When it comes to pizza, denizens of Baristaville differ as to what constitutes a perfect pie. Is it a crisp, almost burnt crust in the brick oven tradition, or a slice with more pliability (think Travolta with his double slice technique in Saturday Night Fever). There's also the topping factor; some folks can't fathom anything besides tomato sauce and mozzarella, while others want options. When Cosimo's Trattoria was voted Bloomfield's best pizza, Star Tavern may have gotten some serious competition. Sure the Tavern has the alcohol advantage and pub ambiance, but we're sure bringing a six-pack to Cosimo's has its advantages, along with the trattoria's more inspired menu. Team Barista sampled two pies, a quattro formaggi with gorgonzola, fresh mozzarella, fontina and parmigiano, as well as the Cosimo (pictured), a tomato, arugula, prosciutto and fresh mozzarella creation drizzed with extra virgin.
Both pies, priced at $7.95 and $8.95 respectively, are considered "personal" pizzas, but at 12 inches, they are huge for one person, and definitely could be split, or serve as appetizers for a larger group. Another hit was Cosimo's famous steak salad (pictured), another generous serving, featuring succulent strips of steak, juicy tomatoes, red onion, roasted peppers, black olives and chunks of fresh mozzarella. Cosimo's menu has plenty more to recommend, including an extensive selection of pasta, chicken and veal dishes, as well as meat and fish. We're still working our way through the list of 13 different pies, with a wild mushroom pizza and a seafood pie next in the rotation. Cosimo's is open for lunch and dinner Monday through Saturday and has ample parking. 194 Broad Street; 973-429-0558.







