Pie Tap Pizza Workshop and Bar (Design District)

Flavorful, supple, nicely charred and blistered, puffy-edged crusts are the star at this lively Design District pizzeria and taproom, and pie topped with house-made fennel sausage, caramelized onions and smoked mozzarella is particularly delicious. There’s a fine Little Gem Caesar salad, too, and tender, luscious, saucy chicken meatballs. Sometimes the house-made pappardelle bolognese is wonderful, but not always (the pasta execution needs some work — the noodles are sometimes tough). Don’t see anything on the cask list of wines offered by glass and carafe? As for the list of bottles — that’s where the better stuff lives. Don’t miss the desserts, a collaboration between Pie Tap’s chefs and Dude, Sweet Chocolate’s Katherine Clapner. Check the website for attractive delivery deals. Full bar. --Leslie Brenner/Guide