The 30 Best Pizzerias in America (The International Rankings Might Shock You)

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There are few topics that inspire as much passionate debate in America as pizza. For decades, the conversation has been dominated by a few legendary cities and their iconic styles. You’ve got the classic rivalry between New York’s foldable slice and Chicago’s deep dish, the crisp, charred perfection of New Haven’s apizza, and the unique, cheesy squares of Detroit. Everyone has a favorite, a local spot they swear by, and an opinion on what makes a truly great pie.

But what happens when a team of international experts, with no regional biases or nostalgic ties, steps in to settle the score? That’s exactly what happened recently when a prestigious international ranking body released its definitive list of the 30 best pizzerias in America. The results are in, and they are anything but predictable. This isn’t just about a popularity contest; it’s a celebration of culinary craft, quality ingredients, and a dedication to the art of pizza making. Prepare to have your assumptions challenged, because the pizzerias on this list might surprise you.

The Global Standard: How the Rankings Work

The international judges who compiled this list weren’t just looking for the biggest names in the pizza world. They approached the task with a meticulous, fine-dining sensibility. Their criteria went far beyond a simple taste test. They evaluated each pizzeria on several key factors:

The Dough: Is it perfectly fermented? Does it have a beautiful texture, a light and airy crust, and a satisfying chew? This is the foundation of any great pizza.
Quality of Ingredients: Did they use high-quality, often local and seasonal, ingredients? They looked for fresh, flavorful tomatoes, artisan cheeses, and premium toppings.
The Oven and Technique: The judges paid close attention to the cooking process, from the type of oven used (most were wood-fired or gas-fired dome ovens) to the skill of the pizzaiolo.
Consistency and Execution: Did the pizzeria consistently deliver a top-tier product? A great pizza is no accident; it’s a result of tireless practice and dedication.

This rigorous process created a list that celebrates not just the flavor, but the entire culinary experience. It’s a global perspective on a uniquely American obsession.

The Shocking Takeaways from America’s Top 30

The most surprising thing about this international ranking is what it tells us about the evolving American pizza scene. While some legendary pizzerias held their ground, the list revealed a few key trends that are completely changing the game.

First, the dominance of the authentic Neapolitan-style pie was undeniable. Pizzerias dedicated to using traditional methods, San Marzano tomatoes, and wood-fired ovens took a commanding lead. This shows that the pursuit of simple, high-quality ingredients and flawless technique is resonating with a global palate.

Second, the geographical spread of the list was a revelation. While New York and Chicago still have a strong presence, a number of unexpected cities made the list, proving that the best pizza can be found far beyond the traditional hubs. Places like Phoenix, Arizona, and Portland, Oregon, are now considered culinary destinations for serious pizza lovers.

Finally, the list celebrates a new generation of pizzaiolos who are pushing the boundaries of what pizza can be. They are creating unique flavor combinations, using innovative fermentation techniques, and turning a simple dish into a gourmet experience. This ranking is a clear signal that America’s pizza culture is more vibrant and diverse than ever before.

The List: The 30 Best Pizzerias in America

This is the list you’ve been waiting for. Here are the 30 best pizzerias in America, as ranked by international experts.

New York City, New York

Una Pizza Napoletana: Widely considered a pioneer of authentic Neapolitan pizza, this Lower East Side spot is a pilgrimage site for serious pizza lovers.
Lucali: The famous Brooklyn spot known for its thin-crust, perfectly balanced pies and cozy, intimate atmosphere.
Joe’s Pizza: A classic slice shop that has earned its reputation for a consistently perfect, no-frills New York slice.
L&B Spumoni Gardens: An iconic Bensonhurst institution, famous for its square, thick-crust Sicilian slices.
Ops: A hidden gem in Bushwick, celebrated for its unique sourdough crust and creative toppings.

New Haven, Connecticut

Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana: A true institution and a legendary name in American pizza, known for its coal-fired ovens and signature charred crust.
Sally’s Apizza: Another New Haven legend, famous for its thin, crispy, and flavorful tomato pie.

