ML Interest Tag: slice

17 Kid Friendly Appetizers & Finger Foods You Can Make in 30 Minutes or Less

by Emily Myers

Keep things festive and simple this year with little bites you can make on the fly

Celebrating the holidays with little ones brings its own set of challenges—like managing energy levels, non-existent bedtimes, and finding ways to keep them busy while you get ready for family—but having kid friendly appetizers can go a long way in making the season a success. Whether you want your offering to be creative and colorful or just plain delicious, we’ve got the best quick (like 30 minutes or less!) and easy finger foods to make this year. For more ideas, check out our favorite 3-ingredient appetizers. 

Baked Cream Cheese Rangoon

Warm cheese, crispy egg roll shell, sweet chili dip, what’s not to love? This kid friendly appetizer is so easy, you can whip up a batch right before your guests arrive. Get the recipe from Instru Pix.

Savory Chicken Bacon Wraps

If there’s a food that’s not made better with bacon, we’re not sure we want to know about it. These savory chicken bites have just enough spice for adults but are still a kid’s favorite. You’ll find the recipe in the IG post above.

Mini Grilled Cheese Bites

mini grilled cheese bites are a kid friendly appetizer
The View from Great Island

Celebrate NYE with a kid favorite: grilled cheese! These bite-sized morsels are easy to put together and guaranteed to please a crowd. Don’t forget the tomato soup shooters! To get the recipe, visit The View from Great Island.

Pull-Apart Pizza Ring

Pull apart pizza rings are good finger foods
Pinch of Yum

We love that this pull-apart pizza ring can be made with any type of toppings: cheese, veggies, sausage, or just about anything you desire! And, only requiring 20 minutes in the oven, it's an appetizer that can be made quickly. 

7-Layer Bean Dip

7 layer bean dip is a good finger food
Chelsea's Messy Apron

This seven-layer bean dip recipe from Chelsea's Messy Apron is a cinch to make, can be paired with chips or veggies, and can be made in advance. What's not to love? 

Mini Stacks

mini pancake skewers are a kid friendly appetizer
iStock

There's nothing like a stack of pancakes to suggest you've made it through 'til morning! These mini stacks skewered with party picks and topped with a slice of fresh fruit are sure to go down well. Dust with confectioners sugar for a sweet touch and a hint of snowfall. Kraft Canada has the how-to.

Easy Enchilada Cups

Enchilada cups are a good finger food and a kid friendly appetizer
Gimme Some Oven

These might be one of our favorite finger food ideas! The hardest part might be shaping your mini tortilla in a muffin tin because the filling comes together quickly and is ready to be served in 30 minutes. Get the recipe from Gimme Some Oven.

Ham and Cheese Pie

ham and cheese puff pastry is a kid friendly appetizer
The Clever Carrot

This ham and cheese pie uses pre-rolled pastry, making it an easy addition to any party platter. It calls for just four ingredients sandwiched between flaky puff pastry. After 20 minutes in the oven, you'll have a pie that can be sliced into bite-sized squares and tastes so good you'll be making it again and again.

Perfect Cheese Board

Take Two Tapas

A cheese board is an obvious snack table centerpiece—and crackers are always a big hit with kids! Layer up a tray with the help of Take Two Tapas where you'll find a tutorial to answer all your questions. You can create an appetizing feast of cooked and cured meats, fresh and dried fruit, sliced veggies, and dips that kids and adults can both enjoy.

Peppermint Bark Popcorn

Endlessly Inspired

Popcorn is one of the easiest snacks, and this recipe just adds melted chocolate and crushed candy canes to make the perfect celebratory treat. Use half regular popcorn and half kettle corn for sweet, minty popcorn with all the delicious flavors of peppermint bark. Head to Endlessly Inspired for the how-to.

