From Neapolitan to New York: A Delicious Guide to the Different Types of Pizza

Pizza is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, perfect for office lunches, team events, or curing those midday cravings. Its versatility means there’s always a slice for everyone, let's check popular pizza varieties!

When it comes to Italian food, few dishes can match the universal appeal of pizza. It's a great meal for office lunches, team events, or satisfying cravings at any time of day. But did you know there are countless types of pizza to explore, each with its unique flavors, textures, and toppings?

From the crispy, thin crust of Neapolitan pizza to the hefty slices of New York style, the world of pizza offers something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take you on a mouthwatering journey through the best types of pizza, highlighting popular varieties and regional styles that have captured hearts and taste buds globally. 

Get ready to discover why pizza reigns supreme as both comfort food and a gourmet experience.

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Classic Italian Pizza Types

Italy is the birthplace of pizza, and its classic styles have set the standard for deliciousness worldwide. Each type brings unique flavors and textures, steeped in tradition. Let’s explore some iconic types of pizza that showcase Italian culinary mastery.

Neapolitan Pizza

Neapolitan pizza is where it all began. Originating from Naples, this pizza is known for its soft, pillowy crust that’s slightly charred from a wood-fired oven. It’s made with simple, high-quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, olive oil, and basil. 

This artisan pizza is a UNESCO-recognized cultural heritage, offering an authentic taste of Italy in every bite.

Margherita Pizza

One of the most popular types of pizza, Margherita is a variation of Neapolitan pizza that symbolizes Italian pride. With its red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil representing the Italian flag, this pizza is a celebration of simplicity. Its balance of fresh, vibrant ingredients makes it a favorite in gourmet pizza and casual dining alike.

Roman Pizza

Roman pizza offers a different take with its thin, crispy crust and rectangular shape. Often baked in electric ovens, this regional pizza style comes in two main varieties: Pizza al Taglio, sold by the slice, and Pizza Tonda, served as a round pie. Roman pizza is perfect for enjoying on the go or sharing at a bustling Italian restaurant.

These classic styles prove that when it comes to pizza, Italy truly does it best. 

American Favorites

When pizza made its way to the United States, it evolved into a variety of regional pizza styles, each bringing its own unique spin to the classic dish. From thin and foldable crusts to deep-dish delights, America’s take on pizza is as diverse as its culture. Let's take a look at some of the most popular pizza varieties in the U.S.

New York Style

Known as the epitome of American pizza, New York style is famous for its large, thin, and foldable slices. Perfect for eating on the go, its hand-tossed crust is crisp yet pliable, topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and often finished with a sprinkle of oregano or red pepper flakes. Found in nearly every pizzeria across the city, it’s the go-to pizza for a quick and satisfying meal.

Detroit Style

Detroit style pizza is all about the deep-dish experience with a twist. This square pizza is baked in a rectangular pan, resulting in a thick, airy crust that’s crispy on the edges. Cheese is layered directly on the dough, creating a caramelized crust, and toppings go underneath a hearty tomato sauce. It’s a gourmet pizza option for those craving something hearty and rich.

Chicago Style

No list of popular types of pizza is complete without Chicago’s iconic deep dish. This pizza is baked in a high-sided pan, with layers of buttery crust, cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It’s more like a savory pie than a traditional pizza, making it a favorite for sit-down meals and indulgent feasts.

Colorado Style

Also known as “Mountain Pie,” Colorado style pizza is a hidden gem in the regional pizza world. With its hand-rolled crust, this style often features honey in the dough for a subtly sweet taste. Topped with creative combinations, Colorado style embraces a rustic, artisan approach, making it a must-try for adventurous foodies.

St. Louis Style

St. Louis style pizza stands out for its cracker-thin crust and signature Provel cheese—a creamy blend of cheddar, Swiss, and provolone. Cut into small squares instead of slices, this pizza is perfect for sharing. Its unique flavors and presentation make it a popular pizza variety in the Midwest.

Rhode Island Style

Rhode Island brings us pizza strips, also known as “Bakery Pizza.” This style is served at room temperature with a thick, doughy crust topped with a simple tomato sauce. It’s a minimalist take that’s often found at bakeries rather than pizzerias, making it a nostalgic comfort food for locals.

Each of these different types of pizza reflects the creativity and regional pride of American pizza makers, proving there’s a perfect pie for every palate.

International Pizza Variations

Pizza’s versatility has inspired adaptations across the globe, each infused with local flavors and traditions. These international pizza variations may differ from the classic Italian approach, but they’re equally delicious and showcase the creativity of different cultures. Let’s explore some unique takes on pizza from around the world.

Fugazza

Hailing from Argentina, Fugazza is a pizza with Italian roots but a distinct twist. This thick-crust pie is topped with caramelized onions, a hint of oregano, and sometimes a sprinkle of cheese. 

Unlike traditional pizzas, Fugazza focuses more on the dough and toppings, often skipping tomato sauce entirely. It’s a flavorful and hearty regional pizza that pairs perfectly with a glass of Argentine Malbec.

Tlayuda

Known as the “Mexican pizza,” Tlayuda is a vibrant and crispy creation from Oaxaca, Mexico. Made with a large, toasted tortilla as the base, it’s spread with refried beans and topped with fresh ingredients like avocado, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and meat. This open-faced delight is as colorful as it is flavorful, offering a gourmet pizza experience with a Latin twist.

Matzah

Matzah pizza is a unique creation enjoyed during Passover by those observing dietary restrictions. Made with unleavened matzah bread, it’s a simple and creative alternative to traditional pizza. Topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings, it’s a quick and satisfying meal that highlights the adaptability of pizza-style dishes across culinary traditions.

Lángos

Lángos is Hungary’s answer to pizza, though it starts with fried dough rather than baked. This indulgent treat is often topped with sour cream, grated cheese, and garlic butter, though sweet variations with sugar or jam are also popular. Lángos offers a rich and satisfying twist on artisan pizza, showcasing Hungary’s love for bold flavors and comforting textures.

Pizza Trends

Pizza is constantly evolving to meet new dietary preferences and trends, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the most popular modern options:

• Gluten-free pizzas: perfect for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease, these pizzas use alternative flours like almond, cauliflower, or rice to create a delicious, crispy crust without wheat;
• Vegan pizzas: free from animal products, vegan pizzas feature plant-based cheeses, meat alternatives, and creative veggie toppings to deliver all the flavor without compromise;
• Plant-based options: combining sustainability with taste, these pizzas highlight fresh, whole ingredients like roasted vegetables, legumes, and innovative plant-based proteins, making them a guilt-free indulgence.

These trends show how pizza continues to adapt, offering healthier and more inclusive choices while still delivering on flavor and satisfaction.

Find the Best Type of Pizza with Picnic

Exploring the different types of pizza is a journey worth savoring, and Picnic makes it even easier to enjoy your favorites. Whether you’re planning an office meal or simply indulging in a pizza craving, Picnic’s variety and convenience ensure every bite is a hit. From classic styles to innovative creations, there’s always something new to try.

Ready to discover more food trends and meal inspirations? Head over to our blog and let us guide your next culinary adventure! Explore more on our blog.