What is Detroit Style Pizza Called? A Complete Guide to Its Origins, Features, and Popularity

What is Detroit Style Pizza Called? A Complete Guide to Its Origins, Features, and Popularity

Introduction

Detroit-style pizza is more than just another pizza variation—it’s a legend baked into a crispy, cheesy, and irresistibly rich slice. Born in Motor City, this rectangular deep-dish pizza has captivated food lovers across the country. But here’s the burning question: What is Detroit style pizza called? Some say Motor City pizza, while others refer to it as Detroit deep-dish—but there’s much more to its story.

From its unique pan-baking technique to the signature Wisconsin brick cheese that caramelizes at the edges, this pizza style is a masterpiece. Unlike the traditional round pizza, this one is thick, cheesy, and crispy on the outside yet light and airy on the inside. And yes, the sauce goes on top—a game-changer!

In this article, we’ll dive into the origins, ingredients, and baking secrets that make this pizza a standout. We’ll also compare it to other deep-dish styles, explore its growing popularity, and answer the most common questions people have. By the end, you’ll not only know what Detroit-style pizza is called, but you’ll also crave a slice!

Introduction to Detroit-Style Pizza

The History Behind Detroit-Style Pizza

Back in 1946, something revolutionary happened in a small bar called Buddy’s Rendezvous in Detroit. At the time, the owners, Gus and Anna Guerra, weren’t trying to reinvent pizza; rather, they just needed a good pan. So, what did they use? A blue steel automotive parts tray from a local factory!

Unlike the thin, foldable slices of New York-style pizza, this one had a thick, crispy crust. As it baked in the steel tray, the edges developed a beautiful golden-brown caramelization. Meanwhile, the dough remained light yet crispy, the cheese turned rich and bubbly, and—most importantly—the sauce was slathered on after baking. This technique helped prevent the crust from becoming soggy. As a result, this bold new creation became an instant hit.

Why is Detroit-Style Pizza Called That?

So, what is Detroit style pizza called? While some might refer to it as Detroit deep-dish pizza, the real name sticks to its roots—Detroit-style pizza. Unlike Chicago deep-dish, which is more like a pie, this version is fluffier, cheesier, and crispier. Some food critics call it “Motor City pizza”, while locals simply say “a square”, referring to its iconic rectangular shape.

Whatever you call it, one thing is certain—Detroit-style pizza is in a league of its own. Unlike Sicilian pizza, it has a lighter, airier texture. Likewise, it differs from deep-dish, as its crispy, caramelized crust contrasts with the thick, buttery layers of its Chicago counterpart. Moreover, while it is baked in a pan, it does not quite fit the typical definition of a pan pizza. Instead, it stands as a category all by itself. Over the years, this unique style has steadily gained popularity, making waves nationwide.

The Signature Features That Define Detroit Pizza

What makes Detroit-style pizza stand out? It all comes down to these signature characteristics:

1. The Rectangular Shape

Detroit-style pizza isn’t round—it’s a rectangle. That’s because of the blue steel pan it’s baked in, originally borrowed from Detroit’s auto industry. This gives it a unique texture, crispy edges, and a deep-dish feel without being too heavy.

2. Thick, Airy, and Crispy Crust

This isn’t your typical thin crust. The dough is high-hydration, meaning it has more water, creating a light and airy interior while maintaining a crispy bottom. It’s crunchy on the outside, soft inside, and deliciously chewy.

3. Caramelized Cheese Edges

Instead of just topping the pizza with cheese, Detroit-style pizza goes the extra mile. Wisconsin brick cheese is spread all the way to the edges, melting and crisping up as it bakes. The result? A perfectly golden, crispy crust with a cheesy bite in every corner.

4. The “Red Top” Sauce Method

Unlike most pizzas, where the sauce goes under the cheese, Detroit-style pizza does things differently. The tomato sauce is added after baking, drizzled in thick stripes on top. This keeps the crust crispy while allowing the rich tomato flavor to shine.

