Ever get that craving? The one where you just *need* a slice of New York style pizza? That iconic foldable slice, dripping with just the right amount of grease, the perfect balance of cheese and sauce… yeah, we’ve all been there. Living outside of the five boroughs, though, can sometimes make satisfying that craving feel like an impossible mission. Finding a genuinely great New York style pizza place can be tougher than finding parking downtown on a Saturday night. But fear not, pizza lovers of Clarksville! Your search for the perfect slice ends here. While we might not have the yellow cabs and towering skyscrapers, Clarksville, Tennessee, surprisingly holds a few gems where you can sink your teeth into authentic New York style pizza. This article will guide you to the very best places where you can experience that iconic taste without the hefty travel costs or the incessant honking.
What Makes New York Style Pizza So Special? A Culinary Deep Dive
Before we dive into the best spots in Clarksville, let’s understand what truly defines a New York style pizza. It’s more than just a round piece of dough with toppings; it’s an experience, a tradition, a culinary art form passed down through generations. The defining characteristic? The crust. A true New York style pizza boasts a thin, crispy yet foldable crust. It’s made with high-gluten flour, which gives it that characteristic chewiness and allows it to hold its shape when folded. The sauce is equally important – typically a simple, unadulterated tomato sauce, often slightly sweet, made with high-quality tomatoes, garlic, and a blend of herbs. Forget fancy ingredients; simplicity is key. Then comes the cheese, a generous layer of low-moisture mozzarella, baked to a golden, bubbly perfection. The slices, of course, are large and wide, designed to be folded in half for easy eating. Finally, the baking method is crucial. Authentic New York style pizzas are typically baked in a deck oven at high temperatures, which gives the crust its signature char and crispy texture. This method of baking originated in New York City, and the high-temperature ovens and specialized dough formulas are essential to recreating that authentic taste.
Why is New York style pizza so beloved? It’s a combination of factors. The taste, of course, is paramount – the perfect balance of salty, sweet, and savory. But it’s also the tradition, the history, and the feeling of holding that perfectly foldable slice in your hand. It’s a quintessential New York experience, and that feeling translates even when you’re miles away from the Big Apple.
Clarksville’s Hidden Gems: Where to Find Authentic New York Style Pizza
Alright, let’s get down to business. You’re hungry, and you want pizza. So, where can you find that glorious New York style pizza in Clarksville, Tennessee? Here are a few spots that are definitely worth checking out:
Luigi’s Pizza Joint
Located on Riverside Drive, Luigi’s Pizza Joint is a local favorite known for its no-frills, authentic approach to pizza. You can find them online at [Insert Website Here] or give them a call at [Insert Phone Number Here]. Luigi’s has a classic, old-school pizzeria vibe, with checkered tablecloths and the aroma of fresh dough filling the air. Their focus is on quality ingredients and traditional techniques. What makes Luigi’s stand out as a New York style contender? Their crust is noticeably thin and crispy, perfectly foldable, and has that characteristic char from the deck oven. They use a simple but flavorful tomato sauce and generous amounts of high-quality mozzarella. Their pizzas are large and perfectly proportioned for easy folding and eating. A must-try is their classic pepperoni pizza – it’s a simple, yet perfect representation of New York style. You should also try their white pizza with ricotta and garlic! Luigi’s prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a casual meal. Customers rave about their friendly service and the consistently high quality of their pizzas. They also offer delivery and takeout options. Luigi’s stands out for its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and sticking to traditional New York style methods.
Pizza Palace
You’ll find Pizza Palace on Tiny Town Road, a popular destination for families. Their website is located at [Insert Website Here] and they can be reached by phone at [Insert Phone Number Here]. Pizza Palace has a family-friendly atmosphere, making it perfect for a casual night out. They offer a wide variety of pizzas and other Italian dishes. While they offer a range of pizza styles, their New York style option is a standout. Their crust is thin and foldable, and they use a well-seasoned tomato sauce and quality mozzarella. You can tell that Pizza Palace takes pride in using good ingredients. The ‘New York Special’ pizza, with pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms, is a crowd-pleaser, but their Margherita pizza, highlighting the simple flavors of tomato, basil, and mozzarella, is another great option. Pizza Palace’s prices are moderate, making it a good value for families. Many reviews highlight the friendly service and the generous portions. They have dine-in, delivery, and takeout options. Pizza Palace also offers arcade games for the kids, making it a fun experience for the whole family. They also have other Italian dishes available like strombolis, calzones, and pastas.
Vito’s Pizzeria
Vito’s Pizzeria, located downtown, brings a slice of Little Italy to Clarksville. Find them at [Insert Website Here] or dial [Insert Phone Number Here]. Vito’s offers a more upscale pizzeria experience, with a stylish interior and a focus on artisanal ingredients. Their commitment to quality ingredients and authentic recipes makes their New York style pizza a top contender. Their crust is noticeably thin and crispy, with a slightly chewy texture, and their sauce is made from imported San Marzano tomatoes. They also use fresh mozzarella, which adds a creamy richness to their pizzas. The slices are large and perfectly proportioned, and their pizzas are baked in a brick oven, giving them a unique smoky flavor. Try their “Brooklyn Bridge” pizza, topped with sausage, peppers, and onions, or their “Little Italy” pizza, with prosciutto, arugula, and shaved Parmesan. It’s on the pricier side, but it’s worth it for the high-quality ingredients and exceptional taste. Customers consistently praise the delicious pizza and the stylish atmosphere. Vito’s also offers a selection of craft beers and wines to complement your meal. Vito’s is known for its commitment to using authentic Italian ingredients and techniques. They also offer gluten-free crust options.
Beyond the Pizza: What Else These Pizzerias Offer
While pizza is definitely the star of the show, many of these pizzerias offer other delicious Italian specialties. You might find calzones filled with ricotta and mozzarella, savory garlic knots dripping in butter, or refreshing salads with homemade vinaigrette. Some also have pasta dishes, from classic spaghetti and meatballs to creamy fettuccine alfredo. The ambiance of these restaurants varies. Some are family-friendly, perfect for a casual meal with the kids, while others have a more sophisticated vibe, ideal for a date night or a gathering with friends. Some might even have a sports bar atmosphere, with TVs broadcasting the latest games.
Pro Tips for Ordering and Savoring Your New York Style Pizza
Now that you know where to find the best New York style pizza in Clarksville, let’s talk about how to fully enjoy the experience. First things first: learn to fold your slice like a true New Yorker! Grip the crust firmly, fold the slice in half lengthwise, creating a “V” shape, and then take a bite. This prevents the toppings from sliding off and allows you to savor the flavors in perfect harmony. When it comes to toppings, the possibilities are endless, but some classic combinations that complement New York style pizza include pepperoni and mushrooms, sausage and peppers, or a simple Margherita with fresh basil. Ordering considerations are also important. Check the pizzeria’s hours of operation, delivery range, and takeout options. Be aware that some places can get busy on Friday and Saturday nights, so it’s a good idea to call ahead or order online. Finally, think about what you want to drink. A cold beer, a refreshing soda, or even a glass of wine can perfectly complement the flavors of your pizza.
Your New York Pizza Adventure Awaits in Clarksville
So, there you have it! Your guide to finding authentic New York style pizza right here in Clarksville, Tennessee. From Luigi’s classic no-frills approach to Pizza Palace’s family-friendly atmosphere and Vito’s artisanal creations, there’s a slice for everyone. Now it’s time to satisfy that craving! What are you waiting for? Go grab a slice of New York in Clarksville today! What’s *your* favorite New York style pizza topping? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
