:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/46619502/11136756_1443971482574411_7314104093033205097_n.0.0.jpg)
A "neo-Neopolitan" pizzeria has just opened in Salem, and its chewy, charred rounds will cook up in about 90 seconds. Bambolina imported a hearth from Italy, and the oven cooks the pizzas at 925 degrees.
The shop tops its simple, 11-inch crusts sparingly, with an eye for balance, according to its website. A "farmers' market" version includes pesto, peas, asparagus, shaved zucchini, and soft egg, along with the standard fresh mozzarella; the prosciutto pie features the meat with crushed tomato, pecorino, and arugula. In addition to pizza, Bambolina serves classic Italian appetizers, a few entrees, and sandwiches.
Bambolina is located at 288 Derby St., in the former gift shop of the Salem Wax Museum & Haunted Neighborhood. The name is derived from the Italian word for "baby doll"; considering that most baby dolls are inherently creepy, it seems appropriate for a pizza shop in a haunted neighborhood.
Boston Restaurant Talk noted the pizzeria softly opened earlier this week, via a post from the Salem Food Digest. A call to the restaurant confirms yesterday was its first day in business. Bambolina is open for dinner Monday - Thursday from 5 p.m. - 9 p.m., and on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 11:30 a.m. - 9 p.m., an employee said.
