When you’re looking for a place that combines wood-fired cooking with serious flavor, Tazza Kitchen in Short Pump has been delivering since 2013. This is where comfort meets quality, and where every meal feels like a celebration of good food done right.
The Story Behind the Flames
Three friends with different backgrounds came together with one vision: to create a restaurant where seasonal ingredients meet wood-fired perfection without breaking the bank. John Davenport, Jeff Grant, and John Haggai spent 18 months traveling and testing before opening the doors to what became the original Tazza Kitchen location right here in Short Pump. Today, this spot at 3332 Pump Rd continues to bring that same energy and commitment to quality.
The restaurant partners with dozens of local farmers and food artisans to source ingredients, keeping things fresh while supporting the community. When you eat here, you’re not just enjoying a great meal; you’re supporting a local business that gives back.
What Makes This Place Special
The menu at Tazza Kitchen revolves around their brick oven, which creates that perfect char and smoky flavor you can’t replicate any other way. Their wood-fired pizzas are the star of the show, especially the spicy sausage & black pepper honey pizza that locals can’t stop talking about. The sweet-and-spicy combination hits every note.
But pizza isn’t the only reason people keep coming back. The brick oven crab cakes are packed with large crab lumps and flavor, while the street-style tacos offer a taste of Baja-inspired cooking. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, try the Mediterranean bowls with your choice of protein, all featuring fresh vegetables and bold seasonings.
Discover more amazing local businesses that make our community special when you’re ready to explore beyond your meal.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re taking a break from shopping at Short Pump Town Center, meeting friends for weekend brunch, or planning a date night, this spot works for you. The heated outdoor patios let you enjoy the fresh air even during cooler evenings, adding to the relaxed vibe that makes every visit memorable.
Happy hour brings great deals on both food and drinks, while the craft cocktail program features handcrafted beverages, local craft beers, and an accessible wine list. The atmosphere strikes that perfect balance between sophisticated and comfortable.
Why Short Pump Locals Love It
The roasted cauliflower appetizer gets regular shout-outs from diners, along with the guacamole and meatballs. Brunch favorites include eggs Benedict with crab cakes and fresh-baked brioche rolls. Portion sizes are generous, and the menu offers something for everyone, from seafood lovers to vegetarians looking for creative options.
The service here consistently earns praise, with staff members who make thoughtful recommendations and keep things moving even during busy times. This is a team that genuinely cares about your experience, from the moment you walk in to the moment you take your last bite of dessert.
Make Your Next Meal Memorable
Located just minutes from all the shopping and activities on Richmond’s Far West End, Tazza Kitchen Short Pump offers lunch, dinner, weekend brunch, and carryout with plenty of convenient parking. Whether you’re craving wood-fired pizza in Short Pump, searching for the best crab cakes near me, or simply want to try a local restaurant with outdoor seating, this is your spot.
Stop by and taste what makes this Short Pump restaurant a community favorite for over a decade. Your table is waiting.
Sources: tazzakitchen.com, yelp.com, Tazza Kitchen Facebook Page, Tazza Kitchen Instagram Page
Header Image Source: Tazza Kitchen Facebook Page
