Detroit Pizza In Michigan: A Slice Of Motor City!

Hey guys! Ever heard of Detroit-style pizza? If not, buckle up because you’re in for a treat! This isn't your typical New York slice or Chicago deep-dish. We're talking about a unique, rectangular pizza with a crispy, cheesy edge and a light, airy crust. And where else to find the most authentic and delicious Detroit pizza than right here in Michigan? Let's dive into the world of Michigan's Detroit pizza scene and explore what makes it so special!

What Makes Detroit Pizza Special?

So, what’s the big deal with Detroit-style pizza? Well, let's break it down. The first thing you’ll notice is its shape: rectangular. This isn't just for looks; it's because the pizza is traditionally baked in blue steel pans, which were originally used as automotive parts trays – talk about a Motor City origin story! These pans are key to creating that signature crispy, almost caramelized edge that everyone raves about. The cheese is another crucial element. We’re talking about Wisconsin brick cheese, which is spread all the way to the edges of the pan. As it bakes, the cheese melts and sizzles against the hot steel, creating a gloriously crispy and cheesy perimeter.

And then there's the crust. Unlike some other thick-crust pizzas, Detroit-style aims for a light and airy interior. Achieving this requires a specific dough recipe and a skillful baker who knows how to coax the perfect rise. Finally, the sauce is typically applied after baking, in dollops or stripes across the top. This prevents the crust from getting soggy and adds a bright, tangy finish to each slice. The combination of these elements – the pan, the cheese, the crust, and the sauce – creates a pizza experience that's truly unique. When you bite into a slice of Detroit-style pizza, you get a symphony of textures and flavors: the crispy edge, the chewy crust, the gooey cheese, and the tangy sauce. It’s no wonder this style has gained such a devoted following!

Top Spots for Detroit Pizza in Michigan

Alright, now that you’re drooling, let’s talk about where to find the best Detroit pizza in Michigan. Lucky for you, there are plenty of amazing spots to choose from! Here are a few of my personal favorites, and some widely acclaimed places, that you absolutely have to check out.

Buddy’s Pizza

No discussion about Detroit-style pizza is complete without mentioning Buddy’s Pizza. Considered by many to be the original home of Detroit-style pizza, Buddy’s has been serving up their iconic square pies since 1946. Located on Conant Street in Detroit, Buddy’s started as a neighborhood bar and quickly became famous for its unique pizza. The recipe has remained largely unchanged over the decades, and each pizza is still made with the same care and attention to detail. When you visit Buddy’s, you absolutely have to try their original Detroit-style pizza with the classic toppings: pepperoni, mushrooms, and onions. The sauce is rich and flavorful, the cheese is perfectly melted, and the crust is crispy and airy. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and you can feel the history in every bite. Over the years, Buddy’s has expanded to multiple locations throughout Michigan, but the original location remains a pilgrimage site for pizza lovers. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a first-time visitor, Buddy’s Pizza is a must-try for anyone seeking an authentic Detroit-style pizza experience.

Cloverleaf Pizza

Another legendary spot is Cloverleaf Pizza in Eastpointe. Founded in 1953, Cloverleaf is another strong contender for the title of original Detroit-style pizza. Gus Guerra, the founder, is said to have perfected the recipe after experimenting with different doughs, cheeses, and baking techniques. Today, Cloverleaf continues to use Guerra's original recipe, and their pizzas are consistently praised for their quality and flavor. The key to Cloverleaf’s success is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and time-tested methods. Their dough is made fresh daily, their cheese is sourced from Wisconsin, and their sauce is made in-house. The result is a pizza that’s both classic and innovative, with a perfect balance of flavors and textures. When you visit Cloverleaf, be sure to try their signature pizza with the classic red sauce, brick cheese, and your choice of toppings. The restaurant itself has a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a casual meal with friends and loved ones. With its rich history and delicious pizza, Cloverleaf Pizza is a true Detroit institution.

Loui’s Pizza

If you’re looking for a slightly different take on Detroit-style pizza, head over to Loui’s Pizza in Hazel Park. Loui’s is known for its slightly thicker crust and generous toppings. While it maintains the rectangular shape and crispy edges that define Detroit-style, Loui’s adds its own unique twist with a richer, more substantial crust. The restaurant has been around since 1977, and it’s a beloved neighborhood spot known for its friendly service and consistently delicious food. One of the highlights of Loui’s is their prodigious use of toppings. Whether you’re a fan of pepperoni, mushrooms, onions, or something more adventurous, Loui’s will load up your pizza with plenty of your favorites. The sauce is also a standout, with a slightly sweet and tangy flavor that complements the richness of the cheese and toppings. The atmosphere at Loui’s is casual and welcoming, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a satisfying meal. If you’re in the mood for a hearty and flavorful Detroit-style pizza, Loui’s is definitely worth a visit.

Jet’s Pizza

For a more widely available option, you can’t go wrong with Jet’s Pizza. With locations throughout Michigan and beyond, Jet’s has brought Detroit-style pizza to the masses. While it may not have the same historical pedigree as some of the other spots on this list, Jet’s has earned a loyal following for its consistent quality and affordable prices. Jet’s uses high-quality ingredients and bakes their pizzas in custom-made steel pans, ensuring that each one has the signature crispy edges and airy crust. One of the things that sets Jet’s apart is their variety of crust flavors. In addition to the original crust, they offer flavored crusts like garlic, butter, and parmesan. These flavored crusts add an extra layer of flavor to the pizza and make it even more delicious. Jet’s also offers a wide range of toppings, from classic pepperoni and sausage to more gourmet options like grilled chicken and artichoke hearts. Whether you’re ordering for a large group or just grabbing a quick slice, Jet’s Pizza is a reliable and convenient option for Detroit-style pizza.

Making Detroit Pizza at Home

Feeling ambitious? Why not try making Detroit-style pizza at home? It might seem intimidating, but with the right recipe and a little practice, you can create a delicious and authentic pie in your own kitchen. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Get the Right Pan: The pan is crucial for achieving that signature crispy edge. Look for a blue steel pan or a similar rectangular pan with straight sides. An 8x10 or 9x13 inch pan works well for a home-sized pizza.
• Use Wisconsin Brick Cheese: This cheese is essential for the authentic flavor and texture. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with a blend of mozzarella and cheddar, but try to find brick cheese for the best results.
• Don’t Skimp on the Oil: Detroit-style pizza is known for its generous use of oil. Don’t be afraid to coat the pan with plenty of oil before adding the dough. This will help create a crispy, golden-brown crust.
• Proof the Dough Properly: Allow the dough to rise in the pan for at least an hour before baking. This will ensure that the crust is light and airy.
• Bake at a High Temperature: A hot oven is key to getting that crispy edge. Preheat your oven to 450-500°F and bake the pizza until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making delicious Detroit-style pizza at home. Experiment with different toppings and sauces to create your own signature pie!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, folks! A deep dive into the wonderful world of Detroit-style pizza in Michigan. Whether you’re hitting up a legendary spot like Buddy’s or Cloverleaf, grabbing a pie from Jet’s, or trying your hand at making it at home, you’re in for a treat. This unique and delicious pizza is a true Michigan original, and it’s something that everyone should experience. So go ahead, grab a slice (or two) and enjoy the taste of the Motor City! You won’t regret it! And don't forget to share your pics of your Detroit pizza adventures!