When I moved to New Orleans eight months ago, I vowed to spend my first year here trying as many restaurants as I could to immerse myself in the diverse food culture that defines the Crescent City.
As I was unpacking boxes in my Central Business District apartment and trying not to have a meltdown over having to build a bed frame, I decided it was time to take a break and eat.
My friends and new colleagues, Lauren Walck and Patrick Magee, had been raving about Zee's Pizzeria in Uptown, and I decided to go with Lauren for a slice and a salad.
I immediately understood the hype. The Northeast-style pizza was crispy and topped with fresh ingredients, and the "Red Top" slice with garlic butter was heavenly. It's affordable, too, and you can get two slices and a drink for around $10 to $12.
I didn't know New Orleans as a pizza city before I moved here, but in my time navigating the restaurants here, I've learned there are lots of good, delicious options when it comes to pizza pies.
I've been loyal to Zee's and Pizza Delicious in the Bywater and usually treat myself to a slice after a long walk at Audubon Park or Crescent Park, depending on which neighborhood I'm in that day. I also love Magazine Pizza in the Warehouse District for delivery, and you can't go wrong with Italian Pie or Pizza Luna after a night on the town.
But recently, a new pizza spot opened up just minutes from my office, and I knew I had to give it a try.
St. Pizza's window on Magazine Street in the Lower Garden District offers a simple menu of slices, canned drinks and outdoor tables at lunch. I tried it for the first time before The New York Times article declaring it one of the best 22 spots in the U.S. published, and I'm sure glad I did.
Whole pies in two sizes (full and "tavern") are served in the dining room at St. Pizza, which makes New York-style pizza in New Orleans. (Staff photo by Ian McNulty, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune)
I tried the Bianca, a garlicky slice topped with fresh dollops of ricotta cheese, and the classic pepperoni slice about a month ago. Each is topped with fresh basil to order.
The toppings are high-quality, but the star of the show is the thin crust that has to be made with magic and love. It's easy to bite, has a great texture that doesn't feel mushy and is cooked to perfection.
St. Pizza is so good that I've been back three times since my first visit.
Pro tip: Get the Calabrian chili hot honey for your slice(s). You won't regret it.
Where else should I go for pizza? Email me at [email protected] and tell me about your favorite spot.
