WaPo: Deaf-Owned Pizzeria to Open on H Street NE

Rendering of the Baldwin from the building's website

The Washington Post reports that Mozzeria, a Deaf-owned restaurant serving pizza, is headed to 1300 H St. NE. Mozzeria comes to us from two San Francisco-based Gallaudet graduates who run an eatery of the same name in California. The couple do not plan to relocate, but will bring their concept of employing an entirely Deaf staff to their Mozzeria's second location. There's an interesting back story here. Co-owner Melody Stein was once rejected by the California Culinary Academy because she is Deaf, something the school viewed as impractical for someone working in a restaurant kitchen.

Mozzeria seems like a natural fit for H Street NE, already a popular hub for our local Deaf community. Patrons who don't know ASL will be able to order by pointing to menu items, or writing down their choices with the paper and pen available at every table.

The menu will vary a bit from the one offered in the Mission District location, but will be focused on Neopolitan-style pies cooked in a wood-fired oven. We can expect both traditional options like the Margharita D.O.P., and more novel topping combinations including toppings like pear and Peking duck. The San Francisco menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options.

Mozzeria's new location, which the WaPo article says is anticipated to open in 2020, is in the Baldwin building that stands on the former site of R. L. Christian Library.