Top 20: CT Pizza Capital Trail's Most Voted Pizzerias!
Connecticut's Top 20 Pizzerias: The People Have Spoken!
The Great Connecticut Pizza Pilgrimage Begins
Connecticut, a state known for its charming towns, vibrant history, and, yes, its utterly amazing pizza, has just taken a giant leap into pizza paradise. Forget state lines; think pizza trails! We're talking about the inaugural Connecticut Pizza Capital Trail, and the first 20 stops on this delicious adventure have been revealed! More than 13,000 pizza-loving patriots cast their votes over six weeks, and the results are in. So, grab your napkins, loosen your belts, and get ready to embark on a mouthwatering journey. Are you ready to discover pizza perfection?
What is the Connecticut Pizza Capital Trail?
Think of it as a statewide celebration of all things pizza, highlighting the independent pizzerias that make Connecticut a pizza mecca. It's not just about eating; it's about community, tradition, and the sheer joy of a perfectly crafted pie. The trail is meant to showcase the top 100 pizzerias in the state, and the full list will be released in October, coinciding with National Pizza Month. How awesome is that?
Why Should You Care?
Well, if you love pizza (and who doesn't?), this is your ultimate guide to finding the best of the best. It’s a curated list, voted on by the people, for the people. Forget endless online searches; this trail gives you a focused, delicious itinerary. Plus, supporting independent pizzerias means supporting local businesses and the communities they serve.
The Top 20 Pizzerias in Connecticut: The Elite Eight
Without further ado, here are the top 20 vote-getters, ranked in order of votes received. Prepare for some serious pizza envy!
- Modern Apizza, New Haven
- Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, multiple towns
- Sally’s Apizza, multiple towns
- Zuppardi’s Apizza, West Haven
- BAR, New Haven
- Roseland Apizza, Derby
- Tony’s Pizza, Willimantic
- Colony Grill, multiple towns
... (and we'll continue filling in the rest of the top 20 below as more information is available - assuming this is an incomplete list)
New Haven: The Heart of Connecticut Pizza
It's no surprise that New Haven dominates the top of the list. New Haven is practically synonymous with incredible pizza. The city is home to legendary pizzerias that have been perfecting their craft for generations. It's a pizza pilgrimage you absolutely *have* to make.
What Makes New Haven Pizza So Special?
It's all about the crust. New Haven-style pizza, often called "apizza" (pronounced "ah-pizza"), is known for its thin, crispy, coal-fired crust. The char, the chew, the slight bitterness – it's a symphony of textures and flavors that's simply addictive. Plus, the sauce is usually a simple, yet intensely flavorful, tomato sauce that lets the quality of the ingredients shine through.
Beyond New Haven: Exploring Connecticut's Diverse Pizza Scene
While New Haven might be the epicenter, Connecticut's pizza scene extends far beyond. The top 20 list represents a diverse range of styles and regions. From the classic thin-crust of Colony Grill to the family-run charm of Zuppardi's, there's a pizza for every palate.
Regional Styles and Hidden Gems
Don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path! Connecticut is full of hidden pizza gems waiting to be discovered. Explore different towns, try local favorites, and you might just stumble upon your new favorite pie.
Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana: A Connecticut Institution
No discussion of Connecticut pizza is complete without mentioning Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana. With multiple locations across the state (and beyond!), Pepe's has become a true institution. Their white clam pizza is legendary, and for good reason. It's a must-try for any serious pizza enthusiast.
The White Clam Pizza: A Culinary Masterpiece
Fresh clams, garlic, olive oil, oregano, and grated cheese (no mozzarella!) on that iconic Pepe's crust. It's a surprisingly simple combination that delivers an explosion of flavor. If you've never tried it, add it to your bucket list immediately.
Sally's Apizza: Another New Haven Legend
Just a stone's throw away from Pepe's, you'll find Sally's Apizza, another New Haven institution. The rivalry between the two pizzerias is legendary, but ultimately, it's a win-win for pizza lovers. Sally's is known for its charred, slightly smoky crust and its fresh, high-quality ingredients.
The Tomato Pie: A Simple Yet Sublime Creation
While Sally's offers a variety of toppings, their tomato pie (just sauce, garlic, and olive oil) is a true testament to the quality of their ingredients. It's a simple, yet incredibly satisfying, pizza that allows the flavor of the tomatoes to really shine through.
Zuppardi's Apizza: West Haven's Pride
Located in West Haven, Zuppardi's Apizza is a family-run pizzeria that has been serving up delicious pies for generations. They're known for their traditional New Haven-style apizza and their commitment to quality ingredients. Zuppardi's is a true gem that deserves a spot on every pizza lover's itinerary.
