Why are all the fabulous, moderately priced neighborhood restaurants not in my ‘hood?

I recently ate at the newly opened Stretch Pizza.

Once inside, the bar area beckons you.

Sawyer, the bartender, is highly accommodating, the interior bright and cheery, the food delicious and for a pleasant change, not crazy pricey.

Wylie Dufresne, the creator, has another hit on his talented hands.

We started with the NY Times’ favorite salad…the Potato Chip Salad which is comprised of lovely greens, including frisée, mizuna and herbs along with Greenmarket chips dusted in homemade vinegar powder, re-creating the effect of traditional vinaigrette while ensuring everything remains crunchy.

The Caesar ($17) looked fabulous along with the Basil Chickpea Fries ($11) and Shrimp Scampi Toast.

The menu includes nine specialty 12” pizzas as well as two specials offered that night, ranging from $22-26.

The dough is Stretched not tossed!

We selected the Couch Potato pizza which is a relative of the jumbo loaded baked potato, including fingerlings, sour cream, bacon and scallion. The deliciously crispy crust is light, airy and slightly charred ($24).

We also sampled the stellar creamy Banana and Salted Caramel Soft Serve ($4).

We sat at the very attractive bar and the extensive beverage list includes specialty cocktails, beer, wine and sake.

Wylie Dufresne of WD-50 fame and Gadi Peleg from the very popular Bread Bakery weren’t exactly destined to be restaurant partners, but united to create a fun new approach to America’s favorite food.

I loved Stretch Pizza. I only wish it was closer at hand to home.

Stretch Pizza 331 Park Avenue South New York City. Open Tuesday and Wednesday 11:30-10pm, Thursday-Saturday 11:30-11pm. Reservations on Resy.