For a couple months we have seen job listings for an &Pizza location in Olney, but haven’t been able to get any further information.This evening we were able to confirm that the customizable pizza place will be coming to the Fair Hill shopping center in Olney. Though we don’t have an exact location at the moment, it appears as though it will take over a location that is currently home to an existing business.
&pizza was founded by Michael Lastoria and Steve Salis (Ted’s Bulletin, Federalist Pig, and Ensemble) in 2012 with their first location on H Street in D.C. The growing chain now has over 36 locations across the east coast including MoCo locations in Bethesda, Gaithersburg (Crown), Germantown, Pike & Rose, Silver Spring and a second Gaithersburg location coming soon.
No word yet on an expected opening date.
Back in December of 2019, we learned that Frank Pepe’s would be opening its first Maryland pizzeria right here in MoCo.
After many delays we have learned that the restaurant is back on track to open, as they currently have a hearing to sell beer and wine scheduled for 10am on September 2nd.
Frank Pepe’s will be located in the old Bobby’s Burger Palace location on the lower level across from Cheesecake Factory. No opening timeframe has been provided yet, but we will relay the information as soon as it’s available.
The Daily Meal has referred to Frank Pepe’s as “America’s finest pizzeria” and many publications have tabbed the pizza joints as a must-try in the New England area.
Per its website, Frank Pepe originated the New Haven-style thin crust pizza which he baked in bread ovens fired by coke. Coke is a byproduct of coal and it was used extensively until the late 1960’s when it became unavailable and hence coal was then put into use to fire the oven.
Pepe’s signature pizza, the White Clam Pizza, was most likely an organic inspiration by Frank Pepe; an idea born from the fact that Pepe’s also served raw little neck clams from Rhode Island, on the half shell, as an appetizer.
Featured image courtesy of @FrankPepePizza
Bear Brick Oven Pizza is Now Open in Cloverly
In the summer of 2019 we let you know that Bear Brick Oven Pizza would be taking over the old Greek Islands Grill location on New Hampshire Avenue in Cloverly.
After a few delays, the restaurant has officially opened. They’ll be in soft opening mode for the rest of April before a grand opening on May 1st that will feature local vendors. For now, their hours are 4pm-9pm.
Currently, the restaurant is offering pizzas and salads to go along with local beers and wine by the glass or bottle.
In May, BBOP will add subs and sandwiches as the menu expands.
Below you’ll see one of their signature pizzas, The Cloverly, as well as their current menu. You can call in your orders at (301)889-9000.
