The wind howls a familiar tune outside, a typical blustery evening in St. John’s, Newfoundland. The rain drums a steady rhythm against the windowpane, and the air carries that unmistakable scent of salty sea mingled with a hint of woodsmoke from a nearby fireplace. In moments like these, when the raw beauty of Newfoundland’s capital city is on full display, one thing – and one thing only – can perfectly complement the atmosphere: a warm, comforting slice of pizza.
St. John’s, with its colourful row houses clinging to the steep hillsides and its vibrant cultural scene, is renowned for its hospitality and, of course, its breathtaking scenery. While traditional Newfoundland fare, like fish and chips or a hearty Jiggs dinner, often takes center stage, the city’s culinary landscape has evolved to embrace diverse flavors from around the world. And surprisingly, pizza holds a prominent position in this evolving culinary tapestry.
From hidden gem pizzerias serving up classic Italian pies to innovative eateries crafting pizzas with a Newfoundland twist, St. John’s offers a slice of heaven for every palate. This guide will take you on a delectable journey through the best pizza spots in the city, uncovering the stories, the flavors, and the passion that make St. John’s a true pizza paradise. So, grab a napkin, prepare your taste buds, and let’s dive in!
The Allure of Classic and Traditional Pizza in St. John’s
Sometimes, the best things in life are the simplest. This sentiment rings especially true when it comes to pizza. In St. John’s, there are several established pizzerias that have perfected the art of crafting classic and traditional pizzas, holding true to the time-honored techniques and recipes that have made pizza a global favourite. These are the places where you can find that familiar taste of home, a comforting reminder of pizza’s origins.
These pizzerias often boast a history that spans decades, a testament to their dedication to quality and their unwavering commitment to their loyal customer base. They are places where families gather, where friends share laughter over a shared pie, and where the aroma of freshly baked dough and simmering tomato sauce fills the air.
What sets these classic pizzerias apart is their adherence to traditional pizza-making methods. They use high-quality ingredients, crafting their own sauces from scratch using ripe tomatoes, fragrant herbs, and a touch of garlic. The dough is often made fresh daily, allowed to rise slowly to develop a perfect texture that is both crispy and chewy. Toppings are carefully selected, with a focus on freshness and flavour.
A visit to one of these establishments is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The ambiance is often warm and inviting, with checkered tablecloths, friendly staff, and the comforting sounds of a bustling kitchen. It’s a place where you can relax, unwind, and enjoy the simple pleasure of a perfectly crafted pizza. Each pizzeria adds their own twist to classic options such as pepperoni, margherita, or mushroom, ensuring a unique experience. Some may use local mushrooms, and others may use a proprietary blend of cheese.
Modern Marvels: Innovative Pizza Styles Taking St. John’s by Storm
While the classics hold a special place in our hearts (and stomachs), St. John’s also boasts a thriving scene of modern and innovative pizzerias that are pushing the boundaries of pizza creation. These are the places where you’ll find unexpected flavour combinations, inventive toppings, and unique crust styles that will challenge your perception of what pizza can be.
Driven by a passion for culinary experimentation, these pizzerias are embracing local ingredients, incorporating them into their creations to showcase the bounty of Newfoundland and Labrador. Think locally sourced seafood, wild mushrooms, artisanal cheeses, and even Newfoundland berries finding their way onto pizza pies. This connection to the local landscape adds a unique and delicious dimension to the pizza experience.
Some of these establishments are experimenting with different pizza styles, drawing inspiration from various regions of the world. You might find Detroit-style pizzas with their thick, rectangular crusts and caramelized cheese edges, or New York-style pizzas with their thin, foldable slices. Neapolitan-style pizzas, cooked in wood-fired ovens to achieve a blistered crust and smoky flavour, are also gaining popularity.
The atmosphere in these modern pizzerias is often as exciting as the pizzas themselves. Expect sleek, contemporary designs, vibrant artwork, and a lively energy that reflects the innovative spirit of the chefs and owners. These are places where you can try something new, expand your culinary horizons, and discover the endless possibilities of pizza. For example, one pizza place may offer a pizza with scrunchions and moose sausage. Another might specialize in incorporating local sea vegetables into their toppings.