Rainbow Pretzel Wands

Pretzel wands are a finger food.
Mom on Time Out

Harness the magic of New Year's Eve with these colorful rainbow wands! Get the recipe from Mom On Time Out and see how versatile they are. They can be easily made in batches and are a great combo of sweet and savory that adds pizzazz to any party platter.

Cinnamon Sweet Potato Fries

cinnamon sweet potato fries are a kid friendly appetizer
Weelicious

Nothing revives a flagging toddler like a fist full of fries, and these cinnamon sweet potato sticks are no exception. The best part? They take just five minutes to prep! Relish their sweet and savory flavors as you celebrate the season. Head to Weelicious for the recipe.

Caprese Skewers

caprese tortellini skewers are a kid friendly appetizer
My Fussy Eater

We’re pretty sure this appetizer idea qualifies as pure genius. Just take your family’s fave tortellini, stick ‘em on skewers, and set them on a pretty tray. You’ll get major presentation points with zero fuss. To learn more, visit My Fussy Eater.

Classy Pigs in a Blanket

Culinary Hill

Make your NYE party extra magical with an appetizer that only uses two (count ‘em, two!) ingredients. These pigs in a blanket are the definition of simple—and you can even add a touch of sesame seeds to up the wow factor. Get the recipe over at Culinary Hill.

Cheese-Stuffed Meatballs

cheese stuffed meatballs are a kid friendly appetizer
The Weary Chef

Serve these delish meatballs as an NYE app or a heartier dinner—either way, we’re sure kids and grownups alike will love them. The best part is that you can use whichever cheese is a household fave! Get The Weary Chef’s recipe by clicking here.

Tater Tot Treats

tater tot treats are a good finger food
Erin Clarke of Well Plated

Homemade tater tots? Yes, please! These muffin tin tots are filled with cheese, chives, and bacon, and taste just like mini-loaded baked potatoes. ‘Nuff said, right? Get the recipe over at Well Plated.

Oven-Baked Crispy Ravioli

oven baked ravioli is a kid friendly appetizer
Food Fanatic

Cheesy, crispy warm pasta bites? Yes, please! This super simple finger food recipe uses store-bought ravioli (choose any flavor you like!), parmesan cheese, and panko bread crumbs to create a kid-friendly appetizer that's sure to be snatched up at your next holiday gathering. Get the recipe over at Food Fanatic.

 

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Easy Apple Sandwiches Kids Will Love

by Erin Lem

Add granola or cereal for a satisfying crunch

Sometimes, getting nutritious food into little ones can be a real challenge. Get your kids to eat fruit with these apple sandwiches courtesy of The Merry Thought. Layer in peanut butter, Nutella or any other preferred snack (you can even try granola, bananas, or cereal) for a healthy afternoon snack. Looking for other snacks? Check out these Ham Pizza Snacks, these grab-and-go Amazon snacks perfect for school lunches and the best picnic snacks for kids.

Ingredients for Apple Sandwiches:

Apples
Peanut Butter
Honey

Method:

1. Wash, slice, and core apples. To make the snacks more fun, use a cookie cutter for fun shapes.

2. Spread peanut butter, Nutella, or any ingredient of your choice on a slice, drizzle with honey, and top with another apple slice.

 

Photo and recipe courtesy of The Merry Thought. For more awesome recipes visit themerrythought.com.

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Tri-Color Pasta Salad Recipe Perfect for Busy Weeknights

by scott wardell

If you have yet to unleash this culinary treat on your kiddos, then you’re in luck, because kids go absolutely crazy for it!

As if pasta couldn’t get any better, this dish takes the multi-colored pasta and makes it a more complete and hearty meal with the addition of veggies. This tri-color pasta salad recipe is very adaptable, so don’t be afraid to mix it up with whatever you’ve got in your pantry or in your refrigerator. Serve with French bread and enjoy either hot or cold.

