Sal & Mookies Local News: Sal & Mookie's New York Pizza & Ice Cream Joint - A new pizza joint has opened in the historic Fondren District of Jackson. In my opinion, after tasting the goods yesterday, they make the best pies in Jackson. (The Pizza Shack on North State Street would be a close 2nd with the pies, but Sal & Mookes is much more than just a pizza joint.)

What follows is a series of random thoughts about Sal & Mookies, based on my first visit and my communications with friends and staff.

The building is newly remodeled. It features both indoor and (climate-controlled) outdoor seating. Smoking is not allowed in any of the dining areas. They have more than 10 beers on tap and a full bar, with a nice wine selection. Free parking is available. They take their web presence seriously, as they've promptly answered all of my questions by email very professionally. The wait staff is friendly and attentive. The owners selected their recipes after touring a number of NYC pizzerias. All pies are baked in brick ovens. They grow their own herbs. Kids can watch the pizza chefs by standing in an elevated viewing area and holding onto handles that line the window. The restaurant is the creation of the folks that own Bravo and Broad Street, here in Jackson. Read more details on their site, here.

Courtney and I had the "Riker's Island" pie, which has Italian plum tomato sauce, mozzarella, pepperoni, spicy Italian sausage, Canadian bacon, green bell peppers, mushrooms, red onions and Kalamata olives. Delicious! The small pie is easily enough for 3 or 4 people.

They officially open on Friday, but sneak previews are available by invitation only, if you contact Jeff Good by email. Enjoy! UPDATE: It appears that there are no more early invites available.