A Slice of Italian Americana: Anna Pizza in Valley Village
A Culinary Journey Begins
Guests line up outside the vibrant strip mall in Valley Village, eagerly anticipating the warm embrace of Italian-American hospitality offered by Anna Pizza and its chef-owner, Thomas DeSantis. With a menu that boasts not just pizza, but also red-sauce pastas and garlic-knot sliders, DeSantis has created a haven for food lovers.
DeSantis, a New York native, has transformed his passion for pizza into a bustling restaurant after years of running a mobile catering service. He recalls how business growth had been slow and steady before opening his first restaurant; now, he finds himself in a whirlwind of success. “I just didn’t expect it,” he shared. “But it’s the best-ever problem to have.”
Culinary Inspirations Rooted in Family
At Anna Pizza, DeSantis digs deep into the recipes that shaped his childhood. His menu is a heartfelt tribute to his grandmother and his formative years on the East Coast, featuring Wagyu meatballs in fresh marinara, fried zucchini with mozzarella, and hearty portions of rigatoni alla vodka. The centerpiece, however, is an impressive 16-inch New York-style pie—perfectly baked and topped with quality ingredients.
Furthermore, the menu features a medley of Italian chopped salads, gooey parmesan sandwiches, and even a unique Armenian-spiced spaghetti named for his mother-in-law, adding a personal touch to every dish.
A Chef’s Evolution: From Box Folding to Restaurant Ownership
DeSantis began his journey in the food industry at just 15, folding cardboard boxes in a local pizzeria. He progressed through various roles—from dishwashing to cooking—before making a leap to Los Angeles, where he initially struggled to find his footing. However, his love for pizza reignited when he launched Fire & Wood, a mobile pizza catering company operating out of his small downtown apartment.
The response to his catering service was promising, and during crises like the Palisades and Eaton fires, his fleet of trucks would serve meals to first responders, showcasing his commitment to community support. Inspired by this growing fanbase, he decided to open Anna Pizza. The restaurant now occupies the former Gorilla Pies space on Burbank Boulevard, decorated with family photos to create a homely ambiance.
Building a Family Legacy in the Kitchen
DeSantis has intentionally woven family into the fabric of Anna Pizza. His mother, Anna, plays an active role in the restaurant, and together with his father, he has renovated the space to reflect their family’s culinary history. “It’s easy to feel like my grandma’s here because there are family pictures on the wall,” DeSantis explains. “If you look at those pictures enough, you’ll realize that that’s our story. Food is always there.”
Hours and Location
For those eager to indulge in the flavors of Anna Pizza, the restaurant is open during the following hours:
- Tuesday to Thursday: 12 PM – 9 PM
- Friday and Saturday: 12 PM – 10 PM
- Sunday: 12 PM – 8 PM
Location:
12417 Burbank Blvd., North Hollywood
Phone: (818) 821-1777
Website: theannapizza.com
Anna Pizza serves as a remarkable example of how culinary traditions can be preserved and enhanced through personal stories and family involvement. DeSantis not only honors his heritage but also fosters a welcoming atmosphere for the community to enjoy. The warmth of each dish reflects humbly yet powerfully the influence of family and nostalgia, making it a must-visit destination for pizza lovers and food enthusiasts alike.