Tri-Color Pasta Salad Recipe Ingredients:

2 tbsp olive oil
1 small red or yellow onion, finely chopped
1/2 tsp dried herbs (basil, marjoram, oregano, thyme, plus a squeeze of lemon juice)
2 garlic cloves, finely minced
1-2 c soft vegetables (sliced bell peppers, corn, chopped and salted eggplant, sliced mushrooms, peas, chopped spinach)
1/4 tsp salt
14.5-ounce box of tricolor pasta
1-2 c cut-up hard vegetables (carrots, celery, zucchini, broccoli, or cauliflower)
2 tbsp sour cream
1/2 c grated Parmesan cheese
1 tbsp fresh basil, finely chopped

Preparation Method:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until soft, about 3 minutes.

2. Stir in the dried herbs and the garlic and cook for about a minute, and then stir in the soft vegetables and 1/2 tsp salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 4 minutes, stirring often. Turn off the heat and set aside.

3. Boil a pot of water, and cook pasta for 3 minutes. Add the hard vegetables and continue to cook until the pasta is al dente. Reserve 1/2 c of the pasta water, then drain the pasta and vegetables and return them to the pot.

4. Stir the sour cream and 1/2 tsp salt into the pasta, then add 1/2 c of the Parmesan, the basil, and 1/4 c of the pasta water.

5. Stir to combine, add the cooked soft vegetables or leafy greens, and add more pasta water if needed. Serve with more Parmesan on the side.

Recipe adapted from Melissa d’Arabian, photo courtesy of Incidental Cooking

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Grilled Cheese Roll-Ups Toddlers Will Love

by Christal Y.

 

From squares to cylinders, the traditional grilled cheese sandwich has just been reinvented thanks to My Little Gourmet. And they only take 10 minutes to make! Serve these grilled cheese roll-ups as a snack or accompaniment to some hot tomato soup (we’re sure the roll-up shape makes it more fun for the kids). We’ve got more easy toddler lunch ideas here.

Serving size 2

Grilled Cheese Roll-Ups Ingredients:

4 slices of sandwich bread
4 slices of cheese (recommend gouda)
1 tablespoon butter

Method:

1. Cut the crusts off of the bread.

2. Roll each slice flat with a rolling pin.

3. Place a slice of cheese on each piece of bread and roll up tightly.

4. Melt the butter in a pan over medium heat.

5. Place the rolls, seam-side down, in the pan and press down so that they don’t unravel.

6. Rotate until golden brown on each side and the cheese is melted.

 

Laura Leer is a mom and writer of My Little Gourmet. She lives in Berlin with her husband and 2-year-old son, Arik, who are the main taste testers of her delicious meals. For more kid-friendly recipes, check out her blog here.

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Japanese Vegetable Noodle Soup Recipe

by writerredtri

This Japanese noodle soup recipe is easy to make and hearty enough to make a meal

Scallions and fresh ginger spice the broth, while carrots, mushrooms, and noodles make a hearty base in this Japanese Vegetable Noodle Soup recipe. Your little chef will love squeezing lime juice into this flavorful soup, served alongside orange slices.

Ingredients for Japanese Vegetable Noodle Soup

64 ounces low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
3 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
1 1-inch piece fresh ginger
2 cups bok choy, sliced, or 2 cups Napa cabbage, sliced
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
2 carrots, sliced on the diagonal
8 16-ounce extra-firm tofu, drained and cubed
6 ounces ramen noodles, flavor packet discarded
4 scallions, thinly sliced
1/2 lime, juiced
1/4 cup cilantro, mint or basil, chopped
6 oranges, cut into wedges, for serving

Method:

1. Adult: Place the broth, soy sauce, and ginger in a large pot over medium-high heat. Bring to a boil.

2. Together: Add the cabbage or bok choy, mushrooms, carrots, and tofu, stirring after each addition. Cook for about 2 minutes.

3. Together: Add the ramen noodles, taking care to discard the flavor packet. Reduce heat and keep the soup at a low boil. Keep at a low boil for 3 minutes more, or until the ramen is just cooked.

