Pizza, a universally beloved dish, has evolved into a versatile canvas for culinary creativity across the United States. From classic styles to innovative combinations, here’s a look at the top 10 most delicious pizzas that have earned a forever spot in the hearts and taste buds of Americans.
New York-Style Pizza (New York, NY)
A quintessential American classic, New York-style pizza is known for its thin, foldable crust and generous toppings. The perfect balance of tangy tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella makes it an all-time favorite. Try it at Lombardi’s, the nation’s first pizzeria, established in 1905.
Chicago Deep Dish (Chicago, IL)
Deep, hearty, and indulgent, Chicago’s deep-dish pizza is more like a savory pie. Layers of cheese, meat, and chunky tomato sauce are encased in a thick, buttery crust. Giordano’s and Lou Malnati’s are legendary spots to savor this iconic dish.
California-Style Pizza (California)
Pioneered by chefs like Wolfgang Puck, California-style pizza is characterized by its creative toppings and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients. From barbecue chicken to goat cheese and arugula, the options are endless. Pizzeria Mozza in Los Angeles offers some of the best examples of this style.
Neapolitan Pizza (Various Locations)
Adhering to the strict standards set by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, Neapolitan pizza is celebrated for its simplicity and high-quality ingredients. With a thin, soft crust and minimal toppings like San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, spots like Una Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco bring a taste of Naples to the U.S.
Detroit-Style Pizza (Detroit, MI)
This rectangular pizza features a thick, airy crust with crispy edges, thanks to its unique baking process in steel pans. Topped with Wisconsin brick cheese and tomato sauce stripes, Buddy’s Pizza is a must-visit for an authentic slice.
St. Louis-Style Pizza (St. Louis, MO)
Known for its cracker-thin crust and Provel cheese—a creamy blend of provolone, Swiss, and white cheddar—St. Louis-style pizza offers a distinct flavor profile. Imo’s Pizza, often called the “square beyond compare,” is the go-to place for this Midwestern delight.
New Haven-Style Pizza (New Haven, CT)
Locally known as “apizza,” New Haven-style pizza is a coal-fired masterpiece with a thin, chewy crust. Sally’s Apizza and Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana are legendary institutions serving classic white clam pies and other favorites.
Sicilian Pizza (Various Locations)
Sicilian pizza features a thick, spongy crust and is typically square-shaped. With a robust tomato sauce and ample cheese, this style is hearty and satisfying. Prince Street Pizza in New York City is renowned for its spicy pepperoni squares.
Buffalo-Style Pizza (Buffalo, NY)
Distinct with its medium-thick crust and ample cheese, Buffalo-style pizza often includes a semisweet sauce and small pepperoni slices that cup and char when cooked. Bocce Club Pizza is a beloved establishment offering this regional specialty.
Quad Cities-Style Pizza (Quad Cities, IL/IA)
Characterized by its malt-flavored crust and scissor-cut strips, Quad Cities-style pizza has a unique taste, often featuring fennel-spiced sausage. Harris Pizza, where this style originated, remains a top destination.
Conclusion
The diverse landscape of American pizza showcases a range of regional styles, each with its own unique characteristics and flavors. Whether you’re a fan of thin, foldable slices or thick, hearty squares, the United States offers an unparalleled variety of delicious pizzas that cater to every palate. From coast to coast, these top 10 pizzas not only capture the essence of their origins but also continue to evolve, ensuring their place as forever favorites in the culinary world.
FAQs
What is the key difference between New York-style and Chicago-style pizza?
New York-style pizza has a thin, foldable crust, while Chicago-style is a deep-dish pizza with a thick, pie-like crust.
Where can I find the best Neapolitan pizza in the United States?
Una Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco is highly acclaimed for its authentic Neapolitan pizza.
What makes St. Louis-style pizza unique?
St. Louis-style pizza features a cracker-thin crust and uses Provel cheese, which gives it a distinctive flavor and texture.
What is special about Detroit-style pizza?
Detroit-style pizza is rectangular with a thick, airy crust and crispy edges, baked in steel pans, and topped with Wisconsin brick cheese and tomato sauce.
What toppings are typical for California-style pizza?
California-style pizza often includes creative toppings like barbecue chicken, goat cheese, arugula, and fresh local produce.