5. The Signature Pan-Baking Technique

The key to that perfect crunch? The steel pan. These pans distribute heat evenly, giving the pizza a crispy bottom while allowing the dough to rise beautifully. Fun fact: The original pans were repurposed from auto part trays, making this truly a Detroit-born innovation!

Why Detroit-Style Pizza is Gaining Popularity

For years, Detroit-style pizza remained a hidden gem—something locals loved but few outside Michigan knew about. However, thanks to social media, food bloggers, and national pizza chains, it’s now making waves across the country. Even high-end restaurants and food trucks are putting their own spin on the classic Detroit square.

In cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago, people are eagerly lining up to try this crispy, cheesy, one-of-a-kind pizza. Furthermore, with national brands like Jet’s Pizza expanding, it’s no longer just a local favorite. Instead, it is rapidly becoming a national phenomenon.

The Evolution of Detroit-Style Pizza

From Local Secret to National Sensation

For decades, Detroit-style pizza was a local treasure, found mainly in old-school pizzerias across Motor City. It had a devoted following, but outside of Michigan, few had heard of it. Unlike New York-style pizza or Chicago deep-dish, this rectangular, crispy-edged delight remained Detroit’s best-kept secret.

However, that all changed in the early 2000s. Thanks to food shows, social media, and the rapid expansion of restaurant chains, Detroit-style pizza began making waves nationwide. As a result, today, you can find it in major cities, food trucks, and even high-end pizzerias, each putting its own twist on the classic.

But how did this once-local pizza rise to fame? Let’s break down its journey from small-town favorite to national phenomenon.

How Detroit-Style Pizza Gained Popularity Over the Decades

The Early Years: Buddy’s and the Birth of a Legend

Detroit-style pizza was born in 1946 at Buddy’s Rendezvous, a small neighborhood tavern. At the time, most Americans only knew thin-crust, round pizzas, but Buddy’s introduced something completely different:

• A thick, airy crust baked in an automotive steel pan
• Wisconsin brick cheese spread all the way to the edges
• Crispy caramelized edges thanks to the cheese melting against the pan
• Tomato sauce layered on top after baking

This unconventional method set it apart from other pizzas, and locals fell in love. Buddy’s quickly became a Detroit institution, and the square pizza concept took off.

The 1970s-1990s: A Regional Classic

Over the next few decades, Detroit-style pizza firmly established itself as a staple in Michigan. Meanwhile, more pizzerias—such as Loui’s, Cloverleaf, and Shield’s—began offering their own versions, each with slight variations in crust texture, sauce flavor, and cheese blend.

Despite its growing popularity within the state, Detroit-style pizza remained largely unknown outside of Michigan. If you weren’t in the Detroit metro area, chances were you had never seen, let alone tasted, this unique pizza.

But that was about to change.

The 2000s: A Turning Point for Detroit Pizza

By the early 2000s, pizza lovers and chefs across the country started discovering Detroit-style pizza. A few key events helped push it into the national spotlight:

• Food Network & Travel Channel Features – Shows like Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives featured Buddy’s Pizza, introducing viewers to the crispy-edged, rectangular masterpiece for the first time.
• Social Media Buzz – Instagram and food blogs helped spread awareness. People started posting pictures of cheese-pull slices with crispy, caramelized edges, making it go viral.
• Chefs & Pizza Chains Took Notice – Pizzerias in places like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles began experimenting with Detroit-style recipes, leading to a wave of new restaurants dedicated to the style.

The 2010s-Present: National Expansion

By the 2010s, Detroit-style pizza was no longer just a local favorite—it had become a nationwide sensation.

• Jet’s Pizza, a Detroit-based chain, started expanding outside Michigan, bringing Motor City pizza to new audiences.
• High-profile chefs, like Emmy Squared in New York, launched Detroit-style pizza restaurants in major cities.
• Even big brands like Pizza Hut jumped on the trend, offering their own versions of Detroit-style pizza.

