Ramo Pizza: A Fresh Addition to Fangjia Hutong

Ramo Pizza: A Fresh Addition to Fangjia Hutong

Tom Arnstein | Sep 29, 2014 5:55 pm | 1 comment | 6643 reads

Getting caught in the rain last week on my way to Ramo (aka Ragazza Moderna), the new pizzeria on Fangjia Hutong run by Paca Lee of The Box, only exacerbated my hankering for circular comfort food. Despite the sodden streets outside, I was surprised to find all of the windows wide open, immediately highlighting one of Ramo’s strongest features – the whole space is airy and light, replete with high ceilings, picture windows, brightly-colored tiles, and a mishmash of furniture and art throughout.

Divided ergonomically into various sections, the restaurant boasts a large floor space that includes a raised platform with low, glass partitions separating, but not cutting off, a private party area. The group that I saw occupying the space when I returned four days later seemed particularly comfortable, jumping back and forth through the windows to the outside seating on the street.

The food complements a party atmosphere. The main menu deals predominantly in pizza, with a generous slice setting you back anywhere between RMB 14-20 or a whole pie (four slices) between RMB 46-70. The Super Yibu is particularly good, with a well-balanced topping of mozzarella, creamy blue cheese, salami, and beef sausage, however, the crust would have benefitted from being a tad less chewy. Burgers, salads, and sides make up the rest of the menu but the real winner is the inclusion of a brunch menu which runs between 9.30am and 2pm every day. Before 4pm all coffees will only cost you RMB 20 and from 4-7pm all cocktails are RMB 10 off and all beers RMB 5 off.

The addition of a competitive, open-facing restaurant on Fangjia Hutong makes a welcome change to the already saturated brunch options on Wudaoying and it is just as likely to become a staple among those looking for a pre-drink snack as those seeking a new brunch spot the following day. Ramo is capable of fulfilling both, come rain or shine.