THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Vignette Pizzeria Awards

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED Vignette Pizzeria Restaurant Review:

Chef-owner Mark Hopper’s (Farmshop Marin, Thomas Keller Restaurant Group) first solo venture is a lively addition to The Barlow, Sebastopol’s food-art-wine marketplace. Cans of tomatoes dot steel-washed walls beneath lofty ceilings, while transparent garage doors splash natural light and provide a grassy courtyard view. The patio features two large wooden tables cheery with market umbrellas and dog bowls at your feet. A blue-tiled wood-burning oven commands attention; traditional Neapolitan pizza is the focus, with thin crusts, bubbled rims and minimal toppings in a harmonious medley of flavors and textures. The margherita is vivid with San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella di bufula. The gamberetti kicks in a hint of spice with shrimp sautéed in chili oil and garlic breadcrumbs. Sides include the sweet and savory kale cacio e pepe: chopped kale with peppadew peppers, smoked mozzarella and toasted walnuts, tossed with citrus-yogurt dressing and topped with a softly poached egg. The simple wine list features Italian-inspired boutique wines, and craft beer offerings follow the artisanal theme. For dessert, pizzelle cannoli are Mama Hopper’s not-to-be missed delicacies, or try the creamy affogato with nearby Tomales dairy-farmed water buffalo milk gelato.