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Introduction: Dave Portnoy Pizza Rankings
Dave Portnoy Pizza Rankings: Who doesn’t love pizza? It’s the ultimate comfort food, the savior of Friday nights, and, for many, a way of life. But let’s be honest: not all pizza is created equal. Thankfully, Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports and self-proclaimed pizza aficionado, has dedicated his time to finding the perfect slice. With his famous “One Bite” pizza reviews, Portnoy has become the go-to guy for pizza lovers everywhere.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of Dave Portnoy Pizza Rankings. From his rating system to some of his top-rated spots, we’ll guide you through the pizza universe, one slice at a time.
What Are Dave Portnoy Pizza Rankings?
Dave Portnoy pizza rankings are legendary in the world of food reviews. Known as “El Presidente,” Portnoy has reviewed hundreds of pizzerias, assigning each one a score from 1 to 10. The twist? He insists that you can judge a pizza by just one bite—hence the name of his review series, “One Bite”.
These rankings are more than just numbers; they’re a guide for pizza enthusiasts looking for their next great slice. With a mix of humor, brutal honesty, and genuine passion, Portnoy has made pizza reviews a cultural phenomenon.
The One Bite Review Philosophy
What’s the secret to the “One Bite” review? Simplicity. Portnoy believes that a single bite can tell you everything you need to know about a pizza. While he usually takes more than one bite (cue the running joke), the idea is to focus on the essentials: crust, sauce, cheese, and overall balance.
Think of it as the ultimate “first impression” test. Just like you can often tell if a movie is going to be great in the first 10 minutes, Portnoy claims you can do the same with pizza. And honestly? He might be onto something.
How Does Dave Rate Pizza?
Portnoy’s scoring system is famously precise. Here’s how it works:
- 1. The Crust: Is it too doughy, too thin, or just right? Portnoy loves a crispy, foldable crust.
- 2. The Sauce: Sweet, tangy, or bland? The sauce plays a pivotal role.
- 3. The Cheese: Melt factor, flavor, and stretchiness matter.
- 4. The Balance: Does it all come together harmoniously?
The result is a score, often rounded to the nearest tenth. For example, a “7.8” might sound oddly specific, but it’s this attention to detail that makes his rankings so trustworthy.
Memorable Reviews and Viral Moments
Portnoy’s reviews aren’t just about pizza; they’re entertainment. Some of his most memorable moments include:
- The “Best Pizza Ever” Revelation: When he declared New Haven’s Frank Pepe Pizzeria the best, the internet went wild.
- Celebrity Guest Appearances: From Guy Fieri to Bella Hadid, big names often join him for reviews.
- The Pizza Box Throw: A hilarious blooper where he accidentally sent a pizza flying mid-review.
These moments remind us that pizza is serious business—but it’s also meant to be fun.
Top-Rated Pizzas in Dave’s Rankings
If you’re looking for the cream of the crop, here are some of the highest-rated pizzas in Portnoy’s rankings:
- Frank Pepe Pizzeria (New Haven, CT): Known for its coal-fired white clam pizza.
- Di Fara Pizza (Brooklyn, NY): A classic spot with an old-school charm.
- Sally’s Apizza (New Haven, CT): Another New Haven gem, famous for its thin crust.
- Lucali (Brooklyn, NY): Beloved for its perfectly balanced flavors.
Hidden Gems Uncovered
While big names often steal the spotlight, Portnoy’s reviews have also uncovered hidden gems. Small, family-owned pizzerias in obscure towns have found newfound fame thanks to his videos. One such example? A little-known shop in Scranton, PA, that received a surprising 9.2 rating and became a viral sensation overnight.
Controversial Reviews and Debates
Portnoy’s reviews are not without controversy. Some pizza makers have taken issue with his critiques, arguing that a single bite doesn’t capture the full experience. Others have debated his preference for thin-crust, New York-style pizza.
Still, these debates only add to the allure. Whether you admire him or despise him, he remains impossible to overlook.
The Impact on Pizzerias
A good review from Portnoy can change a pizzeria’s fortunes overnight. Many shops have reported massive spikes in sales and foot traffic after being featured. In some cases, they’ve even sold out entirely within hours of a review going live.
This phenomenon, often referred to as the “Portnoy Effect,” proves just how influential his rankings have become.
Behind the Scenes of the Reviews
Ever wondered how Portnoy picks his pizzerias? While some are planned, many reviews are spontaneous, often based on fan recommendations. Armed with his signature camera crew and an insatiable appetite, he’s always on the hunt for the next great slice.
Dave’s Favorite Pizza Styles
While Portnoy appreciates all types of pizza, he has a clear preference for New York-style—thin, foldable, and slightly crispy. He’s also a fan of New Haven-style pizza, known for its charred, coal-fired crust.
How to Follow the Pizza Journey
Want to keep up with Portnoy’s pizza adventures? Here’s how:
- Follow on Social Media: His Instagram and Twitter accounts are packed with reviews.
- Download the One Bite App: A treasure trove of reviews, complete with user-submitted rankings.
- Subscribe to Barstool Sports: For all things pizza and beyond.
Why His Rankings Matter to Pizza Lovers
Portnoy’s reviews resonate because they’re honest and relatable. He doesn’t sugarcoat his opinions, making his rankings a trusted resource for pizza enthusiasts.
Tips for Trying “One Bite”-Approved Pizza
Planning a pizza pilgrimage? Here are some tips:
- Go Early: Popular spots often sell out fast.
- Check the Rating: Anything above an 8.0 is usually a must-try.
- Bring Friends: Pizza is always better when shared.
Other Must-Know Pizza Reviewers
While Portnoy is the king of pizza reviews, others are worth following:
- Scott Wiener: A pizza historian with an encyclopedic knowledge.
- Joe’s Pizza Blog: Great for detailed, written reviews.
- Your Local Foodies: Many cities have influencers who specialize in pizza.
Conclusion: Dave Portnoy Pizza Rankings
Dave Portnoy pizza rankings have revolutionized the way we think about pizza. His reviews are more than just entertainment; they’re a roadmap to the best slices around. Whether you agree with his scores or not, one thing is clear: pizza lovers owe him a slice of gratitude.
FAQs About Dave Portnoy Pizza Rankings
1. What is the “One Bite” pizza review?
The “One Bite” pizza review is Dave Portnoy’s method of rating pizza based on a single bite, focusing on crust, sauce, cheese, and overall balance.
2. What’s the highest score Dave Portnoy has ever given?
The highest score is often debated, but New Haven’s Frank Pepe Pizzeria is among his top picks.
3. How can I suggest a pizzeria for Dave to review?
You can recommend pizzerias through his social media channels or the One Bite App.
4. Does Dave Portnoy review frozen pizzas?
Yes, he’s reviewed several frozen pizzas, often with humorous results.
5. Are his reviews available internationally?
While most reviews are U.S.-based, Portnoy has reviewed some international spots during his travels.