Sometimes you just want a laid-back midday pizza, and finding a new spot that delivers a good, solid option can really make your day.
I was excited to try Wood & Fire in Delray Beach. Located on the north side of Atlantic Avenue, just east of the now closed mini-mall that formerly housed the Mah Jong shop, the restaurant offers plenty of seating, including a spacious dining room, two patios, one covered with a large red awning overlooking Atlantic Avenue, where I decided to grab a table
Walking in, I expected a traditional pizzeria, but Wood & Fire is much more than that. The menu features wood-fired pizzas, salads, pastas, entrées, and a selection of pre-determined pies. One detail that caught my attention was the note on the pizza section that stated, “No Substitutions.” Curious, I asked our server about this. His response was a smile and, “It depends.” I tested this when I ordered the Italiano Lunch Pizza with Italian crumbled sausage, roasted peppers, sweet red onions, San Marzano sauce, Pecorino cheese and shredded Mozzarella cheese, and I requested my pizza without onions. He told me that it would be fine.
Since Wood & Fire uses a 700-degree wood-fired oven, I was very curious how the pizza would emerge from this super-heat. High-temperature ovens can produce exceptional crusts, and this one certainly delivered. I knew that it would not take long for my pizza to arrive, and as I waited, I smiled at the shirts the servers wore, each was emblazoned with a logo, and the one that caught my eye was “#got wood.”
When the pizza arrived, it immediately made a strong impression. The toppings extended nearly to the edge of the crust and included generous chunks of sausage, freshly roasted peppers, and melted cheese. The cheese was beautifully browned with just the right amount of bubbling and char, giving the pizza the appetizing appearance that wood-fired enthusiasts crave.
I first tasted the crust, which was light, airy, and pleasantly crisp. The underside was a nice tan and displayed excellent char. The sausage chunks were juicy and flavorful, with the correct amount of fennel. The roasted peppers retained a subtle sweetness and a fresh roasted flavor. Overall, the ingredients were excellent.
The true test came when I lifted a slice. The cheese stretched beautifully, and the first bite delivered everything you hope for in a wood-fired pizza, a balanced combination of crust, sauce, cheese, and toppings. The sauce offered bright tomato flavor with a touch of sweetness, while each ingredient complemented the others without overpowering them. It was time to sit back, relax, and enjoy a few slices of very good pizza.
Overall, Wood & Fire delivered an enjoyable and satisfying pizza experience. The quality ingredients, expertly executed wood-fired crust, and relaxed atmosphere created a pizza visit worth savoring. The Italiano pizza was well-balanced, with each ingredient complementing the others without overwhelming the pie. While house-made sausage and sauce would have added a more personal touch, the finished product was flavorful, well-crafted, and thoroughly enjoyable. Wood & Fire is a reliable choice for a quality pizza and a comfortable dining experience when you’re looking to sit back, relax, and enjoy a great meal.
5199 W Atlantic Ave,
Delray Beach, FL 33484
561-332-2300
Jfood Eats 