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In the Triad area? Visit our sister restaurant, Mario's Pizza!
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Pizza ranks as one of the most beloved dishes worldwide, sparking passionate debates about its ideal form. The discussion often centers around hand-tossed pizza vs pan pizza, emphasizing the crust as the foundation of every ‘pie’!
While many enthusiasts fiercely argue about the taste of each style, few are aware of the origins and craftsmanship behind them. At Tony’s Pizza, we not only serve delicious food but also love to educate our patrons. Thus, we created this blog to explore each pizza style and the fascinating history of pizza itself.
If you’re already craving our NY-style pizza, head over to one of our many locations in the Charlotte and Hickory area. Or, if you’d rather learn a little more about our pizza first, keep reading. Although, we can’t hold ourselves responsible if you drool a little. Well, okay, maybe we can!
To help solve the great debate of which style is better, pan pizza vs hand tossed, it helps to have a little history.
The history of pizza begins in Naples, Italy, where it first appeared as a humble street food in the late 18th century. This traditional Neapolitan pizza was characterized by a basic, hand-tossed crust adorned with tomatoes, cheese, and fresh basil — colors that beautifully represent the Italian flag. This classic preparation serves as the foundation for the hand-tossed pizza we love today.
In contrast, pan pizza has its origins in the United States. Emerging during the mid-20th century, pizzerias began to explore options to satisfy American tastes for thicker, more substantial meals. This led to the creation of deep-dish and pan styles, allowing for experimentation with thicker crusts and a variety of toppings, ultimately giving rise (literally!) to the pan pizza we enjoy now.
Both pizza styles have enjoyed widespread popularity, each providing a unique experience. By understanding their origins, we can better appreciate the evolution of these iconic dishes and the reasons they continue to be beloved around the world.
Ever wonder why cooks take the time to hand toss their pizza? Notably, hand-tossed pizza features a thin, airy crust. Leaving out the hand-tossing, takes out the airiness of the texture. Therefore, skilled chefs stretch and toss the dough by hand. This technique allows air to circulate, creating a light, crispy texture once baked.
Moreover, successful hand-tossed crust relies on the right balance of ingredients. Chefs mix flour, water, yeast, and salt in precise ratios. They often let the dough rise for several hours. This fermentation enhances flavor and texture in every bite.
At Tony’s Pizza, we take pride in our hand-tossing technique. We aim to create satisfying NY-style pizzas that delight our customers. Both hand-tossed and other styles have gained global popularity. Each offers a unique experience to pizza lovers. Understanding their histories helps us appreciate their evolution and enduring appeal.
Obviously, we’re know for – and if we’re being honest, partial to – thin-crust NY-style pizza. However, pan pizza is also a delight in itself. Known for its thick, fluffy crust, pan pizza makes a great meal.
This counterpart to NY-style starts in a deep, well-oiled pan. Chefs press in thick dough up to the edges. Then, they allow it to rise. Consequently, it has an airy structure that is also dense. Moreover, the oil not only aids in baking but also creates a deliciously crisp bottom with deep flavor. The final product is soft and chewy inside, with a crispy, golden exterior.
Generally, chain restaurants such as Pizza Hut and Domino’s Pizza serve pan pizza.
Ultimately, it’s okay if we never reach a consensus on the great hand tossed pizza vs pan pizza debate. When it all come down to it, it’s easy to agree that pizza is simply a fabulous meal for many reasons.
Not only does it provide some great vitamins and nutrients, it’s a fun, casual food to share with friends and family. Plus, you can make it different nearly every time you eat it by changing the toppings up a bit.
So, celebrate this fun pizza diversity by checking out different pizza joints and trying both classic and innovative creations. Not only is this a great way to support local pizzerias, it’s fun to savor their unique interpretations of hand tossed and pan pizzas.
Most importantly, there’s really no right or wrong choice. Sometimes, it simply comes down to mood or personal preference.
Wondering about our Brooklyn-style pizza? Check out our FAQ section below or visit our website for more information.
Absolutely. In fact, we offer both a gluten-free crust and a cauliflower crust. However, be aware that we are not a certified gluten-free kitchen. Consequently, there is a risk of cross-contamination. Let us know your food restrictions when ordering, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
We have six convenient locations in the Charlotte and Hickory area.
If you’re in the triad area of NC, visit our sister chain, Mario’s Pizza. We also offer takeout and delivery!
Indeed, we do! Our owners come from Brooklyn and are dedicated to providing authentic, hand-tossed NY-style pizza. Click here to learn more about our story.
Ready to decide for yourself between hand-tossed and pan pizza? Visit one of our 6 Charlotte and Hickory area locations for amazing hand-tossed pizza.
In the meantime, be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for delicious content and updates on specials!