&pizza officially opened today at 10:00 AM, at 7614 Old Georgetown Road, in downtown Bethesda. Last Thursday, I stopped by the store to talk to &pizza's Steve Salis, who said that he feels the Metro Center/Woodmont Triangle area is a better fit for the brand than Bethesda Row.
Salis pointed out that the Bethesda store is smaller than &pizza's existing locations in the District. But size is not the only difference; Salis said no two stores are identical in design or menu. In recognition of Bethesda's status as one of the most educated towns in America, this &pizza's interior is inspired by the classic American one-room schoolhouse. The pickled oak wood and factory lighting recall early-twentieth century American design cues. And a large slate ampersand invites customers to pick up chalk, and write down a pizza memory or message.
One other difference: there are no plans to sell beer and wine at the moment, but Salis did not rule out adding adult beverages in the future.
Salis drew on childhood pizza parlor memories for the concept and atmosphere of his modern stores. He also feels strongly that each &pizza must be an active presence in the community it serves, and that Bethesda will be no exception. &pizza is environmentally conscious, making it a good fit for Bethesda. The restaurant's power is purchased from a clean energy supplier, Salis noted.
What's different about the pizza? There's only one size and shape - rectangular, and more towards a personal size than a giant pizza pie. You have several options for crusts and sauce, and many more than that for toppings. Toppings range from healthy (like broccoli, which I happen to love, although I've never had it on pizza) to oversized meatballs and raw eggs (which will cook atop the pizza in the oven, Salis said).
About that oven - your pizza will be done in 90 seconds. Then it's over to the finishing station, where post-oven garnishes can be added to order. Post-pizza, try their fairly-healthy dessert pizza with fruit. Or their 3 varieties of waffle cookies. Wash it down with one of their house-brand fountain drinks, sweet tea, water or a refreshing San Pelligrino orange sparkling beverage.
Vegan diners will be glad to know that there are pizzas for them on the menu, as well, in addition to vegetarian options.
Stop by and give &pizza a try at their first Maryland store.
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