Oysterhead Pizza in Damariscotta

Oysterhead Pizza, a name that resonates with music fans and foodies alike, owes its moniker to a blend of rock and local heritage. Nick Krunkkala, the owner, explains, "Oysterhead is a band formed by members from Phish and The Police. We're in the oyster capital of the world here, so it just fits perfectly." This homage sets the tone for a pizzeria that feels more like a slice of Brooklyn than coastal Maine.

Krunkkala, who took over the pizzeria five years ago, crafts a menu that's anything but static. "I try to change the menu as much as possible," he says. "If I get bored with something, I'll come up with something new, using seasonal ingredients and creating dishes that reflect the local flavor and the time of year." His creativity peaks during events like football playoffs, where he designs specials inspired by the competing teams' hometowns.

With a culinary background that spans over a decade in New York, including stints in fine dining and hotel catering, Krunkkala sees Oysterhead as a venue that's accessible to everyone. "I wanted to create a place where my kids and their parents, as well as restaurant workers, could enjoy themselves without having to save up for months," he says. This approachability is reflected in the everyday vibrancy of the pizzeria, where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a casual meal.

Oysterhead is renowned for its unique pizzas and smoked wings, which often sell out daily. "I smoke about 30 pounds of wings at once, and it takes about three and a half hours," says Krunkkala. "It’s crazy; as soon as I pull them off the smoker, they start selling like mad." His deep-dish pizzas, a hybrid of Detroit and Chicago styles baked in cast iron, are a particular hit, offering a crusty cheese edge that patrons adore.

Beyond the food, Oysterhead Pizza embodies a local gathering spot with a lively atmosphere, especially during the summer. "We have a deck out back with river views where we host live music on weekend nights," Krunkkala says. "It’s like having a live concert right on the street." This sense of community, coupled with a commitment to freshness—from homemade pickles to sausage and even cheese—ensures Oysterhead isn’t just a pizzeria, it’s a Damariscotta destination.

FAMOUS FOR:
The smoked wings! They sell out almost every day.

ADDRESS:
189 Main St in Damariscotta, Maine

HOURS:
Tues through Sat: 11:30a-7p
Sunday: 11:30-6p

WEBSITE:
instagram.com/oysterheadpizza

photos by Peter Logue