WHY GO? Some of the best pizza in Lamorinda, offered whole and by the slice.
WHAT’S THE VIBE LIKE? Reminiscent of a neighborhood New York City spot, 8Moose is small and functional to its main purpose of offering easy, casual lunch slices and take-out pies. That being said, the cozy interior is just big enough for Lamorinda locals to dine in and catch a game from one of the 10 or so tables.
WHAT TO ORDER? Inspired by the so-called humble pagan pies cooked by Italians centuries ago, Tim Alford’s pizza is simple and straightforward but executed exceedingly well. Alford focuses his attention on the crust, made from long-fermented sourdough fired crisp on the bottom while maintaining a flavorful chew, and a deliciously bright tomato sauce. Those two main elements are complemented—rather than dominated by—a sprinkling of cheese, making for a refreshingly saucy bite that falls somewhere between New York and Neapolitan. Toppings are similarly no-nonsense—look elsewhere for arugula or barbecue chicken—with the sausage a particularly tasty addition to the classic cheese base. Caesar, mixed green, and chopped Italian salads ($8) round out the streamlined menu, which can be washed down with wine, beer, or nonalcoholic beverages.
ADDED BONUS: Not that you’ll need it, but you can add a side of ranch or balsamic for 75 cents while bottles of Mike’s Hot Honey are provided complimentary at the tables.
HOW MUCH? The filling slices are $6 and $7 with toppings. A 20-inch whole pie runs $29 for cheese, plus $3 for one topping and $5 for two or more. 76 Moraga Way, Orinda, (510) 775-3629, 8moosepizzeria.com. Lunch and dinner Wed.–Sun. 🍷💲💲
KEY TO SYMBOLS🆕 A new review of a restaurant🔂 An update of a previous review🏆 A Best of the East Bay winner💲 Cheap ($10 or less per dinner entrée)💲💲 Inexpensive ($11–$17)💲💲💲 Moderate ($18–$24)💲💲💲💲 Expensive (more than $25)🍷 Wine and beer🍸 Full bar☀️ Outdoor dining➕ Accommodates parties of 50 or more🕚 Late-night dining (service after 10 p.m.)
Dining and Cooking