Tomatinos Pizza & Bake Shop has been around awhile. But it was during the height of the pandemic that it truly felt the love of its community.

Tomatinos has operated for 27 years in Montgomery’s Old Cloverdale neighborhood. Chef Missy Mercer has owned the restaurant for the past 18 years and loves serving great food to customers.

“It’s been amazing to see the outreach from the neighborhood to try to keep the local businesses alive,” Mercer said. “Honestly, I can’t complain one bit.”

Tomatinos’ Mediterranean Pizza one of 100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama from Alabama NewsCenter on Vimeo.

Neither do the customers, who have continued to flock to the great food being produced at Tomatinos, ensuring its longevity as part of Montgomery’s food scene.

Tomatinos’ original takes on pizza, which is clearly found in its popular Mediterranean Pizza, is also a factor in keeping folks coming in. Loaded with toppings including spinach, feta cheese, capers, artichoke hearts, tomatoes and red onion, there is plenty to love.

It’s special enough to earn a spot on the Alabama Tourism Department’s list of 100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama.

Tomatinos Pizza & Bake Shop is a vital part of the Old Cloverdale neighborhood in Montgomery. (Chad Allen / Alabama NewsCenter)