Fat Tommy's New Look

We think the grand reopening of Fat Tommy's Pizza is an easy slam dunk. With the Pitt basketball team starting its annual run at the NCAA March Madness title, this hometown pizzeria wrapped up its recent makeover just in time for the opening tip. And one of the best new toppings on Tommy's revamped pizza palace is a full service bar with two wide screen HD TVs. Now we're not recommending that anyone plays a little hooky, but this new watering hole is perfect for catching the  Panthers on the prowl with their game this Thursday afternoon. 

On the other hand, if you're prowling for a perfect pizza slice, Tommy's is a good start. Chances are that if you stop by the location on lower Forbes Ave during lunch, you'll catch Tommy in the middle of twirling a floppy disc of dough and yelling out orders to the staff that seems to be running a race that never ends. 

Now aside from the pizza and shop's namesake, just about everything inside is new — from the tile floors to tables and brighter lights and logo. Even the menu got a makeover. Sure, you'll find pizza of just about every type and plenty of sandwiches, salads and sides. And as the weather warms up, Tommy will add pasta dishes for lunch and dinner. Did we mention that he'll keep the ovens fired up and working Monday through Saturday until 9 p.m. most nights? 

Tommy tells us that the temps rise, he'll bring out tables for some pizza and pasta al fresco. We think pizza's just about perfect anytime time of year, but savoring a steaming slice in summertime with a cold brew is almost heaven. And Tommy's summertime dining experience will include happy hour beverage specials for a growing afterwork crowd that's staying longer Downtown to enjoy that Pittsburgh to Paris cafe life and avoid the hassles and headaches of rush hour traffic.  So whether you're checking the score of the game or just looking for a slice with pepperoni to go, Fat Tommy's is back. 

Know of another Downtown cafe, bar or restaurant that could use a first floor makeover?  Yearning for some outdoor cafe seating at your favorite joint?  Find information on the Paris to Pittsburgh matching grant program at www.DowntownPittsburgh.com.