The Big Ragu, Hungry Jax and Chef House are not food critics, we are Food Adventurers. That’s like comparing Roger Ebert to Indiana Jones. We always eat big, never use generic stock photos, and always hit a place multiple times. If it is something we love, we write about it. Piada is one such place. Since the grand opening of this new spot, in our hometown of Centerville, the lines have been out the door. So we bided our time, until the frenzy died down. What is the excitement about? This popular Columbus based franchise has capitalized on the “assembly line” serving style which has brought countless comparisons to the likes of Chipotle.

Here is the rundown, when you enter the place you pick your meal type. You have four choices: A piada (a huge burrito), a pasta bowl, a chopped salad bowl or a select two in which you can choose mini versions of any of the items mentioned earlier. After you pick your meal type, you pick your meat: calamari, grilled chicken, crispy chicken fritte , Italian sausage, steak, salmon or vegetarian. Be forewarned that the grilled chicken is a mix of white and dark meat. The crispy chicken is strictly chicken breast.

You are then asked to choose a sauce: pomodoro, diavolo(spicy tomato sauce), alfredo, red pepper pesto, basil pesto, or creamy parmesan. After that, you are moved down the line to choose from a variety of vegetable toppings, including unique choices such as eggplant, sun dried tomatoes, and papadew peppers.

Hungry Jax liked the pick two two combo, but her recommendation is to go for the BIG chopped salad bowl instead of the smaller combo portions. It is simply a better deal. Fresh greens with your choice of veggie and meat toppings make this a healthy and flavorful choice. The Big Ragu says go for the Calamari Piada or Salmon Piada, but don’t put any pasta in the “burrito.” Instead, save room to stuff more kinds of veggies in there!

One thing we love are the artichoke piada sticks and the parmesan reggiano piada sticks. They are cheesy, dusted with garlic powder and delicious. Another attraction for us is that they have Peroni, on tap. We always enjoy the crisp taste of this Italian import beer. Other unique beverages included the Italian Teas and Sodas. Our favorite was the raspberry soda. Piada even offers Peach Bellini’s, which are made with sparkling wine. Finally, we tried the of cannoli dip. It is a bag of mini-cannoli shells and a side of cann0li filling for dipping. An interesting concept for a dessert on the go.

Ragu’s Italian ancestors are not sure if this is authentic street food, but it tastes great. Prices run $6 – $9 for your typical entree. Check out our album below for lots of food photos. Do you want a lunch that is a fresh, fast and furious? Then visit Piada Italian Street Food and get some chow…. or should we say… Ciao !