So happy to see that Jockamo Upper Crust Pizza is now open in Irvington. As east-siders know, we've been lacking a gourmet pizza place for way too long, and it's great to have an independent venture take a chance on our side of town. They've only been open a week, but we stopped by for an impromptu pie on Sunday and were pleased with the light-golden crust (they make it there and season it with garlic and basil)and the house-made tomato-based traditional sauce.

And finally, we east-siders get creative pizza offerings (a variety of cheese options -- think smoked gouda, goat and Swiss; sauces ranging from black-bean dip to creamy parmesan to hummus; and toppings that include chorizo, avocado, shrimp and crawfish). For families with picky eaters, the standards (pepperoni, sausage, veggies) are there too (along with a PB and J pie for kids).

And yes, if you like a beer or a glass of vino with your pizza, you can get one here, despite Irvington's normally dry status.

Will do a more "official" review once Jockamo has been open awhile, but this seems to be a most promising development. So east-siders, get out there and show them that we are literally starving for inventive choices on our side of town. Maybe this will lead to more creative options to come!