Top 10 Pizzerias I’ve Been To

1. Sally’s
2. Pepe’s
3. Pizzeria Bianco
4. Roseland
5. Pupatella
6. Zuppardi’s
7. Modern
8. Blue Pan
9. Independent Pizzeria
10. Nina Pizzeria

10. Nina Pizza Napolitaine – 410 Rue Saint-Anselme, Québec, QC G1K 5T2, Canada

Undoubtedly the most unknown pizzeria on the list, and certainly the youngest (2014), Nina Pizzeria is also the only one located outside the United States. This small Neopolitan-style gem in the Saint-Roch neighborhood of Québec City was an experience from start to finish.

The interior space is simple, clean, and small, no more than 1,000 SF. Stacks of fresh firewood adorn each room, and white painted brick gives off a modern and rustic vibe. First impressions were great, and once I saw the menu, I knew the pizza was going to be even better. Most places have 10 or so unique pies on their menu, if that. Nina has 18, all seemingly as good as the next. I spent some time mulling over the decision. Can I order two? Two large pies…for myself? Fine, I’ll have the Cinque Formaggi (five cheese) please.

And this is why I’m putting Nina at number 10, which is a great ranking. I’m having a hard time describing how good this pizza actually was. The first bite is always the most important when eating pizza. A great slice should punch you in the face with deliciousness, as if you didn’t expect it to be that good. This was what happened at Nina. I was blown away. And after that, I ordered the Nutella dessert pizza, which was easily the best one of those I’ve ever had. I really really liked this place, as you can tell. A special pizzeria built with lots of passion. Perhaps one day I will try to interview the owners, stay tuned.

9. Independent Pizzeria – 4235 E Madison St, Seattle, WA 98112

I lived in Seattle for 16 months from Summer 2015 to Fall 2016, and in that time, I was able to find some pretty damn good pizza places throughout the city. But one stands above the rest, and I’ll admit, it may be a bit biased of me to pick this one, given the fact I’m from New Haven. You see…New Haven pizza has been expanding to other states, and even coats for quite some time now. Even in Washington state, you can find places serving actual New Haven style pizza that is really authentic. Enter Independent Pizzeria, a cozy and inviting space wedged on a corner lot in the lovely Madison Park neighborhood. Before I tell you how great the pizza is, I’ll admit that part of what I love most about this place is the location. Madison Park is one of my favorite Seattle neighborhoods, mostly because its main shopping and dining area is right by the water, and there is even a beach you can walk to after your meal. Anyway, what makes Independent so special, aside from great pizza, is that on their menu is the coveted, treasured, downright legendary white clam pie, invented in New Haven, Connecticut. I understand that some of you reading this were just repulsed by the thought of clams on a pizza, especially one without red sauce. I’m sorry! But honestly, there is a reason why this pizza wins the Daily Mail #1 spot year in and year out; it’s so. damn. good! Now of course, this white clam is not as good as the original from Frank Pepe’s, but it’s pretty close. I’ve noticed that New Haven pizza outside of New Haven is not as “dirty”, which some people prefer. I also think they make it a bit different at Independent as well by using grana, white wine, and parsley. Nevertheless, this place makes amazing pies and is worth the visit the next time you are in the Emerald City.