5 Best Pizza Places in South Jersey: A Slice of Heaven

mouthwatering pizza in South Jersey

In the culinary landscape of South Jersey, pizza reigns supreme. It’s a melting pot of flavors and textures, where the crust is king and the toppings dance harmoniously. From the bustling streets of Atlantic City to the quaint towns of Cape May and Medford, a vibrant tapestry of pizza artistry awaits discovery. Whether you crave a classic Margherita, a savory sausage and pepper, or a daring gourmet creation, South Jersey offers an unparalleled pizza pilgrimage that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.

The journey to find South Jersey’s best pizza begins with a quest for the perfect crust. From the crisp and airy Neapolitan style to the chewy and satisfying New York-style, each variation presents a unique canvas for the culinary masterpieces that follow. The toppings become the brushstrokes, adding vibrant colors and tantalizing aromas to the symphony of flavors. Fresh mozzarella, imported from the rolling hills of Italy, melts like a dream, while tangy marinara sauce provides the perfect foundation. Sliced pepperoni, spicy sausage, and sautéed vegetables dance across the pizza like a joyous celebration, each ingredient contributing its own distinct flavor profile to the ensemble.

The art of pizza-making in South Jersey is a testament to the passion and dedication of the local pizzaiolos. They have honed their craft for generations, passing down secret family recipes and techniques that have become the cornerstone of their culinary legacy. In bustling pizzerias and quaint trattorias alike, these artisans knead, stretch, and bake their dough with precision, creating edible masterpieces that are both visually stunning and irresistibly delicious. As you embark on your pizza adventure, be prepared to encounter a warmth and hospitality that is as inviting as the aroma of freshly baked pizza.

[Image of a mouthwatering pizza with gooey cheese, crispy pepperoni, and fresh basil]

The Art of Neapolitan Pizzaiolo

The Neapolitan pizzaiolo, or pizza chef, is a master craftsman who has dedicated years of training and experience to the art of creating authentic Neapolitan pizza. The pizzaiolo’s skills encompass the entire process, from sourcing the finest ingredients to kneading the dough and shaping the pizza, to baking it in a wood-fired oven. The result is a culinary masterpiece that combines simplicity, balance, and intense flavor.

The dough is the foundation of a Neapolitan pizza, and the pizzaiolo must be skilled in mixing and kneading the flour, water, yeast, and salt to achieve the perfect consistency. The dough is then left to rise for several hours, allowing the yeast to develop and create the characteristic airy texture.

The toppings are equally important, and the pizzaiolo must have a deep understanding of the flavors that complement each other and create a harmonious ensemble. The most traditional toppings include San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella di bufala, and basil, but many variations exist, each with its own unique flavor profile.

The baking process is crucial for achieving the perfect Neapolitan pizza. The pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven at a high temperature, which creates a crispy crust and a chewy interior. The pizzaiolo must carefully monitor the temperature and rotation of the pizza to ensure even cooking and prevent burning.

The result of the pizzaiolo’s artistry is a pizza that is both visually appealing and utterly delicious. The crust is golden brown and slightly charred, the toppings are vibrant and flavorful, and the aroma is irresistible. A true Neapolitan pizza is a testament to the passion, skill, and dedication of the pizzaiolo who created it.

Ingredient	Quantity
Flour	1 kg
Water	600 ml
Yeast	10 g
Salt	15 g
San Marzano tomatoes	As needed
Mozzarella di bufala	As needed
Basil	As needed

The Rise of Artisan Pizza in South Jersey

South Jersey has long been known for its delicious pizza, but in recent years, the region has seen a rise in the popularity of artisan pizza. These pizzas are made with high-quality ingredients and are often cooked in wood-fired ovens, which gives them a unique flavor and texture.

The Best Artisan Pizza in South Jersey

There are many great places to get artisan pizza in South Jersey, but here are a few of our favorites:

Razza Pizza Artigianale in Jersey City
DeLorenzo’s Tomato Pies in Robbinsville
Tacconelli’s Pizzeria in Marlton
Nomad Pizza Company in Collingswood
Pizzaria Stella in New Egypt
The Pizza Pub in Hammonton
Brick Oven Wood Fire II in Glassboro
Collingswood Pizza Company in Collingswood
Il Forno in Cherry Hill
Tuscan Tomato in Maple Shade

What Makes Artisan Pizza Unique?

There are a few things that make artisan pizza unique:

High-quality ingredients: Artisan pizzas are made with high-quality ingredients, such as fresh mozzarella cheese, San Marzano tomatoes, and hand-picked herbs.
Wood-fired ovens: Many artisan pizzas are cooked in wood-fired ovens, which gives them a unique flavor and texture.
Attention to detail: Artisan pizzas are made with care and attention to detail, and the result is a delicious and beautiful pizza.

The Popularity of Artisan Pizza

Artisan pizza has become increasingly popular in South Jersey in recent years. This is due to a number of factors, including:

The growing demand for high-quality food: People are increasingly looking for high-quality food, and artisan pizza is a great option.
The popularity of wood-fired ovens: Wood-fired ovens are becoming increasingly popular, and they are a great way to cook pizza.
The rise of social media: Social media has helped to promote the popularity of artisan pizza, and many people are now discovering this delicious food.

Benefits of Wood-fired Pizza

There are many benefits to cooking pizza in a wood-fired oven, including:

Flavor: Wood-fired pizza has a unique flavor that cannot be replicated in a conventional oven.
Texture: Wood-fired pizza has a crispy crust and a chewy interior.
Speed: Wood-fired pizza cooks quickly, so you can enjoy it sooner.
Health: Wood-fired pizza is a healthier option than conventional pizza, as it is cooked at a high temperature that burns off excess fat.

