Detroit-style pizza, a square-cut, thick-crusted delight, has been gaining popularity across the United States. This style of pizza originated in the Motor City in the 1940s and has since become a staple of American cuisine. With its crispy crust, gooey cheese, and savory toppings, it’s no wonder why people are flocking to try this style of pizza. But the question remains: who makes the best Detroit-style pizza?
A Brief History of Detroit-Style Pizza
To understand the best Detroit-style pizza makers, it’s essential to delve into the history of this beloved dish. Detroit-style pizza was born in the 1940s by Buddy’s Restaurant, a local eatery in Detroit. The original recipe, created by Gus Guerra and Connie Piccinato, featured a square crust, topped with a thick layer of cheese and pepperoni. The pizza was baked in a well-oiled pan, giving the crust its signature crunch.
Over the years, Detroit-style pizza has evolved, with various restaurants and pizzerias putting their own spin on the classic recipe. Today, you can find Detroit-style pizza in restaurants and pizzerias across the country, each with its unique twist.
The Characteristics of a Great Detroit-Style Pizza
So, what makes a great Detroit-style pizza? Here are some key characteristics to look for:
The Crust
A great Detroit-style pizza starts with a crispy, crunchy crust. The crust should be thick, but not too thick, and should have a golden-brown color. The crust should also be cooked in a well-oiled pan, giving it a crunchy texture.
The Cheese
The cheese is another essential component of a great Detroit-style pizza. The cheese should be melted to perfection, with a gooey, stringy texture. A blend of mozzarella and Wisconsin brick cheese is traditional, but some pizzerias may use other types of cheese.
The Toppings
The toppings are where you can get creative with your Detroit-style pizza. Traditional toppings include pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms, but you can also find more unique toppings like pineapple and prosciutto.
The Top Detroit-Style Pizza Makers
Now that we’ve covered the characteristics of a great Detroit-style pizza, it’s time to look at some of the top pizza makers in the business. Here are a few of our favorites:
Buddy’s Restaurant
As the birthplace of Detroit-style pizza, Buddy’s Restaurant is a must-visit for any pizza enthusiast. Their classic square pizza features a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and a variety of toppings.
Lou Malnati’s
Lou Malnati’s is a Chicago-based pizzeria that has been serving up some of the best deep-dish pizzas in the country for over 40 years. Their Detroit-style pizza features a buttery crust, melted cheese, and a variety of toppings.
Green Lantern
Green Lantern is a Michigan-based pizzeria that has been serving up some of the best Detroit-style pizzas in the state. Their pizza features a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and a variety of toppings.
Other Notable Mentions
While these three pizzerias are some of the top Detroit-style pizza makers, there are many other notable mentions. Some other great options include:
- Jet’s Pizza: A Michigan-based pizzeria with a crispy crust and gooey cheese.
- Shield’s Pizza: A Michigan-based pizzeria with a thick crust and savory toppings.
The Verdict
So, who makes the best Detroit-style pizza? While opinions may vary, our top pick is Buddy’s Restaurant. Their classic square pizza features a crispy crust, gooey cheese, and a variety of toppings, making it a must-try for any pizza enthusiast.
| Pizzeria | Crust | Cheese | Toppings |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buddy’s Restaurant | Crispy, crunchy | Gooey, melted | Pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms |
| Lou Malnati’s | Buttery, flaky | Melted, creamy | Pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms |
| Green Lantern | Crispy, crunchy | Gooey, melted | Pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms |
In conclusion, Detroit-style pizza is a delicious and unique style of pizza that is worth trying. With its crispy crust, gooey cheese, and savory toppings, it’s no wonder why people are flocking to try this style of pizza. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Detroit-style pizza is a must-try.
What is Detroit-style pizza and how does it differ from other styles?
Detroit-style pizza is a type of square pizza that originated in Detroit, Michigan. It is known for its thick crust, crispy edges, and gooey cheese. The crust is formed into a square shape and topped with a thick layer of cheese and pepperoni, which is then baked in a well-oiled pan. This style of pizza is different from other styles, such as New York-style or Chicago-style, in that it has a thicker crust and a more crispy texture.