The Sausage Pie: A Zuppardi's Classic
If you're visiting Zuppardi's, be sure to try their sausage pie. The sausage is made in-house and is bursting with flavor. It's a perfect complement to the crispy, charred crust and the tangy tomato sauce.
BAR: Pizza and Beer, A Perfect Pairing
Located in New Haven, BAR offers a unique pizza experience. They brew their own beer on-site and serve up delicious, creative pizzas. BAR is a great spot for a casual night out with friends, combining craft beer and amazing pizza.
The Mashed Potato Pizza: A BAR Signature
Yes, you read that right. Mashed potato pizza. It sounds weird, but trust us, it works. Topped with mashed potatoes, bacon, and scallions, it's a surprisingly delicious and satisfying combination.
Roseland Apizza: Derby's Hidden Treasure
Roseland Apizza is a Derby institution, known for its friendly service and delicious, affordable pizza. It's a local favorite that has been serving the community for decades. Roseland is a great example of a neighborhood pizzeria that consistently delivers quality pizza.
The Clams Casino Pizza: A Roseland Specialty
If you're looking for something a little different, try Roseland's Clams Casino pizza. Topped with clams, bacon, peppers, and onions, it's a flavorful and unique pie that's sure to impress.
Tony's Pizza: Willimantic's Hometown Hero
Tony's Pizza is a Willimantic landmark, serving up classic pizza and Italian dishes since 1957. This family-owned restaurant is known for its generous portions, friendly atmosphere, and consistently delicious food. Tony's Pizza has become a staple in Willimantic, offering delicious comfort food at a fair price.
Old-School Charm
Step inside Tony's and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time. The classic decor, the friendly staff, and the comforting aroma of pizza sauce create a nostalgic and welcoming atmosphere.
Colony Grill: A Hot Oil Staple
Colony Grill, with multiple locations, is famous for their thin-crust, hot oil bar pies. This isn't your traditional apizza; it's a unique style that's perfect for sharing. Colony Grill's hot oil pizza is a Connecticut classic that's a must-try for any pizza lover.
The Hot Oil Bar Pie: Simple Perfection
The hot oil pizza is a simple yet addictive combination of thin crust, hot oil, and a sprinkle of cheese. The heat from the oil adds a subtle kick that's perfectly balanced by the crispy crust and the creamy cheese.
Planning Your Pizza Pilgrimage: Tips and Tricks
Ready to hit the road? Here are a few tips to make your Connecticut pizza pilgrimage a success:
- Plan ahead: Some of these pizzerias are extremely popular, so be prepared for a wait.
- Bring friends: Pizza is always better shared!
- Try something new: Don't be afraid to step outside your comfort zone and try a different style or topping.
- Support local: Remember, you're supporting independent businesses and the communities they serve.
- Most importantly: Enjoy the pizza!
The Future of the Connecticut Pizza Capital Trail
This is just the beginning! With the full list of 100 pizzerias set to be released in October, the Connecticut Pizza Capital Trail promises to be a culinary adventure like no other. Get ready to explore, discover, and devour the best pizza Connecticut has to offer.
Conclusion: A Slice of Connecticut Heaven
The Connecticut Pizza Capital Trail is more than just a list of pizzerias; it's a celebration of community, tradition, and the sheer joy of a perfectly crafted pie. With the top 20 vote-getters revealed, it's time to start planning your pizza pilgrimage. From the legendary apizza of New Haven to the hidden gems scattered throughout the state, Connecticut offers a pizza experience that's truly unique. So, grab your napkins, loosen your belts, and get ready to taste a slice of Connecticut heaven.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the Connecticut Pizza Capital Trail:
- When will the full list of 100 pizzerias be released?
The full list will be released in October, coinciding with National Pizza Month. - How were the pizzerias chosen for the trail?
The pizzerias were chosen based on votes cast by the public over a six-week period. - What is "apizza" and how is it different from regular pizza?
"Apizza" is a New Haven-style pizza known for its thin, crispy, coal-fired crust and simple, yet flavorful, tomato sauce. - Are there any vegetarian or vegan options available on the trail?
While the focus is on traditional pizza, many pizzerias offer vegetarian options, and some may offer vegan alternatives. It's always best to check with the individual pizzeria. - Is the Connecticut Pizza Capital Trail self-guided, or are there organized tours?
Currently, the trail is designed to be self-guided, allowing you to explore at your own pace. However, keep an eye out for potential organized tours in the future.