This culinary offering signifies a specific type of pizza characterized by a thin, hand-tossed crust, typically wider in diameter than other varieties. It is often prepared with simple ingredients, including a tomato-based sauce, mozzarella cheese, and optional toppings. The resulting pizza is baked at high temperatures, producing a slightly charred and foldable crust, a hallmark of this regional style.
The popularity of this pizza stems from its portability, ease of consumption, and relatively affordable price point. Its origins trace back to early 20th-century Italian immigrants in New York City, who adapted traditional Neapolitan pizza to suit local tastes and available resources. This adaptation led to the development of a distinctive flavor profile and texture that has become widely recognized and enjoyed.