The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America

Post Published June 24, 2024

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The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - New Haven's Iconic Apizza Gems





The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America

This pizza legacy has given rise to a thriving culinary scene, with storied establishments like Modern Apizza, Bar, and Wooster Street Pizza continuing to draw legions of devoted fans.

The coal-fired ovens used in New Haven's apizza joints can reach temperatures up to 900°F, allowing the pizzas to develop a signature charred and blistered crust.

Sallocation of the limited seats and tables at the most popular apizza joints, such as Pepe's and Zuppardi's, is highly competitive, with some diners waiting hours for a chance to grab a coveted spot.

While the traditional apizza is made with a simple tomato sauce and minimal cheese, some New Haven pizzerias have started to experiment with unique topping combinations, such as the white clam pie, which features freshly shucked clams instead of tomato sauce.

What else is in this post?

  1. The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - New Haven's Iconic Apizza Gems
  2. The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - NYC's Legendary Coal-Fired Crucibles
  3. The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - Chicago's Deep-Dish Heavyweights
  4. The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - San Francisco's Sourdough Sensations
  5. The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - Phoenix's Artisan Pioneers
  6. The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - Detroit's Square Pan Marvels
  7. The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - Naples-Inspired Neapolitan Havens
  8. The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - St.Louis' Crispy Cracker Crusts
  9. The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - Innovative Fusion Frontrunners

The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - NYC's Legendary Coal-Fired Crucibles





New York City's coal-fired pizza joints have become legendary for their unique flavor and texture, with the high-heat cooking process imparting a charred crust and chewy center to the pies.

While the use of coal-fired ovens has declined over the years, a few iconic establishments like Una Pizza Napoletana continue to showcase the city's iconic coal-fired pizza style that has influenced pizza makers nationwide.

The coal-fired ovens used in New York City's legendary pizza joints can reach temperatures up to 900°F, enabling the development of a signature charred and blistered crust that is a hallmark of the city's iconic pizza style.

The use of coal-fired ovens in pizza-making has been declining over the years, with the last known new coal-fired oven installed in Manhattan in 1957 and in Brooklyn in 1990, making these remaining coal-fired establishments true relics of the past.

Acquiring a coal-fired oven for a new pizzeria has become increasingly challenging, as the only viable option is to inherit one from a previous business or to have been in operation since the early period when coal-fired ovens were more prevalent.

New York-style pizza is characterized by its distinctive thin crust, ample cheese, and foldable slices, with some pizzerias also offering thick-crusted square pizzas and a hybrid style known as "Grandma" pizza.

The high-temperature, short-term cooking environment of coal-fired ovens results in a charred crust that maintains a chewy and flavorful center, giving New York's coal-fired pizza a unique texture and taste profile.

While the traditional New York-style pizza features a simple tomato sauce and minimal cheese, some pioneering pizzerias have started to experiment with innovative topping combinations, such as the white clam pie, which showcases freshly shucked clams instead of the standard tomato sauce.


The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - Chicago's Deep-Dish Heavyweights





Chicago's deep-dish pizza is a culinary icon, challenging the conventional thin-crust with its generous depth and abundance of toppings.

These towering pies are baked in tall, circular pans, featuring a thick, buttery crust layered with cheese, toppings, and a robust tomato sauce.

The city's top-rated deep-dish spots, including Uno Pizzeria, Pequod's, Lou Malnati's, and Gino's East, are known for serving up this hearty, decadent style that reflects Chicago's unapologetic appetite.

These restaurants have mastered the art of crafting deep-dish pizzas with perfectly melted cheese, a medley of flavorful toppings, and a crust that strikes the right balance between crisp and doughy.

While Chicago's deep-dish may steal the spotlight, the city's pizza scene also offers a range of other styles, from thin-crust to tavern-style, providing a diverse culinary experience for pizza enthusiasts.

Chicago's deep-dish pizza is baked in a unique circular pan, resulting in a tall, thick crust that can hold an abundance of toppings.

The layering of the deep-dish pizza is intentional, with the cheese on the bottom, toppings in the middle, and the tomato sauce ladled on top, creating a distinct flavor profile.

Pequod's Pizza is known for its signature caramelized crust, which is created by sprinkling the pan with a layer of parmesan cheese before the dough is added, resulting in a crispy, almost-burnt edge.

The deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's is made with a buttery, flaky crust that is designed to hold the weight of the generous toppings without becoming soggy.

Gino's East is famous for its thick, cornmeal-dusted crust, which provides a unique texture and flavor to their deep-dish pizzas.

