Trattoria Zaza

Trattoria Zaza, nestled in the heart of Birmingham at 207A 20th St N, AL 35203, is a vibrant and eclectic Italian restaurant that has been a staple of the city’s culinary scene since its inception in 2009. This charming establishment, initially known as Za Za Trattoria, has evolved over the years, adopting its current name in 2019 to reflect its growth and commitment to providing an authentic Italian dining experience with a Southern twist.

The restaurant’s founders, Brian Somershield and Geoff Lockert, are childhood friends from Chagrin Falls, Ohio, who brought their passion for Italian cuisine to Birmingham. Somershield, a culinary school graduate, was drawn to the city after dining at the renowned Highlands Bar and Grill. He spent two years honing his skills there before becoming the head sous chef at Chez Fonfon. Lockert, on the other hand, gained experience as a server at Fonfon and furthered his training at Michael Symon’s Lola in Cleveland. Their combined expertise and love for Roman cuisine have shaped Trattoria Zaza into a unique dining destination.

Trattoria Zaza is celebrated for its pizza al taglio, a traditional Roman-style pizza that is rectangular in shape and sold by the slice. This light and flavorful pizza is a staple of the restaurant, offering a variety of creative toppings that cater to diverse tastes. Beyond pizza, the menu features an array of seasonally inspired salads, soups, and traditional Roman pastas like penne all’arrabbiata and cacio e pepe. The restaurant’s commitment to using locally sourced ingredients is evident in its daily breakfast offerings, which include farm eggs, bread, grits, coffee, and milk.

One of the highlights of Trattoria Zaza is its weekend brunch, which seamlessly blends Italian ingredients with Southern flair. The brunch menu is renowned for its mascarpone-stuffed French toast, breakfast pizzas topped with local farm eggs, seasonal frittatas, and biscuits ‘n gravy. This unique brunch experience has become a beloved tradition in Birmingham, drawing large crowds each weekend.

The restaurant operates with a schedule that accommodates both daytime and evening diners. From Monday to Friday, Trattoria Zaza is open from 11 AM to 9 PM, while on Saturdays, it opens at 4 PM and closes at 9 PM. Brunch is served on weekends from 10 AM to 2 PM, providing a perfect setting for families and friends to gather. For those interested in contacting the restaurant, the phone number is +1 205-202-6207.

Trattoria Zaza’s evolution reflects its dedication to providing a stable living wage for its employees, as evidenced by recent adjustments to its menu pricing. This commitment to fairness and quality has contributed to its enduring popularity among locals and visitors alike. The restaurant’s trendy space, combined with its innovative menu offerings, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a memorable dining experience in Birmingham.

In addition to its culinary offerings, Trattoria Zaza is also known for its engaging social media presence, where it shares updates on new menu items, events, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into the kitchen. This interactive approach helps build a strong community around the restaurant, fostering a loyal following among its patrons.

Overall, Trattoria Zaza stands out as a vibrant and innovative dining spot in Birmingham, offering a blend of traditional Italian cuisine with Southern charm. Its commitment to quality, community, and creativity has solidified its position as a beloved local institution. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic Italian meal or a unique brunch experience, Trattoria Zaza is sure to satisfy your culinary cravings.