Wednesday, May 19, 2004

Pizza, pizza

By F.C. FOODIE
Dining Critic

Over the next few months, I’m challenging all you Fayette Foodies.

Every year, I always present a Best of Fayette column toward the end of the year. I’m always interested in our reader’s opinions, and I’ve found some delightful dining experiences thanks to you fellow food lovers. One of the food topics that I’ve found that can absolutely stir up readers is their favorite pizza.

With all the newcomers who have moved into the region, there is a sharp debate on the best pie. I prefer the New York-style thin-crust version with limited sauce and toppings. The delightful crunch of the first bite is what pizza is all about, in my humble opinion.

Unfortunately, I can’t find that style of pie in the county. I have to travel to Atlanta to get my pizza fix. To me, the best pizza in the county is still Partners II Pizza. The Peachtree City restaurant was one of the first restaurants in the city, and is still one of the best. It comes up with unique combinations and always has great service.

I like Mellow Mushroom, also, but I do wish some guy would move down here from New York and set up an independent pizza parlor.

Buck’s and Johnny’s are two other good choices. One of Johnny’s main selling points is they also have great sandwiches and salads.

I love Johnny’s crisp salads, and it’s very reminiscent of a New York-style operation. There used to be a place on Ga. Highway 54 called Ventura’s Pizza that served up the best pizza that I’ve had outside of the Big Apple. Unfortunately, it closed and we’re down to mostly chains.

I’m hearing very good things about Oz in Fairburn, and I plan to make the drive over there very shortly. I understand the owners also have outposts in Decatur and East Point, and pride themselves on their unique pies.

What about you, dear readers? Do you have a great little pizza joint you like to call home on Friday nights? Is there some independent guy baking pizza in a brick oven with a wooden paddle that I’m missing? Send all your suggestions to editor@thecitizennews.com, and I’ll do some investigative reporting.