Pies That Break The Mold

Specialty Pizza Tour: From Ocean Township to Avon-by-the-Sea

I’ve always said I could eat pizza every single day—and I’ve lived that truth with pride. But after two months of nonstop slices, crusts, and bubbling cheese from some of the most mouthwatering joints in town, even I’m ready to take a brief pause. Just a moment to reset the palate. Because Asbury Park and its neighbors have been serving up pies so good, they’ve pushed my pizza devotion to the brink.

Last month, I introduced you to Tramonto’s in Ocean Township—a spot that nails classic New York-style pizza with crisp, foldable slices and a sauce that sings. But Tramonto’s isn’t just about tradition; their menu is wildly inventive, with toppings and combinations that feel like culinary jazz. The feedback from readers was electric. Clearly, you’re passionate about your pizza. So I hit the streets again, chasing down your suggestions in search of specialty pies that break the mold.

Tallula’s: Vegan Heat on Cookman Avenue

My first stop was Tallula’s on Cookman Avenue, a vibrant, modern space with a menu that leans into bold flavors and plant-based creativity. Several readers insisted I try the vegan Buffalo Cauliflower pizza, and I’m glad I listened. It was a flavor-forward bite—crispy cauliflower tossed in tangy buffalo sauce, layered over a chewy crust with just the right amount of char. The heat was balanced by the fresh celery salad, the texture satisfying, and the vegan cheese surprisingly creamy. But the foodie in me was still craving something deeper—something with edge and nostalgia.

The Galley: Sicilian Boldness on Memorial Drive

Next up: The Galley on Memorial Drive in Asbury Park. This cozy, no-frills spot is known for its bold flavors and generous portions. I went for the “Vegan Roni Pan,” a Sicilian-style square that a woman ahead of me in line swore by. One bite and I was transported—bright, garlicky red sauce, melty vegan cheese, and pepperoni with just enough kick to make you forget it wasn’t the real thing. The crust was thick, airy, and golden, with that signature Sicilian crunch. It tasted like a Coney Island classic, reimagined for modern palates.

Michael’s Pizzeria: Shore-Town Soul in Avon-by-the-Sea

My final stop and my pick for the best specialty pizza was Michael’s Pizzeria in Avon-by-the-Sea—a quaint, family-run shop that many of you recommended, and one I already hold close to my heart. Michael’s doesn’t just make pizza; they make statements. These pies strut with East Coast swagger. The crust is a masterclass in contrast: chewy in the center, crisp at the edge, kissed with just enough char to whisper “wood-fired” without shouting it.

The BBQ Chicken Ranch is a flavor bomb—smoky, tangy, and layered like a chorus. The ranch drizzle adds creaminess without overpowering, and the grilled chicken is juicy, tender, and perfectly seasoned. Garlic lovers, take note: the garlic pie is bold, aromatic, and unapologetically punchy. Add grilled chicken and it becomes a savory symphony, elevating the humble slice into something unforgettable.

But my personal favorite? The “Cauli-Gracia.” Named after Michael’s wife Gracia, this pie had to be spectacular—and it is. The roasted cauliflower crust crackles with golden edges and earthy depth, delivering a crunch that’s clean, bold, and just a little rebellious. It’s light on carbs but heavy on character, with a toasted nuttiness that sets the stage.

Organic spinach comes next—vibrant, gently wilted, and layered like a forest canopy. Then the garlic: fresh, thinly sliced, roasted until soft and fragrant. It doesn’t shout; it sings. Add a dollop of delicately whipped ricotta and you’ve got comfort in every bite. A final drizzle of cold-pressed olive oil and a crack of sea salt bring it all home. No cheese, no clutter—just elemental flavor, dialed all the way in.

Michael’s doesn’t just accommodate dietary needs—they elevate them. Vegan and vegetarian options are crafted with care, not compromise. The gluten-free crust? Surprisingly confident, with texture and taste that hold their own in a lineup of heavy hitters.

This isn’t a trendy spot—it’s a timeless one. Michael’s earns loyalty the old-school way: blistered crusts, warm greetings, and slices that taste like home. For pizza lovers from Brooklyn, NYC, or anywhere that demands excellence, this is the kind of joint that feels like a secret—until you realize half the Shore already knows.

A true local legend. And hands-down, one of the most satisfying pies on the Jersey Shore.