Today, you can find authentic Detroit-style pizza across the U.S., and people can’t get enough of it.

Modern Variations: How Detroit-Style Pizza is Changing

With its growing popularity, chefs and restaurants are putting their own spin on Detroit-style pizza. While the core elements remain the same, here are some of the creative twists we’re seeing today:

1. Toppings Beyond the Classic Pepperoni

Traditionally, Detroit-style pizza keeps it simple: cheese, sauce, and crispy pepperoni cups. But today’s pizzerias are experimenting with bold toppings, such as:

• Spicy honey drizzle (sweet and spicy contrast)
• BBQ chicken (mixing smoky flavors with the crispy crust)
• Buffalo ranch drizzle (a modern take on comfort food)
• Vegetarian options with roasted veggies and truffle oil

2. Vegan & Gluten-Free Versions

With more people looking for dietary alternatives, pizzerias are now offering:

• Dairy-free “cheese” that still caramelizes at the edges
• Gluten-free crusts that retain the light, airy texture

3. Gourmet Ingredients & Fusion Flavors

High-end pizzerias are using premium cheeses like smoked gouda or aged cheddar, swapping out the standard Wisconsin brick cheese. Others are introducing Asian-inspired sauces, truffle-infused oils, or charcoal-infused dough.

The Unique Baking Techniques Behind Detroit-Style Pizza

Why Detroit-Style Pizza Stands Out

Detroit-style pizza isn’t just famous because of its rectangular shape or cheese-crusted edges—its baking method is what truly makes it unique. Unlike traditional pizzas that use stone ovens or deep pans, this pizza follows a specific process that creates its signature crispy yet airy texture.

In this section, we’ll break down the essential techniques that give Detroit-style pizza its unforgettable crunch and cheesy perfection.

The Blue Steel Pan: The Secret to the Crispy Crust

One of the most defining features of Detroit-style pizza is the pan it’s baked in. But this isn’t just any baking dish—it’s a blue steel automotive parts tray.

1. Why Blue Steel Pans?

Detroit’s auto industry played a direct role in shaping this pizza. When Buddy’s Rendezvous created the first Detroit-style pizza, they didn’t have a traditional pizza pan. Instead, they used industrial blue steel trays, originally designed to hold small car parts.

The result? These trays heated evenly, creating a perfectly crispy bottom while allowing the dough to rise beautifully. Unlike aluminum or non-stick pans, blue steel develops a natural seasoning over time, making each pizza even more flavorful.

2. The Perfect Crust: Crispy, Yet Light

Many deep-dish pizzas are dense and heavy, but not Detroit-style pizza. The secret lies in:

• A high-hydration dough, which means it has more water than regular pizza dough. This allows it to become light and airy inside while staying crispy on the outside.
• Oiling the pan before baking, ensuring the bottom caramelizes to a golden, crunchy perfection.
• The steel pan’s heat distribution, which gives the crust a fried-like crispiness without being greasy.

This combination makes each bite crispy, fluffy, and full of flavor—something you won’t find in any other pizza style.

The Layering Process: Cheese First, Sauce Last

Most pizzas start with sauce first, then cheese, then toppings—but Detroit-style pizza flips the script.

1. Cheese Goes First

Instead of spreading sauce on the dough, Detroit-style pizza starts with Wisconsin brick cheese. The cheese is:

• Cubed, not shredded, which helps it melt slowly and evenly.
• Spread all the way to the edges, allowing it to caramelize against the hot steel pan. This technique creates the famous crispy cheese crust, a signature feature of the style.

2. Toppings Before the Sauce

Next, the toppings (often crispy, cupped pepperoni) are placed on top of the cheese. This helps them bake directly onto the cheese, enhancing their flavor.

