The Flavors of the Big Apple in the Live Music Capital: New York-Style Pizza in Austin
Austin, Texas, is a city that prides itself on its eclectic mix of cultures, cuisines, and music scenes. While it’s known for its vibrant food truck scene and Tex-Mex staples, there’s a growing demand for a taste of the Big Apple in the heart of Texas. Enter New York-style pizza, a culinary delight that’s gained a loyal following in Austin. In this article, we’ll explore the history of New York-style pizza, its characteristics, and the best spots to try it in Austin.
A Brief History of New York-Style Pizza
New York-style pizza has its roots in the early 20th century, when Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States. The first pizzeria in the United States, G. Lombardi’s, was opened by Gennaro Lombardi in 1905 in New York City’s Little Italy. Lombardi’s recipe, which combined a thin crust with a light coating of sauce and a blend of mozzarella and other cheeses, quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors alike. Over time, New York-style pizza spread throughout the city, with iconic pizzerias like Joe’s Pizza and Lombardi’s Pizza House becoming institutions.
Characteristics of New York-Style Pizza
So, what sets New York-style pizza apart from other styles? For starters, the crust is thin and crispy, with a delicate balance of crunch and chew. The sauce is light and tangy, with a subtle sweetness that complements the cheese. Speaking of cheese, New York-style pizza typically features a blend of mozzarella and other cheeses, such as Parmesan and ricotta. The toppings are simple yet flavorful, with classic combinations like pepperoni, mushrooms, and olives.
Finding New York-Style Pizza in Austin
While Austin may not have the same pizza pedigree as New York City, there are plenty of spots that serve up authentic New York-style pizza. Here are a few of the best:
1. Home Slice Pizza: This popular pizzeria has been serving up New York-style pies since 2004. With a menu that features classic combinations like pepperoni and mushroom, as well as more adventurous options like the “Notorious P.I.G.” (topped with prosciutto, arugula, and balsamic glaze), Home Slice is a must-visit for pizza lovers.
2. Pizza Joint: This casual spot has been a favorite among locals and visitors alike since 2001. With a menu that features a range of toppings, including vegan and gluten-free options, Pizza Joint is a great spot for families and groups.
3. Cane Rosso: This popular pizzeria has been serving up wood-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas since 2009. While not strictly New York-style, Cane Rosso’s pizzas are cooked to perfection in a brick oven and feature a range of toppings, including classic combinations like margherita and pepperoni.
4. Pizza East: This family-owned pizzeria has been serving up New York-style pies since 2013. With a menu that features classic combinations like pepperoni and mushroom, as well as more adventurous options like the “Meat Lover’s Delight” (topped with pepperoni, sausage, and bacon), Pizza East is a great spot for families and groups.
5. Pizza L’Artusi: This upscale pizzeria has been serving up creative, wood-fired pizzas since 2010. With a menu that features a range of toppings, including classic combinations like margherita and prosciutto, Pizza L’Artusi is a great spot for a special occasion or date night.
Conclusion
New York-style pizza may not be a native Austin tradition, but it’s certainly gained a loyal following in the city. With its thin crust, light sauce, and blend of cheeses, New York-style pizza is a culinary delight that’s sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re a native New Yorker or just looking for a taste of the Big Apple in the Live Music Capital, Austin has plenty of spots that serve up authentic New York-style pizza. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!