Angelico la Pizzeria

Angelico la Pizzeria is a regional pizza restaurant brand that has operated primarily in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area, with a focus on serving New York-style pizza, pasta, subs, and Italian-American cuisine.

**Overview:**
Founded in the early 2000s, Angelico la Pizzeria established itself as a neighborhood staple for pizza lovers seeking authentic, hand-tossed pies and classic Italian fare. The company’s flagship location was in Washington, D.C., with additional stores in Maryland and Virginia. Angelico la Pizzeria was known for its casual, family-friendly atmosphere and delivery-centric business model, catering to both residential and commercial customers. The brand emphasized fresh ingredients, generous portions, and competitive pricing, which contributed to its popularity among local residents and students.

**Products:**
Angelico la Pizzeria’s menu featured a variety of New York-style pizzas, including specialty pies such as Margherita, Meat Lovers, and Vegetarian options. In addition to pizza, the restaurant offered pasta dishes (spaghetti, penne, lasagna), hot and cold subs, salads, wings, and desserts. The stores typically operated with open kitchens, allowing customers to observe pizza preparation, and provided dine-in, takeout, and delivery services. The brand occasionally introduced limited-time menu items and combo deals to attract new customers and retain loyalty.

**Market Position:**
Angelico la Pizzeria positioned itself as a mid-tier, value-driven pizza chain, competing with both national brands (Domino’s, Papa John’s) and local independents. Its market share was strongest in urban and suburban neighborhoods with high residential density and proximity to universities. The company’s reputation was built on consistent quality, fast delivery, and community engagement, including sponsorship of local events and school fundraisers. Online reviews frequently cited Angelico’s generous toppings and friendly service as differentiators.

**Growth:**
During its peak years (circa 2010-2015), Angelico la Pizzeria operated up to 8 locations across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. Expansion was measured, with new stores opening in areas with demonstrated demand for delivery and takeout pizza. However, by the late 2010s, the company faced increased competition from fast-casual pizza concepts and third-party delivery platforms. As of 2023, several locations had closed, and the brand’s online presence diminished, suggesting contraction or possible acquisition. No evidence of recent franchising or major capital investment was found. The company’s website and social media channels have been inactive since approximately 2022, indicating a potential change in ownership or operational status.

**Real Estate:**
Angelico la Pizzeria stores were typically located in retail strip centers, urban storefronts, and mixed-use developments, with unit sizes ranging from 1,200 to 2,500 square feet. Preferred sites included high-visibility corners, proximity to residential buildings, and access to major traffic corridors. The stores required vented kitchens, limited dine-in seating (20-40 seats), and dedicated parking for delivery drivers. Real estate decisions prioritized delivery radius, population density, and ease of access for both customers and staff. No current real estate contacts or expansion plans are publicly available, and the company’s leasing activity appears to have ceased as of 2023.