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Pizza Vinoteca opens in Ballston tonight and after a preview event I can attest it’s a place that will get this DC gal out to the ‘burbs more often!

Although it’s decidedly casual, there’s no skimping on quality at Pizza Vinoteca. An uplit wall of wine lines the foyer before guests are greeted by an impressive open kitchen and pizza oven directly inside. A round bar dominates the open space, lending credence to the wine-centric menu. The architecture is a thoughtful indication of the consideration behind serious food and wine at prices that won’t break the bank.

Wine bottles line the entry to the casual eatery.

The restaurant serves 36 wines by the glass in an argon gas system that preserves the vino and allows for longer shelf life and a greater variety of wines offered by the glass.  The best part?  All wines are under $10/glass and they have some truly interesting options.

While you’ll find the expected Pinot Grigio and Chianti on the list, it also features Orange Wine, Lambrusco, and a Sparkling Nebbiolo among other esoteric wine selections that will have wine geeks excited.

Enjoying a sparkling Nebbiolo with CEO Ari Malcolm

The list offers outstanding value, pulling from regions that offer great bang for the buck while offering clients outstanding value and interesting choices.  Half pours are also available for those wishing to try something new without committing to a full glass.

CEO Ari Malcolm adapted the concept from his New York outpost and said he tasted over 1,000 wines before settling on the list.  The menu is meant to be both tasty and accessible, and I found it to achieve these goals.

The food is produced in a kitchen visible through glass walls that cranks out interesting and delicious pizzas among other casual fare.

While you can certainly get your pepperoni fix, there are some unexpected combinations that really won me over.  The Brussels Sprout pizza was perhaps my favorite. The shaved sprouts are made zesty with a kick of lemon zest, crunchy with toasted walnuts, and creamy with Ricotta Cheese. Trust me, just order it! Another stand out was the Kale, Pesto, Andouille Sausage and Fontina Cheese option.

Prosciutto, pineapple, peppers and arugula

Pizza Vinoteca opens to the general public tonight.

Check out the menus below: