Metro Detroit has an incredible pizza history, giving rise (pun intended) to a style of pie that is known around the nation and even the world. Detroit-style pizza is cheesy with a sauce on top that truly is unique, tasty and special in the best sense of those words.
What is the traditional definition of a Detroit-style pizza? First, it should be rectangular – mostly because of the shape of the pan where it is baked. The crust is thick and chewy. Toppings should under the sauce for the most part. There should be cheese somewhere in there, but especially on the sides to create those all-important caramelized edges.
Here are five great pizza places to try. Some serve Detroit-style pizza; others have defined the pie all on their own and in their own style. Either way, they are great places to grab some takeout and enjoy at home or on a summertime picnic this time of year.
Buddy’s Pizzeria: You need to start here. This is the local chain that is best known for Detroit-style pizza because many of the founders of the OTHER chains started here or knew the family in some way. You’ve got to eat the Conant and 6 Mile location if you’re a true Detroiter.
Loui’s: Hazel Park’s favorite pizza place typically has a line outside of the door for good reason. You need to include this on any Detroit-pizza tour. Everyone who eats here has a favorite story of what they had and the people they ran into.
Cloverleaf: This spot has a few locations, including a new take-out site in St. Clair Shores, but you’ll want to eat at the Eastpointe location, in my humble opinion. They are part of the Guerra family, Buddy’s original pizza genius. It offers the Motor City Square, and it’s fantastic.
Jet’s: This pizza chain, started by Eugene Jett, has such crispy crust that you’ll thank everyone within the location for putting it together. There are lots of locations because it is one of the largest pizza chains in Metro Detroit.
Shield’s Pizza: There are several locations where you can try this delicious pizza, so you can take family and friends from around Metro Detroit with you. Make sure everyone arrives hungry because the pizza slices are huge.
Leave a Reply