3. Sauce Goes on Top—After Baking

Detroit-style pizza has a “red top” look, meaning the tomato sauce is added last, after the pizza is baked. This method:

• Prevents a soggy crust, since the sauce doesn’t soak into the dough.
• Keeps the flavors fresh and bold, letting the sauce stand out.
• Creates a beautiful contrast, with red sauce stripes layered over golden cheese.

The result? A perfect balance of crispy, cheesy, and tangy goodness.

The Baking Process: The Science of Perfect Heat

1. High Temperatures for Maximum Crisp

Detroit-style pizza is baked at 500-550°F (260-290°C), much hotter than a home oven’s typical pizza setting. The high heat:

• Traps air in the dough, keeping it light and fluffy.
• Firms up the edges, creating that iconic crispy cheese border.
• Gives the crust a golden brown finish, ensuring a crispy bottom that doesn’t feel greasy.

2. Baking Time Matters

Detroit-style pizza bakes for about 12-15 minutes—just long enough for:

• The cheese to caramelize along the edges.
• The toppings to slightly crisp up.
• The sauce to warm without drying out.

How Detroit-Style Pizza Compares to Other Pizza Styles

What Makes Detroit-Style Pizza Different?

Pizza comes in many shapes, sizes, and textures, but Detroit-style pizza has carved out a category of its own. Some say it’s similar to Sicilian pizza, while others compare it to Chicago deep-dish. However, these styles have key differences that set them apart.

Understanding these differences not only helps you appreciate Detroit-style pizza more, but it also answers an important question: What is Detroit-style pizza called compared to other regional pizzas?

Let’s break it down and see how this Motor City masterpiece stands out.

Detroit-Style Pizza vs Sicilian Pizza

At first glance, some might mistake Detroit-style pizza for Sicilian pizza—after all, both have a thick crust and a rectangular shape. However, the differences become obvious once you take a bite.

1. Crust Texture and Thickness

• Sicilian pizza has a fluffy, bread-like crust with a slightly crispy bottom. It is softer and thicker, resembling focaccia.
• Detroit-style pizza, on the other hand, has a crispy, golden-brown crust with caramelized cheese edges. The inside remains light and airy, but the bottom and sides have a delightful crunch.

2. Cheese and Sauce Placement

• Sicilian pizza typically follows a traditional layering method: sauce first, then cheese on top.
• Detroit-style pizza flips the order, layering cheese first, then toppings, and finally drizzling the sauce on top after baking.

3. Baking Pan and Crispiness

• Sicilian pizza is baked in a standard aluminum pan, giving it a soft, chewy crust.
• Detroit-style pizza uses a blue steel automotive pan, which results in a crispy bottom and caramelized cheese edges.

4. Overall Flavor and Texture Experience

While both styles are thick and hearty, Sicilian pizza feels softer and more doughy, while Detroit-style offers a crispy, buttery crunch with a gooey, cheesy top layer.

👉 If you love a light, airy, yet crispy pizza with rich, caramelized cheese edges, Detroit-style wins this round!

Detroit-Style Pizza vs Chicago Deep-Dish

Since both are considered “deep-dish” pizzas, many people assume Detroit-style and Chicago-style pizzas are the same—but they couldn’t be more different!

1. Shape and Structure

• Chicago deep-dish is round and looks more like a pie than a pizza. It has high, thick crust walls that hold in the layers of cheese, toppings, and sauce.
• Detroit-style pizza is rectangular, with a crispy cheese border instead of a thick, tall crust.

2. Dough and Crust

• Chicago deep-dish dough is buttery, thick, and almost flaky, designed to hold up to its heavy layers of ingredients.
• Detroit-style pizza dough is lighter and airier, with a crispier bottom and edges due to the way it’s baked in a steel pan.

3. Sauce and Cheese Application

• Chicago deep-dish pizza layers cheese and toppings first, followed by a thick layer of chunky tomato sauce on top. This helps prevent the cheese from burning since it bakes for a longer time.
• Detroit-style pizza also places cheese first, but it uses cubed Wisconsin brick cheese that melts into the dough. The sauce is added after baking, creating signature red stripes across the top.

