Mamma Mia! Enjoy the Distinctive Pizza Styles of These 10 Great Cities Chris Osburn January 2, 2024 Food & Drink Is there any food more universally loved than pizza? We think not, and can definitely understand why everybody loves this hot oven treat…especially when they’re traveling and out having fun! No matter where you are: chances are you’ll be able to get a good slice! There’s a good number of great pizzerias across the globe, so narrowing down a list of the world’s very best pizza destinations may seem like a half-baked idea. Nevertheless, we’ve tried and come up with a list of 10 amazing destinations to try the best pizza ever. We’ll start our pizza tour of the world in the United States, where there’s a surprisingly wide variety of ways that different cities enjoy their pizza: New York City the man responsible for the pies by apasciuto is licensed under CC BY 2.0 A list of the greatest cities for pizza that excludes New York? Fuggedaboutit! The city seems to run on having access to good quality pizza to keep it moving, and locals and tourists alike polish slices off in a New York minute. New York style pizza is characterized by its large, thin, foldable slices with a crisp outer crust and a chewy interior. It typically features a simple yet flavorful combination of tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. This style originated in the early 1900s with Italian immigrants in New York City, who adapted their traditional pizza recipes to suit local tastes and available ingredients. The iconic pizza slices were designed for on-the-go consumption, allowing busy city dwellers to fold and eat them easily. The combination of a wide slice, thin crust, and minimal toppings became a hallmark of New York’s culinary culture, distinguishing it from other regional pizza styles. Over time, New York Style pizza has become renowned worldwide, symbolizing the bustling spirit of the city and its diverse culinary influences. Where to start for recommendations? If we had to choose only one pizzeria, we might go with award-winning Di Fara, owned and operated by Domenico DeMarco, in Midwood, Brooklyn since 1964. Chicago Chicago style pizza is renowned for its deep-dish, pie-like structure with a thick buttery crust that lines the pan and rises up the sides. Unlike traditional pizza, Chicago style is loaded with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce, resembling more of a savory pie. This style emerged in the 1940s in Chicago’s Pizzeria Uno, where the deeper dish allowed for heartier fillings. This pizza style is a considerable departure from the foldable slices of New York and reflects the hearty Midwestern culinary sensibilities. Its thick crust and generous fillings make it an unusual but satisfying pizza experience. For the thickest local claim to fame, head to Pequod’s Pizza, where Chicago style deep dish with caramelized crust is de rigueur. Or rather, di rigore! New Haven “Frank Pepe Pizzeria” by Ed Schipul is licensed under CC BY-SA 2.0 New Haven pizza, also known as “apizza” (pronounced “ah-BEETS”), is a distinctive style of pizza that originated in New Haven, Connecticut. The crust is thin and crispy, a product of the coal-fired approach the locals use, resulting in a slightly charred and blistered exterior while remaining tender on the inside. New Haven pizza also tends to have minimalistic toppings. The classic “white clam” pizza, a New Haven specialty, is often made with a base of olive oil, garlic, oregano, grated Pecorino Romano cheese, and fresh clams. Other common toppings include mozzarella, tomato sauce, and ingredients like bacon, onions, or peppers. Also, New Haven pizza is traditionally served in oblong or rectangular shapes, often referred to as “apizzas” (pronounced “uh-BEETZ”). These are cut into smaller pieces, resembling smaller slices or squares. Some of the best places in New Haven to sample this local favorite include Frank Pepe Pizzeria, Sally’s Apizza, and Zuppardi’s. St. Louis Imo’s Pizza by Bill Walsh licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 A robust Italian population is credited with the great food offerings in St. Louis. The signature pizzas in the Arch City are distinguished by their yeast-free crust that resembles a cracker more than a traditional piece of dough. This thin crust is topped with tomato sauce full of zesty oregano to add a bit of zip. St. Louis pizza relies on Provel cheese to deliver its melty texture. Like many other regional specialty pizzas, the St. Louis version is cut into squares rather than triangles. While there is no shortage of great places to indulge in this deliciousness, Imo’s Pizza is an iconic St. Louis institution that has been around for almost 60 years. Pair a slice of Imo’s with a trip to the top of the famous Arch for a classic St. Louis experience. Detroit Detroit-style pizza corner by Renewableandalternativeenergy licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 Detroit pizza is also baked in a rectangular shape, going back to the city’s origins of using the steel trays that were once used to house automotive parts for workers in the Motor City. The square pizzas are best known for their thick and chewy crusts. Unlike the thick and solid crusts in neighboring Chicago, Detroit’s crusts have an airier texture. The cheese on Detroit style pizzas is scattered on the top from edge to edge. The stripes of tomato sauce on the top provide the perfect finishing touch to this distinctive type of pizza. Buddy’s Pizza claims to the birthplace of this Detroit specialty, making it a must-see stop on your itinerary. With a number of locations throughout the state, you will never be far from the legendary taste of Buddy’s Pizza. Philadelphia The Tomato Pie by ZhengZhou licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0 Philadelphia is another prime destination for pizza lovers on the East Coast. The City of Brotherly Love is known for its tomato pie, boasting a light and airy crust that is perfectly crispy with each bite. The crust is also fermented longer than