01 / ABOUT THE PLACE
About this place
When pizzas emerge from the stone oven, even the charred crust around the rim commands attention. At Nativo in Nerima's Tagara district, each pie is rolled thin yet bakes with an airy, chewy elasticity, allowing the dough's own seasoning and wheaty aroma to shine through. The classic Tagara Margherita brings together a bright, sweet-tart tomato sauce, rich mozzarella, and fresh basil, remaining light enough to enjoy right down to the last slice.
The pizza selection is broad, spanning a quattro formaggi pairing 4 cheeses with honey, an 'nduja option topped with spicy salami paste, and a cicenielli featuring whitebait. Seasonal cheese-based creations, such as a white pizza with anchovies and garland chrysanthemum, also highlight the kitchen's thoughtful use of produce.
Before the mains, the antipasti menu beckons with an assortment chalked up on the daily blackboard, chicken liver mousse, and Florentine-style lampredotto. The pasta selection offers plenty of handmade appeal as well—from a deeply savoury house-made Bolognese and penne all'arrabbiata to oven-baked lasagna served with bread—making it easy to assemble a leisurely meal alongside wine or beer.
The dining room is arranged with both counter and table seating, welcoming families as readily as casual diners with a dedicated children's menu and child-friendly cutlery. Wrapping up the meal with an orange-scented crema catalana or classic tiramisu alongside a cup of hot coffee makes for a gentle, satisfying finish.
