New York and Chicago both make legendary thin pizza, but they could not be more different. Here is an honest side-by-side comparison.
The Crust
New York pizza dough is hand-tossed and has a chewy, flexible texture. You fold it in half to eat it. Chicago thin-crust dough is rolled with a pin to create a cracker-crisp base that snaps when you bite it. At Mad Pizza, our Chicago thin-crust crust is thin enough that the toppings are the star, supported by a crunchy foundation.
The Cut
New York pizza is cut into large triangular slices, typically eight per pie. Chicago thin-crust is cut into squares, known as the tavern cut or party cut. The squares make it easy to share and give you a variety of piece sizes from corner to center.
The Cheese
Both styles use mozzarella, but New York tends to use low-moisture mozzarella that creates a uniform, stretchy blanket. Chicago thin-crust often uses a blend or hand-shredded mozzarella that melts into bubbly, uneven pools. At Mad Pizza, our hand-shredded mozzarella creates that classic Chicago cheese texture.
The Sauce
New York sauce is typically smooth and lightly seasoned, letting the cheese and crust do most of the talking. Chicago thin-crust sauce tends to be more robust and herbaceous. Our 4-generation sauce recipe brings a depth of flavor that balances perfectly with the crispy crust and rich cheese.
The Experience
Eating New York pizza is a one-hand, on-the-go experience. Chicago thin-crust is social, designed for tables full of people grabbing squares from a shared pie. Both are great, but the communal aspect of tavern-cut pizza is something special.
Want to taste authentic Chicago thin-crust in South Florida? Visit Mad Pizza at 211 N 21st Ave in Hollywood, FL or call (754) 275-8466. We will let the pizza speak for itself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between New York and Chicago thin-crust pizza?
New York pizza has a chewy, foldable crust cut into triangles, while Chicago thin-crust has a crispy, cracker-like rolled crust cut into squares. The sauce, cheese application, and eating experience are also distinctly different.
Which is better, New York or Chicago pizza?
It depends on your preference. New York pizza is great for eating on the go with its foldable slices. Chicago thin-crust is ideal for sharing with its square-cut pieces and crunchier texture. Both are excellent in their own way.
Does Mad Pizza serve New York style pizza?
Mad Pizza specializes in authentic Chicago thin-crust pizza. We focus on doing one style exceptionally well rather than trying to be everything to everyone. Visit us at 211 N 21st Ave in Hollywood, FL.
Ready to Taste the Difference?
Order authentic Chicago thin-crust pizza from Mad Pizza. Every slice supports veterans through our LEGION partnership.