Cannova's Pizzeria

Step into Cannova's Pizzeria and you’re greeted by the old-world charm of a vintage Wisconsin avenue storefront, bustling with the kind of energy only a beloved local institution can muster. The aroma drifting from the kitchen is unmistakably Italian—garlic, tomato, and cheese mingling in the air, promising comfort and nostalgia in equal measure. On many evenings, live piano or a jazz duo provides a melodic backdrop, transforming the dining room into something warmly communal; it’s not just a meal, but a small-town ritual. The crowd is an eclectic mix: families celebrating milestones over spaghetti and meatballs, couples slipping into cozy booths for tiramisu and wine, and out-of-towners lured by the sound of music wafting onto the street. The wait for a table can stretch on weekends—locals know to book ahead or grab an early slot—but there’s little hurry once seated. Servers move with practiced friendliness, often remembering returning guests or guiding newcomers through the menu’s highlights. Cannova’s has its quirks. Some nights, the pizza crust emerges cracker-thin and crisp; on others, purists might crave more chew or tang from the dough. Not every dish sings—some appetizers miss their mark—but when Cannova’s fires on all cylinders, it delivers vibrant flavors that surprise for such an unpretentious spot in Neenah. The wine pours are generous, cocktails are crafted with care, and when that first bite of chicken Alfredo or hand-tossed pizza lands just right under soft lamplight and gentle music, you understand why this place endures as a gathering anchor for both locals and wandering Midwesterners seeking a taste of Italy’s warmth far from home.