La Bocca is more-or-less on the Arizona State University campus in Tempe, Arizona. It’s surrounded by a few chain restaurants, campus gear stores, a head shop, a variety of shops and is under offices for the university. La Bocca opened about a year and a half ago in a space that has apparently seen a few restaurants come and go.
Inside is upscale without being too fancy for the college students that surround the area. This said however, one in my party overheard someone walking by saying “this is where my parents took me…”
My party and I sat outside for lunch and I ordered a Pizza Margherita. In short time it arrived on a peel and looked like it was tossed by a life-long pro. The contrary is true, however: owner and restauranteur Julian Wright, who also owned and sold a couple successful nearby restaurants has no history with pizza. He must be a quick study.
The crust was nicely charred on the edges and crispy while maintaining a hearty chewiness. The cheese, sauce and basil were balanced and tasted fresh. It was a bit drier than most I’ve had of this style but I have no complaints. The pizza overall looked beautiful and vibrant. Light and refreshing.
Service at La Bocca was spot on and well-timed. It’s a nice gem in Tempe. Those who I was with frequent La Bocca. I’ll probably go back for dinner next time with wine.
La Bocca
699 S Mill Ave
Tempe, AZ 85281
480-967-5244
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