Stracci Pizza Applies For Brick-And-Mortar Space In Del Ray

ALEXANDRIA, VA — Opened during the COVID-19 pandemic, Stracci Pizza has become a regular feature operating from the parking lot of the former Nectar Coffee and Wine Bistro. Now the business is looking to open in the former restaurant space in Del Ray.

According to the city's administrative permit filings, Stracci Pizza is seeking a special use permit for a change of ownership and minor amendment at 106 Hume Avenue. That location formerly hosted Nectar Coffee and Wine Bistro, which closed permanently during the pandemic in 2020.

Stracci Pizza has found success operating outside the former Nectar Coffee and Wine Bistro space in 2020 during the pandemic. Owned by Alexandria residents Chef Thomas Cardarelli and Annalisa Cardarelli, Stracci Pizza focuses on Roman-style pizza. Chef Thomas Cardarelli brings 15 years of experience working for Michelin star-rated restaurants and moved to Alexandria in 2017 to work as executive chef at Vermilion.

The Roman-style pizza offered at Stracci pizza is made with "high-hydration dough that is naturally fermented at cold temperatures for 72 hours," according to the business website. Between the fermentation process, special dough handling and baking, the pizza crust turns out crisp, light and airy. The pizza's signature stracciatella cheese involves hand-pulled fresh mozzarella soaked in cream.

The restaurant is not proposing any changes to the 40 indoor seats and 18 outdoor seats in the former Nectar Coffee and Wine Bistro. Delivery could be offered through third-party services. The restaurant is also seeking a Virginia ABC beer and wine license.

Until Stracci Pizza gets a brick-and-mortar space, you can find it in the parking lot of 106 Hume Avenue. It is open Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m., or until it sells out.

For more information, visit www.straccipizza.com.