other varieties. These tomato pies are most often served at room temperature. The most distinguishing feature is the sweet tomato sauce and the choice of Romano cheese rather than the traditional mozzarella option. Because this style of pizza got its start as a bakery treat, it is not surprising to learn that you will find some of the best options in Philly across the city’s bakery scene. Head to Iannelli’s Bakery or Corropolese Bakery for some of the most beloved tomato pies available in Philadelphia. Both of these locations have been around since the early 1900s, a testament to their goodness. Now let’s expand the scope of our pizza journey and look at some ways that cities around the world put their own distinctive spin on this culinary favorite: Milan Europe’s epicenter of haute couture and high-end shopping is also phenomenal for foodie foraging with some of the most — and most awesome — pizzerias in Italy. The most common style of pizza in Milan is often referred to as “pizza alla Milanese,” which typically features a thinner crust compared to Neapolitan pizza, but it’s not as thin and crispy as Roman pizza. It’s often rectangular or square in shape and is commonly served as a single-person portion. The toppings used on Milanese-style pizza can vary widely, often reflecting the city’s innovative culinary trends. You might find combinations that include local cheeses, cured meats, vegetables, and even more unconventional ingredients. Inquiring with the locals which pizzeria is numero uno might create a fracas, but most Milanesi in the know should agree Gino Sorbillo is among the very top contenders. Get there early though, as this pizzeria only makes 400 pies a day. But if you miss your chance don’t fret too much…you’ll find a multitude of more than adequate options on nearly every street corner! Naples It’s not every pizza that’s recognize by UNESCO as an “intangible cultural heritage.” The traditional Neapolitan pizza, known as “Pizza Napoletana,” was granted this lofty status in 2017. The designation recognizes the cultural significance and craftsmanship that goes into Naples‘ signature style of pizza. Neapolitan pizza is characterized by its soft, chewy, and slightly charred crust, simple toppings such as San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, fresh basil, and extra-virgin olive oil. The pizza is traditionally baked in a wood-fired oven at high temperatures for a short time, resulting in a unique flavor and texture. Ideal settings to see pizza dough twirled high in the air and to devour the city’s beloved wood-fired, oven-baked wonders include Pizzeria Starita, and L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele. Rome Pizza in Rome, Italy, is characterized by its thin and crispy crust. Unlike the Neapolitan-style pizza with a soft, chewy crust, Roman pizza is typically rectangular and sliced into squares called “pizza al taglio.” This style allows for a variety of toppings, from traditional margherita to creative options. The history of Roman pizza dates back to the 18th century when bakers repurposed leftover dough to create affordable and convenient snacks for the masses. In the 20th century, innovative bakers refined the technique, leading to the rise of pizza al taglio shops across the city. Today, Rome’s pizza culture thrives, with locals and tourists enjoying the diverse flavors and textures of this unique pizza style. For the real Roman deal go to Antico Forno Roscioli, a bakery in the neighborhood of Campo de’ Fiori, with ovens that date back to 1824. You Might Also Enjoy: Order Up! Iconic American Foods You Need to Try! Melbourne Pizza in Melbourne, Australia embraces diverse styles and influences. The city offers a wide range of pizza variations, including traditional Neapolitan, New York-style, and creative gourmet options. Neapolitan-style pizza, with its thin crust and fresh ingredients, has a strong presence, often adhering to strict Italian standards. Additionally, Melbourne’s multicultural environment has led to innovative fusion pizzas, blending flavors from various cuisines. Influences from Mediterranean, Asian, and Middle Eastern culinary traditions can be seen in unique topping combinations. The city’s vibrant food scene encourages experimentation and artisanal craftsmanship, resulting in a pizza culture that celebrates both authenticity and creative interpretation. FAQs: Q: Are there vegetarian or vegan options available at these pizzerias? A: Yes, many pizzerias offer vegetarian options, and an increasing number are catering to vegan diets. It’s always advisable to check with individual pizzerias for specific dietary accommodations. Q: How much should I budget for pizza in these cities? A: The cost varies. In the U.S., expect to pay around $3-$5 per slice or $20-$30 for a whole pie. In European cities, prices can range from €5 to €15. Melbourne’s prices are similar to those in the U.S. Q: Can I find gluten-free pizza in these destinations? A: Gluten-free options are increasingly common in major cities. However, it’s best to check with specific pizzerias in advance, as not all offer gluten-free dough. Q: Is it necessary to tip at pizzerias in these destinations? A: Tipping customs vary. In a sit-down restaurant in the U.S., a 15-20% tip is standard. In Europe and Australia, tipping is less common, but rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated for exceptional service. Q: Are there any pizza tours available in these cities? A: Yes, several cities like New York, Chicago, and Naples offer guided pizza tours. These tours can provide a deeper understanding of the local pizza culture and history. Q: Can I order pizza to go, or is dine-in preferred in these destinations? A: Both options are widely available. While dine-in offers the fresh experience, most pizzerias also provide takeout options. In some cities, like Rome, “pizza al taglio” (pizza by the slice) is a popular on-the-go option. Did we leave out your favorite pizza city? We’d love it if you shared your tips on where to grab a great slice!
