Grace's Place Pizzeria, one of the newest additions to Grandin Road's urban village, starts you off on the right foot before you even walk in, with a sign out front that reads "This entire restaurant is smoke free."  Smoke-free is surely in the future of restaurants with class, and the sign gives you a preview of Grace's overall classiness.

The inside of the restaurant is warm inviting and spacious, giving you an immediate sense of what you're in for: a good blend of small-town diner charm and big-city pizzeria taste.  Comfortable booths line the walls and a maze of tables fills the floor.  Each table is adorned with quality plates and flatware, ready for hungry pizza eaters.

On the two occasions that I've tried one of the many specialty pizzas, as well as the cheese-covered breadsticks and the simple but delicious salad bar, I've been hit with a surprise each time.  The spacious place has been nearly empty!  And while this is a bonus for those who like a delicious dinner in a quiet corner, I don't suppose it does much for Grace.  And I don't suspect a secret this good will be kept for long, especially based on the taste of the Napolitana Pizza.

Grace's Place menu ranges from Specials of the House Pizza (Grace's Veggie Pizza, Eggplant Parmesana Pizza, Chicken Alfredo Pizza and Turkey & Broccoli Pizza to name only a few) to made-to-order hand-tossed pizzas and calzones, to pasta specials and a great variety of appetizers, including the most original "original chicken wings" I've tried yet.

All things considered, there is just one drawback to Grace' Place Pizzeria - it won't take long for word to get out about such a great addition to Grandin area dining.

---William Alexander
Roanoke Magazine - March/April 2004