New Haven brick oven pizza is legendary in the world of pizza lovers. Known for its crispy crust, charred edges, and rich toppings, this unique style of pizza has gained a loyal following. Whether you’re a local in Connecticut or a pizza enthusiast looking for the next great slice, New Haven-style brick oven pizza is a must-try experience.
This topic explores everything about New Haven brick oven pizza, from its history and signature characteristics to the best toppings and must-visit pizzerias.
What Makes New Haven Brick Oven Pizza Special?
New Haven-style pizza, also known as “apizza”, has a distinct character that sets it apart from traditional Neapolitan or New York-style pizzas.
Key Features of New Haven Brick Oven Pizza
-
Charred, Thin Crust – The pizza is cooked in a high-temperature brick oven, creating a thin, crispy, and slightly charred crust.
-
Minimalist Sauce – The tomato sauce is often lighter and tangier, allowing the crust and toppings to shine.
-
Cheese is Optional – Unlike other pizza styles, traditional New Haven apizza is served without mozzarella unless requested.
-
Fresh and Local Ingredients – High-quality toppings, including fresh clams, sausage, and peppers, make every bite flavorful.
The History of New Haven-Style Pizza
New Haven’s pizza tradition dates back to the early 20th century when Italian immigrants brought their recipes to Connecticut. The most famous pioneer was Frank Pepe, who opened Pepe’s Pizzeria Napoletana in 1925. Over time, his coal-fired brick oven technique became a signature feature of New Haven pizza.
Following Pepe’s success, other legendary pizzerias like Sally’s Apizza and Modern Apizza emerged, each adding their unique touch to the classic New Haven brick oven style.
The Perfect New Haven Brick Oven Pizza Dough
A great New Haven pizza starts with the dough. The process of making the perfect dough involves long fermentation, which enhances its texture and flavor.
Characteristics of the Dough
-
High Hydration – The dough contains more water than typical pizza dough, creating a soft yet crispy texture.
-
Slow Fermentation – The dough is allowed to rest for at least 24 to 48 hours, resulting in a light and airy crust.
-
Coal-Fired Baking – The use of a brick oven heated with coal gives the pizza its iconic charred and smoky flavor.
Classic Toppings for New Haven Brick Oven Pizza
New Haven pizza is famous for its simple yet bold toppings.
Popular Toppings
-
White Clam Pizza – The most iconic New Haven pizza, topped with fresh clams, garlic, olive oil, oregano, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
-
Tomato Pie (Plain Apizza) – A classic New Haven pizza with just tomato sauce, olive oil, garlic, and Pecorino Romano (no mozzarella unless requested).
-
Mozzarella Apizza – A traditional version with mozzarella cheese added for a richer flavor.
-
Pepperoni and Sausage – Classic meat toppings cooked to perfection in the high heat of the brick oven.
-
Mushrooms and Peppers – A great vegetarian option with fresh vegetables for a balance of flavors.
Best Places to Try New Haven Brick Oven Pizza
If you want to experience the best New Haven-style pizza, these legendary pizzerias should be at the top of your list.
1. Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana
-
Established: 1925
-
Famous For: White Clam Pizza
-
Why Visit?: The original New Haven pizzeria and home to the most famous coal-fired brick oven pizza in the country.
2. Sally’s Apizza
-
Established: 1938
-
Famous For: Classic Tomato Pie and Charred Crust
-
Why Visit?: Known for its thin, crispy crust and signature slow-cooked sauce.
3. Modern Apizza
-
Established: 1934
-
Famous For: Mozzarella Apizza and Italian Bomb Pizza
-
Why Visit?: Uses a brick oil-fueled oven for a slightly different texture and flavor.
4. BAR New Haven
-
Established: 1991
-
Famous For: Mashed Potato and Bacon Pizza
-
Why Visit?: A modern take on New Haven pizza with creative toppings.
5. Zuppardi’s Apizza
-
Established: 1934
-
Famous For: Fresh Clam Pizza and Family-Run Tradition
-
Why Visit?: A great alternative to Pepe’s with an authentic homemade feel.
How to Make New Haven-Style Brick Oven Pizza at Home
If you don’t live near New Haven but still want to experience this legendary pizza, you can try making it at home.
Ingredients for New Haven Pizza Dough
-
500g bread flour
-
325ml water
-
10g salt
-
3g dry yeast
-
1 tbsp olive oil
Steps to Make New Haven-Style Pizza
-
Prepare the Dough
-
Mix flour, water, salt, and yeast.
-
Knead until smooth, then let it ferment for 24 to 48 hours.
-
-
Preheat the Oven
- Heat a pizza stone or steel in the oven at 500°F (260°C) to replicate brick oven conditions.
-
Shape the Dough
- Stretch the dough into a thin, oblong shape.
-
Add the Toppings
- Spread a light layer of tomato sauce, followed by fresh clams, garlic, and olive oil for an authentic White Clam Pizza.
-
Bake the Pizza
- Place the pizza in the oven and bake for 6-8 minutes, until the crust is charred.
-
Serve and Enjoy
- Let the pizza cool for a minute before slicing and enjoying!
Why New Haven Brick Oven Pizza Stands Out
New Haven pizza has a rich history, high-quality ingredients, and a unique cooking technique that sets it apart from other styles.
What Makes It Special?
✔ Authentic Brick Oven Baking – The high-heat cooking method gives it a crispy, charred crust.
✔ Fresh Ingredients – From locally sourced clams to premium cheese, every bite is flavorful.
✔ Minimalist Yet Delicious – The focus is on simple toppings that enhance the dough and sauce.
New Haven brick oven pizza is more than just food—it’s a legendary culinary experience. With its thin, charred crust and fresh toppings, this pizza style has won the hearts of pizza lovers everywhere. Whether you visit Frank Pepe’s, Sally’s, or Modern Apizza, or make it at home, you’re in for an unforgettable slice of pizza history.
So, if you haven’t tried New Haven-style pizza yet, it’s time to grab a slice and experience the magic of brick oven perfection!