Philadelphia, the city of brotherly love, is famous for many things, but its pizza is often overshadowed by its iconic cheesesteaks. However, those who have indulged in Philly's pizza scene know that it deserves just as much recognition. With a history dating back to Italy's mass immigration in the late 1800s, Philadelphia's pizza has evolved into a unique blend of traditional and innovative styles.
From thin-crust Roman-style pies to thick, Sicilian-style squares, Philly's pizza scene is as diverse as its neighborhoods. The secret to its success lies in the ingredients - from the fresh, locally-sourced produce to the tangy, homemade sauces and the perfectly crispy, cheesy crust. Let's dive into some of the best Philly pizza spots, bringing you this comprehensive reviewer's guide.
Traditional Philly Pizza
Philly pizza is characterized by its crispy, thin-to-medium crust, cut into squares rather than slices. The city's Italian immigrants brought their recipes, adapted with available American ingredients, creating a distinct flavor profile. Here are two pizzerias that excel in this classic style:
Marino Bros.
Established in 1923, Marino Bros. is one of Philly's oldest and most respected pizzerias. Their traditional tomato pie - a Philly specialty - features a crispy, thin crust, tangy tomato sauce, and a light brush of olive oil. The simplicity belies a complexity of flavors that'll have you reaching for another square.
Address: 321 E Italian Market St, Philadelphia, PA 19147
Joe's Steak and Write
While famous for its cheesesteaks, Joe's also serves up some of the city's best pizza. Their traditional pie is made with a secret family recipe, including a house-made tomato sauce and a perfectly crispy-crunchy crust. The unique twist? Ordering it "wit wiz" (with Cheez Whiz) - a Philly staple you've gotta try at least once.
Address: 1901 Tranmere St, Philadelphia, PA 19126
Specialty Pizza in Philly
Beyond tradition, Philly's pizza scene boasts innovative styles and toppings. Here are two pizzerias pushing the boundaries of what a Philly pizza can be:
Osteria
This upscale Italian restaurant offers a variety of pizza options, all cooked in an authentic wood-burning oven. The specialty pie, La Capricciosa, features prosciutto di parma, roasted mushrooms, arugula, and stracchino cheese. It's a symphony of flavors that elevates the humble pizza pie.
Address: 640 N Broad St, Philadelphia, PA 19130
Pizzeria Vetri
Chef Marc Vetri brought his culinary prowess to this pizzeria, offering a variety of unique, high-quality pies. The Fleisher Kresser - topped with blazing hot pepper sauce, honey, and pepperoni - is a crowd-pleaser, but the menu boasts an array of classic and innovative options to cater to all tastes.
Address: 1938 E Passyunk Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19148
As you explore Philly's pizza scene, remember to keep an open mind and an empty stomach. From traditional tomato pies to innovative specialty pizzas, there's a slice for everyone in this city of robust flavors and rich culinary traditions. Next time you're in Philly, satisfy your pizza craving and discover why our local pie deserves its spot in the culinary limelight. Buon appetito!