Uno Pizzeria, the original creator of the Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, uses a proprietary blend of cheeses, including mozzarella and cheddar, to achieve the perfect melty and gooey consistency.

According to food scientists, the deep-dish pizza's thick crust and high ratio of cheese to sauce helps to create a more balanced flavor profile, with the acidity of the tomato sauce complementing the richness of the cheese.

Interestingly, the deep-dish pizza's tall structure and heavy toppings make it more challenging to slice and serve, often requiring a fork and knife to eat, a distinctive characteristic of this Chicago culinary icon.


The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - San Francisco's Sourdough Sensations





Several bakeries in the city, including the historic Boudin Bakery and the consistently praised Acme Bakery and Golden Boy Baking Company, are celebrated for their exceptional sourdough offerings, cementing San Francisco's status as a sourdough paradise.

The long, cold overnight proofing process and the use of high-protein bread flour (12-13% range) contribute to the distinctive crust, crumb, and structure of San Francisco sourdough.

Replicating the exact flavor and texture of San Francisco sourdough is nearly impossible elsewhere, as the unique bacteria found in the city's climate are essential for cultivating the intense fermentation that produces the bread's layered tanginess.

Compared to other sourdough breads, San Francisco's version contains a higher ratio of starter to fresh dough, resulting in its characteristic airy texture and robust flavor profile.

Boudin Bakery, with its historic roots and distinct flavor, holds a special place in San Francisco's sourdough landscape, attracting legions of devoted fans.

Acme Bakery is known for its pristine baguettes, while Golden Boy Baking Company is recognized for its consistent quality and exceptional sourdough offerings.

The popularity of sourdough in San Francisco is evident in the abundance of bakeries that offer this beloved culinary experience, each with its own unique take on the classic recipe.

The high ratio of starter to fresh dough in San Francisco sourdough leads to a more pronounced fermentation process, generating increased amounts of lactic and acetic acids that contribute to the bread's signature tanginess.

The unique microbial ecosystem found in San Francisco's climate, which includes specific strains of lactobacilli and wild yeasts, is a critical factor in the development of the city's legendary sourdough bread.


The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - Phoenix's Artisan Pioneers





The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America

Phoenix has emerged as a hub for artisanal pizza, with several acclaimed spots leading the charge.

Pizzeria Bianco, Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante, and Cibo Urban Pizzeria are just a few of the standout destinations known for their wood-fired creations and unique flavor profiles.

Other notable pizza joints like Grand Avenue Pizza Co., Doughbird, and Federal Pizza are also garnering attention for their delicious and innovative offerings.

Pizzeria Bianco, led by acclaimed chef Chris Bianco, is considered the benchmark for wood-fired pizzas in Phoenix, with its signature pizza featuring high-quality local ingredients and a perfectly charred crust.

Bottega Pizzeria Ristorante offers a modern take on traditional Italian cuisine, showcasing innovative flavor combinations and a commitment to using fresh, locally sourced produce.

Cibo Urban Pizzeria in downtown Phoenix has gained a loyal following for its irresistible menu of red and white wood-fired pizzas, featuring unique topping selections and a cozy, inviting atmosphere.

Grand Avenue Pizza Co. has been recognized for its creative flavor pairings and commitment to using premium ingredients, setting it apart from the traditional pizza offerings in the city.

Doughbird, Federal Pizza, and Pizzeria Bianco are all considered top pizza destinations in Phoenix, each with their own distinct cooking methods, ingredient selection, and flavor profiles.

Malnati's, a Chicago-based pizzeria, has brought its authentic deep-dish pies to Phoenix, offering a unique culinary experience for pizza enthusiasts in the city.

The Parlor, a popular local spot, serves up wood-fired pizzas with unexpected toppings like smoked tomatoes and Calabrian chili, showcasing the culinary creativity of Phoenix's artisan pizza pioneers.

Paradise Valley Pizza Co. and Hot Daisy Pizza have developed reputations for their innovative pizza creations, with Paradise Valley offering an ever-evolving menu of unique flavor combinations.

The use of high-temperature, wood-fired ovens is a common thread among many of Phoenix's top pizza spots, allowing them to achieve the perfect balance of a charred, blistered crust and a chewy, flavorful interior.

The artisan pizza movement in Phoenix has been fueled by a growing demand for quality ingredients, creative toppings, and a focus on traditional cooking techniques, setting the city apart as a hub for pizza enthusiasts.


