The United States is a melting pot of cuisines, and one of the most beloved dishes across the country is pizza. With its rich flavors, varied toppings, and diverse regional styles, it’s no wonder that pizza has become an integral part of American food culture. But have you ever wondered who serves the best pizza in the US? In this article, we’ll embark on a delicious journey to explore the top pizzerias, their secret ingredients, and what makes their pies truly exceptional.
A Brief History of Pizza in the US
Pizza originated in Italy, but it was Italian immigrants who brought this delicious dish to the United States in the late 19th century. The first pizzeria in the US, G. Lombardi’s, was opened by Gennaro Lombardi in 1905 in New York City’s Little Italy. Initially, pizza was seen as an ethnic food, but it quickly gained popularity and spread across the country. Today, the US is home to a wide range of pizza styles, from classic Neapolitan to Chicago-style deep-dish, California gourmet, and more.
Regional Pizza Styles
Different regions in the US have developed their unique pizza styles, shaped by local tastes, ingredients, and cooking techniques. Some of the most notable regional styles include:
New York-style pizza, known for its thin crust, foldable slices, and classic toppings like mozzarella, pepperoni, and mushrooms. New Haven-style pizza, famous for its coal-fired brick oven-baked crust, charred edges, and simple yet flavorful toppings. Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, characterized by its thick crust, thick layers of cheese, meats, and vegetables, and a thick tomato sauce on top. California-style gourmet pizza, which often features non-traditional toppings, artisanal ingredients, and a focus on freshness and seasonality.
Influential Pizzerias
Some pizzerias have played a significant role in shaping the US pizza landscape. For example, Pizzeria Uno in Chicago, founded in 1943, is credited with popularizing Chicago-style deep-dish pizza. Similarly, California Pizza Kitchen (CPK), founded in 1985, helped introduce gourmet pizza to the masses. Other influential pizzerias include Lombardi’s, Joe’s Pizza, and Grimaldi’s in New York City, and Pequod’s in Chicago.
Top Pizzerias in the US
So, who has the best pizza in the US? Here are some of the top pizzerias, known for their exceptional quality, unique flavors, and loyal followings:
Some of the most acclaimed pizzerias in the US include Lucali in Brooklyn, Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, Pequod’s in Chicago, and Frank Pepe’s in New Haven. These pizzerias have gained national recognition, with some even earning James Beard Awards and Michelin stars.
Awards and Recognition
Many of these top pizzerias have received awards and accolades from reputable sources, such as food critics, bloggers, and enthusiasts. For instance, Pizzeria Bianco has been named one of the best pizzerias in the US by Bon Appétit, Food & Wine, and The New York Times. Similarly, Lucali has been praised by The New Yorker, Eater, and Grub Street for its wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas and intimate atmosphere.
Menu Highlights
What sets these top pizzerias apart is their attention to detail, high-quality ingredients, and creative menu offerings. For example, Pizzeria Bianco is known for its Rosa pizza, topped with red onion, parmesan, and rosemary, while Lucali offers a classic margherita with fresh mozzarella, basil, and San Marzano tomatoes. Pequod’s is famous for its caramelized crust, which is achieved by cooking the pizza in a well-oiled pan.
The Science of Pizza Making
Making great pizza is both an art and a science. It requires a deep understanding of ingredients, cooking techniques, and the chemistry of dough, sauce, cheese, and toppings. Some key factors that contribute to exceptional pizza include:
The type and quality of flour used in the dough, with Caputo and King Arthur being popular choices among pizzaiolos. The temperature and humidity of the cooking environment, which can affect the crust’s texture and crispiness. The type and quality of cheese, with mozzarella and parmesan being staples in many pizzerias. The balance of toppings, which can make or break the flavor profile of a pizza.
