Pizzaiolo café on fern

By Warren Rojas

Self-styled pizza kingpin Larry Ponzi is hoping to add another jewel to his casual dining crown with Fairlington’s new Pizzaiolo Café on Fern.

The third in a string of homey eateries, Café on Fern will sport upgrades lacking at its sibling establishments, including breakfast service (think: Illy coffee, assorted breakfast paninis) and a cozy wine bar (eight to 10 seats, around a dozen by-the-glass offerings).

The shop will also hawk retail wines, most under $30. “They’re all going to be value-oriented,” Ponzi pledges.

Although the pizzas and gelatos that put him on the map in Crystal City will carry over, Ponzi says Fern will tilt heavily toward specialty paninis and made-to-order subs.

Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

1623 Fern St., Alexandria; 703-717-9324; www.cafepizzaiolo.com

(January 2010)