The Best Pizza Toppings at Nicky’s Coal Fired: Nashville’s Only Coal-Fired Pizza Oven

October 31, 2024

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Coal-fired pizza being pulled from Nicky’s coal-fired oven, topped with sausage, peppers, and melted cheese.

Nicky's Coal Fired in Nashville offers an extraordinary pizza experience, thanks to our coal-fire oven and what makes our coal-fired deliciousness really stand out is the surplus of specialty pizzas. Choosing the right pizza toppings is key to creating the perfect pizza, and at Nicky’s, every ingredient is crafted to complement our signature cooking style. Whether you prefer classic options or something a bit more adventurous, Nicky’s is the go-to spot for pizzas with a perfectly crisp crust on the outside and a soft, airy interior.


What Makes Coal-Fired Pizza Special?


Nicky’s uses the only coal-fired pizza oven in Tennessee, which cooks pizzas at a higher temperature than conventional ovens. This unique method creates a crisp crust with a slight char, allowing the true flavors of the ingredients to shine. This high heat also locks in the flavors of the cheese, meats, and vegetables for a delicious result. If you're curious about the history of coal-fired pizza, this article on the history of coal-fired pizza offers deeper insight into its culinary roots.


Top Classic Pizza Toppings for Coal-Fired Pizzas


Classic pizza toppings shine when baked in a coal-fired oven. Here are the top options you should try:


  • Pepperoni: This popular topping crisps up in the coal-fired oven, releasing rich, savory oils that blend perfectly with the cheese and sauce.


  • Fresh Mozzarella: Unlike pre-shredded cheese, fresh mozzarella melts smoothly and evenly, adding a creamy texture to every bite. You can learn more about why fresh mozzarella is ideal for pizza here.


  • Italian Sausage: The high heat of the oven intensifies the spices in Italian sausage, making it one of the best toppings for a heartier pizza.


  • Mushrooms: Whether you prefer cremini or button mushrooms, the coal-fired process brings out their earthy flavors.


For a full list of classic pizza options, you can browse Nicky's
complete menu here.


Creative and Seasonal Toppings at Nicky’s


If you’re feeling adventurous, Nicky’s offers a range of creative and seasonal toppings to elevate your pizza experience:


  • Seasonal Vegetables: Locally sourced, fresh vegetables change with the season, providing new flavors all year long. Discover more about the benefits of locally sourced ingredients.


  • Ricotta and Fontina: These Italian cheeses create an incredible depth of flavor, as showcased in our Super Shroom pizza. The fontina adds a rich, nutty taste while the ricotta brings a light, creamy texture. 


  • Hot Honey: Drizzling hot honey over pizza adds a sweet and spicy kick, especially when combined with pepperoni or prosciutto.


Best Topping Combinations


At Nicky’s, the right topping combinations can make all the difference. Here are a few perfect pairs that work well in the coal-fired oven:


  • Margherita: A simple, classic pizza with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes. The coal-fired oven caramelizes the tomatoes, enhancing their natural sweetness.


  • Sausage and Peppers: Italian sausage combined with roasted peppers offers a delightful balance of savory and sweet.


  • Porcini Cream and Mozzarella: The earthy richness of porcini mushroom cream sauce paired with melted mozzarella creates a luxuriously savory combination that showcases the depth of flavors possible in our coal-fired oven. 


Gluten-Free Options and Toppings


Nicky’s also offers delicious gluten-free pizzas, with the same high-quality toppings. The gluten-free crust cooks up light and crispy, making it an excellent choice for those with dietary restrictions. Try it topped with mushrooms, fresh mozzarella, or seasonal vegetables.


Crafting the Perfect Pizza


The secret to Nicky’s perfect pizza lies in our fresh, handmade dough and high-quality ingredients. The sourdough crust is made daily, and each topping, from Italian sausage to seasonal vegetables, is chosen for its ability to stand up to the intense heat of the coal-fired oven. Every bite offers a balance of flavors and textures, from crispy crust to creamy cheese and perfectly cooked toppings.


For special occasions or private events, Nicky’s also offers catering options. Explore our
private events page for more information on hosting your next gathering at Nicky’s.


Why Nicky’s is the Best Spot for Coal-Fired Pizza


Not only is Nicky’s known for its one-of-a-kind coal-fired pizza, but it also offers a welcoming, family-friendly environment. Whether you're visiting for a casual meal or celebrating a special occasion, Nicky’s has something for everyone. The combination of our coal-fired pizza oven, fresh ingredients, and expertly crafted pizza toppings makes them one of the best pizza spots in Nashville.


Ready for Your Next Pizza Night?


If you’re searching for the perfect pizza experience, Nicky’s Coal Fired is the answer. Our coal-fired oven brings out the best in every topping, from classic pepperoni to unique additions like hot honey. Visit Nicky’s today for a delicious meal, or place an order online to enjoy our incredible pizzas at home.


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