Sonny’s Pizza Brings 80’s NYC Vibe to UH

There’s a buzz around the neighborhood – what’s with the massive graffiti / tagging at the alley behind Park and Madison? It’s absolutely intentional, as we discovered, and will be part of the “80’s New York Pizza Joint” vibe at the soon-to-open Sonny’s.

Under construction for a few years, the restaurant hopes to be open in time for Party on Park on May 10 according to Matt Sieve, owner of UH hot-spot Madison and partner in the new Pizzeria. Along with partner Jeffrey Fink, Matt and his team have been busy expanding their Madi brunch spots from Normal Heights to Hillcrest and Pacific Beach later this year as well.

Sonny’s is a much-anticipated addition to UH filling in the spot formerly occupied by Florabella. It will feature some cool touches like a recycled copper bar, eclectic cocktails, and a Neapolitan-meets-NYC style of pizzas, entrees, and salads. The restaurant’s outdoor patio with an outdoor grill will be unique in the neighborhood- and we’ll have more details in next month’s paper!

As for the walls facing Madison Ave and the alley… folks on the UH Facebook Group definitely had some opinions. Overall opinions were around 60% like/40% dislike, with many responders raving about the coolness, Parisian and NYC feel, and others expressing how it doesn’t fit the neighborhood. UH is always in a state of evolution, and we’re thrilled to see that long-empty spot come to life – and if past success is prologue, Matt and Jeffrey and their extended teams will make this a hot spot that everyone will be talking about.