In the heart of Costa Mesa lies Sugo, a haven for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine. One of the highlights of this charming establishment is its offering of “Pizza a Pezzi,” an Italian term that translates to “pizza by the slice.” This style of pizza, commonly found in bustling Italian cities, caters to those on the go, offering a quick and convenient way to enjoy a slice without compromising on quality. At Sugo, the preparation of the dough follows time-honored techniques, resulting in a crust that boasts the perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness. Topped with the freshest ingredients, each slice is a culinary masterpiece that celebrates the timeless art of pizza-making.
Meet Chef Sandro: The Maestro of Italian Flavors, Sugo Costa Mesa
At the helm of Sugo is Chef Sandro Nardone, a true connoisseur of Italian cuisine. Born and raised in Atina, Italy, Sandro’s passion for food was nurtured in a family of chefs and restaurateurs. His culinary journey began in Italy, where he honed his skills at renowned establishments, including the prestigious Al Mulino outside of Rome.
In 2012, Chef Sandro founded Angelina’s Pizzeria in Dana Point, which quickly gained a reputation for serving some of the best brick oven pizza in Orange County. His culinary prowess was further showcased in 2019 with the introduction of Bello, a restaurant that melds classic Italian cooking with a creative twist. Now, with Sugo, Chef Sandro brings his love for pizza and authentic Italian flavors to Costa Mesa, offering a delectable array of classic and modern Italian slices.
The Art of Pizza-Making at Sugo
The secret to Sugo’s exceptional pizza lies in its meticulous preparation. The dough is crafted using traditional techniques that have been perfected over generations. This attention to detail ensures that every crust achieves the ideal texture—crispy on the outside and delightfully chewy on the inside.
Once the dough is ready, it is topped with the freshest and finest ingredients, sourced both locally and from Italy. From ripe tomatoes and aromatic basil to creamy mozzarella and savory meats, each topping is chosen to enhance the flavors of the pizza, creating a harmonious and unforgettable taste experience.
A Commitment to Quality and Freshness
At Sugo, the commitment to quality and freshness is evident in every aspect of the restaurant. From the carefully selected ingredients to the meticulous preparation of each dish, Chef Sandro and his team strive to deliver an unparalleled dining experience. This dedication to excellence extends to the restaurant’s partnerships with local farmers and suppliers, ensuring that only the freshest and highest-quality products make their way into the kitchen.
A Slice of Italy in Costa Mesa
For those seeking an authentic taste of Italy, Sugo in Costa Mesa is the place to be. With its dedication to traditional pizza-making techniques, commitment to quality ingredients, and a menu that celebrates the best of Italian cuisine, Sugo offers a dining experience that is both delicious and memorable. Whether you’re a longtime fan of Italian food or new to the delights of “Pizza a Pezzi,” Sugo invites you to savor the flavors of Italy, one slice at a time.
Sugo in Costa Mesa offers a delightful array of pizzas that cater to a wide range of palates. Each pizza is crafted with care, using high-quality ingredients that bring out the best in traditional and innovative Italian flavors. Whether you are a fan of classic combinations or adventurous new creations, Sugo’s pizza menu promises to deliver an unforgettable culinary experience.
Classic and Creative Pizza Selections
1. Prosciutto Pizza
- Ingredients: Tomato sauce, mozzarella, prosciutto, arugula
- Price: $7.5 (slice) | $35 (whole)
- Description: This pizza marries the salty and savory flavors of prosciutto with the fresh, peppery taste of arugula, all atop a bed of rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s a perfect blend of classic Italian ingredients that is both simple and sophisticated.
2. Japanese Pizza
- Ingredients: Mozzarella, button mushroom, porchetta, kewpie, miso, bonita flakes
- Price: $8 (slice) | $37 (whole)
- Description: An inventive fusion of Italian and Japanese cuisines, this pizza features savory porchetta, earthy button mushrooms, and a unique blend of kewpie mayo, miso, and bonita flakes. It’s a must-try for those looking to explore new and exciting flavors.
3. Nutella Pizza
- Ingredients: Nutella, assorted fruit
- Price: $7.5 (slice) | $35 (whole)
- Description: For those with a sweet tooth, the Nutella pizza is a delightful treat. The creamy Nutella spread is complemented by an assortment of fresh fruits, making it a perfect dessert option or a sweet indulgence any time of day.
4. Pera e Gorgonzola
- Ingredients: Bosc pear, gorgonzola, mozzarella, toasted walnuts, lemon zest, honey
- Price: $7.5 (slice) | $35 (whole)
- Description: This gourmet pizza combines the sweet and juicy flavor of Bosc pears with the sharpness of gorgonzola cheese. Mozzarella adds creaminess, while toasted walnuts, lemon zest, and a touch of honey create a complex and delightful taste experience.