These innovative pizza places attract not just locals, but also tourists who are wanting to experience what St. John’s has to offer. With an ever-changing menu, there is always something new and exciting to try.
Pizza for Every Preference: Catering to Diverse Diets in St. John’s
In today’s world, dietary preferences and restrictions are more common than ever. Fortunately, St. John’s pizzerias are stepping up to the plate, offering a range of options to cater to vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free pizza lovers. No one should have to miss out on the pizza experience, regardless of their dietary needs.
Vegetarian pizzas are readily available at most pizzerias in St. John’s, with a wide variety of vegetable toppings to choose from. From classic combinations like mushrooms, peppers, and onions to more adventurous options like artichoke hearts, sun-dried tomatoes, and roasted eggplant, the possibilities are endless. Vegan pizza is becoming increasingly popular, with more and more pizzerias offering plant-based cheese alternatives and creative vegetable-based toppings. Some pizzerias even make their own vegan cheese in house, using ingredients like cashews or almonds.
Gluten-free pizza crusts are also becoming more widely available, allowing those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease to enjoy a slice of pizza without worry. While gluten-free crusts may not always perfectly replicate the texture of traditional wheat-based crusts, they have come a long way in recent years, and many pizzerias now offer excellent gluten-free options that are both delicious and satisfying.
When ordering pizza with dietary restrictions, it’s always a good idea to double-check with the pizzeria about their ingredients and preparation methods to ensure that your pizza is safe and suitable for your needs. Many pizzerias are happy to accommodate special requests and provide detailed information about their ingredients and processes. Many restaurants utilize separate ovens and utensils to avoid cross contamination.
Pizza Possibilities: Highlighting Excellence Across Categories
Beyond simply listing the best pizza joints, we can narrow it down to categories to help suit everyone’s taste. This also helps highlight the unique offerings of each establishment.
Value Pizza
When you are short on cash, or simply craving a casual pie, some locations offer incredible deals. Look out for daily specials and multi-pizza discounts.
Ambiance Pizza
Sometimes, the atmosphere is just as important as the food itself. For a night out with friends, or a romantic dinner, there are several pizza places with an aesthetic appeal. Many of these are situated in heritage buildings, offering a unique slice of Newfoundland history alongside the pizza.
Late-Night Pizza
Need a pizza after a night out on George Street? A few spots stay open late, ready to serve up a slice to hungry revelers.
Takeout/Delivery Pizza
Some nights, the weather is too bad, or you simply prefer a night in. Luckily, several pizza places focus specifically on takeout and delivery, offering prompt service with a smile.
Pizza with a View
For a truly memorable experience, nothing beats enjoying a delicious pizza with a stunning view of the St. John’s harbour. A few select establishments offer this scenic atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion.
Navigating the Pizza Scene: Tips for Ordering in St. John’s
With so many great pizza options to choose from, navigating the St. John’s pizza scene can feel overwhelming. Here are a few tips to help you make the most of your pizza experience:
Take advantage of online ordering systems and popular delivery apps to conveniently browse menus, place orders, and track your delivery. Keep in mind that some pizzerias may have reservation policies, especially during peak hours. It’s always a good idea to call ahead to check availability and make a reservation if necessary.
Don’t be afraid to ask for recommendations! The staff at pizzerias are often passionate about their pizzas and happy to guide you towards the perfect pie. Consider pairing your pizza with a local craft beer. Newfoundland has a thriving craft beer scene, with many breweries producing unique and flavourful beers that complement pizza perfectly.
Keep an eye out for parking. Due to downtown density and the historical streets, parking can be challenging.
A Slice of St. John’s: A Pizza Conclusion
The pizza scene in St. John’s, Newfoundland, is a testament to the city’s vibrant culinary spirit and its embrace of both tradition and innovation. From the classic pizzerias that have stood the test of time to the modern eateries that are pushing the boundaries of pizza creation, there’s a slice of heaven waiting for everyone in this charming coastal city.
Whether you’re craving a comforting pepperoni pizza, an adventurous seafood-topped pie, or a delicious vegan creation, St. John’s has something to satisfy your pizza desires. So, the next time you find yourself in St. John’s, be sure to explore the city’s pizza scene and discover the delicious flavours and stories that make it a true pizza paradise.
What are your favourite pizza spots in St. John’s? Share them in the comments below!
