Locally owned Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen is a household name in Arizona, recently opening its sixth local outpost, this time in Gilbert. Not only do families feel good about eating at Picazzo’s thanks to its focus on nutrient-packed, clean foods, but the restaurant is also committed to serving those with a vast array of dietary needs.
With the opening of Picazzo’s Gilbert, the team also rolled out the brand’s new modern look, with the intention of showcasing the fresh aesthetic across its Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Tempe/Chandler, Arrowhead and Sedona locations as well. Muted tones with a touch of glam, a cool bar and a spacious patio, that is separated from the restaurant interior with a roll-up garage door, greet diners. The space is casual and laidback enough to make families with children feel welcome, though its super-chic look lends to a girls’ dinner or date night.
Salads, entrees, pasta, pizza and desserts fill the Picazzo’s menu; there is even a separate menu that is 100 percent vegan and features plant-based favorites like Follow Your Heart, Daiya and Beyond Meat. There is a wide selection of dishes for diners who require vegetarian, gluten-free and allergy-friendly items, as well. And the restaurant sources 95 percent organic produce, to boot.
The Zo’s chopped salad is chock-full of feel-good ingredients (spinach, avocado, organic corn, black olives, diced tomatoes, quinoa and roasted sunflower seeds) and topped with creamy Italian dressing. For a heartier entree, the spicy Thai peanut fusilli is a staff favorite and sure to be a table favorite, too. Heirloom carrots, peas, toasted almonds, grilled chicken, broccoli and a creamy, slightly spicy Thai peanut sauce with coconut milk make up the pasta dish.
Pizza is a big deal at Picazzo’s, and no meal there is complete with some ‘za. The Hot Honey Fig & Salami offers an addicting flavor profile bursting with sweet (fig jam), salt (chopped salami) and spice (a drizzle of Mike’s Hot Honey). And in true Pizazzo’s fashion, gluten-free crust is available and those pizzas are whipped up in a dedicated gluten-free oven.
Picazzo’s Healthy Italian Kitchen Gilbert is open Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., and Sunday, noon to 8 p.m. The restaurant is currently closed Monday through Wednesday until more staff is available. For more information, visit picazzos.com.