5 Legendary Pizzas You Need to Try
By Shammas / April 27, 2025
Legendary Pizzas
Pizza is more than food—it’s an experience. A slice of something bigger, a moment that makes you stop, smile, and savor. It’s a universal language that speaks to the heart, and it’s woven deeply into the cultural fabric of nearly every part of the world. Among the thousands of pizza variations spinning around the globe, there are a few legendary pizzas that shine above the rest, slicing their way straight into our hearts (and cravings).
Today, we’re serving up the five must-try pizzas that you absolutely cannot miss. Each one tells a story. Each one brings its own unforgettable flavor. These pizzas have achieved iconic status, leaving lasting impressions and claiming their place in the pizza hall of fame. So grab your plate, lean in, and get ready to meet the stars of the pizza universe.
1. Pepperoni Pizza: The Icon
If pizza had a rockstar, it would be pepperoni. Pepperoni pizza is the definition of an all-time favorite. Inspired by spicy Italian salamis, pepperoni was taken to new heights in America, where it underwent a transformation: finer grind, bolder seasonings, and a quicker cure. What we get is a topping that packs a punch with every bite. The magic happens when those thin, round slices of pepperoni curl up and crisp at the edges in the oven, creating tiny pools of oil that add to the rich flavor. The result? A slice that’s crispy at the edges, chewy in the center, spicy, smoky, and utterly addictive.
Pepperoni pizza is more than just a topping; it’s one of the most beloved legendary pizzas worldwide. Whether you’re enjoying it at a late-night hangout or the centerpiece of a pizza party, this iconic topping never gets old. It has stood the test of time, constantly ranking as one of the most ordered pizzas around the world. Its popularity isn’t just about flavor—it’s about the feeling it evokes. That first bite, with the perfect crisp of pepperoni and the gooey cheese beneath, is an experience you’ll crave again and again.
2. Neapolitan Pizza: The Original Love Story
Every pizza has a debt to pay to Naples, Italy—the birthplace of one of the most legendary pizzas ever created: the Neapolitan. This is the pizza that started it all, the gold standard that shaped the world’s love for pizza. The Neapolitan pizza is more than just a dish—it’s an edible work of art, rooted in tradition and perfected through centuries of Italian culinary passion.
Why is it one of the most legendary pizzas? It’s the simplicity. Neapolitan pizza is known for its thin, tender crust that puffs into beautifully blistered edges, soft yet satisfyingly chewy in the center. Baked in an intensely hot wood-fired oven, it achieves that iconic combination of smoky aroma and lightly crisp texture in just 90 seconds. The dough is made with high-quality, finely milled flour and fermented to perfection, creating a base that’s as flavorful as it is airy.
But the magic lies in the details—sweet San Marzano tomatoes grown on volcanic soil, fresh mozzarella di bufala or fior di latte, fragrant basil leaves, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. That’s it. No overload of toppings. No distractions. Just pure ingredients working in perfect harmony. The minimalism of this pizza is its greatest strength.
Take a bite, and you’re instantly transported to the lively piazzas of Naples, where tradition, passion, and flavor collide. You’ll hear the clatter of espresso cups, the echo of church bells, and the sizzle of pizza crust meeting fire. Neapolitan pizza isn’t just one of the most beloved legendary pizzas—it’s a cultural treasure. It represents authenticity, pride, and the enduring love affair between Italy and its most iconic culinary gift to the world.
3. Margherita Pizza: Royal Simplicity
Sometimes, less really is more—and the Margherita pizza proves it with every bite. Revered as one of the most legendary pizzas in the world, it’s a timeless masterpiece born from the heart of Italy. This isn’t just a pizza; it’s a symbol, a slice of Italian heritage that continues to capture hearts across generations and continents.
The story begins in 1889, when Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples. In her honor, a local pizzaiolo crafted a pizza using ingredients that reflected the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. The result was a dish that resonated so deeply it became a national treasure—and earned its queenly name.
What makes the Margherita one of the most enduring legendary pizzas is its elegant simplicity. But don’t be fooled—its minimalism is intentional, demanding the finest ingredients and perfect execution. Ripe San Marzano tomatoes bring bright acidity and sweetness, fresh mozzarella provides a creamy, luxurious base, and whole basil leaves offer a fragrant, peppery lift. All of it rests on a thin, hand-stretched crust that’s soft in the middle with a slightly charred edge, kissed by flames in a blistering hot oven.
The Margherita is the kind of pizza that speaks volumes without saying a word. Legendary Pizzas No bells and whistles. No towering toppings. Just harmony, balance, and tradition on a plate. It’s soft, warm, and satisfying in a way that only food made with love can be.
