Good stuff. You should post this in the pizza thread.
Here's what I got:
Great question — Connecticut has one of the strongest pizza traditions in the U.S., especially with its New Haven–style “apizza”. Since you already know Pepe’s and Sally’s, here are some other top-notch spots locals and critics rave about:
New Haven
- Modern Apizza – On State Street, often considered right up there with Pepe’s and Sally’s. Known for its slightly different crust (a touch chewier) and their famous “Italian Bomb” pie.
- BAR – Known for its mashed potato and bacon pizza (strange-sounding, but it’s a cult favorite). Also doubles as a brewery/bar.
- Zuppardi’s Apizza (technically in West Haven) – Family-run since 1934, famous for their clam pizza and classic sausage pie
Middletown / Central CT
- Mondo (Middletown) – Creative toppings, gourmet flair, wood-fired style.
- Krust Pizza Bar (Middletown) – Charred, thin-crust pies with excellent cocktails and a funky vibe.
Fairfield County
- Colony Grill (Stamford, Norwalk, Fairfield, Milford) – Super-thin bar pies with their signature hot oil topping. A whole different style from New Haven, but beloved.
- Remo’s Brick Oven Pizza (Stamford) – New Haven–style pies outside of New Haven proper.
Other Notables
- Roseland Apizza (Derby) – Old-school, huge portions, and many locals swear by it.
- Ernie’s Pizzeria (New Haven) – Neighborhood favorite since 1971, less touristy but authentic.
- Napoli Pizza (Wallingford) – Classic spot with loyal following.
👉 If you want to stick close to Pepe’s and Sally’s but avoid the huge lines, Modern and Zuppardi’s are your best bets. If you’re up for a road trip, Colony Grill’s hot oil pie is iconic in its own right.
Do you want me to put together a top 5 list ranked by “must-try uniqueness” (e.g., clam pie at Zuppardi’s, hot oil at Colony, mashed potato at BAR)?