Pizza is undeniably one of the most beloved foods worldwide. Its universal appeal has made it a staple in cuisines across the globe, from fast food chains to upscale restaurants. With various styles and endless topping combinations, pizza has become a true culinary icon. However, some cities have truly mastered the art of pizza-making, each offering its unique spin on this cherished dish. Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the ten most exceptional pizza cities in the world and what makes them so special.
Naples, Italy: Where Pizza Was Born
No pizza list would be complete without mentioning Naples, Italy, the birthplace of this beloved dish. Neapolitan pizza, known for its simplicity and authenticity, is made with basic ingredients such as flour, water, salt, and yeast. The dough is baked in a wood-fired oven at high temperatures, resulting in a soft, chewy crust with a slight charred flavor. Toppings are minimal, typically consisting of tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Naples takes its pizza seriously, with strict regulations by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) to ensure the highest quality. If you want to experience true Neapolitan pizza, Naples is the place to be.
New York City, United States: The Home of the Classic Slice
When it comes to New York City-style pizza, it’s all about the iconic thin, crispy crust and wide slices folded in half to eat on-the-go. The sauce is made from San Marzano tomatoes, known for their sweet flavor, and the cheese is typically a blend of mozzarella and provolone. New York-style pizza is commonly sold by the slice, making it perfect for a quick and delicious meal. Di Fara Pizza, a legendary pizzeria in Brooklyn, has been delighting customers since 1964. The owner, Dom DeMarco, handcrafts each pizza with love, making the experience truly unforgettable.
Chicago, United States: A Deep-Dish Delight
In the windy city of Chicago, deep-dish pizza reigns supreme. This style is known for its thick, buttery crust and generous layers of cheese and toppings. Baked in a deep, round pan, Chicago-style pizza takes its time, with some pizzas requiring up to an hour in the oven. Crushed tomatoes form the base sauce, and a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheese adds richness to every bite. Lou Malnati’s, a renowned pizzeria established in 1971, is famous for its buttery crust, tangy sauce, and mouthwatering toppings.
Rome, Italy: A Mediterranean Twist
While Naples may be the birthplace of pizza, Rome boasts its unique pizza styles. One of the most popular is “pizza al taglio,” or “pizza by the cut.” This rectangular pizza is sold by weight, allowing customers to choose their desired portion. The crust is thick and crispy, and the toppings range from classic tomato and mozzarella to more adventurous options like zucchini flowers or prosciutto and arugula. Another Roman specialty is “pizza bianca,” a simple yet delightful creation made with olive oil, salt, and rosemary. Light, airy, and aromatic, this pizza is a true delight for the senses.
Sao Paulo, Brazil: Unexpected Pizza Paradise
When it comes to Brazilian cuisine, pizza may not be the first thing that comes to mind. However, Sao Paulo has emerged as a hub for incredible pizza offerings due to its large Italian population. Sao Paulo-style pizza features a thick, fluffy crust and generous toppings. Catupiry, a unique creamy cheese from Brazil, is a popular choice, along with ingredients like ham, onions, and olives. Bráz Pizzaria, founded in 1986, has become an iconic name in Sao Paulo’s pizza scene. Known for its creativity and high-quality ingredients, Bráz offers a wide range of mouthwatering pizzas that will please any pizza enthusiast.
Buenos Aires, Argentina: A South American Twist
With its strong Italian influence, it’s no surprise that Buenos Aires has a thriving pizza culture. Argentine-style pizza stands out for its thick, doughy crust and generous toppings. Fainá, a flatbread made from chickpea flour, often accompanies the pizza for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Another unique aspect of Buenos Aires’ pizza is the stretchy and creamy mozzarella cheese used for the toppings. El Cuartito, a historic pizza joint founded in 1934, is a must-visit for pizza lovers seeking traditional toppings and an authentic Buenos Aires experience.
Tokyo, Japan: An Unexpected Pizza Wonderland
While Tokyo may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking of pizza, it has a burgeoning pizza scene waiting to be explored. Japanese-style pizza offers a unique twist on traditional toppings, with a wide range of ingredients, including seafood and even mayonnaise. Mentaiko, a spicy cod roe often combined with mayonnaise, is a popular topping choice in Tokyo. Squid, shrimp, and seaweed are also commonly found on Japanese pizzas. Seirinkan, a famous pizzeria in Tokyo, is renowned for its creative toppings and innovative approach to pizza-making. With a pizza-making robot capable of producing up to 80 pizzas per hour, Seirinkan is at the forefront of technological advancement in the pizza world.
Naples, Florida, United States: Neapolitan-Style Pizza in the Sunshine State
Naples, Florida, has gained recognition as a pizza destination in the United States due to its dedication to traditional Neapolitan-style pizza-making techniques. The city boasts a thriving pizza scene, with numerous pizzerias that prioritize high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors. Pazzo! Cucina Italiana, a popular pizzeria in Naples, offers a wide range of pizza options alongside other traditional Italian dishes. From classic Neapolitan-style to unique and innovative toppings, Naples, Florida has something for every pizza connoisseur.
Istanbul, Turkey: A Surprising Pizza Haven
Istanbul may not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking of pizza, but the Turkish-style pizza, known as “pide,” is a true hidden gem. Pide is typically oval-shaped with a thick crust and various toppings. Sucuk, a spicy sausage unique to Turkey, is a popular choice, along with lamb, cheese, and vegetables. Pizzeria Pidos, a famous establishment in Istanbul, is celebrated for its traditional pide and high-quality ingredients. A visit to Istanbul is not complete without indulging in this lesser-known yet delectable pizza variety.
Melbourne, Australia: A Pizza Scene Ready to Impress
Although Melbourne may not be as renowned for its pizza as other cities on this list, it still boasts a vibrant pizza scene worth exploring. Melbourne-style pizza stands out with its thin, crispy crust and creative toppings. From the classic combination of pumpkin, feta cheese, and spinach to the indulgence of prosciutto, rocket, and shaved parmesan cheese, Melbourne offers a diverse range of tempting choices. 400 Gradi, an award-winning pizzeria, has gained recognition for its traditional Neapolitan-style pizza and its commitment to using high-quality ingredients. A visit to Melbourne offers a chance to tantalize your taste buds with exceptional pizza creations.
In conclusion, the world is filled with incredible pizza cities that celebrate this much-loved dish in their unique ways. Whether you find yourself in Naples, Italy, or Naples, Florida, there’s a pizza out there that will satisfy your cravings. So, the next time you visit one of these cities, make sure to immerse yourself in the local pizza culture by visiting one of the famous pizzerias. After all, pizza is not just a food; it’s an experience that connects people from all walks of life. Get ready to embark on a global pizza adventure and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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