Pizza has been a staple in American cuisine for decades, but in recent years, Los Angeles has seen a surge in artisanal pizzerias that are elevating this classic dish to new heights. From classic Neapolitan-style pizzas to creative, toppings-heavy pies, there's a pizza for every taste in LA.
One of the most popular styles in the city is Neapolitan-style pizza, which features a thin, chewy crust, a simple tomato sauce, and high-quality mozzarella cheese. These pizzas are cooked in wood-fired ovens, which gives the crust a slight char and smoky flavor. Think places like Pizzana or Pizzeria Bianco.
Another popular style is the New York-style pizza, which is characterized by its large, foldable slices and crispy crust. This style of pizza is often served by the slice and is a staple for late-night munchies. Vito's Pizza or Apollonia's Pizzeria offer great NY style pizza in LA.
Another popular style of pizza in Los Angeles is the Square or Sicilian-style pizza. This type of pizza is known for its thick, fluffy crust and its square shape, which is perfect for slicing into squares for sharing. It's often made with a sweeter sauce and toppings that are heavier than those used on other styles of pizza, making it a favorite among those who prefer a heartier meal. The cheese used is typically a blend of mozzarella and provolone, and the toppings range from classic pepperoni to more unconventional options like eggplant and ricotta. Square or Sicilian-style pizza is perfect for those who love a filling, satisfying meal. You can find these at the popular Prime Pizza.
For those who like their pizzas loaded with toppings, there's the California-style pizza. This style originated in the Golden State and often features unconventional toppings like fig, chicken, and goat cheese. Like the chicken meatball pizza at Milo + Olive or the fig, prosciutto, and goat cheese pizza from North Italia.
A Food Critic's Take on The Perfect Pizza
The perfect pizza is one that strikes a balance between the quality of the ingredients and the cooking method. The dough is the foundation of any great pizza, and it should be made with high-quality flour, yeast, water, and salt. It should have a chewy texture with a crisp exterior and a slightly charred flavor.
The sauce is another crucial component of a perfect pizza. It should be made with ripe, juicy tomatoes, a touch of garlic, and a pinch of salt. It should be thick enough to hold its shape but not so thick that it overwhelms the crust.
The best way to cook a pizza is in a wood-fired oven, which provides intense heat and allows the crust to cook evenly. The cheese should be high-quality mozzarella that is melted to perfection, providing the perfect balance of creaminess and stringiness.
Finally, the taste should be a harmonious blend of flavors, with the crust, sauce, and cheese complementing each other. The perfect pizza should have a crisp, crunchy crust and a soft, chewy interior, with the sauce and cheese providing just the right amount of flavor and texture.
The rise of pizza in Los Angeles has created a thriving culinary scene, and with so many styles available, there's a pizza for everyone. Whether you're a fan of classic Neapolitan-style pizzas or prefer your pizzas loaded with unconventional toppings, the city has something to offer.
