By day, there isn't much to distinguish Cambridge Street's Felcaro Pizzeria from the infinitude of American pizza joints. A sign identifies the plain exterior, pizzas idle in a glass case within, and an Italian flag hangs from the corner. But revisit Felcaro's after 1 am on weekends to see a centipede of bar patrons, college kids, and Liberty Hotel revelers lined up to fulfill their carb quest. They can wait patiently, as Felcaro's stays open till 4 am Thursday through Saturday, making it one of the latest-open eateries in the area. But the weekend pizza vigil isn't just about their hours. The food is damn good, and cheap to boot.
The signature slice is their bruschetta pomodoro ($3/slice). Unlike the doughy messes other pizzerias serve to the late-night crowd, the bruschetta is refreshingly light, thin but chewy. It's a white pizza that swaps sauce in favor of diced tomatoes, basil leaves, and the fresh garlic that gives the slice its flavor hook. In addition to the cheese and pepperoni standards, there's also a slice of the day ($3), which on my evening was simple but flavorful chicken with roasted red peppers.
For those with greater appetites, Felcaro's prepares formidable calzones ($6). The night of my visit, the options were chicken parm and meatball. I chose the meatball, which they hand-brushed with garlic and olive oil after it left the oven. The warm calzone, painted with flavor and filled with seasoned meatballs and sauce, made for a supremely satisfying, if heavy, nightcap.
Felcaro's also offers a trio of combo deals ($6.95 each) on the days and nights without the bar crowds. Available all day Sunday through Wednesday, the combos include two slices of pizza and a soda, a calzone and a 20-ounce Aquafina, or a sub with chips and can of soda.
If you find yourself on Cambridge Street, whether it's running an afternoon errand or leaving a last call, keep your nose tuned for the scent of garlic. Follow it, and you'll be in good hands.
EAT UP :: 280 Cambridge St, Boston :: 617.742.0011 or felcaropizzaboston.com :: Mon–Wed, 7 am to 11 pm; Thurs–Sat, 7 am to 4 am; Sun, 8 am to 11 pm
