american denver pizza

What is Denver Pizza? A Guide to the Mile High City’s Slice

Denver pizza isn’t a strictly defined style, unlike Chicago deep-dish or New York-style pizza. It’s more of an evolving culinary landscape reflecting the city’s diverse influences and love for artisanal ingredients. You’ll find a variety of pizza styles thriving in Denver, from Neapolitan to New York, often with a focus on quality, locally-sourced toppings and creative flavor combinations.

Denver’s Pizza Scene: A Melting Pot of Styles

Denver’s pizza scene doesn’t adhere to one specific tradition, resulting in a vibrant mix. Many pizzerias draw inspiration from classic styles, but incorporate local ingredients and innovative techniques. This blend of tradition and innovation defines the Denver pizza experience.

Neapolitan Influence

The authentic Neapolitan style has gained considerable traction in Denver. These pizzas are characterized by a thin, soft crust with leopard spotting (burnt spots) achieved through high-temperature wood-fired ovens. High-quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella are staples.

New York-Style Pizza

The classic New York slice also has a presence in Denver. Expect a larger, foldable crust that’s crisp around the edges. These pizzas are often topped with simple, yet satisfying ingredients and are perfect for a quick and tasty meal.

Artisanal and Creative Toppings

Denver’s pizza scene is also known for its embrace of artisanal ingredients and creative topping combinations. Expect to see locally-sourced meats, cheeses, and vegetables used to create unique and flavorful pizzas. Some pizzerias experiment with non-traditional toppings and flavor profiles, pushing the boundaries of what pizza can be.

Finding the Best Pizza in Denver

Discovering the best pizza in Denver often comes down to personal preference. Exploring different pizzerias and sampling various styles is key. Consider checking out local food blogs, reviews, and recommendations to find hidden gems and popular spots. Don’t be afraid to try something new and explore the diverse range of pizzas Denver has to offer. For more history on pizza in America you can check Pizza in the United States on Wikipedia.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Denver pizza unique?

Denver pizza isn’t a defined style, but it’s characterized by the use of high-quality ingredients, creative toppings, and a blend of influences from different pizza traditions, like Neapolitan and New York styles.

Are there specific Denver pizza toppings?

While there aren’t toppings exclusive to Denver pizza, you’ll often find locally-sourced meats, cheeses, and vegetables being used. Some pizzerias also experiment with unique and non-traditional ingredients.

What are some popular pizza places in Denver?

There are many highly rated pizza places in Denver. Exploring local food blogs and online reviews is a great way to find popular and well-regarded pizzerias that suit your taste.

Is deep-dish pizza common in Denver?

While you might find some restaurants offering deep-dish style, it is not the prominent style, in comparison to other styles of pizza, like Neapolitan or New York.

How do I find the best pizza for me in Denver?

Experiment! Try different pizzerias and pizza styles. Look for places with good reviews that align with your preferences regarding crust, toppings, and overall flavor profiles.

Summary

Denver pizza is a dynamic and evolving food scene. It’s not defined by a single style, but rather a combination of influences and a focus on quality ingredients. Whether you prefer a classic Neapolitan pie or a New York-style slice, you’re sure to find a pizza to satisfy your cravings in the Mile High City.