Aaron Landry

 

Quattro Formaggi at Punch Neapolitan Pizza, originally uploaded by Aaron Landry.

Ann and I were able to attend the grand opening party of the latest Punch Neapolitan Pizza location: Grand Avenue in Saint Paul. Like a good neighbor, they invited many of the local businesses on the block in addition to Punch fans, food reviewers as well as friends and family. It was packed and the staff was on their A-game. Owners John Soranno and John Puckett were greeting visitors, helping prepare the pizzas and serving wine.

I had the Quattro Formaggi and Ann the Borgata. Her quick review: “delish.” My review? Just as fantastic as every other time I’ve ordered it. This new location holds up the standard. Between Punch and Pizza Nea in Northeast Minneapolis, this is about as authentic Neapolitan-style pizza as you’re going to get — perhaps in the whole time zone. Their Grand Avenue location like their quick-service locations and the layout and size is almost identical to their restaurant in Calhoun Village. While I’m a fan of the full-service location in Highland Park, pizza here is so fast that it doesn’t make that much difference to me. Their spot on Grand Avenue is prime as well: a couple blocks from William Mitchell College of Law and across the street from Wild Onion. It’s also 12 blocks out of my way on my commute home from the office so it’s particularly dangerous for me.

Punch on Grand Avenue officially opens to the public tomorrow, September 15, 2008.

More photos on Flickr.

Punch Neapolitan Pizza - Grand Avenue
769 Grand Avenue
Saint Paul, MN 55105
651-602-6068