1. New Jersey: The Unsung Hero of Thin-Crust Pies
Ask any New Yorker who’s crossed the Hudson River, and they’ll tell you—New Jersey’s pizza is no joke. The thin, crispy crust, tangy sauce, and that perfect balance of cheese make it a contender. Places like De Lorenzo’s Tomato Pies in Robbinsville or Santillo’s in Elizabeth are legendary.
2. Connecticut: Home of the Charred Crust
Connecticut is the land of “apizza.” This isn’t just pizza—it’s something truly unique. Head to New Haven, and you’ll discover a style that focuses on a slightly charred, coal-fired crust. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana and Sally’s Apizza have been serving pies with an unforgettable crunch and a smoky flavor that’s impossible to replicate.
3. Illinois: More Than Just Deep Dish
Sure, Chicago’s deep dish gets all the hype, but Illinois also knows how to make a mean tavern-style, thin-crust pizza. This crispy, square-cut slice is perfect for those who want more crunch than dough. The buttery, flaky crust from Lou Malnati’s or the cracker-thin slices at Vito & Nick’s are proof Illinois isn’t a one-trick pony.
4. California: Creativity on a Crust
California might not be the first place you think of when it comes to pizza, but hear me out. West Coast pizzerias bring a unique, creative flair that stands out. Think gourmet toppings like figs, arugula, and goat cheese, plus a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Places like Pizzana in LA and Tony’s Pizza Napoletana in San Francisco make pies that are redefining what pizza can be.
5. Michigan: The Square Deep-Dish Delight
Detroit-style pizza has been gaining popularity, and for good reason. These square, thick, pan-baked pies are known for their crispy, cheesy edges and pillowy dough. Places like Buddy’s Pizza and Loui’s Pizza make Michigan a must-visit for deep-dish lovers who appreciate that caramelized cheese crust.
6. Pennsylvania: The King of Tomato Pies
Philly isn’t just about cheesesteaks—it’s also a haven for pizza enthusiasts. Pennsylvania’s take on the tomato pie, which has a thicker, breadier crust topped with a savory tomato sauce and just a sprinkling of grated cheese, is unlike anything you’ll find in New York. For a slice, check out Sarcone’s or Marchiano’s.
7. Ohio: Where Pepperoni Goes Cup and Char
Ohio’s pizza scene is often overlooked, but those in the know rave about it. In particular, the pepperoni cups that curl up and crisp at the edges are a regional specialty. Spots like Angelo’s in Lakewood and Tommy’s Pizza in Columbus serve up pizzas that are both nostalgic and oh-so-satisfying.
8. Missouri: Mastering the Provel Cheese Blend
St. Louis pizza is a regional style that’s a bit polarizing but undeniably distinct. The ultra-thin crust, cut into squares and topped with gooey Provel cheese, is a St. Louis staple. Imo’s Pizza is a go-to for that one-of-a-kind cheesy bite.
9. Massachusetts: Bringing the Greek Twist
Boston and its surrounding areas offer up a unique Greek-style pizza with a thicker, chewier crust cooked in a shallow pan. Places like Santarpio’s and Regina Pizzeria deliver pies with a hearty crust and a tangy, spicy sauce that make them stand out.
10. Rhode Island: The Birthplace of Grilled Pizza
Grilled pizza, you say? Yep, Rhode Island is the spot. The Ocean State is known for its crispy, grilled pies that come out with a slightly smoky flavor. Head to Al Forno in Providence to taste the magic that happens when dough meets grill.
11. Texas: Where Bigger is Better, Even with Pizza
Everything’s bigger in Texas, and that includes the pizza. But don’t be fooled into thinking it’s all quantity over quality. Austin’s Home Slice and San Antonio’s Dough Pizzeria Napoletana deliver creative, wood-fired pizzas that have locals and visitors alike singing their praises.
12. Wisconsin: Cheese Lovers’ Paradise
It’s no surprise that Wisconsin, the land of cheese, knows a thing or two about pizza. The emphasis here is on, well, cheese. Lots of it. Milwaukee’s Zaffiro’s and Madison’s Salvatore’s Tomato Pies serve up pies that are gooey, indulgent, and loaded with local dairy goodness.
13. Arizona: Wood-Fired Wonders
Arizona might not seem like a pizza hot spot, but it’s home to some incredible wood-fired pies. In Phoenix, Pizzeria Bianco is an institution where Chris Bianco’s blistered crust and farm-fresh toppings have put the state on the pizza map.
14. Oregon: The Artisan’s Playground
Portland’s pizza scene is booming, thanks to a focus on artisanal techniques and local ingredients. Ken’s Artisan Pizza and Apizza Scholls are two spots where you’ll find perfectly blistered, thin-crust pizzas topped with a mix of classic and creative toppings.
15. Florida: The New York Transplant with a Twist
Florida is home to a huge number of New York transplants, and they’ve brought their pizza know-how with them. But Floridian pizzerias like Andiamo! in Miami or Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza have taken the New York slice and added a local twist, often incorporating fresh seafood or experimenting with different flours and baking methods to match the tropical climate.
