Best Grilled Vegetables: Charred & Crispy Guide | Arteflame
Learn the best veggies for grilling—plus times, temps, and pro tips—optimized for Arteflame heat zones for perfect char and flavor every time.
Montgomery’s culinary scene has evolved far beyond traditional Southern comfort food, and the local pizza game is a testament to that growth. Whether you are looking for a Neapolitan-style thin crust that snaps when you fold it, or a hearty, cheese-loaded pie that requires a fork and knife, this city has a spot for you. In our quest for the perfect dough-to-sauce ratio, we explored the hidden gems and local staples that define the capital's food landscape. Below, we break down exactly where you need to eat right now. But we didn't stop there—we also reveal how you can skip the delivery fees and achieve that elusive wood-fired char right in your own backyard using the Arteflame.
The best pizza in Montgomery is defined by a high-heat cooking process that creates a blistered, flavorful crust, balanced with high-quality mozzarella and fresh, non-processed toppings.
We visited the top contenders to see if the hype matched the flavor. Here is what we found:
1. Pies & Pints
Located in the heart of the city, Pies & Pints is a standout for craft beer lovers who need a solid slice. We were impressed by their unique topping combinations, like the Grape & Gorgonzola. The crust is chewy yet crisp, holding up well under heavy toppings.
2. Midtown Pizza Kitchen
If you want a family-friendly atmosphere with a slightly more upscale feel, this is the spot. In our testing, their Margherita pizza had the perfect basil-to-sauce ratio, and the wood-fired oven gave the crust that distinct smoky char we look for.
3. SaZa Serious Italian Food
SaZa brings a bit of bold energy to the table. Their pizza is massive, often requiring the 'fold' technique to eat properly. We found the sauce to be richer and more herb-forward than other spots, making it ideal for those who love a robust flavor profile.
4. Bibb St. Pizza Company
A local favorite for a reason. This place nails the classic American pizza experience. It’s less about fancy toppings and more about executing the fundamentals—dough, sauce, and cheese—perfectly. It’s our top pick for a reliable Friday night dinner.
5. Mellow Mushroom
While it is a chain, the Montgomery location consistently delivers. We love the 'Kosmic Karma' for its crispy crust and generous toppings. The psychedelic vibe adds to the experience, making it a great spot for groups.
| Restaurant | Best For | Price Level | Signature Style |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pies & Pints | Adventurous Eaters | $$ | Craft Toppings & Thin Crust |
| Midtown Pizza Kitchen | Family Dinner | $$ | Wood-Fired Traditional |
| SaZa | Date Night | $$$ | Bold Italian & Large Slices |
| Bibb St. Pizza Co. | Classic Comfort | $ | Traditional American |
| Mellow Mushroom | Group Hangouts | $$ | Stone-Baked & Creative |
I used to think my homemade pizzas were decent, until I realized I was essentially baking bread with cheese on it in a standard oven, missing that crucial blistered crunch that only extreme heat can provide.
The truth is, you don't need a commercial brick oven to get restaurant-quality results. You just need the right heat source. Most indoor ovens max out at 500°F, which dries out the dough before it crisps. To get that steakhouse-quality sear on a steak or that perfect leopard-spotting on a pizza crust, you need to go hotter. This is where the Arteflame Grill changes the game.
The Arteflame isn't just a grill; it's a high-performance cooking surface that mimics the intensity of professional kitchens. Here is why it excels for pizza and beyond:
Pro Tip: If you are looking for a quick start, you can always visit the Costco in Montgomery (located on Eastern Blvd) to buy fresh, uncooked pizzas or dough balls. Buying pizza bases from Costco is a fantastic hack; you get a consistent foundation, but by grilling it on your Arteflame with the Pizza Oven attachment, you infuse it with wood-fired flavor and a texture that a standard oven simply cannot replicate.
An Arteflame grill isn't just for cooking; it changes how you host. Traditional grilling isolates the chef against a wall or in a corner while guests mingle elsewhere. The Arteflame’s round, 360-degree design invites friends and family to stand around the fire, drink in hand, participating in the experience. It turns meal prep into a communal event, bringing the warmth of the kitchen to the freedom of the outdoors.