Hey pizza lovers! Craving that authentic New York style pizza right here in Bakersfield? You're in luck! We're diving deep into the heart of Bakersfield to uncover where you can find those massive, foldable, perfectly crisp slices that transport you straight to the streets of NYC. Get ready to explore the pizzerias that are bringing the taste of the Big Apple to our sunny California town. Whether you're a native New Yorker missing home or just a pizza aficionado seeking the real deal, this guide is your ultimate roadmap to the best New York style pizza in Bakersfield.

What Makes New York Style Pizza So Special?

Before we jump into the best spots in Bakersfield, let's talk about what exactly defines New York style pizza. It's not just any pizza; it's a culinary experience steeped in tradition. New York style pizza is characterized by its large, thin crust that's crispy on the bottom and slightly chewy. It's designed to be foldable, making it easy to eat on the go – a true New York tradition! The sauce is typically a simple, yet flavorful, tomato sauce, and the cheese is usually low-moisture mozzarella. What sets it apart is the baking process. Most pizzerias use deck ovens, which cook the pizza at high temperatures, giving it that signature char and texture. The water used in the dough is often cited as a key ingredient, with many claiming that New York's water supply contributes to the unique taste and texture of the crust. However, skilled bakers can replicate this even with local water sources, focusing on technique and quality ingredients. Finding a place that truly understands and respects these traditions is key to getting an authentic New York slice right here in Bakersfield. So, what should you look for? First, check the crust – it should have those tell-tale bubbles and a slight crispness. Next, the sauce should be balanced, not too sweet or acidic. Finally, the cheese should be melted and slightly browned. If a pizza place nails these elements, you're likely in for a treat!

Top Pizzerias Serving New York Style Pizza in Bakersfield

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! You're probably wondering, "Where can I find this amazing New York style pizza in Bakersfield?" I've got you covered. After extensive research (and a lot of delicious pizza eating), I've compiled a list of the top pizzerias in town that are serving up slices that could rival those in the Big Apple. These places have mastered the art of the thin crust, the tangy sauce, and the perfect cheese-to-topping ratio. They are dedicated to using quality ingredients and time-honored techniques to bring you an authentic taste of New York right here in Bakersfield. So, grab your appetite, and let's explore these pizza havens!

1. Luigi's Pizza Parlor

Luigi's Pizza Parlor stands out as a true gem for New York style pizza in Bakersfield. This family-owned establishment has been serving up authentic slices for over two decades, earning a loyal following among locals. What makes Luigi's so special? It starts with their commitment to using only the freshest ingredients. Their dough is made daily, using a secret family recipe that's been passed down through generations. The sauce is a perfect blend of tomatoes, herbs, and spices, creating a tangy and slightly sweet flavor that complements the cheese perfectly. And speaking of cheese, Luigi's uses only the highest quality low-moisture mozzarella, ensuring a perfect melt and a slightly browned top. But what truly sets Luigi's apart is their baking process. They use a traditional deck oven, which cooks the pizza at high temperatures, giving it that signature crispy crust and slightly charred edges. Each pizza is hand-stretched and carefully topped, ensuring that every slice is a masterpiece. Whether you're ordering a classic cheese pizza or one of their specialty pies, you're guaranteed a taste of New York with every bite. Don't forget to try their garlic knots – they're the perfect appetizer to start your meal! Luigi's Pizza Parlor is not just a pizzeria; it's a Bakersfield institution, a place where families gather, friends catch up, and everyone enjoys a slice of authentic New York style pizza.

2. Rosa's Pizzeria

Rosa's Pizzeria is another standout contender in Bakersfield's New York style pizza scene. Known for its generous portions and authentic flavors, Rosa's has quickly become a favorite among pizza enthusiasts. What makes Rosa's a must-visit? First and foremost, it's their dedication to using traditional New York techniques. Their dough is made fresh daily and allowed to rise slowly, developing a complex flavor and airy texture. The sauce is a simple, yet flavorful, blend of crushed tomatoes, olive oil, and garlic, creating a bright and tangy base for their pizzas. And their cheese? They use a blend of mozzarella and provolone, giving their pizzas a rich, creamy flavor that's simply irresistible. But the real magic happens in their oven. Rosa's uses a high-temperature brick oven, which cooks the pizzas quickly and evenly, creating a crispy crust with a slightly smoky flavor. Each pizza is hand-crafted with care, ensuring that every slice is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Whether you're craving a classic margherita pizza or one of their specialty pies, Rosa's has something for everyone. And don't forget to try their cannoli – they're the perfect sweet treat to end your meal! With its authentic flavors, generous portions, and friendly atmosphere, Rosa's Pizzeria is a true taste of New York in the heart of Bakersfield.

3. Gino's Pizza

Gino's Pizza brings a slice of New York to Bakersfield with its commitment to classic flavors and techniques. This pizzeria has earned a reputation for its thin-crust pizzas, made with high-quality ingredients and baked to perfection. At Gino's, the focus is on simplicity and quality. Their dough is made fresh daily, using a simple recipe of flour, water, yeast, and salt. The sauce is a classic tomato sauce, seasoned with herbs and spices to create a bright and tangy flavor. And their cheese? They use a blend of mozzarella and parmesan, giving their pizzas a sharp, savory flavor that's simply addictive. But what truly sets Gino's apart is their attention to detail. Each pizza is hand-stretched and carefully topped, ensuring that every slice is a perfect balance of flavors and textures. They also offer a variety of toppings, from classic pepperoni and mushrooms to more unique options like roasted red peppers and artichoke hearts. Whether you're craving a classic cheese pizza or one of their specialty pies, Gino's has something for everyone. And don't forget to try their garlic bread – it's the perfect appetizer to start your meal! Gino's Pizza is a testament to the power of simplicity, a place where quality ingredients and time-honored techniques come together to create a truly authentic New York style pizza experience.

Tips for Ordering the Perfect New York Style Pizza

Now that you know where to find the best New York style pizza in Bakersfield, let's talk about how to order the perfect pie. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

1. Go for the Cheese: Start with a classic cheese pizza to truly appreciate the quality of the crust, sauce, and cheese. This will give you a baseline for judging the pizzeria's overall quality.
2. Don't Overload on Toppings: New York style pizza is all about simplicity. Too many toppings can weigh down the crust and make it soggy. Stick to a few classic toppings that complement each other.
3. Ask for Extra Sauce (if you like): If you're a sauce lover, don't be afraid to ask for extra sauce. Just be sure to specify that you want it on top of the cheese, so it doesn't make the crust soggy.
4. Eat it Fresh: New York style pizza is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven. If you're ordering takeout, try to eat it as soon as possible.
5. Fold it! Remember, the hallmark of New York style pizza is its foldability. Don't be afraid to fold your slice in half and enjoy it like a true New Yorker.

Bring a Taste of New York to Bakersfield

So there you have it, folks! Your guide to finding the best New York style pizza in Bakersfield. Whether you're a longtime resident or just passing through, be sure to check out these amazing pizzerias and experience the taste of the Big Apple right here in California. From Luigi's family recipes to Rosa's generous portions and Gino's dedication to simplicity, each of these pizzerias offers a unique take on the classic New York slice. So, grab your friends, grab your appetite, and get ready to indulge in some of the best pizza Bakersfield has to offer. And who knows, you might just find your new favorite pizza spot! Happy eating!