Italia Express on Cedar Springs is the sort of pizzeria that sneaks up on you. At first glance it feels like a casual neighborhood spot, but a closer look reveals a place that treats pizza with real care. The staff play a big part in the experience—greetings are warm without being over the top, and there’s an easy rhythm to the service that makes dining here feel comfortable rather than hurried.
The pizza itself leans New York–style, with a crust that walks the line between chewy and crisp. It’s not the paper-thin style some purists expect, but it has enough structure to hold up under generous toppings. A classic pepperoni pie arrives with edges just shy of char, the cheese bubbling in a way that suggests it hasn’t been rushed. It’s the kind of slice that works equally well for a quick lunch or a late-night craving, and it carries a familiarity that makes you want to come back.
What elevates Italia Express beyond the expected are the ravioli and stuffed shells. The ravioli arrive plump, the filling creamy and rich without drowning in sauce. Stuffed shells hit that comforting sweet spot of baked pasta: tender edges, gooey centers, and enough flavor to make you set down your slice for a moment. These aren’t afterthoughts; they feel like dishes someone in the kitchen actually cares about.
Italia Express isn’t trying to compete with the trendiest, wood-fired pizza spots in town, and that’s part of its appeal. It delivers straightforward cooking, generous portions, and a kind of comfort that keeps you thinking about the next visit. When the craving for a solid slice or a plate of pasta hits, this is the sort of place you’ll be glad to have in your back pocket.
