What is the real taste of NYC?
To understand the real taste of New York City we must take a little journey through history to appreciate how our favourite NY-style pizza came to be the chosen delivery and pick up near you. The origins of New York-style pizza trace back to the early 20th century with the influx of Italian immigrants to the United States, particularly New York City. The first pizzeria in America, Lombardi’s, was opened in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi in the Little Italy neighborhood of Manhattan. This pizzeria is credited with developing the New York-style pizza.
New York-style pizza evolved from the Neapolitan pizza brought over by Italian immigrants. Adaptations were made to suit local tastes and the ingredients available in the United States. The shift from coal-fired to gas ovens and the adaptation to American mozzarella are among the changes that helped define the unique characteristics of New York-style pizza.
As the popularity of this pizza style grew, it became a staple of New York culture and eventually spread across the United States, with variations developing in different regions. However, the essence of New York-style pizza—its thin crust, simple toppings, and foldability—remains a beloved and iconic food choice both within New York City and beyond.
To get a slice of real New York-style pizza near you in Tennessee, drop by our newly opened store in the heart of Nashville Downtown at 530 Church St.
Facts About New York Style Pizza
- Thin, Crispy, and Slightly Chewy Crust: New York-style pizza features a crust that is thin and flexible enough to be folded in half to eat, yet sturdy enough to hold toppings. The outer edge of the crust, known as the “cornicione,” is puffy and slightly crispy.
- Large Slices and Pies: Typically, a New York pizza is quite large, with a standard diameter of about 18 inches. It is cut into 8 slices, making each slice large enough to satisfy an adult’s appetite.
- Simple Toppings: Traditional New York-style pizza is topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, with the option to add additional toppings like pepperoni, sausage, or vegetables. The sauce is usually seasoned with garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
- Cooking Method: It is traditionally baked in a coal-fired or gas oven at very high temperatures, which contributes to its characteristic crispy crust and evenly melted cheese. This method of baking quickly locks in the flavor and creates a perfect balance between the crispy base and the soft, melty cheese.
Served by the Slice: New York-style pizza is often sold by the slice, catering to the fast-paced lifestyle of New Yorkers. This has also made it a popular street food, with pizzerias commonly offering a “slice” to go, often reheated in the oven for a minute or two for crispiness.
