During our anniversary party a few months back we reflected all the locally owned shops and restaurants that we’d bid farewell to in the preceding year, and it’s continued to be a sad thread on this blog.

I’m writing tonight to tell you about a new locally owned spot you should grace with your patronage, and in doing so I’ll hopefully change the topic on this blog from sports for 5 minutes. Sorry guys, no offense but… *yawn*.

This week Village Pizza Co. opened its doors in Cabbagetown. Owned by Wes (formerly of East Atlanta Pizza) and Robi, the new neighborhood eatery is located on Carroll Street, tucked neatly behind the factory lofts just off Boulevard. Just around the corner from Agave, and a few doors down from the Carroll Street CafÈ (and a tattoo parlor if you’re looking for a different way to end your evening), this bright spot boasts a tight, clean, seemingly Scandinavian inspired interior, the walls of which don a few well placed pieces of colorful local artwork and a robust menu. The art isn’t as affordable as the dining, but you should consider both if you can.

Seating isn’t extensive, but isn’t much less than you’d expect from an in-town establishment, and I imagine when word gets out about their tasty vittles this spot will be pressed to turn over tables quickly. For now, it’s still quiet enough to bounce right in and grab a table. The pizza was hot, tasty, and reasonably priced not to mention that I love having a good view of the kitchen.

Sneak in and have a slice, or sample the pasta, sub, or paninis they also offer. Bonus points for the ice cream cabinet next to the register. Whatever you do, make sure you leave room to grab a pint at the Milltown Arms Tavern next door when you’re doneÖan Irish bar that even has ñ dare I say it ñ trivia on Tuesday nights brought to you by www.thetriviafactory.com

I’d point you to Village Pizza’s website, but they don’t have one just yet. In the meantime, a scanned copy of the menu can be viewed here, and the other pertinent details are as follows:

186 Carroll Street
404.586-0040
Open Monday ñ Sunday from 11a to 11p.

Edit: Beer and wine will be on the menu in 2006.