Street Art, Street Eats at Graffiti Pizza and Street Food

Nestled in Allston on Harvard Ave, you’ll find Graffiti Pizza, which has been capturing the hearts (and stomachs) of Bostonians since its opening last year. 

All about Dave

David Dragani is a seasoned member of the restaurant industry, whose journey began in the kitchens of Boston’s North End during his high school years. Fast forward to 2009, Dave opened Pizzeria Dante, a lively Italian restaurant that would later become Club Dante in 2020. With a new location featuring a Boiler Room scene — full bar, industrial decor, dynamic seating, LED lights, and an open kitchen — and live entertainment curated by DJ Cakewalk, Club Dante is a welcoming venue for people “of every walk of life,” according to Dave.

Dave’s vision didn’t just stop there — Graffiti Pizza’s opening is inspired by the New York-style walk-up eateries and Allston’s bright and bustling neighborhood. Check out the array of gourmet-style quick bites and housemade bread and mozzarella. Plus, you may even catch Dave in-house!

The Vibe

Some of Allston’s most culturally diverse eateries are located on Harvard Ave. From Garlic ‘n Lemons to Kimchipapi to Seoul Topokki, this single street offers bites from around the globe. Graffiti’s is no exception, establishing itself among Allston’s fan favorites as a twist on takeout with its slogan, “Eat in the street!” Outside, you’re greeted by graffiti murals that encapsulate the spirit of the establishment — its name couldn’t be more fitting. Here, the setting is strictly takeout, so be prepared to enjoy the hustle and bustle of street food culture. For those cozy nights in, order delivery from UberEats, Grubhub, or Doordash. Expect to receive your food in bright yellow and red packaging that mirrors the restaurant’s vibrant theme. With hours extending from 11 am to midnight daily, Graffiti’s has you covered. Who said pizza is just for late-night?

A Pizza Slice (Or Two) 

I was invited along with Anika, Spoon’s marketing director, to tour and taste Graffiti’s. We weren’t sure what to expect, but we certainly did not leave hungry.

The menu is both punchy and charming (hello, Smoke & Choke and Celine Dijon pizza) with each dish offering a generous portion of authenticity and personality.

Of course, we started with the cheese pizza, Roman style. Characterized by its rectangle shape and light, airy dough, “al taglio” style pizza, or, “by the cut,” has the most flavorful bite and is definitely a must-have. Graffiti offers all pizzas in sizes personal, medium, or large, so whether you’re alone or with friends, no one misses out.

Next came the crispy calamari, perhaps the star of the evening. Served with a side of the signature vodka marinara sauce, the crunchy exterior pairs perfectly with a savory sauce.

With that same vodka marinara sauce came fried mozzarella. If you’re looking for an ultimate cheese pull, this is where to find it. My recommendation: eat it while it’s fresh!

As a palate cleanser, we had some cold milkshakes. We tried raspberry and vanilla, just two of the various flavors they have to offer. Inspired by iconic boba tea packaging, the milkshakes are packaged with a seal that you pop through with a straw. Light and not too sweet, they were the perfect palate cleanser to prepare for the next dish.

The Graffiti Cubano is a savory sandwich that’s generous in size and flavor. It’s layered with thick slices of cured ham, lettuce, tomato, Graffiti slaw, and house-made mozzarella served on house-made bread (do you spot the trend?).

Chopsticks for pasta? Yes, please. Served alongside each pasta dish, you’ll get the perfect bite of creamy and rich carbonara, made with egg yolk pasta, parmesan cheese, and sliced cured bacon.

Final Thoughts

Graffiti Pizza and Street Food isn’t just food; it’s an experience. If you ask my opinion, the experience is just as important as the food itself, and that’s something that Graffiti’s has certainly mastered. Whether you’re from the neighborhood or just passing through Allston, be sure to give Graffiti’s a try!