On the last Friday of 2022, Neighbor Roy, grandsons Jon and Morgan, and I eat lunch at Fresco Pizzeria and Pastaria on East Spreedway in Tucson. It had good Internet reviews, so I thought we should try it.

On the way, the boys kept up a running conversation with Roy, who regaled them with tales of his world travels: China (3 times), Borneo, Finland and Sweden, Russia, India, and many other countries. He also told them about losing Faith, his big dog a few days ago … very sad.

We entered the facility and immediately discerned that we had to order at the counter. But a server told us to choose a table, look over the menu, and then order. OK. I sat. Roy and the boys ordered. I ordered a 10-inch pizza with half pepperoni and half sausage ($12.00), and a Coke ($3.50).

Roy ordered a larger pizza with the same toppings. Jon ordered a Caesar salad ($7.50). Morgan ordered a Fettuccini Alfredo pasta dish ($14.00).

I’ll let them tell you about their experience. First, Roy.

“This week we decided to eat at a pizza restaurant, and Jim chose Fresco on Speedway, just east of the U of A. It is on the north side and in a strip mall. We were able to park in front of the restaurant. This week, two of Jim’s grandsons joined us.

Once inside, one orders from an extensive menu and then sits in their adjoining dining room. I ordered a 12-inch pizza with cheese and pepperoni ($19.00) and a coke. Somehow tea just doesn’t do a good pizza justice.

Since I had not seen Jim’s grandsons for several years, we had a pleasant conversation to catch up–so I lost track of time. When my pizza was delivered, it was a mountain of cheese, pepperoni, and sausage, steaming hot. precut and with its own spatula to serve it. The waitress provided plates napkins and silverware. After a couple of bites, I could truthfully state this was one of the best pizzas I have had in Tucson.

I would give Fresco 4 saguaros based on great food, pleasant environment, and good service–the best kudos I can give any restaurant–I can hardly wait to return to try other dishes on their menu.”

Jonathan, one of our grandsons, also reviewed Fresco.

“I wasn’t expecting much more than what you can get from Dominos or Pizza Hut but overall I was pleasantly surprised with my experience. I enjoyed the semi-casual atmosphere and the variety of Italian cuisines. I particularly liked my Caesar salad which was fresh and came with its own mixing bowl. The prices were a little high but you get what you pay for. If you’re looking for a pizza place that’s a step up from Dominos I’d definitely check this place out.”

And then Morgan chimed in.

“The food was good. I really liked the portion sizes and the staff was friendly. Would definitely go again.”

My Pepperoni and Sausage Pizza ($12.00) was quite good, but a little bit greasy. But very tasty. I had not had a Coke in a long time, but it tasted good too.

Like Roy, I give Fresco a Four Saguaro rating. Good but not up to the Velvet Elvis in Patagonia, which we reviewed a few weeks ago. Nor as good as Neighbor Elaine’s homemade, from-scratch pizzas she makes for us on Christmas eve.

Fresco Pizzeria and Pastaria
3011 E. Speedway Blvd.
Tucson, AZ 85716
(520) 881-5555

Open Sunday-Thursday, 11am-9pm
Friday & Saturday, 11am-10pm

Editor’s Note: Me thinks the guys were just hungry. Try it and let us know what you think. -kr