Mr. Karapanos’ father owns Wilson Pizza Palace, and Archie’s uses the same family recipe that has led to more than forty years of success for the Connecticut-based eatery. Dmitri’s grandfather once owned a pastry shop in Chicago. Most of the photos that line the hallway in the back of the restaurant are of him and his family.
Archie’s in Bushwick is a new late night, by-the-slice pizza joint in the neighborhood. Besides a salad and a dozen toppings to add to your pie, the menu also features grinders (New England style hoagies), perfect for that 3 AM stumble home.
Family Pizza…
The wooden bar, subway tiles, and big mirrors, along with vintage signs and old pizza paddles, impart a sense of nostalgia to the establishment, and with good reason. The owners, Dmitri Karapanos and his wife, Gerelyn Blackstone, come from a long line of culinary powerhouses.
Archie’s blends vintage and modern decor elements.
…And Wine to Boot.
The pizza is delicious, a crunchier pan-pizza than most of Bushwick’s alternatives. We tried the vegetarian, with kalamata olives, peppers, onions and feta and mozzarella cheese.
Archie’s grandfather in butcher apron.
Pair it with one of the Greek wines offered, such as the light, grassy Athiri, or the bold, cherry flavors of the St. George. Greek wine differs from French or Spanish wine because Greek vines are considerably older. A fungus plague in the 19th century destroyed many centuries-old vines, but the disease never made it to Greece. As a result, the rich flavors of these hard-to-find wines are subtly different than their Western counterparts.
Archie’s’ great selection of Greek wines.
Archie’s Pizza also has a full bar, making it the perfect place for a nightcap.
Archie’s is located at 128 Central Ave at Starr Street, open every day from 6pm to 4am, except Sundays, when they close at midnight.