It took me long enough, but I finally visited GOAT Pizza in Cornelius. The highly-anticipated sports-themed restaurant opened back in April.
This is the latest addition to the Lake Norman culinary scene by Chef David Burke. I posted a review about his other local concept, Port City Club, last year.
Rumor has it that Chef David has another concept coming soon to the area, this time in Davidson. But, that’s a topic for another blog post.
For now, feast your eyes on my recent experiences at GOAT Pizza in Cornelius.
Visiting GOAT Pizza in Cornelius
G.O.A.T. Pizza is located at the junction of Bailey Road and Statesville Road. It’s just steps away from a few of my other local favorite spots, including 131 Main, Cork & Cask, and The Waterman.
I visited several times over the past month so that I could share a variety of menu items with you. (I know, it’s a tough job.)
A few menu items are only available at dinner service, mainly the pasta entrees. I typically only visit local eateries on my lunch break, so I’ll have to get back to you on the pasta dishes.
Everything I’ve tried at G.O.A.T. Pizza has been excellent, so I have no doubt the pasta dishes are winners, too.
The G.O.A.T. Pizza Vibe
In case you didn’t know, “G.O.A.T.” stands for “greatest of all time. This refers to anyone who has acheived a level of performance higher than anyone else in their sport.
This theme is carried throughout the restaurant with artwork depicting the world’s greatest athletes like Mohammad Ali, Serena Williams, and Babe Ruth. You’ll also find other memoribalia adorning the walls and shlves, such as helmets worn by NASCAR champions and the jerseys of some the greatest basketball players.
Tunes from 80’s, 90’s, and early 2000’s roll all day long and made this Gen-Xer happy.
Here’s what I tried…
All-American Pepperoni
When it comes to pizza, I’m not very adventurous. I thoroughly enjoyed this classic made with San Marzano tomato sauce and a premium cheese blend.
Bronx Bomber
I couldn’t wait for this one! House-made italian meatballs, tangy marinara, and provolone cheese.
Italian Stallion
A sandwich that lives up to its name. Capicola, pepperoni, ham, mozzarella, red wine vinaigrette, cherry tomatoes, garlic, and arugula.
G.O.A.T Bacon Cheeseburger
I have a new favorite smashburger. Bacon, lettuce, tomato, magic sauce, kosher dill pickle, and angus beef patties smashed to perfection.
Pro tip: Patties are only 4oz, so go for the double.
The Atlanta Chopt Salad
Speaking of new favorites, this “Super Bowl Salad” is one I’ll be ordering more often. Chicken, bacon, lettuce, blue cheese, cherry tomatoes, and avocado.
A salad so good it doesn’t need dressing. I ordered ranch, anyway.
Garlicky Pizza Knots
The only appetizer I tried. These knots are so good! Four in an order and served with marinara dipping sauce.
The Bar at G.O.A.T. Pizza
I sat at a high-top table in the bar area for every visit. But, since most visits were during lunch breaks during the week, I didn’t sample any of the cocktails offered at the bar. One visit was on a Sunday, so I enjoyed a Stella Artois on that occasion.
G.O.A.T Pizza also has a great selection of local craft beers on tap, and in bottles and cans. There’s a full bar, and a good selection of mid-range bourbons.
G.O.A.T. Pizza is a Must-Visit
As I mentioned earlier in this post, everything at G.O.A.T. Pizza was excellent. I highly recommend a visit.
Saturdays are a great day for families to visit after t-ball games, and evenings are great for dining on the veranda while enjoying the ambiance of the brick fireplace.
G.O.A.T. Pizza
9623 Bailey Rd Suite 100
Cornelius, NC 28031
(704) 237-4728
Hours: Sunday – Thursday, 11:30 AM – 9:00 PM; Friday – Saturday, 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM.
About the Author:
Jeff Hamm is the creator and producer of The Best of LKN.
When he isn’t working, you can usually find him boating, running local greenways, and taking walks with his dogs Sam and Maisy.
Jeff Hamm
Allen Tate Realtors®
www.LKNreal.com