Mama Santa's Pizzeria

At Mama Santa's Pizzeria in Cleveland's famous Little Italy, the delicious pizzas and pastas aren't the only reason why thousands flock to the tables adorned with red and white checkered tablecloths-- the value is also pretty alluring.

At this landmark Cleveland eatery, the sauce is boss. Marinara, mushroom, meat and bolganese-- Mama Santa's isn't lacking the red stuff. Made with fresh tomatoes, lots of garlic and only the leanest ground beef, Mama Santa's is well known for their famous homemade sauces.

Mama Santa's pizzas have become a staple for anyone who resides, works, travels to or passes through the Little Italy area. From the ooey-gooey goodness of the whole milk mozzarella to the authentic spicy pepperoni, Mama Santa's makes good Italian food available to everyone.

The pizzas, which range in price from just $7 to around $15, are affordable, delicious and available for dine-in as well as take out. But Mama Santa's Pizzeria doesn't stop at pizza, of course.

Mama Santa's also offers a variety of oven-baked sandwiches (try the veal Parmigiana or the Italian sausage and peppers; both are hearty and flavorful), antipasto ( filled with authentic Italian meats, cheeses and spicy peppers in a delicate dressing) and the homemade pastas.

You can't miss the nine kinds of spaghetti (including meatballs, meat, shrimp marinara, garlic and olive oil and even anchovy) alongside tender cavatelli; cheesy ravioli; baked rigatoni; golden fettuccine; stuffed cannelloni and hot, meaty lasagna. Italian specialty dishes like chicken marsala with tender mushrooms, veal scallopini with lemon zest, bold chicken cacciatore and veal pizzaiola with white wine sauce and veggies are also Mama Santa's staples.

A variety of tantalizing desserts like tiramisu, coconut cake and even cassata cake with fresh custard and strawberries (seasonally) make happy endings to your delicious Mama Santa's meal.

Mama Santa's is casual restaurant, so the dress code is relaxed. Reservations can be helpful on weekends when the eatery is exceptionally busy.

- by LeeAnn Mullen, Cleveland Reporter for HelloMetro  (Click to leave a message)

LeeAnn Mullen

LeeAnn Mullen is a freelance journalist from Cleveland, Ohio. She holds a bachelor's degree in journalism is currently furthering her education by studying for an additional degree in information systems management. Mullen has written for several Cleveland-area newspapers, online publications and dozens of private clients. Her topics of specialty include health, technology and travel.