Pizza is one of America’s most beloved foods. Neapolitan-style pizza was first introduced to the United States by Italian immigrants in the late 19th century. Since then, pizza has become ingrained into American culture. Across the country, there are many iconic pizzerias that have stood the test of time and become famous for their delicious pies.
In this article, we will explore the history and offerings of the 5 most famous pizzerias across the USA. Whether you’re a local looking to experience an American classic or a tourist wanting to sample authentic regional flavors, these renowned pizza joints are a must-visit.
Lombardi’s – New York City, NY
The First Pizzeria in the United States
It’s impossible to talk about famous American pizzerias without mentioning Lombardi’s. Located in Manhattan, Lombardi’s was the very first pizzeria in the United States, opened in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi.
Lombardi’s imported tomatoes from Italy and used a coal-fired oven to create New York-style pizza with a crisp crust and simple, fresh toppings. Their margherita pizza features tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil – the colors of the Italian flag.
Today, Lombardi’s is operated by the third generation of the family. They stay true to the original recipes while also offering new toppings and specialty pizzas. A visit to Lombardi’s is like taking a bite out of history.
Pizzeria Bianco – Phoenix, AZ
Gourmet Pizza Perfection
While the East Coast is known for New York-style pizza, the West Coast has its own pizza icon – Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix, Arizona. Created by chef Chris Bianco in 1996, Pizzeria Bianco makes gourmet wood-fired pizzas with high-quality toppings and inventive flavor combinations.
Bianco uses only the finest ingredients, from San Marzano tomatoes to housemade mozzarella. The menu is small but packs a punch – renowned pies include the Margherita with fresh mozzarella and basil and the Wiseguy with wood-roasted onion and fennel sausage.
Pizzeria Bianco now has several locations in Arizona but the original downtown Phoenix shop has a legendary status. Willing to wait hours for a coveted table, fans say the pizza here is life-changing.
Pepe’s Pizzeria – New Haven, CT
The Home of White Clam Pizza
For a taste of New England-style pizza, a visit to Pepe’s Pizzeria in New Haven, Connecticut is in order. Opened in 1925 by Frank Pepe, this renowned pizzeria is famous for its signature white clam pizza.
Pepe’s white clam pizza features freshly-shucked clams, olive oil, oregano, garlic,Romano cheese and a sprinkling of pecorino romano on top. The crust is baked to charred, crispy perfection in Pepe’s fiery coal-fired ovens.
Beyond clam pizza, Pepe’s serves classic New Haven-style pies with thin crusts and toppings like pepperoni, mushrooms, and anchovies. Customers also rave about their fresh salads and homemade cheesecake.
There are now several locations of Pepe’s in Connecticut, but the Wooster Street original is considered the finest. Expect long lines out the door, especially on weekends. This taste of classic Americana is worth the wait.
Una Pizza Napoletana – New York City, NY
Authentic Neapolitan Pizza in NYC
For pizza lovers visiting New York City, Una Pizza Napoletana is a must-try stop. UPN was opened on the Lower East Side in 2004 by Anthony Mangieri, a famous pizzaiolo (pizza maker) dedicated to the craft of authentic Neapolitan pizza.
UPN serves Neapolitan-style pizza made according to the strict standards of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, using ingredients imported from Naples like Caputo flour and San Marzano tomatoes. Pies are baked in wood-fired ovens that reach 900°F.
The menu is simple – just 5 pizza varieties including marinara and margherita. But the pizza itself is superb, with delicate, lightly-charred crusts that are soft and chewy with just the right amount of crisp. UPN has developed a cult following amongst pizza aficionados.
Sally’s Apizza – New Haven, CT
New Haven Icon since 1938
No list of famous American pizzerias is complete without Sally’s Apizza in New Haven. Family-owned since 1938, Sally’s serves quintessential New Haven pizza in a delightfully old-school setting.
At Sally’s, pizza is baked the traditional way in coal-fired ovens using thin, chewy crust. Must-try pies include their signature tomato pie with fresh tomato and garlic, and the famous white pie topped with mozzarella and Parmesan. Don’t skip the antipasti salads either.
Expect long lines at Sally’s as loyal patrons have been flocking here for generations. But the wait is worth it for a taste of New Haven’s pizza heritage in an iconic pizzeria that remains stuck in time.
In Summary
From New York to New Haven to Phoenix, these five legendary pizzerias represent the diversity of regional pizza styles across America. While their approaches may differ, they share common traits like attention to quality ingredients, mastery of pizza-making craft, and roots in Italian tradition.
Beyond serving mouthwatering pies, each pizzeria has become woven into the cultural fabric of its local community and American pizza lore. So whether you’re a pizza connoisseur on a pilgrimage or just looking for a taste of authentic Americana, a visit to any of these famous pizza meccas is a must. Just come hungry and be prepared to wait in line because the pizza here speaks for itself.