The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - Detroit's Square Pan Marvels





Detroit-style pizza is a unique and beloved regional variation, known for its signature square shape, thick and crispy crust, and generous layers of cheese and toppings.

While Detroit-style pizza may not be as well-known nationally as some other regional styles, it has firmly established itself as a must-try destination for any serious pizza lover.

The distinct square shape of Detroit-style pizza is achieved by baking the dough in a well-oiled, rectangular steel pan, originally repurposed from the automotive industry.

The high-hydration dough used in Detroit-style pizza is allowed to proof for an extended period, resulting in a light and airy interior with a crisp, caramelized crust.

Detroit-style pizza is typically topped with Wisconsin brick cheese, which is placed all the way to the edges of the pan, creating a signature "frico" or crunchy, cheese-encrusted crust.

The sauce used in Detroit-style pizza is often applied in a unique striped pattern, allowing the cheese to caramelize between the sauce stripes for a distinct visual appeal.

Buddy's Pizza, considered the originator of Detroit-style pizza, was founded in 1946 and continues to use the same heavy steel pans they acquired from local automotive suppliers.

Loui's Pizza, another Detroit-style pizza institution, has been in operation since 1977 and is known for its use of a proprietary blend of cheeses, including mozzarella and muenster.

The square shape of Detroit-style pizza allows for a higher ratio of crust to toppings, resulting in a more balanced flavor profile compared to traditional round pizzas.

Buddy's Pizza has been recognized by the James Beard Foundation for its contribution to American culinary heritage, solidifying its status as a Detroit icon.

Detroit-style pizza has gained a cult following beyond its Midwestern roots, with specialty pizzerias in cities like San Francisco and Los Angeles offering their own interpretations of this unique style.

The square pan used for Detroit-style pizza was originally designed to hold automotive parts, but its sturdy construction and ability to create a crispy, caramelized crust made it an ideal vessel for this distinctive pizza style.


The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - Naples-Inspired Neapolitan Havens





The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America

Many establishments have earned recognition for their exceptional Neapolitan-style offerings, sourcing high-quality ingredients and employing experienced pizzaiolos to capture the essence of this beloved Italian cuisine.

From hidden gems to industry-leading pizzerias, pizza enthusiasts can now embark on a culinary journey to explore the diverse flavors and crust styles that represent the true spirit of Neapolitan pizza.

The Neapolitan Pizza Association has stringent rules that define the standards for authentic Neapolitan pizza, ensuring the preservation of this culinary tradition.

Some of the top-rated Neapolitan pizzerias in Naples, like 50 Kal and Diego Vitagliano, have earned prestigious accolades, including Michelin Guide recognition.

Naples is home to a hidden network of local spots that serve exceptional fried pizza, a beloved comfort food and hangover cure that has been enjoyed by generations of Neapolitans.

The wood-fired ovens used in traditional Neapolitan pizzerias can reach temperatures up to 900°F, allowing the pizzas to develop their signature charred and blistered crust.

Neapolitan-style pizza is characterized by its circular, light, and soft thin crust, with a raised edge, a testament to the skill and precision of the pizzaiolos.

The Ultimate Naples Pizza Guide has identified 18 outstanding pizzerias in Naples, showcasing the city's deep-rooted pizza culture and the diversity of exceptional offerings.

Neapolitan-inspired pizza has become a culinary sensation across the United States, with the top 9 pizza spots sourcing high-quality ingredients to recreate the authentic flavors of this beloved cuisine.

Many of the best Neapolitan-inspired pizzerias in America employ passionate chefs and experienced pizzaiolos who have honed their craft in Italy, bringing their expertise to their work.

The diverse range of Neapolitan-inspired pizza offerings in the US allows pizza enthusiasts to embark on a culinary journey, exploring a variety of crust styles, toppings, and flavor profiles.

While traditional Neapolitan pizza features a simple tomato sauce and minimal cheese, some innovative American pizzerias have started to experiment with unique topping combinations, such as the white clam pie.

The abundance of Neapolitan-inspired pizza options across America ensures that pizza lovers can find their perfect match, catering to diverse palates and preferences.

The success of Neapolitan-inspired pizza in the US is a testament to the enduring appeal of this beloved culinary tradition, which has captured the hearts and taste buds of pizza enthusiasts nationwide.


The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - St.

Louis' Crispy Cracker Crusts





St.
The crust is typically pre-baked at high temperatures, giving it a structural integrity that allows it to support a variety of toppings, including the signature Provel cheese blend.

Imo's, a famous pizzeria in St.
Louis, is well-known for its exemplary rendition of this regional pizza style, which is also popular throughout the Midwest.

