About The Little Rendezvous

At The Little Rendezvous, guests are greeted with a warm, no-frills environment where the focus is firmly on delivering outstanding pizza. The staff are friendly and accommodating, helping to create a relaxed dining experience. Visitors frequently rave about the fresh, flavorful pies that emerge from the acclaimed 138-year-old coal-fired oven, known for imparting a distinctive taste to each pizza. With the time-honored recipes and a commitment to quality, diners can expect crispy crusts and well-balanced flavors. Whether you choose the signature House Special or classics like the Sausage and Hot Cherry Pepper Pizza, each offering showcases a dedication to craftsmanship that has made The Little Rendezvous a local favorite.

Location & Contact

What to Expect

Guests at The Little Rendezvous often highlight the deliciousness of the House Special Pizza, praised for its balance of toppings and flavor. The crispy crust complements the tangy sauce and premium mozzarella, creating a delightful bite. The unique coal-fired baking process yields exceptional char and texture, making the Double Cheese Pizza another favorite among fans. Diners also enjoy the Sausage and Hot Cherry Pepper Pizza, which adds an exciting kick to their menu. Diners are encouraged to savor their pizzas while fresh, as the delicious flavors shine even more when enjoyed straight from the oven. Whether you're opting for the classic Meatball, Broccoli & Mushroom Pizza or trying something different like the White Pie with Broccoli and Bacon, The Little Rendezvous brings together a variety of savory options that showcase quality ingredients and traditional methods. Overall, patrons appreciate the pizza served with a side of camaraderie from the friendly staff, enhancing their dining experience with every bite.

Hashtag Pizza Fact's

The Surprising Origins of Pizza

Long before becoming the pizza we know today, flatbreads with toppings were enjoyed by ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Persians. These early versions, like the Greek 'plakous' and Persian breads baked on shields, lacked tomatoes but laid the groundwork for what would become a culinary icon. With the introduction of tomatoes from the New World, these humble beginnings evolved into the modern pizza, bridging ancient traditions with contemporary tastes.

History

From the Community

The Little Rendezvous has gained a reputation as a premier pizza spot in Meriden, CT, thanks to its unique coal-fired pizzas and dedicated service. With a perfect score of 4.5 on Google, it's clear why locals and visitors alike keep coming back. "The pizza here is absolutely fantastic, with a deliciously tasty sauce that stands out," observes reviewer Skip Skip, emphasizing the distinct flavor profiles that define this beloved eatery. Operating in a cozy, unpretentious setting, the restaurant focuses on quality over extravagance. Customers regularly praise the attentive staff for their warm hospitality. "It made the waiting for the pizza fly by like only a couple of minutes," shares Petro Kan, reflecting the personal touch that enhances each visit. The Little Rendezvous is well-known for its signature offerings, particularly the House Special and various other innovative pizzas featuring fresh ingredients and a delightful crunchy crust. Guests leave satisfied, often eager to return for another slice of comfort food. With offerings that please both traditionalists and adventure-seekers alike, The Little Rendezvous remains a must-try spot on any pizza enthusiast’s journey through Connecticut.

Why Locals Love It

Breanna Cook β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

At The Little Rendezvous, Breanna notes that it's truly the best pizza in CT. The place has character and history, and the staff’s dedication to quality resonates greatly with the community. This local gem supplies not just great food but a sense of belonging, drawing people in to share good times over delicious pizza.

Jim Mazz β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

Jim's first-time experience showcased how The Little Rendezvous stands out in a sea of dining options. The flavors and welcoming atmosphere left a memorable impression on him, encouraging more visits. Locals love that this restaurant can transform a casual meal into a cherished memory.

Serena Tippett β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…

Serena's enthusiasm for the pizza's flavor highlights a broader sentiment among patrons: the joy of finding that perfect slice. Her insight points to how The Little Rendezvous nurtures a sense of community, bringing people together to savor delicious moments.

Customer Reviews

Petro Kan
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 2 weeks ago

"What can I say. 3rd day in CT, 3rd day eating pizza. Making the tour around the state and getting a taste of the best. I have to admit, thank you Mr Portnoy… I do t know that I’d ever get to experience the Little Rendezvous had I not seen his review. As a gambling man…well ignorant anyway I didn’t call my order in. I wanted it fresh. I almost missed my chance as they shut down for a bit after lunch to clean the grill and take a little break. They were so awesomely kind to make my pie as the last lie before their break. The hospitality of the owner/pizza maker was not expected. Both people working were truly kind and conversational. It made the 15/20 min of waiting for the pizza fly by as if only a couple of minutes. There was a steady flow of people coming in and picking up their food. I took my pizza got in the car and headed to Boston about a 2 hour drive. The idea was to have a couple slices and save the rest for dinner at the hotel in Boston. Well I got about 25 min into the drive before I ate the last slice. lol. It was crispy. It was flavorful. That last slice I had almost a half an hour later was as crisp and had zero flop as did the first younger scalding first bite. I will enjoy a pie cooked in this 138 year old oven every time I’m in CT."

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Alex Gutkowski
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 4 weeks ago

"One of a kind place made by only one man. Love that and it’s my favorite spot. I’ve tried many top pizza spots but this is my go to. Love the crushed tomatoes on there. Sauce is boss!"

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Mark Hughes
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 2 months ago

"Simply the best in CT .. If CT is the pizza capital of the world, then Rendezvous is where the standard is set! Brought in a culinary chef buddy of mine to introduce him to what I have always known to be the BEST apizza ANYWHERE! He was more than impressed, and not disappointed in the slightest!"

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Kat S
β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜… 8 months ago

"So happy I finally got to try this pizza place! We ordered a large pepperoni pizza on Saturday night. The wait was about one hour but the pizza was well worth it. Definitely some of the best pizza I have had in a while. Crust is thin and crunchy. This Restaurant is cash only and only sells pizza but They don't sell slices! Can't forgot the mention that they have a 130 year old coal fired brick oven! This place is a hidden gem !"

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Hashtag Pizza Fact's

Pizza's Role in Post-War America

Post-World War II America saw a pizza boom, as returning soldiers craved the flavors they had encountered in Italy. This period marked pizza's transition from ethnic enclave staple to mainstream American delight. The 1950s and 1960s witnessed the emergence of nationwide pizza chains and regional styles, solidifying pizza's status as an American favorite and a symbol of shared culinary heritage.

History

Connecticut's Premier Pizza Destinations

Current location in red, 8 nearest in blue, all others in gray

The Little Rendezvous

256 Pratt St, Meriden, CT 06451
β˜…4.5
(568 reviews)

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