The unique cooking process and ingredients used in Detroit-style pizza also set it apart from other styles. The pizza is baked in a well-oiled pan, which gives the crust a crispy texture and a golden-brown color. The cheese is also spread out in a symmetrical pattern, which adds to the pizza’s visual appeal. Overall, Detroit-style pizza is a unique and delicious style of pizza that is worth trying.
What are the key characteristics of a great Detroit-style pizza?
A great Detroit-style pizza should have a thick, crispy crust that is golden-brown in color. The crust should be formed into a square shape and have a crunchy texture on the outside, while being soft and airy on the inside. The pizza should also be topped with a thick layer of cheese and pepperoni, which should be spread out in a symmetrical pattern.
In addition to the crust and toppings, a great Detroit-style pizza should also have a well-balanced flavor profile. The cheese should be melted to perfection, and the pepperoni should be crispy and flavorful. The sauce should be tangy and slightly sweet, and should complement the other flavors on the pizza. Overall, a great Detroit-style pizza should be a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
How do you determine the top Detroit-style pizza makers?
To determine the top Detroit-style pizza makers, we conducted a thorough review of various pizzerias in the Detroit area. We evaluated each pizzeria based on the quality of their crust, toppings, and overall flavor profile. We also considered factors such as the pizzeria’s reputation, customer reviews, and awards or recognition they have received.
In addition to our own review, we also consulted with pizza experts and enthusiasts to get their opinions on the top Detroit-style pizza makers. We also looked at online reviews and ratings to get a sense of how each pizzeria is perceived by the public. By considering all of these factors, we were able to determine the top Detroit-style pizza makers in the Detroit area.
What are some common mistakes that Detroit-style pizza makers make?
One common mistake that Detroit-style pizza makers make is overworking the dough, which can result in a tough and dense crust. Another mistake is not using enough oil in the pan, which can prevent the crust from getting crispy and golden-brown. Some pizzerias also overload the pizza with toppings, which can make the crust soggy and overwhelming.
In addition to these mistakes, some pizzerias also use low-quality ingredients, such as pre-shredded cheese or low-grade pepperoni. This can result in a pizza that lacks flavor and texture. Finally, some pizzerias may not cook the pizza long enough, which can result in a crust that is not crispy and golden-brown.
Can you make Detroit-style pizza at home?
Yes, you can make Detroit-style pizza at home, but it may require some practice and patience to get it right. To make a Detroit-style pizza at home, you will need a square baking pan and a pizza stone or baking steel. You will also need to make a dough from scratch, using a combination of flour, water, yeast, and salt.
To achieve the signature crispy crust and gooey cheese of a Detroit-style pizza, you will need to cook the pizza in a well-oiled pan and use a combination of mozzarella and Wisconsin brick cheese. You will also need to cook the pizza at a high temperature, such as 500°F, for a short amount of time, such as 10-15 minutes. With practice and patience, you can make a delicious Detroit-style pizza at home.
What is the history of Detroit-style pizza?
Detroit-style pizza has a rich history that dates back to the 1940s, when Buddy’s Restaurant in Detroit began serving square pizzas. The original Buddy’s pizza was made with a thick crust, crispy edges, and a gooey cheese topping, and it quickly became a hit with locals. Over the years, other pizzerias in the Detroit area began to serve their own versions of square pizza, and the style became known as Detroit-style pizza.
In the 1970s and 1980s, Detroit-style pizza gained popularity throughout the United States, and it is now enjoyed by pizza lovers all over the country. Despite its widespread popularity, Detroit-style pizza remains a beloved local tradition in Detroit, and many pizzerias in the area continue to serve their own unique versions of this delicious style of pizza.
What is the future of Detroit-style pizza?
The future of Detroit-style pizza looks bright, as this style of pizza continues to gain popularity throughout the United States. Many pizzerias are now serving their own versions of Detroit-style pizza, and the style is being recognized by pizza enthusiasts and critics alike. In addition, the rise of social media has helped to spread the word about Detroit-style pizza, and many people are now seeking out this unique and delicious style of pizza.
As the popularity of Detroit-style pizza continues to grow, it is likely that we will see new and innovative variations of this style emerge. Some pizzerias may experiment with new toppings or ingredients, while others may focus on perfecting the traditional recipe. Whatever the future holds, one thing is certain: Detroit-style pizza is here to stay, and it will continue to be a beloved favorite among pizza lovers for years to come.