Luisa's Brick Oven   

In 1991, Luisa Land decided to bring a little taste of her native Milan to Charlotte when she opened her namesake, Luisa's Brick Oven. The first pizzeria in the area to offer brick oven-style pizzas, the restaurant draws a steady stream of regulars, including families, couples and even soccer teams. Noted for their thin, crusty pizza, Luisa's also offers a limited number of pasta dishes, salads and calzones. Try their signature pie, Luisa, made with fresh tomatoes, pesto, roasted garlic, ricotta cheese and whole milk mozzarella. And of course, there's always the standard pepperoni and sausage for the traditionalists. A popular hangout for families with children -- kids can even play with the pizza dough -- it's a welcome respite for harried parents. The casual, warm atmosphere makes this a great place for those evenings you just can't bear to cook.