Menomale

Before you’re handed a menu and led to your table, you’ll be greeted by a fiery host at this hidden treasure in Brookland: a gigantic, 900-degree wood-burning oven. Ettore Rusciano, an Italian pizzaiolo who owns the restaurant with his wife, Mariya, mans the behemoth, churning out Neapolitan-style pies with blistery crusts. Opt for the Chef’s Special, a harmonious blend of mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, arugula, prosciutto di parma, grana padano and olive oil.