This in from my colleague Mike L., one of the funniest danged writers I know. Mike, I still need to get the scoop on the Body Armor Luncheon at the NIJ conference...
In Springdale, UT, yup, that UT stands for Utah – a state deservedly known for Mormons, mountains, and salt – you will find the Zion Pizza & Noodle. Tucked in the southwest corner of the state about 2.5 hours west of Vegas, baby, Vegas and 3 hours north of the Grand Canyon lies Zion National Park. Zion is one of 5 national parks in Utah, and during a week in July, my wife Molly (pictured) and I had the pleasure to visit the park, staying at the Desert Pearl Inn in Springdale. During the evening, we were found at the Zion Pizza & Noodle nearly every night, devouring pizza and Utah microbrews. From what I can tell, Springdale is rather comfortable with its existence as a tourist locale, and tries its best to bend and/or break Utah’s arguably draconian liquor laws. Copious amounts of microbrews were available for consumption – I believe you could even manage to procure an entire pitcher for two people, which is a no-no in our 45th state. In the mood for something dark? I recommend the Polygamy Porter. Something lighter? Perhaps the Evolution Ale. But enough about the beer – the pizza gets it done too. Is it going to make a New Yorker swear off greasy slices and move to Utah? Probably not, but after a day of hiking in 110 degree heat, it’s just the combination of carbs, cheese, and meat that you need. Speaking of combinations, I suggest the Combo Man, which features pepperoni, Canadian bacon, black olives, mushrooms, and onions. Fear not, women have also been allowed to order the Combo Man in Utah since former LDS President Ezra Taft Benson had a "vision" in 1987. So, if you are ever interested in a trip in one of our most beautiful national parks, head to Springdale, UT, get your hike on, then walk down Zion Pizza & Noodle.
I was going to ask about the "noodles" portion of the menu, but I looked at the Zion website and realized that they mean pasta. here in Cupertino, CA, we have an unlikely combination: "Zazang Home Made Noodle and Fresh Bake Pizza" has pizza and *Korean* noodles.
Just yesterday somebody gave me a Polygamy Porter t-shirt! I have yet to try the product, however.
Posted by: ryu | August 21, 2006 at 02:22 PM