Pizza Making Techniques
Different pizzerias employ various techniques to create their signature pizzas. Some common methods include:
Hand-stretching and tossing the dough to achieve the perfect crust thickness and texture. Using a wood-fired oven or coal-fired brick oven to cook the pizza, which can impart a unique flavor and char. Allowing the dough to ferment for an extended period, which can develop a more complex flavor profile. Using a pizza stone or steel to cook the pizza, which can help achieve a crispy crust.
Artisanal Ingredients
Many top pizzerias pride themselves on using artisanal ingredients, which can elevate the flavor and quality of their pizzas. Some examples include:
Using San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce, which are known for their sweet-tart flavor and low acidity. Incorporating house-made mozzarella or ricotta into the pizza, which can add a rich and creamy texture. Adding fresh herbs like basil, oregano, or rosemary to the pizza, which can add a bright and aromatic flavor. Using cured meats like prosciutto or pepperoni, which can add a salty and savory element to the pizza.
In conclusion, the quest for the best pizza in the US is a never-ending journey, with new pizzerias and styles emerging all the time. While it’s difficult to crown a single champion, some pizzerias stand out for their exceptional quality, unique flavors, and dedication to the craft. Whether you’re a fan of classic Neapolitan, Chicago-style deep-dish, or gourmet California pizza, there’s a pizzeria out there that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, grab a slice, and indulge in the delicious world of American pizza!
Some highly recommended Pizzerias in the US include:
- Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, Arizona
- Lucali in Brooklyn, New York
What makes a great pizza?
A great pizza is a combination of several factors, including the quality of the crust, the flavor and freshness of the sauce, the melt and flavor of the cheese, and the variety and quality of the toppings. The crust is the foundation of a great pizza, and it should be crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. The sauce should be made from high-quality tomatoes and should have a rich, tangy flavor. The cheese should be melted to perfection, with a creamy texture and a rich, savory flavor.
In addition to these basic components, a great pizza should also have a good balance of flavors and textures. The toppings should be fresh and of high quality, and they should be distributed evenly across the pizza. Some popular topping combinations include classic pepperoni and mushroom, meat-lovers with sausage and bacon, and vegetarian options with roasted vegetables and gooey cheese. Ultimately, the perfect pizza is a matter of personal preference, and what makes a great pizza for one person may not be the same for another. However, by focusing on quality ingredients, careful preparation, and attention to detail, pizzerias can create pizzas that are sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Who are some of the top pizzerias in the US?
There are many top-notch pizzerias across the US, each with its own unique style and flavor profile. Some of the most highly-regarded pizzerias include Lombardi’s in New York City, which is often credited with inventing the first pizza in the US, and Pequod’s in Chicago, which is famous for its deep-dish pizza with a caramelized crust. Other notable pizzerias include Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, which serves wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas, and Lucali in Brooklyn, which offers classic New York-style pizzas with a twist.
In addition to these well-known pizzerias, there are many other gems across the US that are worth trying. For example, the Bay Area is home to a number of excellent pizzerias, including Pizzeria Delfina in San Francisco and Gather in Berkeley. The Midwest is also a hotbed of pizza innovation, with top pizzerias like Co. in Detroit and Spacca Napoli in Chicago. By exploring these and other top pizzerias, pizza lovers can experience a wide range of flavors and styles, from classic and traditional to innovative and avant-garde.
What is the difference between Neapolitan and New York-style pizza?
Neapolitan and New York-style pizza are two distinct styles of pizza that originated in different parts of the world. Neapolitan pizza originated in Naples, Italy, and is characterized by a thin crust, soft center, and fresh toppings such as tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil. The crust is typically made from type “00” flour, water, salt, and yeast, and is cooked in a wood-fired oven at high temperatures for a short amount of time. New York-style pizza, on the other hand, originated in New York City and is characterized by a thin crust, crispy crust, and foldable slice.
