Best Pizza in Detroit: A Guide to Detroit's Top Pizza Spots

• 1 - Why Detroit is Famous for Its Pizza
• 2 - Top Pizza Restaurants in Detroit
• 3 - Types of Pizza You Must Try in Detroit
• 4 - What Makes Detroit Pizza Unique?
• 5 - Real-Life Example: Best Pizza Experience in Detroit

1 - Why Detroit is Famous for Its Pizza

Detroit is well-known for its unique and delicious pizza. While cities like New York and Chicago have their own famous styles, Detroit has carved out its own niche with a pizza that is truly distinctive. Known for its square-shaped pies, thick crust, and rich, tangy sauce, Detroit-style pizza has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or just looking to try something new, Detroit’s pizza scene is a must-try for any foodie.

Detroit-style pizza is unique not only because of its shape but also its ingredients. The thick, airy crust is often baked in a well-oiled steel pan, resulting in a crispy, golden-brown bottom. The toppings, often including a hearty amount of cheese and pepperoni, are spread generously, while the sauce is typically added after baking, allowing for a rich, flavorful finish. This approach to pizza-making has made Detroit a top destination for pizza lovers.

Erik's DeliCafé

CampbellSanta Clara CountyCalifornia

1777 S Bascom Ave, Campbell, CA 95008, USA

2 - Top Pizza Restaurants in Detroit

Detroit is home to many fantastic pizza spots, each offering its own twist on the classic Detroit-style pizza. Whether you're in the mood for something traditional or looking to try a new take on pizza, here are some of the top places to get the best pizza in Detroit:

Smashburger

San JoseSanta Clara CountyCalifornia

579 Coleman Ave Suite 50, San Jose, CA 95110, USA

1. Buddy’s Pizza

Buddy’s Pizza is often considered the birthplace of Detroit-style pizza. Since its opening in 1946, it has been serving up delicious square pies that define the city’s pizza scene. Known for its crispy, chewy crust and generous toppings, Buddy’s is a must-visit for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Detroit-style pizza.

2. Loui’s Pizza

If you're looking for a traditional, family-run pizzeria, Loui’s Pizza is a staple in Detroit. Located in the Old Redford neighborhood, Loui’s is known for its classic Detroit-style pizza and a secret sauce recipe that has been perfected over decades. The warm, inviting atmosphere makes it a popular choice for both locals and visitors.

3. Jet’s Pizza

Jet’s Pizza is a well-known chain that originated in Michigan and offers delicious Detroit-style pizza with a variety of unique toppings. Its famous eight-corner pizza is a fan favorite, offering an extra crispy, cheesy bite at every corner. With multiple locations throughout Detroit, Jet’s Pizza is a convenient and tasty choice for pizza lovers on the go.

4. Detroit Style Pizza Co.

For a modern twist on the classic Detroit-style pizza, head to Detroit Style Pizza Co. Their pies are known for their high-quality ingredients and creative toppings. With a commitment to authenticity and innovation, this spot offers a fresh take on Detroit pizza that appeals to both newcomers and die-hard fans.

3 - Types of Pizza You Must Try in Detroit

While Detroit is famous for its signature square-shaped pizza, there are several variations and styles you’ll want to explore. From deep-dish creations to more traditional offerings, Detroit’s pizza scene is diverse and exciting. Here are some types of pizza you should try in Detroit:

1. Classic Detroit-Style Pizza

The most iconic pizza style in Detroit, classic Detroit-style pizza features a thick crust, square shape, and a signature blend of mozzarella and provolone cheeses. The sauce is often applied after baking, giving it a unique, fresh taste. Popular toppings include pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms.

2. Deep Dish Pizza

Though associated more with Chicago, Detroit offers its own take on deep-dish pizza. Thick, hearty, and loaded with cheese, deep-dish pizza in Detroit often features a crispy, buttery crust. It’s the perfect choice for those looking for a pizza that’s both filling and satisfying.

3. Stuffed Pizza

Stuffed pizza takes things to the next level by layering ingredients inside a thick crust. Think of it as a pizza pie, with a generous amount of cheese, meats, and vegetables stuffed into a crust that’s baked to perfection. This style of pizza offers a rich and indulgent experience that’s perfect for those looking for a truly filling meal.

4 - What Makes Detroit Pizza Unique?

Detroit-style pizza stands out from other pizza styles for several key reasons. The most notable difference is the shape: Detroit-style pizza is square, unlike the round pies typically seen in New York or Chicago. This unique shape allows for more crispy edges, which are a hallmark of Detroit pizza.

Another defining feature is the crust. The dough is made with high-gluten flour, resulting in a thick yet airy texture. The dough is baked in a well-oiled pan, which gives the bottom of the pizza a crispy, golden-brown finish. The cheese is spread all the way to the edges of the pan, creating a caramelized, crunchy crust. Additionally, the sauce is typically added after baking, which helps preserve the fresh, tangy flavor.

1. The Sauce

The sauce on a Detroit-style pizza is distinct because it is applied on top of the cheese and toppings after baking, unlike traditional pizza where the sauce is layered directly on the dough. This gives the sauce a fresh, vibrant taste that perfectly complements the rich cheese and toppings.

2. The Cheese

Detroit-style pizza typically uses a blend of mozzarella and provolone cheeses, often in generous quantities. The cheese is spread all the way to the edge of the pan, where it caramelizes and forms a crispy, golden crust that adds a unique flavor and texture to each bite.

5 - Real-Life Example: Best Pizza Experience in Detroit

Let’s take a look at the experience of Tom, a frequent visitor to Detroit. He had heard much about the city’s pizza scene and decided to try out a few spots. After visiting Buddy’s Pizza, Loui’s Pizza, and Detroit Style Pizza Co., Tom found that each restaurant offered something unique. However, he was especially impressed by the classic Detroit-style pizza at Buddy’s Pizza, which he described as “the perfect balance of crispy crust, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese.”

Tom’s experience shows just how diverse the pizza scene in Detroit is, with each restaurant offering a distinct interpretation of the beloved Detroit-style pizza. Whether you’re a first-timer or a lifelong fan, there’s always something new to try in Detroit’s pizza world.