Las Olas Boulevard has been missing a classic New York-style slice, and this winter that changes. Pizza Queen, a new project from local restaurateur Marc Falsetto’s Falsetto Hospitality, is taking over a compact storefront on Las Olas with a tight focus on oversized grab-and-go slices, whole pies, espresso and Italian sodas. Falsetto says the concept grew out of living on the block and realizing there was nowhere nearby for a simple, quick slice.
The 1,000-square-foot shop is slated for 1217 E. Las Olas Blvd., the former Damiano’s Café and Bistro, with limited indoor counter seating and a handful of outdoor tables. The setup is built for speed and accessibility, aiming squarely at neighborhood regulars and late-night crowds, according to Miami New Times.
How Pizza Queen Plans To Nail The Crust
Falsetto says Pizza Queen’s dough will start with imported Italian flour that is free of bromates, follow a long fermentation schedule and rely on a specialized water-control system designed to mimic New York’s mineral balance for that familiar chew and crisp. Pies will be finished with imported Italian tomatoes and fresh local toppings, an attempt to blend New York technique with South Florida produce, as reported by WhatNow.
Built On Pizza Craft's Local Reputation
Falsetto already has a loyal following at Pizza Craft in the Himmarshee District, where his wood-fired pies have earned a local reputation. The shop scored an 8.1 "One Bite" rating from Dave Portnoy, and Falsetto says steady customer requests for slices helped spark the idea for a slice-focused spinoff in Pizza Queen. For more on Pizza Craft’s background and that Portnoy score, see Pizza Craft.
Where Pizza Queen Fits In Las Olas' Boom
Pizza Queen is set to arrive shortly after Falsetto’s more upscale Caviar Club, a plush steakhouse and private-membership martini lounge scheduled to debut in October, according to Browardist. Commercial coverage and property filings also show Falsetto assembling sites and leasing space along Las Olas as part of a broader hospitality push, The Real Deal reports.
Pizza Queen is listed as "Opening Winter 2026" at 1217 E. Las Olas. When it lands, locals can expect a fast, grab-and-go slice counter on a stretch that is otherwise dominated by sit-down Italian spots. As buildout moves forward, permits and a firm opening date will tell whether Las Olas’ slice game finally catches up with its appetite.
