Pizza is one of the most beloved foods in the world. From its humble beginnings in Naples to its global dominance, pizza has become a universal comfort food. But who makes the world’s best pizza? This question sparks endless debates among food lovers. In this article, we’ll explore the history of pizza, the secrets behind crafting the perfect pie, and the top pizzerias around the globe.
The History of Pizza
Pizza has a rich history that dates back centuries. Its origins can be traced to Naples, Italy, in the 18th century. At the time, Naples was a bustling city with a large working-class population. Street vendors sold flatbreads topped with simple ingredients like tomatoes, cheese, and oil. These early pizzas were affordable and filling, making them a popular choice for the poor.
The modern pizza as we know it today was born in 1889 when pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito created the Margherita pizza. He topped the pizza with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil to represent the colors of the Italian flag. This pizza was named after Queen Margherita of Savoy, who visited Naples and fell in love with the dish.
What Makes a Great Pizza?
Creating the perfect pizza is both an art and a science.
Here are the key elements that make a pizza truly exceptional:
1. The Dough
The foundation of any great pizza is the dough. It should be soft, chewy, and slightly crispy on the edges. The best pizzas use high-quality flour, water, yeast, and salt. The dough must be kneaded properly and allowed to ferment for at least 24 hours to develop flavor.
2. The Sauce
A great pizza sauce is simple yet flavorful. It’s made with ripe tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and a pinch of salt. Some pizzerias use San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their sweet and tangy flavor. The sauce should be spread evenly but not too thickly, allowing the other ingredients to shine.
3. The Cheese
Mozzarella is the most common cheese used on pizza, but not all mozzarella is created equal. Fresh mozzarella, made from buffalo milk, is the gold standard. It melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture to the pizza.
4. The Toppings
Toppings should be fresh and high-quality. Whether it’s pepperoni, mushrooms, or basil, each ingredient should complement the others without overwhelming the pizza.
5. The Cooking Method
Traditional Neapolitan pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven at extremely high temperatures (around 900°F or 480°C). This creates a crispy crust with a slightly charred flavor.
The Top Pizzerias in the World
Now that we know what makes a great pizza, let’s explore some of the top pizzerias in the world. These establishments have earned their reputation through years of dedication to the craft.
1. L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele (Naples, Italy)
L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele is often considered the birthplace of modern pizza. Founded in 1870, this iconic pizzeria serves only two types of pizza: Margherita and Marinara. The simplicity of their menu allows them to perfect every detail, from the dough to the sauce.
2. Di Fara Pizza (New York City, USA)
Di Fara Pizza is a New York institution. Opened in 1965 by Domenico DeMarco, this pizzeria is known for its handcrafted pies. DeMarco personally oversees every pizza, using fresh ingredients imported from Italy. The result is a pizza that’s rich, flavorful, and unforgettable.
3. Pizzeria Bianco (Phoenix, USA)
Chris Bianco, the owner of Pizzeria Bianco, is a legend in the pizza world. His dedication to quality has earned him numerous awards, including a James Beard Award. The Rosa pizza, topped with red onion, Parmigiano-Reggiano, and pistachios, is a must-try.
4. Pepe in Grani (Caiazzo, Italy)
Pepe in Grani is located in a small town near Naples, but its reputation has spread worldwide. Franco Pepe, the master pizzaiolo, uses locally sourced ingredients to create innovative and delicious pizzas. The Margherita Sbagliata, made with buffalo mozzarella and basil, is a standout.
5. Pizzeria Gino Sorbillo (Naples, Italy)
Gino Sorbillo is one of Naples’ most famous pizzerias. The Sorbillo family has been making pizza for three generations, and their expertise shows in every bite. The pizzeria is always crowded, but the wait is worth it for their perfectly balanced pies.
6. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana (New Haven, USA)
Frank Pepe Pizzeria is a New Haven landmark. Founded in 1925, it’s known for its coal-fired pizzas, which have a unique charred flavor. The White Clam Pizza, made with fresh clams, garlic, and olive oil, is a local favorite.
7. 50 Kalò (Naples, Italy)
50 Kalò is a relative newcomer to the Naples pizza scene, but it has quickly gained a reputation for excellence. Ciro Salvo, the owner, focuses on creating a light and digestible crust. The result is a pizza that’s both delicious and easy to eat.
8. Pizzeria Mozza (Los Angeles, USA)
Pizzeria Mozza, co-owned by celebrity chef Nancy Silverton, combines Italian tradition with California flair. The pizzas are made with a sourdough crust, which adds a unique tangy flavor. The squash blossom pizza, topped with burrata and tomato, is a fan favorite.
9. Bæst (Copenhagen, Denmark)
Bæst is proof that great pizza can be found outside of Italy and the United States. This Copenhagen pizzeria makes everything in-house, from the mozzarella to the cured meats. The result is a pizza that’s fresh, flavorful, and deeply satisfying.
10. La Notizia (Naples, Italy)
La Notizia is another Naples gem, known for its commitment to quality. The pizzeria uses organic ingredients and a slow fermentation process to create a light and airy crust. The Margherita Extra, made with buffalo mozzarella and cherry tomatoes, is a must-try.
Regional Pizza Styles
Pizza has evolved in different ways around the world.
Here are some of the most popular regional styles:
1. Neapolitan Pizza
Neapolitan pizza is the original pizza style. It has a thin, soft crust and is cooked in a wood-fired oven. The toppings are simple, usually just tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
2. New York-Style Pizza
New York-style pizza is characterized by its large, foldable slices. The crust is thin but sturdy, with a slightly crispy exterior. It’s often topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella, but you can find a wide variety of toppings.
3. Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago deep-dish pizza is the opposite of Neapolitan pizza. It has a thick, buttery crust and is loaded with cheese and toppings. The pizza is baked in a deep pan, giving it a pie-like appearance.
4. Roman Pizza
Roman pizza has a thin, crispy crust and is often sold by the slice. It’s lighter than Neapolitan pizza and can be topped with a variety of ingredients, from vegetables to cured meats.
5. Sicilian Pizza
Sicilian pizza has a thick, rectangular crust and is topped with tomato sauce and cheese. It’s often baked in a well-oiled pan, which gives the crust a crispy bottom.
The Future of Pizza
As pizza continues to evolve, we’re seeing new trends and innovations. Some pizzerias are experimenting with gluten-free crusts, while others are incorporating unconventional toppings like truffles and caviar. Vegan pizzas are also becoming more popular, with plant-based cheeses and meats replacing traditional ingredients.
Despite these changes, the essence of pizza remains the same. It’s a dish that brings people together, whether it’s a family dinner or a late-night snack.
Conclusion
So, who makes the world’s best pizza? The answer depends on your personal taste. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a Neapolitan Margherita or the bold flavors of a New York slice, there’s a perfect pizza out there for everyone. The pizzerias mentioned in this article are a great place to start your culinary journey.
Pizza is more than just food—it’s a cultural phenomenon that has captured the hearts of people around the world. No matter where you are, you’re never far from a great pizza. So go out, explore, and find your favorite slice!
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