The Challenge - Review #2: Picco the Litter

So it's been awhile. But I'm still determined to do this challenge. So without further adieu, here is review #2.

Picco specializes in pizza and ice cream. Because who doesn't love pizza and ice cream (besides those unfortunately stricken with lactose intolerance)? And like Parish and its sandwiches, Picco adds class to these staples of the American diet, and offers it in a casual environment. Good food doesn't have to mean "jacket required".

"Well done" is usually reserved for burgers and pieces of meat ordered by children and people with bad taste. I'd never heard of well done pizza before. But that's the way they do it at Picco. And it's worth a try. It comes out hot enough to melt your face, but once it cools a bit, it's got just enough of that brick oven taste burnt into it. Try the Alsatian, creamy with gruyere, carmelized red and white onions, bacon, garlic, shallots and a sour cream drizzle. Or go classic with the Pepperoni, spicy enough that I didn't need to add my usual pinch of crushed red pepper flakes.

Few things make me happier than freshly made ice cream. And Picco has some of the best. I rock the Sampler, your choice of three flavors, because I'm indecisive and I love variety. I tried the cinnamon chip, coconut chip and caramel flavors. Although delicious, I will be avoiding any flavor with "chip" in it in the future. The consistency is just so much more pleasant in the chip-free varieties.

My first visit to Picco had me feeling like I was visiting a friend's house. When the host greeted my party, he was so inviting that I thought we may have met previously. Our waiter was also super friendly, but not in that fake TGI Friday's, let-me-kneel-down-and-lean-on-your-table way. It was genuine, something all too rare these days. My second visit didn't recieve as warm a welcome, but the service was still good.

With a carefully selected beer and wine list that pairs well with the food, it's a great place to sit back with a draft and a slice. And when the weather cooperates, there's an abundance of patio space.

Mainly I love the convenience. No other place kills 2 of my biggest comfort food cravings better than Picco.

Picco: Pizza & Ice Cream Company. 513 Tremont Street, South End. Sunday-Saturday, 11 am to 11 pm. 617.927.0066.