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If you’ve explored the world of pizza beyond Naples and New York, you might have stumbled across a style that’s quietly developed a cult following: New Haven pizza, also known locally as “apizza” (pronounced ah-beetz).
Born in the immigrant communities of Connecticut, New Haven pizza has grown from a regional specialty to a style recognised by pizza obsessives across the globe. But what exactly makes it different—and where can you get it in the UK?
The Origins of New Haven Pizza
New Haven, Connecticut, was a hub for Italian immigrants in the early 20th century. With them came traditional Neapolitan pizza-making, but local bakers adapted it to American ingredients and tastes.
The result was apizza, first popularised by legendary pizzerias such as Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana (founded 1925) and Sally’s Apizza (founded 1938). Both are still serving today and are considered institutions of American pizza culture.
What Makes New Haven Pizza Unique?
- Charred Crust (“char” not “burnt”)
Cooked in coal-fired brick ovens at blistering heat, New Haven pies are known for their thin, crisp crust with a distinct dark char. Fans insist this smoky edge is part of the flavour, not a flaw. - Cheese Comes Second
A true “plain pie” in New Haven isn’t loaded with mozzarella. It’s topped simply with tomato sauce, a light sprinkle of Pecorino Romano, garlic, and oregano. Mozzarella is considered an extra topping. - Oblong Shape
Forget the perfect circle—New Haven pies are famously irregular and slightly oblong. It’s part of the handmade charm. - White Clam Pizza
Perhaps the city’s most famous creation: a pizza topped with fresh clams, garlic, olive oil, oregano, and grated cheese. It’s salty, garlicky, and unlike anything you’d find in Naples or New York.
New Haven Pizza vs. Other Styles
- Versus Neapolitan:
Softer and wetter Neapolitan pizzas contrast with New Haven’s crunchier, coal-fired crust. - Versus New York:
New York slices are foldable, cheesy, and often cooked in gas ovens. New Haven pies are thinner, less cheesy, and cooked hotter, giving them more char. - Versus Chicago:
The deep-dish indulgence of Chicago couldn’t be further from New Haven’s lean, crisp style.
Where to Try New Haven Pizza in the UK
While you won’t find New Haven spots on every corner, a few adventurous pizzerias have embraced the style here:
- Yard Sale Pizza (London) – Known for collaborations and experimental pies, they’ve run specials inspired by New Haven’s white clam pizza.
- Homeslice (London) – While not strictly New Haven, their thin, charred, oversized pies nod in that direction.
- Independent Pizza Makers & Pop-Ups – Keep an eye on artisan pizza events across Manchester, Leeds, and London—several pop-ups have experimented with clam pies and charred, coal-fired styles.
Final Slice
New Haven pizza might not yet be as mainstream in the UK as Neapolitan or New York slices, but its reputation is growing fast. With its smoky char, pared-back approach to cheese, and iconic clam pie, it represents one of the most distinctive—and delicious—branches of the pizza family tree.
For those chasing pizza perfection, New Haven “apizza” is one you’ll want to tick off your list.
- Charred Crust (“char” not “burnt”)
What Is New Haven Pizza?