4. Baking Time and Experience

• Chicago deep-dish requires 35-45 minutes of baking time, making it one of the longest-cooked pizza styles.
• Detroit-style pizza bakes in 12-15 minutes, ensuring a crispy, caramelized crust without becoming too dense or heavy.

👉 If you want a crispy, cheesy, caramelized bite with a light and airy texture, Detroit-style pizza is the better choice. If you prefer a rich, hearty, pie-like experience, Chicago deep-dish might be your go-to.

How Detroit-Style Pizza Influenced Other Pizzas

As Detroit-style pizza has gained popularity, it has started influencing other styles across the U.S. Many pizzerias are experimenting with new hybrid versions, blending elements from multiple regional styles. Here’s how Detroit-style pizza is making its mark:

1. “Brooklyn Square” Pizza

Some pizzerias in New York have introduced a crispy-edged, cheese-forward Sicilian hybrid, inspired by Detroit-style pizza. This version uses a similar pan-baking method but keeps the sauce under the cheese.

2. “Pan Pizza” Variations

Many national chains, including Pizza Hut, have started offering Detroit-style inspired pan pizzas. These versions incorporate crispy edges and thicker crusts, though they often lack the authentic steel-pan baking process.

3. Gourmet Detroit-Style Pizzas

Restaurants across the country are now elevating Detroit-style pizza by adding:

• Premium cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda
• High-end toppings like truffle oil or prosciutto (without bacon or pork-based products)
• International flavors, incorporating elements of Mediterranean or Asian cuisine

The Growing Popularity of Detroit-Style Pizza

How Detroit-Style Pizza Became a National Trend

For decades, this crispy, cheesy, and rectangular pizza remained a local treasure in Michigan. Outside of Motor City, few knew about its thick, airy crust and caramelized cheese edges. However, in the last two decades, this once-underground favorite has exploded in popularity across the U.S.

So, what changed? How did this regional specialty become a national food trend?

Now, let’s explore how food shows, social media, and restaurant innovation have collectively transformed Detroit-style pizza into one of the most sought-after pizzas today.

The Role of Food Media and Social Media

1. TV Shows and Food Documentaries

Detroit-style pizza owes much of its rise to popular food TV shows and travel documentaries. Programs like:

• Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives
• The Pizza Show on VICE
• Somebody Feed Phil

These shows introduced millions of viewers to the crispy, cheese-crusted edges and signature sauce-on-top style. Moreover, seeing the golden, caramelized cheese and fluffy crust in high definition was enough to get mouths watering.

2. Instagram and Food Bloggers

With the rise of social media food culture, Detroit-style pizza became a viral sensation. Why? It looks incredible in photos.

• The cheese pull shots grabbed attention.
• The crispy crust close-ups made people crave a bite.
• The red sauce stripes created a visually striking contrast.

Food influencers and pizza lovers began sharing their own homemade versions, fueling the demand for this once-hidden gem.

The Expansion of Detroit-Style Pizza Beyond Michigan

1. More Restaurants Across the Country

With growing demand, many pizzerias across the U.S. began adding Detroit-style pizza to their menus. In fact, some even built entire restaurants around this unique style. Notable names include:

• Via 313 (Austin, Texas) – Founded by two Detroit natives, this pizzeria successfully brought authentic square pizzas to Texas.

• Emmy Squared (New York & Nashville) – One of the first high-end restaurants to introduce Detroit-style pizza to the East Coast.

• Lions & Tigers & Squares (New York City) – A Detroit-inspired pizza joint that quickly went viral for its thick, crispy slices.

2. Fast-Food Chains Jumping on the Trend

When Pizza Hut launched its own version of Detroit-style pizza, it became clear—this style was officially mainstream. While smaller, independent pizzerias had been perfecting the recipe for years, national chains helped introduce it to a wider audience.

