Grimaldi's Pizzeria Review

Authentic Brooklyn-Style Pizza in the Heart of the Strip

Grimaldi's Pizzeria brings a slice of New York to the Las Vegas Strip with its renowned coal-fired brick oven pizzas. Located in the Grand Canal Shoppes at The Venetian, this establishment offers a welcome escape from the typical Vegas dining scene with its focus on traditional techniques and quality ingredients.

Atmosphere and Ambiance

The restaurant features a warm, industrial-chic decor with exposed brick walls, checkered tablecloths, and vintage Brooklyn memorabilia. The open kitchen allows guests to watch pizzaiolos hand-stretch dough and slide pies into the massive coal-fired oven. Despite being in a shopping mall, the space manages to feel intimate and authentic, with comfortable booth seating and moderate noise levels that allow for conversation.

Culinary Experience

Grimaldi's specializes in thin-crust, coal-fired pizzas that are cooked at extremely high temperatures, resulting in a perfectly charred crust with a delightful chew. The menu stays true to its New York roots with simple, classic combinations. The Margherita pizza ($22) features fresh mozzarella, basil, and a vibrant tomato sauce that balances sweetness and acidity. The White Pizza ($24) with ricotta, mozzarella, garlic, and oregano is particularly noteworthy for its creamy texture and aromatic flavors.

Beyond pizza, the menu offers solid appetizers including fresh antipasto ($16) and garlic bread ($8), though these are clearly supporting acts to the main attraction. The calzones ($18-22) are generously stuffed and make an excellent alternative for those seeking something different.

Service and Operations

Service is generally efficient and knowledgeable, though it can become rushed during peak hours. Staff members are well-versed in the menu and can make solid recommendations. Wait times can be significant during dinner hours (often 30-45 minutes), but the restaurant offers text notification systems for those willing to explore the surrounding shops.

Value Proposition

While not cheap, Grimaldi's offers good value considering its Strip location and quality ingredients. A large pizza ($26-32) comfortably feeds 2-3 people, making it more affordable than many Vegas dining options. The lunch special ($15 for personal pizza and salad) represents particularly good value.

Recommendations

For Families: The casual atmosphere and simple menu make it ideal for children. The cheese pizza is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
For Couples: Request a booth in the back for a more intimate experience. The romantic lighting and shared pizza make for a perfect casual date night.
For Business Travelers: Efficient service and central location make it convenient for quick lunches or informal meetings.

Practical Information

Hours: Sunday-Thursday 11 AM-11 PM, Friday-Saturday 11 AM-Midnight
Parking: Venetian self-parking garage (validated with purchase)
Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible with ramp access
Special Features: Takeout available, full bar with decent wine selection, gluten-free crust option ($3 extra)