Chicago, Illinois

Spacca Napoli Pizzeria: This Ravenswood pizzeria brings a truly authentic Neapolitan experience to the heart of deep-dish country, earning a spot on this international list.
Coalfire: Located in the West Loop, this spot uses a clean-burning coal oven to produce a unique, crisp pizza that stands out from the Chicago crowd.

Phoenix, Arizona

Pizzeria Bianco: A name synonymous with American artisanal pizza. Chef Chris Bianco’s dedication to his craft, from the dough to the ingredients, has made this a global standout.

Los Angeles, California

Pizzeria Mozza: Chef Nancy Silverton’s renowned spot is celebrated for its inventive toppings and perfectly blistered crust.
Quarter Sheets Pizza Club: A newer, highly sought-after destination known for its Detroit-style square pizzas with incredibly flavorful toppings and a distinct focus on quality.

Portland, Oregon

Ken’s Artisan Pizza: This Portland spot is famous for its wood-fired pizzas with a light, flavorful crust and a focus on simple, high-quality ingredients.
Apizza Scholls: Known for its commitment to perfection, this pizzeria serves an incredible New York-style pie with a famously crisp crust.

San Francisco, California

Tony’s Pizza Napoletana: A true master of many styles, Tony Gemignani’s pizzeria offers a vast menu of award-winning pizzas, from authentic Neapolitan to classic New York and more.
Del Popolo: Originally a mobile pizzeria, this spot is celebrated for its stunning wood-fired Neapolitan pies with a focus on fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Pizzeria Beddia: Once a tiny walk-up shop, this pizzeria became a national sensation for its dedication to the perfect pie, with a delicious crust and a balanced taste.
Pizza Brain: Part pizzeria, part museum, this place is a unique experience serving creative, flavorful pies in a fun, art-filled setting.

The Rest of America

Razza Pizza Artigianale (Jersey City, New Jersey): A perennial favorite on international lists, Razza is celebrated for its incredible dough and its commitment to locally-sourced ingredients.
Di Fara Pizza (Brooklyn, New York): Dom DeMarco’s legendary pizzeria is an experience in itself, with a unique slice that has stood the test of time.
Pizzeria Lola (Minneapolis, Minnesota): Known for its wood-fired pies and creative combinations, Lola has put Minneapolis on the international pizza map.
Buddy’s Rendezvous Pizzeria (Detroit, Michigan): An icon of Detroit-style pizza, Buddy’s is a must-visit for anyone who loves the crispy, cheesy squares of this distinct style.
Zuppardi’s Apizza (West Haven, Connecticut): A family-run institution with a long history of making classic, delicious pizzas.
Pequod’s Pizza (Chicago, Illinois): Famous for its caramelized crust, this is a beloved spot for Chicagoans and visitors alike.
Santarpio’s Pizza (Boston, Massachusetts): A no-frills, old-school spot with a cult following for its delicious, classic pizza.
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria (Brooklyn, New York): Known for its coal-fired brick oven and pies with a rich, smoky flavor.
Posto (Cambridge, Massachusetts): This spot is celebrated for its authentic Neapolitan pies and a great atmosphere.
Motorino Pizzeria (New York, New York): With locations in several countries, Motorino’s commitment to high-quality ingredients and classic technique has earned it international acclaim.
Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano (Brooklyn, New York): One of the oldest pizzerias in America, Totonno’s is a historical treasure known for its unique, coal-fired pies.
The Pizza Place (Scottsdale, Arizona): A local favorite that has now gained international recognition for its delicious and consistent quality.

What This Means for the American Pizza Scene

This ranking is a testament to the incredible quality and diversity of the American pizza scene. It shows that the best pizzerias are no longer confined to a few famous cities. Instead, they can be found across the country, run by dedicated chefs who are elevating a simple, beloved dish into a true art form.

For pizza lovers, this list is a new culinary map. It’s an invitation to go on a pizza pilgrimage, to step outside your comfort zone, and to discover the unexpected gems that have been given the highest honor by the world’s most discerning palates. So, the next time you’re craving a slice, consider consulting this list. You might just find your new favorite.