In the heart of Sandy Springs, Sunnyside Pizzeria has become much more than a destination for pizza. While the restaurant proudly serves authentic Neapolitan pies, owners David Ge and Sunny Sun have created something that feels increasingly rare in today’s dining landscape which is a true neighborhood gathering place.
“We call ourselves a pizzeria, but we’re really a neighborhood Italian eatery,” Sunny says. “Pizza is at the heart of what we do, but we also offer house-made pasta, in-house gelato, an extensive wine selection and handcrafted cocktails.”
That balance between authenticity and creativity is what has made the cozy spot a popular one for locals. Guests can enjoy traditional Italian favorites while discovering menu items inspired by the owners’ travels, culinary adventures, and their personal experiences.
“My husband David came up with the name Sunnyside as a play on my name, Sunny,” she explains.
The original vision for the restaurant was ambitious and deeply personal. Sunny and her husband initially planned to blend traditional Neapolitan pizza with Asian-inspired toppings as a way to honor their Chinese heritage. As the concept evolved, however, they chose to lean more heavily into the restaurant’s Italian foundation while allowing their creativity to emerge through specialty dishes, seasonal offerings, and unique menu additions.
Choosing Sandy Springs was never a difficult decision for the team. Since relocating to Atlanta in 2015, Sunny and her husband have lived and worked in the Sandy Springs and Dunwoody communities. Over the years, they developed strong connections to the area and noticed a gap in the local dining scene.
That local connection continues to shape the restaurant’s culture. Sunnyside has become a gathering place for families, friends and neighbors looking for quality food in a welcoming environment.
Like many restaurateurs, Sunny has a few favorites she believes deserves more attention.
At the top of the list is the Fig Pancetta Pizza, a combination of sweet and savory flavors that showcases the restaurant’s willingness to think beyond traditional toppings while still respecting Italian culinary traditions.
Another standout was the Pistachio Panuozzo, a monthly special inspired by a sandwich the owners discovered while traveling in Italy. Built on wood-fired focaccia bread and layered with pistachio cream, mortadella, arugula and fresh stracciatella cheese, the sandwich quickly became a favorite among guests who tried it.
Reservations, walk-ins, and large parties always keep the place buzzing. The couple also enjoys keeping busy by participating in community events such as Food That Rocks presented by Taste of Atlanta, coming up on Thursday, June 4 at City Springs. Community driven events are a good opportunity to introduce their concept to new eyes and meet others in the growing Sandy Springs culinary community.
By combining quality ingredients, thoughtful hospitality and a willingness to embrace creativity, Sunnyside has established itself as a neighborhood favorite that continues to evolve while staying true to the traditions that inspired it from the beginning.
Sponsored by Taste of Atlanta
