatballs were prolly some of the best I've had at a restaurant. Now to the pizza. Was hot, fresh, and yummy looking. But you had to eat the first couple bites with a fork. It flopped like a wet noodle and was overly juicy and all the toppings fell right off. Like they coulda cooked it longer but it woulda been burnt to a crisp. (Turn the heat down so it'll cook). I'd be willing to try it again just incase. The taste was good but if you can't pick it up it's a fail for me. read more
1 year ago
Always fresh and delicious with prompt service. They have plenty of seating options. I got the Stella which had fresh and vibrant tomatoes. The light focaccia allowed me to get my carb fix without feeling so heavy. I recommend! read more
6 months ago
Great little pizzeria without the super long waits you get from Sally's or Pepe's (and arguably better). The staff was so nice and quick to my constant water refills and their food was amazing. I absolutely love their margherita pizza, but decided to try something new out with anchovies in this one (a little too salty for my taste) and overall a good pizza. We also bought gnocchi, which was definitely the best I've had so far. read more
I drive from West Hartford just to get this pizza and it didn't disappoint! As soon as I walked in (around 5pm) I was greeted by 2 ladies and a gentleman at the counter. They were smiling and super welcoming. It was a rainy day so I asked for a short expresso and ordered a cheese pizza for the kids and a quattro formaggi pizza. They were both delicious! I want to go dine in next time because the place is cozy and smells amazing! Was worth the drive! Highly recommend!! read more
8 months ago
8 months ago
Simply delicious authentic Neapolitan dishes. The pizza tastes like it came from a brick oven in Naples. The Cacio e Pepe pasta is the perfect balance of flavor and simplicity. read more
Looking for a slice of Italy? This is the place for fresh pasta and Naples style pizza; NOT to be mistaken for New Haven's famous brick oven pizza. Service is great, history of the restaurant is beautiful and ambiance is quaint. Dessert is 10/10 as well! read more
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More info about Zeneli Pizzeria
138 Wooster St
New Haven, CT 06511
Directions
(203) 745-4194
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http://www.zenelipizzeria.com
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Ask the Community - Zeneli Pizzeria
Do you have dedicated parking What is the procedure for take out orders?
Hi we do have our own parking Yes, we do take out Usually wait time is 10 to 15 minutes on takeout!…
Do they take reservations didn't see anything on the website or do you call for a resy?
Hi, thank you for reaching to us We don’t take reservation at all ,first come first serve thanks again
Do you have gluten free pasta and gluten free pizza?
Yes we do have gluten-free pasta, not pizza…
Do you have gluten free options for pizza or pasta?
Yes we do. Pasta not pizza thank you..
Will you offer gift certificates soon? They would make the perfect gift so others can experience the best pizza I have had since my time in Italy.
Hi Yes we order already they will be available in 1-2 weeks soon we get them in the store Thank you…
Do they sell slices?
Hello, no we don't do slice we just make small size pizza! Authentic Neapolitan Thank you..
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