Pizza FAQ
Answers from a New York Pizzeria Owner
Why this matters...
Pizza myths are everywhere.
From water quality to oven types, there’s a lot of misinformation about what makes pizza “New York–style.” These answers come from real experience, not marketing claims.
If you’ve ever wondered why pizza tastes different from place to place — or why some pizza is called “New York–style” when it doesn’t actually eat like it — you’re not alone.
After nearly two decades of making pizza in Tampa Bay, we’ve heard just about every pizza question there is. This page answers the most common pizza questions Tampa locals ask, based on real experience — not marketing myths.
Is New York Pizza Different Because of the Water?
You’ve probably heard that New York pizza tastes different because of the water. While water chemistry does play a role, it’s not the full story.
What actually matters more:
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Dough formulation
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Fermentation time
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Mixing technique
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Baking method
Great pizza can be made anywhere if the process is right. The idea that only New York water makes good pizza is an oversimplification.
Why Does New York Pizza Fold?
The fold is one of the most recognizable traits of New York–style pizza.
A proper NY slice folds because:
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The crust is thin but strong
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The dough has proper hydration
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The bake sets the structure without drying it out
If a slice cracks, collapses, or droops excessively, the balance is off.
Why Does Pizza Taste Different in Florida?
Florida’s climate affects pizza more than most people realize.
Heat and humidity impact:
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Dough fermentation speed
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Gluten development
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Moisture retention
That’s why dough formulas need to be adjusted for Florida conditions. Without those adjustments, pizza can end up heavy, inconsistent, or soggy.
What Makes a Pizza Truly New York–Style?
True New York–style pizza isn’t defined by size alone.
It’s defined by:
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Thin, foldable slices
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Balanced sauce and cheese
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A crisp bottom with a chewy interior
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Consistency from slice to slice
If any of those elements are missing, the pizza may resemble NY pizza — but it won’t eat like it.
Why Some “NY Pizza” Isn’t Actually NY Pizza
Many pizzerias use the term “New York–style” loosely.
Common shortcuts include:
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Pre-made dough
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Conveyor ovens
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Overloaded toppings
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Heavy, sweet sauces
These shortcuts make production easier, but they change the final result.
Authentic NY pizza relies on restraint, technique, and repetition — not excess.
How to Choose a Pizza You’ll Actually Enjoy
The best pizza choice depends on what you’re looking for.
Ask yourself:
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Do you want something light or filling?
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Are you feeding a group or eating solo?
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Do you plan to eat immediately or take it home?
Understanding pizza styles and techniques helps you order with confidence.
Learn More or Taste the Difference
If you’re curious about how authentic New York–style pizza is made — or you’re ready to try it for yourself — explore our menu or visit one of our locations in Tampa or Wesley Chapel.
Best NY Pizza FAQ
Q: How long does it usually take to get my pizza?
A: Most orders are ready in about 15 to 25 minutes for pickup. Delivery times vary by distance and demand and are confirmed during checkout.
Q: What’s the most popular pizza at Best NY Pizza?
A: Our most popular pizza is the classic New York cheese, followed closely by pepperoni and our fully loaded specialty pies.
Q: How big are your pizzas and how many people do they feed?
A: Our pizzas range from 10 to 18 inches. A 16-inch pizza typically feeds 3 to 4 people, while an 18-inch feeds 4 to 5, depending on appetite.
Q: Is Best NY Pizza good for takeout and delivery?
A: Yes. Our pizza is made to travel well, with a crust that stays crisp and toppings that hold up for both takeout and delivery.
Q: Can I sit down and eat at Best NY Pizza?
A: Yes. Best NY Pizza offers casual dine-in seating, along with takeout and delivery options.
Q: Is Best NY Pizza reasonably priced?
A Yes. Best NY Pizza is reasonably priced for authentic New York–style pizza, offering generous portions and strong value for the quality.
Q: Do you make fresh dough every day?.
A: Yes. We make our pizza dough fresh every day and allow it to ferment properly to develop flavor, texture, and consistency.
Q: Are your pizzas stone-fired?
A: Yes. Our pizzas are baked in stone ovens, which helps create a crisp bottom, even bake, and classic New York–style texture
Q: What makes your pizza authentic New York–style?
A: Authentic New York–style pizza is about how it eats. We use fresh daily dough, quality mozzarella, balanced sauce, and stone-oven baking to create
thin, foldable slices with a crisp bottom and chewy interior
Q: Do you offer gluten-free options?.
A: Yes. We offer a gluten-free crust option. Because our kitchen is not gluten-free, cross-contact may occur, so guests with severe allergies should use discretion.
Q: Do you have vegetarian options?
A: Yes. We offer several vegetarian pizza options, including cheese, veggie combinations, white pizza, and build-your-own choices with fresh toppings.
Q: Do you offer delivery and pickup?
A: Yes. You can order online for pickup or delivery. Availability and delivery range are confirmed when you enter your address during checkout.
Q: Is it faster to pick up or get delivery?
A: Pickup is typically faster than delivery, especially during peak hours. Estimated times are shown when you place your order online.
Q: Which location is closest to me?
A: Both locations are listed on our website. Enter your address or check the location page to find the most convenient option for you.
Q: Is parking easy?
A: Yes. Both locations offer easy and convenient parking for pickup and dine-in guests.
Q: What else is on your menu besides pizza?
A: In addition to pizza, we offer wings, garlic knots, calzones, strombolis, rolls, pasta dinners, salads, and more.
Q: Is Best NY Pizza good for families and kids?
A: Yes. Best NY Pizza is a family-friendly pizzeria with casual seating and menu options for all ages.
Q: Is Best NY Pizza locally owned?
A: Yes. Best NY Pizza is a locally owned, family-run pizzeria serving the Tampa Bay area since 2005.
Q: Is Best NY Pizza a chain or franchise?
A : No. Best NY Pizza is an independent pizzeria, not a chain or franchise.
Q: How long has Best NY Pizza been in business?
A: Best NY Pizza has been serving authentic New York–style pizza since 2005.