Ever get that craving? The one for a perfectly foldable, thin-crust slice of New York style pizza? You can almost taste the tangy tomato sauce, the melty mozzarella, and that slight char on the crust. But then reality hits: you’re not in the bustling streets of Manhattan; you’re firmly planted in the vibrant city of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Fear not, fellow pizza enthusiast! While Baton Rouge might be known for its Cajun cuisine and soulful music, it’s also home to some surprisingly authentic and incredibly delicious New York style pizza. Forget the plane ticket; this article is your guide to finding the best slices this side of the Mississippi.
What Makes New York Style Pizza, Well, *New York* Style?
Before we dive into the best Baton Rouge has to offer, let’s break down what truly defines a New York style pizza. It’s more than just a round pie; it’s a carefully crafted experience, perfected over generations. The core elements are simple, but their execution is key.
The Crust: The Foundation of Flavor
The crust is paramount. It needs to be thin, possessing a delightful crispness on the bottom while retaining a slight chewiness. This delicate balance is achieved through a few crucial factors. First, the dough typically utilizes high-gluten flour, providing the necessary structure and elasticity. Second, the fermentation process is vital, often involving a slow, cold ferment that develops complex flavors and a slightly tangy character. This fermentation process separates it from other regional styles.
The Sauce: Simplicity is Key
Forget overly sweet or complicated sauces. New York style pizza relies on the purity of crushed tomatoes. The sauce is typically a simple blend of crushed tomatoes, a touch of olive oil, garlic, oregano, and perhaps a pinch of salt and pepper. The goal is to complement the other ingredients, not overpower them.
The Cheese: Classic Mozzarella Magic
Low-moisture mozzarella is the undisputed king of New York style pizza. It melts beautifully, creating that signature cheesy pull with a slightly browned top. Pre-shredded is typical, but some places use freshly shredded for an even meltier texture.
The Fold: The Iconic Maneuver
And finally, the fold. The wide slices of a New York style pizza necessitate a fold to maintain structural integrity. This also allows you to enjoy the pizza in a manageable, single-handed fashion, perfect for a quick bite on the go. The ability to fold without the crust cracking is a hallmark of a well-made New York style pizza.
Humble Beginnings
The history of New York style pizza is rooted in the influx of Italian immigrants to New York City in the early 20th century. These immigrants brought with them their traditional pizza-making techniques, adapting them to the ingredients and resources available in their new home. Lombardi’s, often credited as the first pizzeria in the United States, opened in 1905 and set the stage for the New York pizza phenomenon that continues to thrive today.
Top Pizzerias Serving Authentic New York Style Pizza in Baton Rouge
Now, let’s get to the good stuff. After extensive research (and plenty of taste-testing!), here are some of the best places in Baton Rouge to satisfy your craving for New York style pizza.
Slice of Brooklyn
Located on Burbank Drive, Slice of Brooklyn aims to bring an authentic taste of the five boroughs to Louisiana. They pride themselves on their hand-tossed dough, made fresh daily, and their commitment to using high-quality ingredients. The New York style pizza here features a perfectly crisp yet foldable crust, a tangy tomato sauce, and generous portions of mozzarella. Customers rave about the consistently excellent quality and the friendly service. Beyond pizza, they also offer calzones, strombolis, and other Italian-American favorites, but the pizza is the star. Expect to pay a moderate price for a large pie.
Red Zeppelin Pizza
Found on Jefferson Highway, Red Zeppelin Pizza is another favorite. They focus on hand crafted pizza with fresh, local ingredients. The pizzas are well done and the restaurant has an excellent atmosphere. Many consider their crust to be the closest to New York Style in Baton Rouge. Red Zeppelin also has an extensive beer menu. Prices are considered in the mid to high range.
City Slice Pizzeria
A relative newcomer to the Baton Rouge pizza scene, City Slice Pizzeria, which can be found on Perkins Road, is quickly making a name for itself with its dedication to New York style techniques. They offer a classic New York style pie with simple ingredients and it is served fast! It’s a great place to get your fix.
Beyond the Pizza: The Atmosphere and Experience
The pizza itself is only part of the equation. The overall dining experience also contributes to the enjoyment. Each of these pizzerias offers a unique ambiance that complements its delicious pizza.
Slice of Brooklyn is known for its casual, family-friendly atmosphere. It’s a great place to grab a quick lunch or a relaxed dinner. The service is typically friendly and efficient.
Red Zeppelin, as previously stated, offers an extensive beer menu and more upscale atmosphere. It’s a great place to go with friends or family and has a good time.
City Slice is fast paced and designed for quick service. It’s a no frills approach to the classic New York Pizza experience.
Tips for Ordering the Perfect New York Slice
Want to order like a true New Yorker? Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
First, always specify “New York style” when ordering. While these pizzerias specialize in it, clarifying ensures you get exactly what you’re looking for.
Ask about their crust preparation. Are they hand-tossing the dough? Is it a thin crust? Knowing these details can help you make the right choice.
Don’t be afraid to customize your toppings, but remember, less is often more. New York style pizza is best enjoyed with simple, high-quality toppings that complement the flavors of the crust, sauce, and cheese.
If you prefer a crispier crust, ask for your pizza to be “well-done.” This will result in a slightly darker, more charred crust with a satisfying crunch.
Why Baton Rouge Loves New York Pizza
So, why has New York style pizza found such a devoted following in Baton Rouge? It’s a combination of factors. The growing popularity of pizza as a comfort food has undoubtedly played a role. The desire for authentic, globally inspired flavors is another key driver. And, let’s be honest, there’s just something undeniably appealing about a perfectly crafted New York style pizza. Its simplicity, its satisfying texture, and its ability to transport you to another place make it a timeless classic.
The appeal of New York pizza stems from the balance of the ingredients. The sauce is slightly acidic but not overly sweet. The crust is crispy and delicious and the pizza is served hot and fast!
Conclusion
Despite being miles away from the Big Apple, Baton Rouge offers a surprising number of excellent options for satisfying your craving for authentic New York style pizza. From the hand-tossed dough to the simple, flavorful sauce and the perfectly melted mozzarella, these pizzerias are dedicated to bringing the taste of New York to Louisiana. So, the next time you’re longing for a foldable slice, skip the plane ticket and head to one of these local gems. You might just find your new favorite pizza spot.
Now it is your turn! What is your favorite pizza in Baton Rouge? Share your recommendations in the comments below and let’s spread the pizza love! And for the ultimate Baton Rouge experience, consider pairing your pizza with a local craft beer. Cheers to good pizza and good times!
