While visiting a friend in Canondale, we visited Papa J's. It was a very crowded Saturday night and street parking was difficult. Papa J's feels like an *authentic* well oiled family business. When you walk in you are greeted by bread baking, a beautiful cake display and a host that has probably worked there (my assumption) 20 years.
Our service was good but not over the top. One of the best perks is that they bring out slices of the best homemade bread with olive oil, parmesan and balsamic. I could just sit there and eat bread it's that good. The dinner prices were very reasonable at around $15/pp not including alcohol.
I ordered the pesto pizza and my friends ordered the pasta bolognese and shrimp Alfredo. I did not like my pizza at all and I am not a picky pizza eater. It looked pretty and fresh with the diced tomatoes and pine nuts on top-- but something was off. Maybe the cheese?
My friends thoroughly enjoyed their meals. They bring out a LOT of food.
Bottom line: I would give Papa J's another chance. I think I ordered the wrong thing. The service and atmosphere were great.