What exactly does New York-style pizza mean? We tapped two local experts on the topic to find out. Salvatore Colicci, owner of Sal’s Bronx Pizza, and Julian Ottino, partner at Authentic New York Pizza, provide insight and share their thoughts on why this style of pizza trumps all others.
Salvatore Colicci
Owner of Sal’s Bronx Pizza
In your own words, how would you describe authentic New York-style pizza?
New York–style pizza is a pizza made with a characteristically large hand-tossed thin crust, often sold in wide slices to go. The crust is thick and crisp only along its edge, yet soft, thin and pliable enough beneath its toppings to be folded to eat.
What is Sal’s Bronx Pizza’s take on New York-style pizza? Any specific prep or cook methods?
A pizza stone is a must—it cooks the dough evenly, producing a golden-brown, puffy crust.
Is NY style your favorite style of pizza? If so, why and what sets it apart from other styles?
My favorite style is NY crust. New York-style pizzas have thin, crispy crusts—similar to Neapolitan pizzas, except a bit sturdier. However, Chicago-style pizzas have thicker crusts that extend from the bottom up the entire height of the pizza, with toppings and cheese placed first and then topped with sauce. It’s more of a pie, and can’t be folded and eaten as easily as a NY crust.
Grab a Slice: Open Wednesday and Thursday 4-9 p.m. and Friday through Sunday 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Julian Ottino
Partner at Authentic New York Pizza
What inspired you to bring this style of pizza to the Coastal Bend?
Authentic New York Pizza was opened 15 years ago by Alan Kruger, a native New Yorker with a passion for cooking. He wanted to bring a different style of pizza to the Coastal Bend that no one had experienced down here. Two Italian brothers took over the shop in 2018, with constant collaboration from Kruger, and have continued the tradition since.
What is Authentic New York Pizza’s take on New York-style pizza?
Our pizza is a Long Island-style pizza with heavy toppings and a sweet-ish base. All our ingredients have remained the same from day one, from the same distributor, to maintain constant flavor.
What sets your New York Authentic pies apart from other pizza spots in the area?
There is no other pizza in the Coastal Bend that matches our style, especially 15 years ago when we first opened. We are delighted to be part of the growing selection of local pizza styles!
Grab a Slice: Open Tuesday through Friday 3-9 p.m. Saturday 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sunday noon-7 p.m.
