New Jersey is known for its bagels, tomatoes, and of course, pizza. But with so much competition, some pizza places opt for a fancy, more expensive experience to stand out. Then there are spots that take a different approach. Killer Pies in Asbury Park aims to be a cool pizzeria offering basic slices at affordable prices.
The 1,900-square foot building that Killer Pies occupies is 110 years old. But owner Andrew Mahnken has restored the entire interior to create a space with a unique feel. “The underlying vibe is meant to invoke nostalgia,” Andrew says. With exposed brick, a chandelier, and high ceilings, the interior stands out from the typical pizza parlor.
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An Elevated Menu
Andrew describes the Killer Pies menu as “elevated takes on classic NY style pizza available by the slice and pies”. They also serve salads, wings, and house-made organic sodas. Popular pies include The Green, with spinach, garlic, pecorino, and garlic oil. The Spicy Brown is also a hit, with spicy brown mustard beneath a traditional plain pie. But Andrew’s favorite is The Marina, a vegan, no cheese pie. This comes with sauce, roasted garlic, fresh basil, and spicy crunchy oil made from dehydrated cherry peppers, shallots, and garlic.
Killer Pies also has a gluten-free pizza made with rice flour dough. They make this pie upside-down, Sicilian style. But patrons can customize it with any toppings, sauces, and cheese that they like. As for their in-house organic sodas, they come in flavors like lavender lemon, ginger lime, orange vanilla, or raspberry.
The Vibe
The pizzeria boasts bright colors, 30-foot ceilings, and a rainbow hallway. “Even the bathrooms have a kaleidoscope effect. It’s all meant to bring you back to your childhood; when going for a slice was a great night out before Neapolitan pizza became vogue,” Andrew says. “We are trying to bring you back.”
The interior of Killer Pies can seat 40 diners. In addition, they offer year-round outdoor dining at three large picnic tables for up to 18 guests.
Visit Killer Pies at 609 Mattison Ave in Asbury Park. Look for them online to learn more.
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All Photos: © Mike Persico / Persico Photography (Provided by Killer Pies)