As I attempt to sample everything there is to offer at the Oakley Kitchen Food Hall, I recently had some pizza from Padrino. I didn’t realize it at the time, but this is the same business that I have previously visited in Milford years ago, and they have a spot in Ft. Thomas as well. The menus are different at each, but you will always find some excellent pizza offerings.

Counter

Orders are placed at the counter and prepared quickly to order.

Garlic Knots

My son and I started with some garlic knots (4 for $4) which were a great way to kick things off! He also enjoyed the cheese pizza with a house-made marina ($9 for 10″).

Cheese Pizza

I ordered the drunken goat pizza, with a vodka rose sauce base, goat cheese, bacon, fresh mushrooms, capicola, and a cheese blend ($14.50 for 10″). This was outstanding and a really great combination of flavors.

Drunken Goat Pizza

At the Oakley Kitchen Food Hall, Padrino offers a few appetizers, salads, pastas, and sandwiches, but their specialty pizzas are where they shine!

Nation Kitchen & Bar has operated in Pendleton since 2015, and their newest spot in Westwood opened in late 2020. The Pendleton location isn’t especially kid-friendly, so it is not on our list of regular spots. However, if the Westwood location was closer to our home, it would most likely be in our rotation of lunch/dinner spots. It’s brighter, lively, and offers a kids menu.

Inside

My family and I arrived shortly after 11 on a Saturday and were immediately seated at a high-top table. The restaurant is not huge, but they do make good use of the space that they do have. Also looks like a patio would be in use with better weather. The space was formerly the Engine Co. Number 35 firehouse and a number of artifacts from that time can still be found inside and out.

The Phoenix

Brunch is offered early on Saturday and Sunday, but they also serve the full menu during that time, which I was delighted about. I ordered the phoenix sandwich with a fried buttermilk chicken breast, Nashville hot sauce, spicy jalapeno slaw, chipotle mayo, and pickles on a challah bun ($12). This was a very good sandwich, spicy but not over the top. I especially liked the slaw. I also enjoyed a side of tater tots ($3). My wife and kids enjoyed the burgers. Note that any specialty burger can have the beef subbed for a turkey or black bean patty.