The Chain Reaction: Mellow Mushroom Madness

Nobody could escape Mellow Mushroom's Grand Opening and night of giving back to our community by way of their generous donation. The community based organization Fayetteville Cares, an avid military supporter, was the recipient of the $4,000 contribution at the ribbon cutting ceremony this past Monday. All who celebrated the event thoroughly enjoyed their fine Pizza Tasting. Owner, Reid Fogleman, one of five partners, along with general manager David Harris have created Mellow Mushroom Madness in the hearts of our fair city. 

So many people, so many pizzas and so many flavors. Sure to please the foodie at heart and casual diner alike. This is no ordinary chain restaurant. It's a gourmet franchise and its' mushroom madness meets the market demand.

Keep in mind - Mellow Mushroom is much more than just pizza - they also offer 'Munchies' such as a tomato bisque or several varieties of salads. There's a complete section on the menu called 'Build your own Salad'. You get to be the chef and customize whatever ingredients you are craving. They have various appetizers like 'Spinach Artichoke Dip' that is infused with fresh spinach, loaded with artichoke, mozzarella and fresh parmesan cheese. The deliciously divine 'Bruschetta Bread' appetizer paired well with my Pinot. 

Perhaps try their 'Stuffed Portobello Mushroom' basted with garlic butter, generously laden with artichoke hearts, feta cheese and my personal favorite, sun dried tomatoes and spinach leaves. All topped by a soft layer of golden baked mozzarella cheese. As if that's not enough, lastly the giant mushroom is drizzled with a delicious balsamic glaze. I didn't need to ask to know this is one of their top sellers. 

The menu consists of an array of other delights such as 'Hoagies' served piping hot with your choice of French or wheat bread. How about a loaded 'Steak and Cheese' for the hearty appetite, or a huge 'Meatball Hoagie'? They also carry 'Calzones' which I watched being served to one wide-eyed diner when they saw the size. 

Now let's get back to their shining star - the Pizza.

Having never been to a Pizza Tasting, it was a real treat. Pizza, after pizza and then more pizza's were arranged on a long table, fresh from the oven. There was Cheese Pizza, Mega Veggie Pizza, Hawaiian Pizza, and the crowd pleasing Mighty Meaty Pizza which was impressive.

I tried three of the other gourmet pizza's.  

First was 'The Buffalo Chicken Pizza' because it looked so scrumptious - and yes, I would order this again.

Richly topped with white chicken, mozzarella cheese, caramelized onion, apple wood smoked bacon and carefully drizzled with a light layer of Buffalo sauce in a swirled circle. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Presentation - perfect. 

Next was the 'Caesar Salad Pizza'. So similar to a bowl of Caesar Salad, yet on a pizza, I guess you can have your salad with bread and eat it too! Quite unique. 

Finally, one of their number one sellers: 'Gourmet White Pizza.' To be certain, I'm going back for this one. One word. Fabulous. Virgin olive oil and garlic based the beautiful slightly sweet crust and they doused it with sweet sun dried tomatoes chock full of flavor, provolone cheese, mozzarella cheese, feta cheese and finally topped it all off with fresh Roma tomatoes and onion.

Sigh. Gourmet White on my mind. Do visit Mellow Mushroom, everyone was abuzz with how wonderful it was. Bask in the ambiance of the colorful interior and be sure to check out their creative military themed decorated bar area with surrounding seating.

The bar is crafted from the wings of a plane, reminiscent of a World War II Fighter. If you look hard enough you'll find Fort Bragg or U.S. Army stenciled on the wings. Venture outside and join in on the swing of things, where their large patio has another bar and ample enough room for hosting a party while listening to a band.

Kudo's to all for a job well done, and welcome!
Cheers!