Biting into a Margherita pizza is like taking a bite out of Italy itself—rich with history, flavor, and national pride. Among all legendary pizzas, this one remains a humble yet powerful reminder that greatness doesn’t always need grandeur. Sometimes, the simplest things leave the deepest impressions.
4. New York-Style Pizza: Street Food Royalty
Large, crisp, and effortlessly foldable—New York-style pizza is the edible embodiment of the city that never sleeps. Fast, flavorful, and unapologetically bold, it’s one of those legendary pizzas that captures the spirit of its birthplace with every oversized, grease-kissed bite.
Born from the bustling boroughs of the Big Apple, this pizza was made for movement. Designed for people on the go, the classic New York slice is wide enough to require a fold, thin enough to carry with one hand, and hearty enough to satisfy even the hungriest of city-dwellers. The crust is thin but firm, crisp at the base yet soft enough to bend without breaking. It holds up a generous layer of melted mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce, creating a balanced flavor that’s savory, rich, and just a touch chaotic—just like the streets it was born on.
What makes it one of the most legendary pizzas isn’t just the flavor—it’s the attitude. This pizza doesn’t try too hard. It doesn’t need gimmicks or gold flakes. It’s simple, direct, and unforgettable. You grab it from a sidewalk shop, maybe after a late night or during a quick lunch break, fold it in half like a true New Yorker, and take that first bite. The cheese stretches, the crust cracks, and suddenly, you’re part of the city’s rhythm.
From the neon lights of Times Square to the quiet corners of Brooklyn, New York-style pizza is a cultural icon. Its legacy is baked into the city’s identity—accessible, fast-paced, and fiercely loved. And though it’s been copied in cities across the globe, nothing quite compares to the original.
Among the world’s legendary pizzas, this slice stands tall as the champion of convenience, flavor, and tradition. If you haven’t had it hot from a city pizzeria, standing on a sidewalk with a paper plate in hand, you haven’t truly experienced what pizza can be at its most honest and iconic.
5. Prosciutto & Arugula Pizza: Fresh and Fancy
When pizza goes gourmet, it transforms into something truly unforgettable—and Prosciutto and Arugula pizza is a shining example. Elegant yet approachable, this is one of those legendary pizzas that proves simplicity can be the height of sophistication. With its perfectly blistered crust, creamy mozzarella, and luxurious toppings, this pie brings together old-world charm and modern culinary flair.
It starts with a base of golden, wood-fired dough topped with melted cheese—usually mozzarella or burrata—creating a rich, creamy canvas. Then comes the star: delicate, paper-thin slices of prosciutto, added just after baking so they retain their soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture. But what truly sets this pizza apart is the generous handful of fresh arugula tossed on top right before serving. The arugula’s peppery kick cuts through the richness of the prosciutto and cheese, giving each bite a crisp, refreshing balance.
It’s an artful harmony of salty, savory, and fresh. A finishing drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a shaving of aged parmesan takes this pizza to new heights, elevating every flavor note and adding a layer of depth that lingers long after the last bite. This isn’t just pizza—it’s a culinary experience that dances between rustic comfort and gourmet indulgence.
Whether you’re dining al fresco at an upscale trattoria or recreating the experience at home, Prosciutto and Arugula pizza brings a refined touch to the familiar favorite. Among the world’s legendary pizzas, this one stands out for its elegance, flavor complexity, and its ability to feel indulgent while still being grounded in tradition.
It’s the kind of pizza you order when you want to impress, to celebrate, or simply to enjoy something that feels a little more special. One bite, and you’ll understand why it belongs on the list of legendary pizzas loved around the globe.
6. BBQ Chicken Pizza: Bold, Smoky, and Irresistible
When tradition meets innovation, something magical happens—and BBQ chicken pizza is living proof. As one of the most daring and delicious spins on the classic pie, this creation has earned its place among the world’s most legendary pizzas. Born in the 1980s at a time when pizza purists reigned supreme, BBQ chicken pizza broke all the rules—and the world fell in love. Instead of tomato sauce, it uses a tangy, sweet, smoky barbecue base that instantly wakes up your taste buds and sets the tone for a slice like no other.
The secret behind this pizza’s cult-like following lies in its bold balance of flavors. Every bite is a layered experience: juicy grilled chicken drenched in BBQ sauce, soft yet stretchy mozzarella cheese, the sharp crunch of red onions, and the unexpected pop of freshly chopped cilantro. Some versions even go a step further, sprinkling on smoked gouda or cheddar for an extra hit of creamy depth. Each ingredient plays its part perfectly, creating a complex harmony that pushes the boundaries of what a pizza can be.
