East Coast-style pizzeria now open in Optimist Park

Why it matters: The 125-year-old building that was formerly home to the Strudel Shop has gotten a new lease on life. Nkem Thompson says it was that perfectly imperfect spot they had been looking for.

• “When we found this building in particular… it reminded us of home and just something we’re not used to seeing in Charlotte.”

Background: At the start of the pandemic, Kerrel Thompson, a pizza fanatic, used the time in lockdown to perfect the craft of making his own pies.

• “He turned to me one day and was like ‘I think I’m gonna make pizza every day,’ and did,” Nkem Thompson said.
• With enough dough to go around, Kerrel and Nkem figured they would share all that extra pizza with their community and started doing pizza pop-ups at local businesses in October 2020.

Last week, the Thompsons officially opened their brick-and-mortar spot in Optimist Park.

On the menu: Bird specializes in what the Thompsons describe as gourmet East Coast-style pizza. For now, Bird’s menu offerings include their signature 14″ whole pies and salads but will soon expand to include larger pizzas, a wider selection of salads, individual slices and sandwiches. Current offerings include:

• A plain pie ($20) with a tomato sauce base, fresh mozzarella and basil. You can also add your own toppings such as mushrooms, jalapeños, sausage and arugula.

• Pepperoni ($23) with tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, pepperoni and basil.
• White ($22) with fresh mozzarella, ricotta, garlic, olive oil and basil.
• Kale salad ($10).

Space: If you choose to “dine-in” there’s outdoor seating.

• Guests can order ahead online or place an order at the walk-up window.

Location: Bird Pizzeria is located at 510 E. 15th St. Hours are 4-8pm Wednesday-Thursday and 4-9pm Friday-Saturday.

Here’s a look at the shop: