John Fitzgerald says he can walk into any pizzeria and know by the smell if something’s not right with the pizza. Fitzgerald and business partner Sandy Little own Mezza Luna Pizza in Eugene. They opened the downtown Mezza Luna in January of 05’.

John is a New Jersey kid who grew up on real, authentic New York City Pizza and it shows. I’m a big lover of pizza and am embarrassed to admit I’d never tried Mezza Luna until a few weeks ago.

I think it’s one of the best pies I’ve ever had. The crust is wonderful. John says he’s tossed close to 600,000 pizzas in his day and his recipe is the same one he’s used for decades. Mezza Luna’s ingredients are all fresh and every bite proves it. The sausage recipe is also John’s.

Both John and Sandy are a little obsessed with pizza and I think that’s a good thing. John says “The soul is being taken out of pizza by machinery.” But these guys won’t let that happen at Mezza Luna. They hand toss the dough and still use the stone oven to cook each pizza. Don’t even mention modern ways to these guys. Both have been making pizzas for too long to skimp on anything.

We visited the new location out at Crescent Village. The feel inside is urban, relaxed, and perfect for friends, family or a date. There’s a small bar where you can find several local beers on tap. There’s also outside seating on the streets of Crescent Village, which is a real nice place to hang out in the evening.

John and Sandy both still make pizzas. John showed me the calluses on his knuckles to prove it. I highly recommend Mezza Luna.

Oh, one interesting side note: Sandy Little’s sister Kristy Little used to be my co-anchor on the news. (Back in the early 90’s)

For hours and a menu check out their website http://www.mezzalunapizzeria.com