5. Carnivora
- Ingredients: Italian sausage, pepperoni, mozzarella, house-made tomato sauce
- Price: $8 (slice) | $37 (whole)
- Description: A meat lover’s dream, the Carnivora pizza is loaded with Italian sausage and pepperoni, all layered on a base of house-made tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. It’s hearty, flavorful, and satisfying.
6. Contadina
- Ingredients: Italian sausage, caramelized onions, aged parmigiano, chopped chives
- Price: $8 (slice) | $37 (whole)
- Description: The Contadina pizza features savory Italian sausage paired with sweet caramelized onions, aged Parmigiano cheese, and fresh chopped chives. It’s a rich and aromatic pizza that highlights the best of rustic Italian flavors.
Traditional Favorites with a Twist
7. Margherita
- Ingredients: Tomato sauce, mozzarella, basil, evoo
- Price: $5.95 (slice) | $25.5 (whole)
- Description: The Margherita pizza is a classic favorite, featuring a simple yet delicious combination of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and extra virgin olive oil. It’s a testament to the beauty of traditional Italian pizza.
8. Pepperoni
- Ingredients: Tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni
- Price: $6.95 (slice) | $32 (whole)
- Description: A staple in the world of pizza, the Pepperoni pizza at Sugo is made with high-quality pepperoni slices atop a base of rich tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. It’s a crowd-pleaser that never disappoints.
9. Calabrese
- Ingredients: Tomato sauce, mozzarella, spicy Calabrese salami
- Price: $6.95 (slice) | $32 (whole)
- Description: This pizza adds a spicy kick to the traditional recipe with Calabrese salami. The combination of tangy tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and spicy salami creates a bold and flavorful experience.
10. Potato
- Ingredients: Crispy potato, smoked mozzarella, baked ham, rosemary
- Price: $7.5 (slice) | $35 (whole)
- Description: The Potato pizza offers a unique blend of textures and flavors, featuring crispy potato slices, smoky mozzarella, savory baked ham, and aromatic rosemary. It’s a hearty and comforting option.
11. Ono
- Ingredients: Tomato sauce, roasted pineapple, smoked mozzarella, spam, pickled Fresno chilies
- Price: $7.5 (slice) | $35 (whole)
- Description: This pizza takes a Hawaiian twist with roasted pineapple and Spam, combined with smoked mozzarella and pickled Fresno chilies. The result is a sweet, savory, and slightly spicy pizza that’s perfect for those who love a mix of flavors.
12. Bittersweet
- Ingredients: Sautéed bitter greens, mozzarella, lap xuong sausage, crack sauce
- Price: $7.5 (slice) | $35 (whole)
- Description: The Bittersweet pizza offers a delightful contrast of flavors with sautéed bitter greens, lap xuong sausage, mozzarella, and a special sauce. It’s an adventurous choice that balances bitterness and sweetness beautifully.
The Mortadella Sandwich at Sugo in Costa Mesa is a gourmet delight that combines the finest Italian ingredients into one irresistible creation. This sandwich starts with Sugo’s housemade bread, freshly baked to offer a perfect balance of crispness and softness. Inside, you’ll find creamy burrata cheese that melts into the bread, enhancing every bite with its rich texture. Confit tomatoes add a burst of sweet and savory flavor, slow-cooked to perfection. A drizzle of luxurious truffle sauce infuses the sandwich with an earthy, aromatic note, while a sprinkle of lemon zest brings a refreshing citrusy finish. Together, these ingredients create a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, making the Mortadella Sandwich at Sugo a must-try for anyone seeking a sophisticated and satisfying culinary experience.
Visit Sugo Today
Sugo is conveniently located in the heart of Costa Mesa, making it an ideal destination for lunch, dinner, or a quick bite on the go. The restaurant’s warm and inviting atmosphere, combined with its exceptional food and friendly service, ensures that every visit is a delightful experience. Come and discover why Sugo is quickly becoming a favorite among locals and food critics alike. Whether you’re enjoying a classic margherita slice or exploring the creative offerings on the menu, you’re sure to leave with a satisfied palate and a newfound appreciation for the art of pizza-making.
Sugo is not just a place to eat; it’s a celebration of Italian culinary traditions, a testament to the craftsmanship of pizza-making, and a reflection of Chef Sandro Nardone’s lifelong passion for food. With its inviting atmosphere, exceptional menu, and commitment to quality, Sugo offers a slice of Italy in the heart of Costa Mesa. Don’t miss out on this delicious journey—visit Sugo today and experience the true flavors of Italy.
- Sugo Official Website
- Explore Sugo’s full menu, learn about the restaurant, and make reservations directly on their official website.
- Sugo on Yelp
- Read reviews from other customers, check ratings, and see photos of the dishes. Share your own dining experience at Sugo.
- Sugo on Instagram
- Follow Sugo on Instagram for the latest updates, mouth-watering photos, and behind-the-scenes looks at the restaurant.
- Order Sugo Online
- Order your favorite Sugo pizzas and other dishes online for pick-up or delivery through ToastTab. Enjoy Sugo’s delicious offerings from the comfort of your home.