BBQ chicken pizza has become the go-to slice for flavor adventurers—those who believe that comfort food doesn’t have to be conventional. It’s a pizza for bold souls, flavor chasers, and anyone who appreciates a culinary remix done right. This pizza doesn’t just belong on the menu—it demands a spotlight on any list of legendary pizzas.
Whether you’re hosting a game night, trying something new at your favorite pizza spot, or experimenting in your own kitchen, BBQ chicken pizza proves that creativity, when combined with quality ingredients, can create something truly unforgettable. It redefines tradition while still honoring the essence of what makes pizza great. Sweet, smoky, savory, and slightly rebellious—this is one of those legendary pizzas that reminds us why we love pizza in the first place.
7. Detroit-Style Pizza – A Crispy-Edged, Cheese-Laden Icon
Born in the Motor City, Detroit-style pizza is a driving force in the world of legendary pizzas. This unique and unapologetic pie revs its engine with a square shape, caramelized cheese edges, and a thick yet airy crust that sets it apart from every other pizza you’ve tasted. It brings a whole new attitude to the pizza game, completely rethinking how pizza should be built, baked, and devoured. If you think you’ve seen it all when it comes to pizza, Detroit-style will quickly change your mind and fuel your appetite for something different.
What makes Detroit-style pizza truly legendary is its reverse layering technique—a feature unique to this style. The cheese, typically a blend of mozzarella and Wisconsin brick cheese, is spread directly onto the dough, creating a crispy, golden crust. The sauce is then added on top in signature racing stripes, providing a tangy kick that perfectly complements the cheese. This layering method sets Detroit-style pizza apart, making it one of the legendary pizzas that redefine pizza perfection.
Baked in blue steel pans originally used for auto parts, Detroit-style pizza gets its unique, crunch-heavy crust. These pans, repurposed for pizza baking, create a thick, airy base with crispy edges and a soft center. The result is a satisfying texture that enhances the overall pizza experience, making it one of the legendary pizzas to try.
This pizza’s craftsmanship ties back to Detroit’s industrial roots. The cheese-to-crust ratio and signature sauce application create a balance of flavors and textures that elevate this pizza to legendary status. Detroit-style pizza is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of ingenuity and boldness in pizza-making.
Loaded with toppings like pepperoni, sausage, or mushrooms, Detroit-style pizza is unapologetically hearty. The crust can handle any toppings you throw at it, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor and texture. Whether you prefer a classic combination or something more adventurous, Detroit-style pizza delivers a savory punch, making it one of the legendary pizzas everyone should try.
Loaded with toppings like pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, or any combination you can dream up, Detroit-style pizza is unapologetically hearty. The crust holds up to whatever toppings you throw at it without losing its integrity, ensuring that each bite is an explosion of flavor, texture, and satisfaction. Whether you’re a fan of spicy pepperoni, classic sausage, or a veggie-heavy pie, every slice delivers a comforting, savory punch. Detroit-style pizza is everything pizza should be: bold, satisfying, and legendary. It doesn’t just stand out in a crowd—it dominates, earning its rightful place among the legendary pizzas that stand the test of time.
Detroit-style pizza isn’t just a regional favorite—it’s a hometown hero that’s gained a cult following across the nation. From its humble beginnings in local pizzerias to its rise as one of the most creative and legendary pizzas on the planet, this pizza has earned its place among the most revered slices in the world. It’s bold, it’s distinct, and it’s impossible to forget. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this iconic pie has made such a huge impact on the pizza world. It’s not just a meal—it’s a cultural moment, a revolution in pizza form.
Final Crust: A Slice of Perfection
At the end of the day, great pizza isn’t just about technique—it’s about emotion.
Pizza is more than just food; it’s comfort, tradition, rebellion, excitement, and love—all baked into one golden, glorious slice. Whether you’re sinking your teeth into a crispy pepperoni, folding a giant New York slice, or savoring a delicate prosciutto-topped creation, one thing is clear: pizza is life, and every slice is a celebration.
Each of these legendary pizzas has a story to tell. From the fiery passion of pepperoni to the timeless grace of Margherita and the elegant balance of prosciutto and arugula, these pies have carved out a permanent place in the hearts of pizza lovers around the world. They are more than meals—they are icons.
So what are you waiting for? Pick your favorite, take a big bite, and taste a little bit of history, art, and happiness—all in one unforgettable slice.
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