Why Detroit-Style Pizza Appeals to So Many People

1. Perfect Balance of Crispy, Chewy, and Saucy

Unlike some deep-dish pizzas that can feel too heavy, this style strikes the perfect balance:

• Crispy bottom and edges for a satisfying crunch.
• Soft, airy interior that isn’t overly dense.
• Tangy tomato sauce layered on top for a bold flavor.

2. A Unique Alternative to Traditional Pizza

Many pizza lovers have already tried New York thin crust or Chicago deep-dish, but Detroit-style offers something different yet approachable.

3. Easy to Share, Fun to Eat

Its rectangular shape not only makes it easy to slice and share but also makes it a great choice for families, game nights, and food lovers eager to try something new.

What’s Next for Detroit-Style Pizza?

With its rapid rise in popularity, what does the future hold for this cheese-crusted masterpiece?

1. More Creative Toppings and Flavors

While the classic version features cheese, sauce, and pepperoni, new variations are emerging:

• Truffle-infused versions with gourmet cheeses.
• Spicy honey drizzles for a sweet-and-savory twist.
• Plant-based versions with dairy-free cheese and alternative crusts.

2. Global Influence

Although it has taken over the U.S., Detroit-style pizza is now appearing in other countries, with chefs putting their own spin on it. Expect to see it in places like Europe, Australia, and Asia in the coming years.

3. More DIY Home Versions

With more people experimenting in their kitchens, homemade versions of Detroit-style pizza are becoming easier than ever. Thanks to baking guides, steel pans for home ovens, and viral recipes, it’s now possible to get the authentic crispy crust without leaving your house.

FAQs

What Makes Detroit-Style Pizza Different from Other Styles?

Detroit-style pizza stands out because of its crispy, caramelized cheese edges, rectangular shape, and unique layering method. Unlike traditional pizzas, this one starts with cheese directly on the dough, allowing it to melt and crisp up against the steel pan. This technique creates the famous golden-brown crust that’s both crunchy and airy.

Another key difference is the sauce placement. Instead of spreading tomato sauce under the cheese, Detroit-style pizza adds it last, drizzled in thick stripes after baking. This prevents the crust from becoming soggy and keeps the flavors fresh.

Lastly, the use of Wisconsin brick cheese instead of mozzarella gives it a richer, more buttery taste. Combined with the crispy bottom, fluffy interior, and bold red sauce, this pizza offers a unique balance of textures and flavors that other styles simply don’t.

Why Is Detroit-Style Pizza Square?

The rectangular shape of Detroit-style pizza isn’t just for looks—rather, it has deep historical roots in Detroit’s automotive industry. When Buddy’s Rendezvous created the first Detroit-style pizza in 1946, they didn’t have traditional pizza pans. Instead, they relied on blue steel trays, originally designed for holding small car parts in auto factories.

Not only were these sturdy, industrial pans readily available, but they also turned out to be perfect for baking pizza. They distributed heat evenly, allowed the dough to rise properly, and—most importantly—created the crispy, caramelized edges that define Detroit-style pizza today.

Over time, this rectangular shape became iconic. Even though modern pizzerias may use different equipment, the tradition of square-cut Detroit-style pizza remains as strong as ever.

Is Mango Good on Pizza?

Mango on pizza? At first, it might sound unusual, but surprisingly, it works quite well! The natural sweetness of mango provides a delightful contrast to salty and savory toppings. As a result, some chefs incorporate it into spicy or tropical-inspired pizzas, expertly pairing it with ingredients like:

• Jalapeños (for a sweet-and-spicy kick)
• Goat cheese (for a creamy balance)
• Chicken or shrimp (for a tropical, savory twist)

If you enjoy Hawaiian pizza or other fruit-infused flavors, you might love mango as a topping. It’s a bold choice, but one that adds depth to every bite.

