Under new ownership, a longtime pizzeria on Langston Blvd is receiving a brand new look, name and internationally inspired menu.
Zesto Pizza has replaced Citi Pizza and Wings, ushering in a new menu and interior renovations at 5127 Langston Blvd. Led by Arlington chef Tushar Chawda, the revamped business plans to soft open tomorrow (Friday), offering up “global fusion pizzas” and appetizers inspired by international cuisines.
“We have popular pizzas as well, like the pepperoni meat-lover and Hawaiian barbecue,” Chawda told ARLnow. “But besides that, we have bulgogi-kimchi Korean pizza and Mexican pizza and butter chicken Indian-style pizza.”
Zesto’s six signature pies also include a paneer tikka pie topped with grilled paneer and the “Bee Sting” with pepperoni, mozzarella, basil and a honey drizzle.
Chawda’s pizzas are New York-style, baked with 48-to-72-hour fermented dough and imported San Marzano tomatoes from Italy. The pies start at $10.99 for a small, 10-inch pizza.
These are joined on the menu by classic pizzeria fare like salads and wings, as well as new appetizers like “bang bang” cauliflower with a chipotle ranch.
Chawda said he’s taking over the reins from Citi Pizza’s former owner, who is retiring.
This is the new owner’s first restaurant. The chef and Columbia Pike resident has worked in kitchens for the past 15 years, including at hotels and restaurants in India, Florida and the D.C. area.
Chawda developed a passion for pizza in his hometown of Mumbai, where he learned the art of crafting fresh dough at a local pizzeria.
“I have always had a dream that I really need to open up a pizzeria of my own one day,” Chawda said.
Chawda brought a new look to the 1,000-square-foot space with fresh paint, LED lighting and kitchen equipment. Zesto will only offer pickup and delivery for the time being, until it receives an occupancy certificate for dine-in guests.
The pizzeria is initially offering dinner service, but Chawda said he’d eventually like to introduce $10 lunch combo deals on pizza and rice bowls.
Zesto’s daily hours are 5-10 p.m. during the week, with extended hours until 11 p.m. on weekends.
