When we discovered Pieology Pizzeria back in March of 2011, the original Fullerton outpost was a newborn brand at three weeks old. Eight years and many, many locations later, we still make the occasional visit. We nearly turned down an invite to try their new plant-based proteins, thinking it wouldn’t be a big deal. Thankfully, we not only paid a visit, we went down a rabbit hole of delicious discovery.
Plant-based Proetins (a.k.a. Meatless Marvels).
The biggest and baddest topic to happen to Pieology these days is their rock star trio of toppings. We learned they’re the first quick-service pizza brand to offer such options, making them extra desirable during times of meat-free dining (Hello, Lent!). While they aren’t gluten-free, they are cholesterol-free, vegan and non-GMO. Made from both pea and soy protein, “Diced Chicken”, “Spicy Italian Sausage Rounds” and “Beef Meatballs” manage to look and taste meaty, hence their use of quotes. Our preferred bites were those featuring “Chicken”.
In Crust We Trust — All Six of Them.
Back in the day, there were only a couple of crusty options. About six months ago, the brand supersized their selections, making that first decision even tougher. Besides Artisan Thin and Hearty Wheat, there was Pierise Thick, Cauliflower, Hand-Crafted Deep Dish and some mandatory Gluten-Free love. Until we sink our teeth into the extra chewy Pierise, we haven’t settled on a favorite; although Cauliflower is a tastier alternative to Gluten-Free, and those caramelized edges on Deep Dish are slowly growing on us.
Yes. We Had (Surprisingly Good) Fries!
We kid you not. At the Cypress spot (considered a test site), they’ve got a few bonus menu items currently not available everywhere. These crinkle cut beauties were impressively crunchy outside, with a mashed potato-like interior. If Pieology was fast food, they’d give Del Taco a run for its money. Seriously, we’d drive far for these potatoes. Don’t believe us? Call around to find a location carrying them, and try for yourself. Although rumor has it other test sites even offer tots and curly fries. While pizza and fries aren’t exactly a perfect match, we know something else that pairs well with pizza. . . .
We Totally Had Wings, Too.
With or without bones, we dig the notion of grubbing on a tray of chicken and fries. Another test site-only item, we learned one of the challenges of offering wings everywhere is the additional fryer equipment taking up kitchen real estate. It might not end up at a location near you. But again, you can currently mosey to Cypress (maybe Fullerton or Westminster, too?). Per the menu above, their combo game appears strong. Is your mind blown yet? Fine, we’ll up the ante with the next one.
Get On the Sauce Train!
Red Hot. Mango Habanero. Sweet Red Chili. BBQ. Sweet Teriyaki. Garlic Parmesan. Six dipping possibilities, all in a row, at a dedicated sauce station. Think about it. All you can dip! We can already imagine condiment fans dunking slices in them as well. Pieology’s literally throwing a party in your mouth. Alas, until it is widely offered, count on Cypress to carry the fleet o’ flavor.
March 14 is Pi Day.
It’s been a while since we reminded folks of a food holiday. Hit up your nearest Pieology Pizzeria on Thursday for their deal: Buy one Artisan Thin pizza, get a second Artisan Thin for $3.14. Go ahead, get it for your roommate, co-worker or yourself. We don’t judge. There’s also a separate deal offered via their Pie Life Rewards app, so chew on that, too.
If you’re all about the ‘gram, then enter their “Perfect Pieology Pull” contest. Simply submit your best Instagram post or video (we like a good boomerang) of some gorgeous cheese pull action, and tag it with #perfectpieologypull. The top five entries will be voted on, and one cheesy winner receives a $50 gift card! It’s as easy as pie-ology.
Find your nearest Pieology Pizzeria at www.pieology.com.
A contributing writer for OC Weekly, Anne Marie freelances for multiple online and print publications, and guest judges for culinary competitions. A Bay Area transplant, she graduated with a degree in Hospitality Management from Cal Poly Pomona. Find her on Instagram as brekkiefan.
Not being a big beef eater, I tend to focus my Pieology pizza toppings with veggies. Coupled with the Cauliflower crust, my pizza craving is always satisfied. I tried Pieology’s new plant based toppings, and was blown away. The spicy sausage and meatballs were amazing. Even my meat eating husband, raves about these new protein based items. Thank you, Pieology.