Metro Espresso Pizza Cafe

A trusty takeout joint is an integral part of any downtown neighborhood. And Metro Espresso Pasta, Pizza and Subs, tucked away on the ground floor of The Plaza apartments, fits the bill in Eola Heights.

When the business switched hands last year, new owner Lisa Cibrian injected a taste of Italy into the menu, and added beer and wine. These days, the pace is fast and furious at lunchtime. There's a handful of tables inside and on the sidewalk, but most people call for takeout.

When the business switched hands last year, new owner Lisa Cibrian injected a taste of Italy into the menu, and added beer and wine. These days, the pace is fast and furious at lunchtime. There's a handful of tables inside and on the sidewalk, but most people call for takeout.

Pizza by the slice is popular ($1.75). So are thick subs stuffed with hot meatballs and Parmesan cheese ($3.50), juicy Greek salads ($3.95) and mozzarella-packed strombolis and calzones ($3.95 and $3.50). Cibrian also makes some mean lasagna and pasta dishes ($5.50 to $6). It's open till 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday.