Seems like lately I’ve been hitting “out of the way” pizza places like this one, on US Highway 12, 6.5 miles north of Elkhorn, WI and the junction of 12 and I-43. It’s about a 15 minute drive from the popular Lake Geneva recreation area in Southern Wisconsin.
I’ve driven by this place many times, when I’ve been out on my ‘touring America’ expeditions. My mistake for not stopping earlier.
US 12 is one of my favorite drives, running from the Pacific Ocean to Detroit. Starting in the West, you’ll leave the coast from Aberdeen, where I’ve had a great Salvadorean meal, and plenty of Washington oysters nearby.
You’ll wing your way through Idaho, Montana, the Dakotas, and Minnesota before rolling into Western Wisconsin. When you finally arrive at Elkhorn, you’d do well to time your drive to hit opening hours (from 5PM, Mon, Wed, and Thurs, and 4PM Fri, Sat, and Sun). Closed on Tuesdays.
Then menu (pictured below) features Italian appetizers and entrees, pizza, pasta, salads and more. The paper thin crust pizzas are fired in a wood/coal oven, and emerge quickly with a nice char on the crust.
Specialty pies lean towards ‘gourmet’, with ultra fresh ingredients and combinations; we went for one with arugula, prosciutto, and shaved parmesan. We also shared the “Holi Cannoli” which features a rich topping for four cheeses.
Started the meal with the very generous antipasto plate, featuring Italian meats, cheese, olives, peppers, and salad. Complimentary flat bread, foccacia and warm marinara grace every table.
You know I like thin crust, and this one is the epitome of thin. Almost like matzoh. It provides for a very nice crispness, and the ultra fresh toppings make each pie seem light and refreshing, instead of feeling like an anvil in your tummy. Lettuce isn’t something I would usually consider on a pie, but I’m sure glad I tried this one. I’ll be back.
The restaurant was nearly empty when we filed in at 5 PM on a Friday, but within 30 minutes, it was SRO. Despite the crowd, service was fast and professional, and the proprietors stopped by each table once or twice during the meal. Nice touch. They seemed willing and happy to accommodate most any request. Pizzas are one size only and will feed several comfortably. I wish they had a personal sized pie, and I’d be inclined to ‘over-order’ and try the pastas, salads, and such.
If you’re motoring across Wisconsin, or are out for a drive from Madison, Milwaukee, or Chicago, hit Holi Cannoli, at least once! Beer, wine and full bar available.
Arugula, prosciutto, parm pie
Antipasto Plate
http://www.holicannoli.com/
Holi Cannoli Review