Massa’s Coal-Fired Continues A Rich Tradition

By Arielle & Andrew

foodies@longislandergroup.com

Its façade now masked by metal fence signifying municipal parking lot construction, Massa’s Coal-Fired Brick Oven Pizzeria is a hidden rustic oasis.

The Huntington Village pizzeria came to its current location in February and offers a menu that is its own take on the traditional, meant to provide patrons with pizza reminiscent of the coal-fired concoctions of Italy. And though the Town of Huntington has closed the Gerard Street parking lot that faces its entrance for reconstruction, the doors of Massa’s are still wide open.

“People are managing to get in,” said owner Bill Massa. “If they want to get in, they’re parking and they’re finding a way.”

According to its website, the family-owned establishment is owned by “pizza royalty, of sorts.” The Massa family is related to two Patsys: Patsy Grimaldi, founder of Patsy’s – later Grimaldi’s – in Brooklyn and Patsy Lancieri, founder of Patsy’s in East Harlem.

Among the selection of Starters at Massa’s is the Garlic Bread, described on the menu as “round like our pizza.” A lighter, less-greasy version of the normally-oily appetizer, the garlic bread at Massa’s is a flavorful option for those who prefer not to get their hands dirty. The round shape is convenient, allowing eaters to pick up slices by the crust and avoid mess.

Specialty pies at Massa’s are available in medium or large sizes. The “No. 3” ($24/$28) is a standout – a white pizza with fresh mozzarella, scallions, scamorza cheese (a mozzarella-like cheese, but with a stronger taste), truffle oil and pancetta, it is the sort of specialty pie that truly seems like a specialty.

The “No. 6” ($20/$22) combines marinara sauce and caramelized onion, sans cheese. Though not as seemingly indulgent as the No. 3, the No. 6 is unique and the marinara tastes of fresh tomatoes.

Chicken Parmigiano ($13.75) – baked in a coal oven, as noted on the menu – is topped with fresh mozzarella and served with pasta.

On the dessert menu are the familiar: cannolis, tartufo, etc. And then there are the fresh: the Spumoni Truffle with dark chocolate-covered vanilla, chocolate, strawberry and pistachio ice cream around a cherry and almond center; the Cookies & Cream Truffle; the Nutella Pizza.

Available with raspberry drizzle and powdered sugar, the Nutella Pizza exists in a strange state of dichotomy. Light and rich at the same time, the Nutella-crust proportion is close to perfect.

Massa’s Coal-Fired Brick Oven Pizzeria

345 Main Street, Huntington

631-923-FIRE (3473)

www.massaspizzeria.com

ATMOSPHERE: Rustic Italian

CUISINE: Coal-fired pizzas, classic Italian

PRICE: Moderate

HOURS: Sun-Thurs. 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Fri/Sat 11:30a.m. – 11p.m.