Il Vicino Wood Oven Pizza

Sometimes you do not want a big production, you just want a really good pizza. Il Vicino is that place. This wood-oven spot on North Nevada turns out blistered, thin-crust pies and honest Italian plates in a room that is easy and unpretentious. It is a longtime local favorite for good reason.

At a glance
Where: 5214 N Nevada Ave, Colorado Springs
Known for: Wood-fired pizza, paninis, and a good craft beer list
Good for: A casual dinner, lunch out, vegetarian and gluten-free eaters
Website: ilvicino.com

What to order
Everything is made from scratch and built around that wood-fired oven.
The Pizza Bianca is the one to try first: garlic olive oil, mozzarella, gorgonzola, red onion, and fresh rosemary, no red sauce needed. If you want a sandwich, the Pollo e Pesto panini stacks grilled chicken, pesto, mozzarella, and roasted red peppers.
There is a genuinely good selection of local craft beer to go with it, and the kitchen handles gluten-free and vegetarian orders without fuss. Finish with the tiramisu if you have room.

A local’s note
Il Vicino is my go-to pizza spot, the location on Nevada up by Costco. Nothing fancy, just a really good wood-fired pie and a cold local beer in a comfortable room. When I do not feel like deciding where to eat, this is where I land.

Hours and location
Il Vicino is at 5214 N Nevada Ave, Suite 130. Hours run Monday through Thursday 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday noon to 9 p.m. Check the official site for the current menu and any changes.

Looking for more? See our full local’s guide to where to eat in Colorado Springs.