After a few reinventions, this East End staple might have finally found its sweet (and savoury) spot—serving 16-inch pies, tableside martinis, and that familiar Gusto 54 charm.
Let’s be honest—Café ZUZU has seen a few efforts to make their mark. What started as a cozy café evolved into an Italian restaurant, and now, it’s entering its pizza era. Yep, meet Café ZUZU Pizzeria—the newest (and arguably most fitting) chapter from the ever-evolving East End gem under Gusto 54 Restaurant Group.
And truthfully? We’re not mad about it.
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If you’ve been around long enough, you’ve probably had your morning espresso here or settled in for a bowl of pasta over spritzes in the afternoon sun. But this latest evolution feels like the one that’s going to stick. Pizza just fits—for the neighbourhood, the energy, and the kind of crowd that’s always filled its tables. The vibes remain the same: approachable, nostalgic, and full of that unmistakable Gusto warmth that CEO Janet Zuccarini is known for getting right every single time.
Executive Chef and Pizzaiolo Elio Zannoni leads the charge with a lineup that leans equal parts comfort and creativity. The menu features 16-inch red and white pies, including classics like the Margherita and Nonna’s Pepperoni, plus standout newcomers like the Truffle Shuffle, Vodka, and the already-buzzing Kinda a Big Dill—yes, a pickle pizza that’s every bit as bold as it sounds.
There’s still plenty beyond the pies: Rigatoni Vodka, Fettuccine Alfredo, and Chicken Parmigiana for the pasta purists, Calamari Fritti and Mozzarella Sticks for the snackers, and even tableside martinis to keep things lively. Dessert brings the comfort full circle with NY Cheesecake, Bread Pudding, and a decadent Chocolate Chip Cookie topped with mascarpone cream.
Why this version of ZUZU just works?
In a city where rebrands can feel like throwing spaghetti at the wall, this one actually sticks. ZUZU’s transformation into a pizzeria feels natural—like it’s been waiting for this all along. The retro-meets-modern aesthetic still shines, the soundtrack still hums, and the menu now gives guests one more reason to linger a little longer.
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We’ve called this place a home away from home before, and with the new direction, it’s even easier to justify the trek east. It’s casual, consistent, and—most importantly—delicious. This might be ZUZU’s third act, but it’s easily shaping up to be its best yet.
Stay tuned—later this month, we’ll be back with a first look inside the refreshed space, a full menu breakdown, and our first taste review of Café ZUZU Pizzeria as it officially opens its doors and invites Toronto to fall in love all over again.
The 411: Cafe ZUZU Pizzeria
- 📍 Location: Café ZUZU Pizzeria, 555 Dundas Street East, Toronto
- 🍕 When does it open: Already open but new menu launches, November 14, 2025.
- 🕓 Hours: Morning through dinner daily; weekend brunch
- 📞 Reservations: Open now at cafezuzu.com, official menu launch after November 14th.
- 💫 Vibe: Retro Italian meets East End cool
- 🍸 Don’t miss: The pickle pizza, vodka pie, and tableside martinis
- 📲 Follow: @CafeZuzuTO
