Beloved for airy focaccia pizza and casual vibes, now blending Italian classics with Peruvian items; great slices and rotisserie chicken, though service lapses and concept shift divide regulars.
Casa Barotti delivers solid neighborhood dining with strong food quality anchored by exceptional focaccia pizza, but inconsistent execution on newer items and occasional service lapses prevent a higher grade. The Italian-Peruvian fusion concept adds variety and appeals to families seeking casual, affordable dining on College Ave, though the ownership transition has created mixed reactions among longtime regulars about menu direction and consistency.
On College Ave in Elmwood, Casa Barotti feels cozy and casual with the hum of a neighborhood slice shop. Guests rave about the airy, crisp-bottomed focaccia pizza, and one diner said it was the "lightest, airiest" slice they had tried. Service is often warm, though a few guests mention missed aperitivo orders or slow moments that break the spell. The cooking leans Italian at heart but now folds in Peruvian comforts like rotisserie chicken and aji-forward sauces. That blend creates variety—great for grazing on pizza al trancio, panini, and small plates—yet longtime fans debate the shift in vibe. If you are open to a creative neighborhood menu rather than strict tradition, there is plenty to enjoy. For families, this is an easy win: kids can pick pizza slices, fries, or half chicken, while adults add salads or lasagna. No kids menu is listed, but the menu is naturally kid-friendly; just know portions on some baked pastas run modest.
Area vibe: Charming Elmwood corridor near UC Berkeley; student and neighborhood foot traffic, indie shops and cafes.
Safety: Generally safe, lively by day and early evening; typical urban awareness at night.
What's nearby: Close to UC Berkeley, indie retailers, cinema, and other eateries along College Ave.