There’s an on-going argument in Asheville of who makes “The Best Pizza.” Several local pubs and Italian restaurants vie for this title, but of course “best” is an evasive concept. After all, perception is one’s reality. So let’s speak in term of “special” instead of best, shall we?

One of my favorite hobbies is stumbling across new restaurants. I’m always on the lookout for something special, unique…inspired.

Not long ago, we stumbled into FRESH Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta in Black Mountain, NC, just outside of Asheville. This serene little village is known in our region for its pristine views, family values, and reverent support of local artists and entrepreneurs. Downtown Black Mountain consists of boutiques, ice cream parlors, wine shops and fantastic restaurants. It would appear Fresh owner, Mark Tomczak, chose the right place to settle!

Mark first moved to North Carolina to further his education as an artist. He attended our renowned Penland School of Arts and Crafts, studying pottery for two years with the dream of opening a gallery. He pursued this dream for 12 years in Old Fort, North Carolina before another dream emerged. After a trip to Rome with his wife, he discovered a new passion…the art of pizza.

September 2010, Mark’s two dreams collided at the grand opening of Fresh Wood Fired Pizza & Pasta. This casual pizza kitchen embodies his love for food and love for art.  Complete with a wood-fire oven imported from Italy and an assortment of Mark’s pottery on display; this establishment is “hand-crafted” in every sense…