Speedy Romeo has become something of a neighborhood institution tucked away on Classon Avenue where Clinton Hill meets Bed-Stuy. This converted auto body shop brings serious character to Brooklyn’s pizza scene with its wood-fired creations that somehow manage to be both faithful to tradition and wildly creative at the same time.

The space strikes that perfect NYC balance of industrial and inviting – the massive pizza oven serves as the heart of the restaurant, while the warm lighting and lively atmosphere make it feel like the neighborhood joint you’ve been missing. When the weather’s nice, their outdoor seating area becomes one of the more pleasant spots to linger over a pie and a glass of natural wine.

Their pizzas are the obvious stars – the wood-fired crust has that ideal char and chew that separates the good from the great. The “KC Royale” with bechamel and locally sourced pancetta is a crowd favorite, but don’t sleep on their non-pizza options. The grass-fed burger rivals some of the city’s best, and their steak is cooked perfectly over cherry wood.

What makes Speedy Romeo worth the trip is how it manages to be exactly what you need it to be – casual enough for a Tuesday night dinner but special enough for a low-key celebration. They’ve mastered that rare balance of exceptional food without the pretension, served by people who genuinely seem happy you’re there.