FIERY PHOENIX PIZZA

FIERY PHOENIX PIZZA Artisan pizza slices and whole pies on Downtown Phoenix’s Roosevelt Row

By Amy Young

When it comes to pizza, sometimes you just want to grab a slice and be on your way. Other times, you’ll want a whole pie … or two. At Hot Daisy Pizza in Downtown Phoenix, either option is yours. This small shop in the Roosevelt Row Artists’ District is owned by Tammie Coe, a pastry chef whose stylish confections earned national acclaim. It once housed Tammie Coe Cakes, but now pizza has taken prevalence. Thankfully, Hot Daisy offers some of her delectable desserts, which are found in some other metro Phoenix shops — and you can still order her famous signature cakes. It’s truly hard to think about anything other than pizza when you step inside Hot Daisy’s doors. The counter is loaded with trays of pies that are cut into slices, ready to get crisped up in the 800-degree oven.

A tasty pizza is as good as its crust foundation, and at Hot Daisy, the crust is a righteous combination of crunchy and chewy. It sets the stage for the toppings of your choice, whether you’re picking a signature pizza or going the create-your-own route.

For a meatless option, the Margherita Pie is a must. They don’t skimp on the tasty tomato sauce. From there, it’s simple, fresh mozzarella and basil cover the dough for a delicious, gooey experience. The Margheroni Pie puts a twist on that classic by adding pepperoni. Hot Daisy has plenty of other great options for carnivores as well. The Italian Stallion Arturo Pie loads pepperoni, Italian sausage, meatball, mozzarella

The Margherita Pie is a fan favorite

and red onion on top of that tangy tomato sauce for one hearty pizza.

The Corny Baby Elote Pie pays tribute to some southwestern flavors. The crispy crust is topped with roasted corn, cilantro, mozzarella, cotija cheese and chipotle oil. Far from a traditional pizza, this one is not just unique; it’s addictive. Bacon, prosciutto and egg are some of the other proteins that can be added to top the pie.

It’s not just pizza on the menu. Salads, sandwiches and Cheezy Garlic Western Sticks are great choices, too. Inside the refrigerated case, special desserts are always offered. Lucky visitors might even find one of Coe’s red velvet cupcakes waiting for them inside. hotdaisypizza.com