While Pepe’s and Sally’s may be a go-to for most people seeking out New Haven pizza, I personally think the up-and-coming star is BAR. The concept of only serving coal-oven pizza, salad, and beverages is the same across the board, but I think BAR’s modern approach is more solidified. They took a classic local concept and brought it up to a new level.
The most noticeable difference between BAR and other local establishments is that it is just more than a pizzeria. They (obviously) have a well-stocked bar, but most intriguingly enough they brew their own freaking beer! Not only that, the spot turns into a full on dance lounge after hours. Like, what?
We obviously had to get a flight tasting of their beers. I was surprised at how many different types of beers they brewed, and all the different flavors and varieties.
Besides pizza and drinks, the only other thing they have on the menu is their “Bar Salad”. It came with seasonal greens, sliced pear, caramelized pecans, crumbled bleu cheese, with a light vinaigrette dressing. For a salad at a placed called BAR, it was not only massive but tastier than expected.
THIS was what we came here for. It’s not listed anywhere on the menu, but colloquially known as the “Mashed-Potato-Bacon-Pie”. As a mostly anti-potato person myself, I’ve found this pizza to be definitely one of my favorites.
Even though the classic New Haven thin-crust pizza is present, you don’t feel any extra weight on it from mashed potatoes as you’d presume. The potatoes are lightly whipped, still allowing the pizza to be folded in half yet not soggy. There’s also an omnipresent flavor of garlic, oregano, and thyme throughout. Let’s not forget the crispy bacon and mozzarella cheesiness I so wished for from Pepe’s. Overall an unexpected loveliness.
I did forget to mention this strange but somewhat ideal location where we were dining. Between the large vats of beer brewing away behind us, and the main dining area on the second floor, there is a little overpass that seats just 2 tables. Perfect for people-watching, which I definitely partook on here.
No joke – This was the scene literally behind me.
After eating, we stopped by the main bar area (where I presume the dance portion would be held later that evening) for a final drink. The bright windows lit up the entire space during the day, making this a fun and airy room to hang out. You can even see the giant speakers in the corner ready to be used in about a good 12 hours from now.
If you’re looking for a classic New Haven-style pizza, with a bit more pizzazz, this is the place to go. And for the record, (I hope no one hates me for this), best pizza in New Haven hands down.
Website: www.barnightclub.com
Address: 254 Crown St, New Haven, CT 06511.
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