“Connecticut Pizza Trail” Launches to Prove Connecticut’s Claim as the Pizza Capital
Connecticut has recently proclaimed itself as the “Pizza Capital of America”, aiming to challenge the title of the renowned “Pizza Capital”. The state has launched the inaugural “Connecticut Pizza Trail”, which connects 100 pizza eateries across the state, in an effort to demonstrate that the long-standing assertion of locals that New Haven style pizza “apizza” is the best in the nation may hold true.
According to official data, Connecticut boasts over 1,300 pizza restaurants, with nearly 80% being independently owned or family-run establishments. The trail, determined by over 13,000 votes, spans across eight counties in the state, with New Haven district still dominating the top spot. Classic pizzerias like Modern Apizza, Frank Pepe’s, and Sally’s Apizza have claimed the top three positions, while Zuppardi’s in West Haven and Roseland Apizza in Derby also made the list.
“For over a century, our apizza has not only been a source of local pride but has also brought community and economic vitality,” stated Anthony Anthony, director of the Connecticut Office of Tourism and Marketing. This pizza trail aims to showcase Connecticut’s story to residents and visitors alike, and to globally promote the title of “Pizza Capital of America”.
However, New York is not willing to back down. In 1905, Lombardi’s on Spring Street became the first licensed pizzeria in the United States, kickstarting a century-old pizza legacy in the Big Apple. New York pizza, known for being thin, foldable, and synonymous with standing while eating, is deeply rooted in immigrant history and the fast-paced culture of the city. Even the birthplace of pizza, Napoli, Italy, acknowledges the unique evolution of New York pizza.
Nevertheless, Connecticut is not just making empty claims. Its “coal-fired oven” crispy crust and unique flavors have attracted hoards of out-of-state pizza aficionados. Renowned food critic and founder of the digital media entertainment company “Barstool”, Dave Portnoy, has declared multiple times that “Connecticut is the best pizza state in America.” One of the most iconic pizzas is the clam-topped pie – although controversial like pineapple pizza, its historical significance runs deep.
Can Connecticut snatch the pizza “crown”? Perhaps one must take the time, loosen their belt a notch, and traverse along I-95 northbound, tasting pizzas from both states one by one, to arrive at a fair judgment. Nevertheless, the battle for the title of the American “Pizza Capital” has entered yet another round.