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Fire up the pizza

Elemental Pizza brings grit and good food to downtown Tacoma

Elemental serves both gluten-free and regular pizza crust. Photo credit: Jake DePaul

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Announcer: Elemental Pizza branched out of Seattle and opened its first South Sound location this past Fall, bringing more wood-fired pizza to the area but with a more gritty, industrial, Tacomaness feel about it. It fits here aesthetically. Located along Pacific Avenue among the University of Washington-Tacoma complex in the old Grassis' storefront, the boys found pleasure in what they ordered.

Jake: The industrial vibe of Elemental Pizza with its brick and duct work fits right in with the rest of Pacific Avenue in downtown Tacoma.  From Dock Street to UWT, the newest place for wood-fired pizza feels as if it belonged here all along.  And all the quirky plays on the periodical table of the elements sets it apart.

Jason: I know a lot of people who have been initially drawn to the Elemental Pizza's gluten-free crust and locally sourced meats - people love their trends, and this place is playing right into the hearts and minds of the South Sound foodie culture.

Jake: The best-selling pizza is without surprise the standard pepperoni.  However, not only is the Elemental pepperoni loaded with both meat, cheese and rich marinara sauce, diners have the option of adding Mike's Hot Honey to the top. This sweetness combines perfectly with the spiciness of the pepperoni.

Jason: The space offers two floors of seating.  With all of the large windows and metal, it's easy to think the place is cold inside, but that big wood-burning fire keeps things comfortable. On a cold winter's night, it's nice to snuggle up with a winter ale and hot pizza.

Jake: I'm always looking for something unique, which is a challenge with pizza.  Yet, Elemental was up to the task with the Mort's pie that features the housemade crust brushed with olive oil, and loaded up with sun-dried tomatoes, Italian sausage, bacon, cream cheese and fresh, sliced jalapenos. The creaminess of the cream cheese, with the heat of the peppers, and saltiness all make you forget that there's no sauce or traditional mozzarella.

Jason: I give a big nod to the Big Chop Salad loaded with freshness including fontal, salami and garbanzo beans.  I also adored the sausage and kale soup with it's old world homey flavor that sinks into the marrow of your soul.

Jake: Don't forget that they have a full service bar, distinctive sandwiches, desserts and even salads to choose from while you're here.

Jason: They also have a mobile pizza oven and will cater events for a minimum charge of $800. See their website for details.  

ELEMENTAL PIZZA, 1702 Pacific Ave., Tacoma, 253.272.4000, www.elementalpizza.com

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