By Sophie Oberstein

Tucked away in a two-storefront shopping “center,” is a pizza place that not only serves some of the best pizza in the area, but that is also unique in several ways. You’ll notice right away the huge signs in the windows that proclaim that Troy’s Italian Kitchen offers both “Vegan & Gluten Free” menus. In fact, Neel Vaidya, who co-owns the place with his wife, Palak Patel, says that 65% of their business comes from their vegan menu (“The biggest vegan menu in the DMV!” boasts Neel). Other innovations include the specialty pizzas (more on that below) and the introduction of halal meats, starting with the pepperoni, which my 9-year old neighbor, Harrison, said was “very, very good; some of the best I’ve had, and I’ve had a lot of pepperoni in my life!” 

Neel and Palak have owed Troy’s since 2019 in what was formerly the home of Z Pizza, and then Troy’s. They considered changing the name when they bought it, but “the former owner was Troy and the community knew that name,” so they kept it. Your classic, unassuming pizza place, Troy’s currently seats just six people, but plans to add more seating in the near future. Once that additional seating has been added, Neel, Palak, and their seven employees plan to host “Make your Own Pizza” kids’ parties and other community events. Most pizzas are ordered for delivery or pick-up. 

While there is an extensive menu of specialty pizzas, we ordered a simple cheese pie (slices are about $5 each; might as well get a whole pie for around $16 (prices vary)). The dough and sauce is made fresh daily and the cheese is high quality. “We don’t skimp,” says Neel. And you can taste the quality ingredients in the pizza, which is thin crust, but not soggy. Says Harrison, “I enjoyed the pizza; it’s really good.” 

Neel’s claim that “we’re unique because we have options for everyone” includes the specialty pizza menu, including their bestselling Vegan Elote Pizza—with fire-roasted corn, onions, poblanos, vegan chipotle mayo, and vegan parmesan cheese—and the very popular Chicken Tikka Masala Pizza, with creamy tikka masala sauce, grilled chicken, green peppers, and onions. The Big Dill Pizza was also suggested, with bacon, onions, pickles, and ranch drizzle. If none of these specialties appeals to you, you can always create your own pie. 

Lyon Park’s own Paul Showalter happened to drop by while we were there. A regular patron, he said some of his favorites are the huge calzones and the Gourmet Salad with dried cranberries, walnut, feta, green apples and balsamic dressing. Troy’s also has salads, wings, calzones, sandwiches, pasta, and a refrigerator fully stocked with desserts. Truly a full Italian kitchen. 

In addition to our cheese pizza, we had some pepperoni slices (quite large), garlic knots, and mozzarella sticks. The crispy mozzarella sticks got rave reviews. Harrison’s 7-year old brother, Brayden (pictured), says the “cheese can stretch far!” He and his mother gave them a “15 out of 5 stars.” 

If you’re looking for a great slice of pizza in the neighborhood, and you haven’t yet discovered Troy’s, it’s well worth a visit. 

Troy’s Italian Kitchen (2710 Washington Blvd): Hours of operation are 11:00 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday; 11:00 a.m.–10:00 p.m. Friday and Saturday; Closed Sunday. Phone number is 703-528-2828. Order online at
https://www.troysitaliankitchen.com (10% off online orders).