Yelp's recently published list showcasing the "Top 100 Pizza Spots in the Midwest" highlights a strong Detroit influence, with Michigan pizzerias snagging a significant portion of the rankings. Loui's Pizza in Hazel Park has clinched the coveted No. 1 spot.
Loui's history dates back to 1977 when founder Louis Tourtois, formerly of Buddy's Pizza, established the restaurant that's now a landmark for pizza aficionados. As reported by ClickOnDetroit, these pies have been churned out with care for years with a signature crispy crust and heaping cheese; the pizzeria remains in the hands of Tourtois' descendants. It stands alongside other Metro Detroit pizza spots that made the list such as Pie Sci, ranking 14th, and Grandma Bob's nabbing 74th place.
Meanwhile, the The Detroit News highlights the analytical approach taken by Yelp's data team, focusing on user ratings and review volume to finalize their rankings. In addition to Loui's, other Michigan establishments like Pie Sci in Woodbridge and Oak Park, and Fredi The PizzaMan in Melvindale, have held their ground in the fierce pizzeria competition, securing spots 14 and 23 respectively.
Michigan's representation extends beyond just Detroit, as pointed out by MLive, boasting entries like Market 22 in the idyllic Maple City, and the historic Foggia's Pizzeria in Southgate. Acknowledged for its dedication to staff and service, Silver Beach Pizza in St. Joseph, also made the national top 100 list earlier in the year, “I think we have really good pizza, but our incredible growth over the last 18 years has been because of our staff. They are second to none,” co-owner Jay Costas told MLive.
Illinois shares the limelight with Michigan, both states accounting for 16 ranked pizzerias each, showcasing the fierce but friendly rivalry in the Midwest's pizza scene. Whether they're family-owned joints like Major Tomato in Allen Park or new ventures like Quarantino's in Grand Rapids that sprung up in summer 2020, it seems Yelp's list is a testament to Michigan's diverse and robust pizza landscape.