Topping	Description
Margherita	Tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil
Pepperoni	Tomato sauce, mozzarella, and pepperoni
Sausage and Peppers	Tomato sauce, mozzarella, sausage, and peppers
White Pizza	Alfredo sauce, mozzarella, and toppings of your choice
BBQ Chicken	BBQ sauce, mozzarella, chicken, and onions

Gourmet Toppings

South Jersey pizzerias have taken gourmet toppings to a new level. From premium meats like prosciutto and dry-aged steak to artisanal cheeses like blue cheese and ricotta salata, these pizzas offer a truly decadent experience.

Creative Crusts

Traditional pizza crusts are no longer the only option. In South Jersey, you’ll find pizzas with unique crusts such as:

Cauliflower crust: A gluten-free and nutritious alternative to wheat flour.
Whole-wheat crust: Packed with fiber and nutty flavor.
Cornmeal crust: Unique texture and subtle sweetness.

Pizzeria	Gourmet Toppings	Creative Crusts
Proper Pizza	Lobster, truffle oil, shaved black truffles	Cauliflower, gluten-free
Pizza Crime	Prosciutto, gorgonzola, caramelized onions	Whole-wheat, cornmeal
Anthony’s Coal Fired Pizza	Homemade sausage, roasted peppers, fresh mozzarella	Traditional, Sicilian

7. The Perfect Balance: Innovative Combinations

The best pizzas in South Jersey strike a perfect balance between gourmet toppings and creative crusts. These pizzas combine innovative flavors and textures to create something truly exceptional. Some must-try options include:

Pizza Bianca with Truffle Oil and Prosciutto: A white pizza with a garlic-infused crust, topped with creamy truffle oil and thinly sliced prosciutto.
Roasted Vegetable Pizza with Whole-Wheat Crust: A vegetarian delight with roasted vegetables, such as eggplant, zucchini, and mushrooms, on a whole-wheat crust.
BBQ Chicken Pizza with Cornmeal Crust: A sweet and smoky twist on classic chicken pizza, with a BBQ sauce base and a cornmeal crust.

From Family-Owned Shops to National Recognition

South Jersey is a culinary haven for pizza lovers, boasting a diverse range of family-owned shops and nationally recognized establishments. From classic Italian-style pies to creative contemporary creations, there’s something to satisfy every palate.

Best Pizza in South Jersey

Mario’s Pizza in Haddon Heights has been serving authentic Italian pizza since 1961. Their thin-crust pies feature tangy sauce and perfectly balanced toppings.

Collingswood Pizza in Collingswood is known for its innovative gourmet pizzas, featuring unique combinations like the "Seafood Delight" and the "Prosciutto and Arugula."

Tacconelli’s Pizza in Marlton has earned accolades for its wood-fired pizzas, which have a crispy crust and charred edges.

Russo’s Pizza in Wildwood is a Jersey Shore tradition, beloved for its oversized pies and generous portions of cheese.

Zesta Cucina in Woodbury is a culinary destination for its creative Italian dishes, including its signature wood-fired pizzas with a variety of specialty toppings.

Woodstock Pizza in Cherry Hill is a cozy spot known for its thin and crispy pies, featuring fresh ingredients and a tangy sauce.

Razza Pizza Artigianale in Jersey City has gained national recognition for its Neapolitan-style pizzas, crafted with imported Italian flour and tomatoes.

Bruno Pizzeria in Vineland serves up an array of classic Italian pizzas, including the popular "Grandma" pie with a thick, chewy crust.

Lucca Pizza in Moorestown is a contemporary pizzeria offering unique pizzas with gourmet toppings, such as the "Truffle and Gorgonzola" and the "Spicy Lamb Sausage."

Name	Location
Collingswood Pizza	135 S. Haddon Ave., Collingswood
Tacconelli’s Pizza	27 S. Park Dr., Marlton
Woodstock Pizza	1245 Haddonfield-Berlin Rd., Cherry Hill

10. Above the Rest

With accolades from the likes of Zagat and the Travel Channel, Collingswood’s 40 North is a true culinary gem in South Jersey. Their wood-fired pizzas are exceptional, with a thin and crispy crust that holds up under the weight of generous toppings. The Rustica, with its tangy tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, spicy soppressata, and roasted peppers, is an absolute crowd-pleaser. The Braised Short Rib pizza takes things to the next level, featuring tender braised short ribs, caramelized onions, and a rich béchamel sauce. 40 North’s pizzas are not just delicious; they are works of edible art.

Pizza Name	Description
Rustica	Tangy tomato sauce, melted mozzarella, spicy soppressata, and roasted peppers
Braised Short Rib	Tender braised short ribs, caramelized onions, and a rich béchamel sauce

The Best Pizza in South Jersey

South Jersey is home to some of the best pizza in the country. From classic New York-style pies to innovative gourmet creations, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Here are a few of our favorite spots:

Maruca’s Tomato Pies (Trenton): Maruca’s is a cash-only joint that’s been serving up delicious tomato pies since 1950. The pies are made with fresh, local ingredients and cooked in a coal-fired oven, giving them a unique flavor and texture.
Razza Pizza Artigianale (Jersey City): Razza is a Michelin-starred pizzeria that’s known for its Neapolitan-style pies. The pizzas are made with imported Italian flour and cooked in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a light and airy crust with a perfectly charred exterior.
Collingswood Pizza (Collingswood): Collingswood Pizza is a family-owned and operated pizzeria that’s been serving up classic New York-style pies since 1976. The pizzas are made with fresh dough and topped with high-quality ingredients, resulting in a delicious and satisfying pie.