Over the past eight months, my taste buds have embarked on a journey spanning breakfast, lunch, dinner, and every cuisine imaginable. However, for my final column of the year, I deemed it appropriate to conclude with my initial culinary muse – one of the most beloved creations of all time: pizza.
My inaugural pizza excursion was prompted by an email from Mike, the proprietor of For Pizza in Medford Square. He graciously invited me to experience his establishment, and being the VIP that I am, I accepted his invitation eagerly. The staff’s hospitality was unparalleled, with tables even reserved for the Daily! The style of pizza was quite distinctive – the pies and slices were petite, with an unconventional absence of a thick outer crust, instead featuring slightly charred ends reminiscent of deep-dish style. While the under-crust was marginally undercooked compared to the edges, the sauce was undeniably delicious. Though it lacked a bit in grease, the abundance of air bubbles added to its allure. The cheese boasted a robust flavor, although a tad more would have been appreciated. The slice arrived piping hot. While not my top choice, it presented a unique twist (pun intended) on the classic, certainly deserving of a try. I also indulged in the pepperoni and house specialty, Honey Roni pies. In both instances, the pepperoni provided a delightful kick, and the hot honey was simply divine. Additionally, For Pizza extends a warm welcome to Tufts students with a 10% discount on Sundays through Thursdays, and a commendable pledge to donate 10% of profits to local organizations. A hospitable, unpretentious, and philanthropic establishment that warrants a spot on your culinary agenda.
Next on my itinerary was Mortadella Head in Davis Square. Having missed the dining hours at Dewick, I eagerly anticipated savoring The Perfect Cheese red pie. While it may not have been perfect, it certainly did not disappoint. The under-crust was smooth and delicately crispy, while the crust edges offered a satisfying crunch. Each slice burst with flavor, as the cheese, tangy sauce, and abundant grease harmonized beautifully. A sprinkle of parmesan cheese provided the finishing touch, and the freshness of the pie was unmistakable. The only minor flaw was the crispiness, particularly on the bottom crust. Nevertheless, it stands as my favorite slice in Davis Square.
Lastly, I ventured to Mike’s Food and Spirits in Davis on Marathon Monday. This pie fell into the realm of mediocrity – something convenient you might enjoy while watching a football game. It boasted extra cheese, a respectable amount of grease, and arrived steaming hot. However, the crust erred on the side of too soft, and the sauce lacked the desired tang. They do earn points for generosity, as the slice was sizable. Not the pinnacle of pizza excellence, yet not the nadir either – a serviceable option in Davis Square.
As always, here are my immediate impressions:
For Pizza: A commendable business supporting worthy causes. The pizza is intriguing and warrants a taste. Don’t miss out on the hot honey.
Mortadella Head: A personal favorite slice in Davis.
Mike’s Food and Spirits: Once again, falls into the “meh” category.
And with that, my inaugural year of culinary exploration at Tufts draws to a close. Through the highs and lows, the exceptional and the mediocre, I’ve relished in my gastronomic adventure. The beauty of indulging in delicious fare, however, is that it knows no seasonal bounds. So, may your summer be brimming with delightful slices and indulgent desserts. Keep on munching!