We Need to Calm Down about Bread and Salt
Since Bread and Salt opened late summer on Palisade Ave., the raves have been nonstop about this seemingly casual neighborhood pizzeria with out of this world flavors. It’s operated by James Beard semifinalist Rick Easton, who relocated the restaurant from Pittsburgh and partnered locally with Marc Magliozzi of Corto (also in the Heights) and Hoboken’s Dozzino.
So. Those raves, including a glowing writeup in the New York Times, did result in lines out the door. Has that held you back from venturing to Bread and Salt? Or is it the very idea of more pizza, in a city full of fabulous versions of it, tempting you with a heavy dose of carbs at every turn? Well, we are here to report that neither concern, nor any concern, should deter you from eating here. For one, things have calmed down. On a recent balmy Friday night, there was zero wait and a table open for our party of 6 (note: seating is communal). That said, if there is a wait, endure it. As for that post-carb regret issue we all try to avoid – there is none to be had here. Zip. The pizza, while hearty and filling, is driven by strong flavors served on a super-thin, crispy, salty crust that is light and not laden with heaviness of any kind.
The service is counter only. On display are slices of Roman-style pizza, which is cut into squares and heated up to order. While the menu changes daily, mozzarella and rosso (tomato, no cheese) slices are always offered, along with the crazy delicious mortadella sandwich.
Each night’s menu is written on the chalkboard next to the pizza counter, and contains non-pizza dishes like the meatballs, which have been met with the same swooning acclaim as the slices. We, however, in our post-slice bliss, saved ourselves for dessert, which was the best decision ever. We savored scoops of rosemary-caramel and chocolate ice cream, served with ginger-fennel cookies. Again, somehow light, leaving us room for a dessert slice topped with honey and hazelnut. Sumptuous flavors. Perfection.
Bread and Salt is closed Monday and Tuesday, open from 5-10pm Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, and on the weekends, they are open from 1:30 – 4:30 pm and 5:30 – 10pm. If your looking for company to join you, find us!
435 Palisade Ave. @breadandsaltbakery