New Pizza Shop, 'Runaway Meatball,' Nearing Opening

Four long-time friends expect to heat the ovens and start slicing Sicilian-style pizza pies in about two weeks, when they open their new pizza joint the "Runaway Meatball."

Proprietor Tom Drilias, a North Shore native, said he is awaiting the OK from inspectors before opening the doors to Shorewood's fourth pizza restaurant, in the former Mama Mia’s storefront at 3590 N. Oakland Ave.

Inspectors will examine the building, after months of renovations, on Tuesday; then it will just be a matter of finishing up some small fixes before opening the doors, Drilias said. 

Along with the Sicilian-style pizzas, Drilias said the shop will serve Italian sandwiches, including meatball subs, and chicken wings. Sides including homemade potato chips, “haystack” onion rings and macaroni and cheese, among other options, will also be on the menu. Drilias will finalize the menu next week, he said. 

Runaway Meatball will offer carryout and delivery. Drilias said he looking into installing some benches in and outside the store for customers interested in eating at the shop.

Drilias has been friends with his partners for decades; one of which founded and ran Upper Crust Pizza in Whitefish Bay for roughly 20 years. After retiring, the four figured they would give opening a pizza shop a-go. 

Just a few weeks ago, Al Calderone Club open at 4475 N. Oakland Ave., in the newly-constructed, former Brit Inn space.