Why Is Grandma Pizza So Good?

Grandma pizza is loved for its thin yet crispy crust, rich tomato sauce, and simple, no-fuss toppings. Unlike Detroit-style pizza, which has a thick, airy crust, Grandma pizza has a thin, pan-baked dough that stays crunchy on the edges while remaining soft inside.

Some reasons why Grandma pizza is a fan favorite:

• Authentic homemade feel – It’s often made with rustic, simple ingredients, giving it a comforting, home-cooked taste.
• Balanced textures – The crispy bottom pairs perfectly with soft, flavorful tomato sauce and gooey cheese.
• Quick baking process – Unlike deep-dish styles, Grandma pizza bakes in 10-15 minutes, keeping the crust thin and crunchy while still being loaded with flavor.

It’s a great option for those who love classic New York flavors but want something lighter and crispier than a Sicilian slice.

Can You Put Fruit on Pizza?

Absolutely! While pineapple on pizza is one of the most debated topics in food culture, plenty of fruits can complement a savory pizza if paired correctly. Some popular fruit toppings include:

• Figs – Works beautifully with goat cheese and arugula.
• Apples or pears – Great with brie or blue cheese for a gourmet touch.
• Strawberries – A fun choice for balsamic-drizzled pizzas.
• Grapes – Surprisingly delicious when roasted with caramelized onions.

The key to adding fruit to pizza is balancing sweetness with bold, salty, or tangy flavors. When done right, fruit can add a refreshing twist that enhances the overall taste.

The Legacy and Future of Detroit-Style Pizza

Why Detroit-Style Pizza Continues to Grow in Popularity

Detroit-style pizza has come a long way from its humble beginnings in a small neighborhood bar in the 1940s. Over time, what started as a regional specialty has gradually transformed into a national favorite—and for good reason. Thanks to its crispy, caramelized cheese edges, thick-yet-airy crust, and bold sauce-on-top layering, this pizza delivers a one-of-a-kind experience that undeniably stands out in the crowded world of pizza.

So, what exactly has fueled its massive rise in popularity? The answer lies in its distinctive flavor, widespread social media buzz, and increasing accessibility. Now, let’s take a closer look at how Detroit-style pizza has evolved and what the future holds.

Detroit-Style Pizza’s Influence on the Pizza Industry

1. Expanding Beyond Michigan

For decades, Detroit-style pizza was mostly enjoyed within Michigan, but that has changed dramatically. Today, restaurants across the country are serving their own take on this crispy, cheesy masterpiece. From New York to Los Angeles, and even internationally, Detroit-style pizza is making waves in the food scene.

Even more exciting, many pizza chains—both local and national—have started adding Detroit-style pizza to their menus. This means that no matter where you are, you’re more likely than ever to find a place serving up this iconic square pizza.

2. A Social Media Sensation

Social media has played a huge role in making Detroit-style pizza famous. In particular, its picture-perfect crispy cheese edges, golden crust, and bright red sauce drizzles make it incredibly Instagram-worthy. As a result, food bloggers, influencers, and chefs have eagerly helped spread the word. Consequently, Detroit-style pizza has transformed into a must-try dish, gaining popularity far beyond its hometown.

People love sharing videos of cheese pulls, crispy crust close-ups, and step-by-step baking tutorials. This kind of exposure has not only increased demand but has also inspired more home cooks to try making their own versions.

3. More Pizzerias Experimenting with Detroit-Style

While the classic version remains a fan favorite, chefs and restaurants are pushing the boundaries with new and creative variations. Some exciting trends include:

• Plant-based Detroit-style pizzas with dairy-free cheese and veggie toppings.
• Gourmet versions using truffle oil, smoked gouda, or even hot honey.
• Spicy and bold flavors, incorporating ingredients like jalapeños, buffalo sauce, or barbecue chicken.

As more chefs put their own spin on Detroit-style pizza, the style is evolving, keeping things fresh and exciting.