Brick and Fire
(f/k/a Brick and Fire Pizza and Wine Company)
1621 South Orange Ave
Orlando, FL  32806
www.brickandfire.com
www.facebook.com/brickandfire

Having followed the owner, Chef Mark Dollard, from the original location at Church Street Station in downtown Orlando, I thought I knew exactly what to expect from the new location on Orange Avenue.  Still located downtown, but not quite in the heart where it once was, Brick and Fire continues to be a hotspot for both date night and family night.  Upon arrival you will be greeted with a smile, and have the opportunity to watch Chef Mark and his assistants make the famous pizza from start to finish through a glass wall.  This is especially helpful when you are accompanied by hungry children who may otherwise pitch a fit when waiting for a table.

On my visit, the staff was very attentive and friendly which was amazing considering they were actually short staffed at the time.  Brick and Fire has plenty seating, although the tables are a bit close together where if seated next to “that guy” you may not be able to concentrate on your own conversation.  However, taking into consideration that the original location was at least three times the size, I’m convinced the intimate seating is a friendly attempt to accommodate newcomers as well as the heavy volume of loyal follower traffic.  Which brings me to the food.

Anyone who goes to Brick and Fire once will no doubt come back for more. The pizza has been voted Orlando’s best by several foodies and combined with the very reasonable price, this is a must try for those who have not. The pizza crust is not too thin and not too thick. If you are like me, you judge the pizza crust by how edible the edges are once the sauce and toppings are devoured.  Let me tell you, this crust is perfectly crispy at first bite and then it sort of melts in your mouth in a doughy goodness.  From traditional pizza with pepperoni and mushroom, to the more extravagant such as a smoked duck (duck, gorgonzola, poached pears, and arugula with raspberry balsamic vinaigrette) and a chicken club (mozzarella, chicken breast, pancetta bacon, baby greens with lemon caper vinaigrette, roma tomatoes, and avocado mayo), Brick and Fire is by far offers high quality pizza at the lowest of prices.  The menu also consists of savory appetizers, specialty pasta dishes, and the desserts are all under $5.  You will not be sorry, and if you arrive on Saturdays (12pm to 5pm) during the school year and Brick & Fire LLC. will donate 10% of the revenue to Partners in Education in support of the Orange County Public School System.

Written by Neidre Hines on Monday, February 1, 2010 
Filed under Beauty and the Eats · Tagged with famous pizza, food, hotspot, smoked duck, south orange ave, traditional pizza, wine company