Black Mountain Mill And Pizzeria at 29 Vance Avenue, Black Mountain, North Carolina.

We were headed home from a play in Marion, NC and were starving. It was after 10 pm and everything was closed except this pizza place and the usual fast food dives. The reviews were all good, so we decided to drop in. It was a little complicated to find the parking area, but not so complicated to deter us from going. The owner, Jay greeted us with a big smile. Slow night due to snow storm warnings, so we were the only people in the joint. What a fun, funky, rustic atmosphere, with the kitchen in full view. Giant pizza ovens and antique stove, large wooden bar, big ample booths, unusual artwork all made for a fun night. Jay welcomed us and recommended his take on a deep dish pizza made in a cast iron pan. Watching him work was like watching an artist, he was in his element, he was doing what he was passionate about, he made it all look so easy. The finished product was unlike any other pizza I ever had. The crust was crunchy and yeasty, the cheese was creamy and stretchy, the sauce was tomatoey and thick without being pasty, the meats and veggies were all fresh and crispy. All in all I can't say enough about this place. This man obviously loves what he's doing and it shows in his restaurant which feels like a home. I can't wait to hang out in the Springtime on the rooftop deck and savor an ice cold beer with a hunk of dripping, delicious, scrumptious pizza. The sun shining on my face, good company, great food, life is good....Don't forget to pet his Black Lab, Anchovy and thank Jay for the wonderful experience...