New York-style pizza is typically made with a higher-protein flour than Neapolitan pizza, which gives it a chewier texture and a more robust flavor. The sauce is also sweeter and more tangy than Neapolitan pizza sauce, and the cheese is often a blend of mozzarella and other cheeses. New York-style pizza is typically cooked in a brick oven or a deck oven at lower temperatures than Neapolitan pizza, which gives it a crispy crust and a well-done flavor. While both styles of pizza have their loyal followings, Neapolitan pizza is often preferred by those who like a softer, more delicate crust, while New York-style pizza is preferred by those who like a crunchier, more robust crust.
How do I choose the best toppings for my pizza?
Choosing the best toppings for your pizza depends on a variety of factors, including your personal taste preferences, dietary restrictions, and the style of pizza you are ordering. For example, if you are ordering a Neapolitan-style pizza, you may want to stick with classic toppings such as tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil, which complement the delicate flavor of the crust. If you are ordering a New York-style pizza, you may want to choose heartier toppings such as pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms, which can stand up to the robust flavor of the crust.
In addition to considering the style of pizza, you should also think about the flavor profile you are trying to achieve. For example, if you like spicy foods, you may want to add toppings such as jalapenos or hot peppers to your pizza. If you are a vegetarian or vegan, you may want to choose plant-based toppings such as roasted vegetables, tofu, or vegan cheese. Ultimately, the key to choosing the best toppings for your pizza is to experiment and find the combinations that work best for you. Don’t be afraid to try new toppings and flavor combinations – you never know what you might discover.
Can I make great pizza at home?
Yes, you can make great pizza at home, but it requires some practice and patience. The key to making great pizza at home is to use high-quality ingredients, including a good pizza dough, fresh toppings, and a flavorful sauce. You should also invest in a good pizza stone or baking steel, which can help to cook the crust evenly and give it a crispy texture. In addition to the right ingredients and equipment, you should also pay attention to the cooking technique, including the temperature and cooking time.
To get started making pizza at home, you can try using a pre-made pizza dough or sauce, or you can make your own from scratch. There are many recipes available online, and you can experiment with different toppings and flavor combinations to find what works best for you. You should also consider investing in a pizza peel or paddle, which can help to transfer the pizza to the oven and prevent it from getting damaged. With a little practice and patience, you can make delicious pizzas at home that rival your favorite pizzeria.
What is the best way to cook a pizza?
The best way to cook a pizza depends on the style of pizza and the equipment you have available. For Neapolitan-style pizzas, a wood-fired oven is the traditional choice, as it can cook the pizza quickly and give it a smoky flavor. For New York-style pizzas, a brick oven or deck oven is often used, as it can cook the pizza at a lower temperature and give it a crispy crust. If you don’t have access to a wood-fired or brick oven, you can also cook a pizza in a home oven using a pizza stone or baking steel.
To cook a pizza in a home oven, you should preheat the oven to a high temperature (usually around 500-550°F) and place the pizza on a preheated stone or steel. You should cook the pizza for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly. You can also use a skillet or cast-iron pan to cook a pizza on the stovetop, which can give it a crispy crust and a smoky flavor. Regardless of the cooking method, the key to cooking a great pizza is to cook it quickly and at a high temperature, which can help to preserve the delicate flavors and textures of the ingredients.
How do I store and reheat leftover pizza?
Storing and reheating leftover pizza can be a challenge, as it can quickly become soggy and unappetizing. To store leftover pizza, you should cool it to room temperature and then place it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze leftover pizza for up to several months, which can help to preserve its flavor and texture. To reheat leftover pizza, you can use a variety of methods, including the oven, microwave, or skillet.
To reheat leftover pizza in the oven, you should preheat the oven to a moderate temperature (usually around 350-400°F) and place the pizza on a baking sheet or pizza stone. You should reheat the pizza for 5-10 minutes, or until it is hot and crispy. You can also reheat leftover pizza in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it, as this can make it soggy and unappetizing. To reheat leftover pizza in a skillet, you should place it over medium heat and cook it for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it is hot and crispy. Regardless of the reheating method, the key to storing and reheating leftover pizza is to be gentle and patient, as this can help to preserve its flavor and texture.