Pizzeria Paradiso
Washington, D.C.
What it is: Now with four locations in the D.C. area, this pizzeria/birreria sticks to its strengths—superb pizza and an ever-thoughtful, widely varied selection of beers from independent producers. Each location has at least 12 taps that might feature an IPA from Aslin alongside a grodziskie from Commonwealth and a grisette from Oxbow.
Why it’s great: The beer is fantastic … but, honestly, it’s worth going for the pizza. Classically trained chef Ruth Gresser opened the first Paradiso at Dupont Circle in 1991, having already put a lot of thought and work into her ideal crust. The wood-fired ovens are scorching, ensuring a beautifully crispy pie whether you’re going for the elegant Margherita or spicy Atomica. Next to that, the chance to drink a local IPA or share a bottle of 3 Fonteinen is just a beautiful bonus. Another bonus: The Georgetown location’s Game Room bar features skee-ball, pinball, vintage arcade games, and more. —Joe Stange
Details
Hours: In Georgetown, 4 p.m.–9 p.m., Monday–Thursday; 1 p.m.–10 p.m., Friday; noon–10 p.m., Saturday; noon–9 p.m., Sunday
Address: 3282 M St. NW (Georgetown), 2003 P St. NW (Dupont Circle), and 4850 Massachusetts Ave. (Spring Valley), Washington, D.C.; 4800 Rhode Island Ave., Hyattsville, Maryland
Web: eatyourpizza.com