If there’s one thing that unites people worldwide, it’s a shared love for pizza. This versatile dish, with its countless variations and adaptations, has won hearts from east to west. But where in the world should a self-respecting pizza aficionado travel to savor the most tantalizing slices?
While Italy is the obvious answer to that question, there are some specific cities within the country that have made their mark on this delectable dish you should prioritize … as well as a few less-expected options to try the best pizza in the world.
1. Naples, Italy
As the birthplace of pizza, Naples, Italy, is the ultimate pilgrimage destination for pizza lovers. It’s a great city to visit for a weekend or even just for the day on your way to more obvious locations such as Rome or Positano. If you’re just passing through Naples, look for Napoli Centrale bag storage where you can leave your luggage so you can try the world’s first pizza unencumbered.
Indulge in the simple yet divine Pizza Napoletana, characterized by its thin, soft, and elastic crust, topped with San Marzano tomatoes, Mozzarella di Bufala Campana (buffalo mozzarella), fresh basil, and olive oil. The experience of devouring an authentic Neapolitan pizza cooked in a blisteringly hot wood-fired oven in a bustling pizzeria in Naples is nothing short of transcendental.
2. New York, New York (USA)
Cross the Atlantic to the bustling streets of New York City, where the iconic New York-style pizza reigns supreme. This is pizza designed for busy city life, often served in generously-sized, thin, and crispy slices that are perfect for on-the-go eating. The toppings are versatile, but the traditional New Yorker slice is adorned simply with a rich tomato sauce and gooey mozzarella.
Don’t miss the experience of grabbing a slice from a neighborhood pizza joint, folding it in half, and enjoying the melty goodness while you navigate the vibrant NYC streets. This is a pizza tradition that reflects the city’s fast-paced, diverse, and utterly delicious food culture.
3. Rome, Italy
Another must-visit for pizza enthusiasts is Rome. Distinct from its Neapolitan cousin, Roman-style pizza is thin and crispy, often cooked in a rectangular shape, and cut to serve. Pizza al taglio, literally “pizza by the cut,” is a Roman specialty where you choose the size of your slice from a large rectangular pizza. Traditional toppings include a simple tomato sauce and mozzarella, but variations are countless, often featuring fresh, local ingredients.
4. Tokyo, Japan
Tokyo might not be the first city that comes to mind when thinking about pizza, but this vibrant metropolis is making a name for itself in the pizza world. Japanese pizza chefs bring precision and an innovative spirit to their creations. And when you think about all of the other types of food that Japan has mastered and innovated … pizza becomes a no-brainer.
You’ll find Neapolitan-style pizzas crafted with utmost care but also uniquely Japanese adaptations, featuring toppings like teriyaki chicken, miso, or even seafood like squid and tuna. For the adventurous pizza lover, Tokyo’s inventive and high-quality pizza scene is well worth the trip.
5. Chicago, Illinois (USA)
Let’s end this controversy here and now: While pizza may be Italian, it couldn’t exist without America … because tomatoes aren’t native to Italy. They were imported from the Americas, so while the claim that multiple American cities have world-class pizza may seem strange, it actually makes perfect sense.
Chicago deep-dish pizza is unlike any other — it’s essentially a pie filled with cheese, chunky tomato sauce, and toppings of your choice, all encased in a thick, buttery crust. Rich and hearty, a single slice can be a meal in itself.
6. Edmonton, Canada
Canada’s Edmonton has become an unexpected hot spot for pizza lovers. Known for their creativity, Edmonton’s pizza chefs experiment with a range of styles, from New York thin-crust to Chicago deep-dish. Unique local ingredients like wild mushrooms or bison sausage often feature on the menus.
The true star in Edmonton, however, is the donair pizza, a fusion of the city’s beloved donair kebab with pizza, featuring spicy meat, onions, tomatoes, and a sweet, tangy sauce. It’s a true Canadian twist on the classic.
7. Milan, Italy
Milan, the fashion capital of Italy, is home to another distinct style of pizza. Unlike the thin crusts of Naples and Rome, Milanese pizza, or pizza al trancio, is thick and fluffy, similar to focaccia.
It’s baked in large rectangular trays, cut into slices, and topped with a variety of fresh ingredients. From classic margherita to gourmet combinations featuring truffles or prosciutto di Parma, Milan offers an elegant take on pizza that reflects the city’s sophisticated palate.
Takeaway
From the thin, soft crusts of Naples to the deep-dish pies of Chicago and the inventive offerings of Tokyo to the fusion flavors of Edmonton, the world is full of delicious and diverse pizza experiences waiting to be discovered. So, pack your bags and prepare your taste buds for a global pizza tour. Your dream pizza vacation awaits!
