CLAYTON - This Johnston County town has, at last count, about a dozen pizzerias. But few of them offer New York-style pizza, and none are located downtown.

That's why Alberto Sanchez hopes he can succeed in this crowded pizza market. His restaurant, Primo Pizza N.Y. Style, opened last week at 226 E. Main St. in the former Lucky Chicken space downtown. The popular Peruvian restaurant recently moved a few doors down to a larger space.

It's Sanchez's second restaurant location. For the past two years, he's run Primo Pizza on Cary Towne Boulevard in Cary.

Primo has a full menu of pizzas, calzones, stromboli, subs, wraps and pasta. It's got a small dining room, and takeout is available by calling 919-359-3515. Sanchez plans to add delivery once his business gets going.

"Dish" stopped by a few days after Primo opened, and we were among many locals dropping by for a taste. Here's what we thought:

Staff Writer Sarah Nagem: I'm a big fan of Philly cheese steaks, and Primo knows how to make a good one. The meat was seasoned well, and the sandwich was topped with fresh lettuce, tomatoes and mushrooms. My favorite part, though, was probably the bread - the white kaiser roll was so soft. Other menu items piqued my interest too, including the Greek salad and chicken-caesar wrap. Next time I'm in downtown Clayton for lunch, I'll definitely remember this place.

Colin Campbell: When I walked into the small, modestly furnished pizza parlor, I figured it would be similar to the many other takeout joints around the area. Not so. The generous slices are made with a crispy thin crust, and the tomato sauce tastes fresh with a hint of basil. I've never been terribly partial to New York style, mainly because it's often so greasy I have to dab it with a napkin before I take a bite. I didn't have that problem with Primo's pies - almost no grease at all. The meat-lover's slice I had featured a tasty mix of sausage, ham and pepperoni. And I'll have to come back and try their specialty pizzas. There's one called "Tri Color" that's topped with garlic, olive oil, broccoli, tomatoes and mozzarella.

Primo Pizza owner Alberto Sanchez: I take a lot of pride in what I do. I personally check every pizza and entrée that goes out. I like the (Clayton) community. It's very traditional, and it's growing. A lot of people that are new to the area, they say they're excited to see (New York-style pizza).

What's your favorite dish at a local restaurant? It can be an appetizer, entree, side or dessert - whatever makes you come back for more. Send the name of the dish and the restaurant to colin.campbell@nando.com and include what makes it special. We'll spotlight your favorites in upcoming issues of the paper.