The unique cracker-thin crust of St.
Louis-style pizza is achieved through a specific dough formula that includes baking powder, which helps create the crisp texture.

St.
Louis-style pizza dough is often made without yeast, giving it a more structured and cracker-like consistency compared to traditional pizza doughs.

The cheese used in St.
Louis-style pizza is a blend of Provel, a processed cheese with a distinctive smoky flavor, along with cheddar and Swiss cheeses.

St.
Louis-style pizza is typically cut into small, square or rectangular slices, rather than the traditional triangular slices, allowing for easy sharing and portability.

The sauce used in St.
Louis-style pizza is often slightly sweeter than traditional tomato-based sauces, providing a balanced flavor profile with the crispy crust and cheese.

Louis-based chain, is credited with popularizing the unique St.
Louis-style pizza and its cracker-like crust.

The pre-baking of the crust before adding toppings is a key step in achieving the signature crispy texture of St.
Louis-style pizza.

The lack of a visible crust perimeter in St.
Louis-style pizza is a distinct characteristic, with the toppings and cheese extending to the very edge of the pie.

St.
Louis-style pizza can be cooked in as little as 20 minutes due to the thin crust and high-heat cooking method.

The use of baking powder instead of yeast in the dough helps to create a more structured and sturdy crust that can support a variety of toppings.

The Provel cheese used in St.
Louis-style pizza is a patented and trademarked cheese product, adding to the uniqueness of this regional style.

St.
Louis-style pizza is popular not only in the city itself but also throughout the Midwest region, where it has gained a loyal following.

The cracker-thin crust of St.
Louis-style pizza is often contrasted with the thicker, chewier crusts found in other regional pizza styles, such as New Haven-style and Chicago-style deep dish.


The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America - Innovative Fusion Frontrunners





The Ultimate Guide to the 9 Best Pizza Spots Across America

Across America, a new wave of pizza spots is pushing the boundaries of traditional pizza styles.

In cities like Dallas, Texas, establishments like Eno's Pizza Tavern and Pie Tap Pizza Workshop are offering thin-crust pizzas with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

Cane Rosso, another Dallas favorite, serves wood-fired Neapolitan-style pies with handmade dough and mozzarella.

Meanwhile, Yonker's Pizza brings a New York-style flair to the Dallas pizza scene with its hand-tossed crust, red sauce, and mozzarella.

In the nation's capital, Pizzeria Paradiso in Washington D.C. has earned a reputation for its wood-fired pizzas, while Il Canale offers authentic Neapolitan-style creations.

Wiseguy Pizza, also in D.C., serves up classic New York-style slices.

Even in international destinations like Bandung, Indonesia, pizza enthusiasts can find a range of innovative fusion offerings that blend traditional Italian flavors with bold, creative toppings.

Eno's Pizza Tavern in Dallas, Texas, uses a thin-crust pizza base and sources its ingredients from local, farm-to-table suppliers to create unique flavor combinations.

Cane Rosso, another Dallas pizza spot, specializes in wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas made with handcrafted dough and fresh mozzarella cheese.

Yonker's Pizza in Dallas offers a New York-style crust with a variety of creative topping options, showcasing the city's diverse pizza offerings.

Fireside Pies, a woman-owned business in Dallas, pairs its wood-fired pizzas with a curated selection of wines, beers, and cocktails for a complete dining experience.

CutiePies Pizza in Dallas has developed a loyal following for its New York-style crust and innovative topping combinations, blending traditional and modern flavors.

Wiseguy Pizza in Washington D.C. has gained a reputation for its delectable New York-style slices, catering to the city's pizza enthusiasts.

In Bandung, Indonesia, local pizzerias are experimenting with a range of traditional Italian flavors and bold, unconventional topping options, showcasing the global influence of innovative pizza trends.

The use of high-heat, wood-fired ovens in many of the "Innovative Fusion Frontrunners" allows for the development of a signature charred and blistered crust, adding depth of flavor to their unique pizza creations.

Several of these innovative pizza spots, such as Eno's and Fireside Pies, have a strong focus on using locally-sourced, fresh ingredients to craft their pizza masterpieces, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and quality.

CutiePies Pizza in Dallas has been recognized for its creative approach to topping combinations, blending traditional Italian flavors with unexpected ingredients to offer a unique and memorable pizza experience.

Bandung, Indonesia, has emerged as a global hub for innovative pizza experimentation, with local pizzerias showcasing their culinary creativity by incorporating bold flavors and diverse toppings into their offerings.

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