4. Kid: Add the scallions, lime juice, and fresh herbs to the pot. Cook for about 1 minute more, or until all the ingredients are heated through.

5. Together: Divide the soup into 6 bowls, place on plates with the orange wedges, and enjoy!

This Kids Cook Monday recipe comes to us from Aviva Goldfarb of The Scramble.

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The Best Pizza in NYC: Where to Go & What to Order

by Mimi O'Connor

Pizza is always a good idea—here our favorite places to go around New York with the kids whether its for a slice or a whole pizza pie

What’s the best pizza in NYC? That, of course, is a matter of opinion, preference, and hot debate. But in the battle of the best pizza places in NYC, some slices and pies continually come out on top. We’ve rounded up our picks for the best pizza in NYC, including newcomers, old school favorites, spots in Little Italy, Brooklyn, and beyond. Tourists and locals alike flock to DiFara’s to stand on the long awaited line. When you think an original pizza isn’t possible, you meet Paulie Gee’s and your tastebuds are blown away by the creativity. After a square pie instead of round? Rizzo’s all the way. Looking for a great NYC pizza delivery option? Lots of these pizzerias will come to you. (One final note: In many cases, you need to buy a whole pizza, but that’s not so bad.)

Or maybe you are in search of the best pizza in . . . the world? That title goes to Una Pizza Napoletana, which was named the best pizza in the world from Top 50 Pizza—a world-wide guide to the best pizza. They’re only open Thurs.-Sun. from 5 p.m. until the dough is sold out—and we imagine it’s going to get a lot busier now. Dig in!

Una Pizza Napoletana
This is actually the sixth iteration of chef Anthony Mangieri’s pizzeria. Since the beginning of Una, the focus has been on the naturally-leavened, wood-fired pizzas. Complemented with a few appetizers and made-daily ice cream and seasonal sorbetto, families will enjoy sitting in the dining room surrounded by one-of-a-kind pieces of art while watching cooks work the dough by hand and carefully bake only three pizzas at a time in the oven.

175 Orchard St.
Lower East Side, Manhattan
Online: unapizza.com

DiFara Pizza
One of the tell-tale signs of great pizza in New York City is the lines, and DiFara Pizza has them. In fact, many trek to the original location in the Midwood section of Brooklyn to get the full experience. Since 1965 Domenico DeMarco has been personally hand-crafting legendary pies that draw crowds and high praise from native New Yorkers and culinary luminaries. Anthony Bourdain, for one, was a big fan. Expect waits, and to pay for the experience (a slice is $5, a pie is $30), but know that many people say the delicious pizza is worth it.

108 South St.
South Street Seaport, Manhattan

100 Lincoln Ave.
Staten Island

1424 Ave. J.
Midwood, Brooklyn

Online: difarapizzany.com

Roberta’s
Although Roberta’s is a youngster compared to many of the other establishments on this list (it opened in Bushwick in 2008), many people have declared its pies as the best pizza in NYC. The ultra hip restaurant crafts wood-fired pizza both classic and inspired with the freshest of ingredients, and its tasting menu restaurant Blanca was awarded two Michelin stars. People love the Bee Sting pizza, made with tomatoes, mozzarella, soppressata, chili, basil, and honey. If you’re lucky enough to live in the surrounding area of Bushwick, Bed-Stuy, or East Williamsburg, they’ll deliver to you from 11 a.m.-11 p.m., seven days a week. Out of the area? You can order some frozen ones online to have on hand whenever the craving hits.

261 Moore St.
Bushwick, Brooklyn

6 Grand St.
Domino Park, Brooklyn

240 Fort Pond Rd.
Montauk

Online: robertaspizza.com

Related: The Best NYC Restaurants Where You Can Let the Kids Run Wild

Paulie Gee’s
Looking for extreme creativity in a pizza? Look no further than Paulie Gee’s, which attracts quirky crowds with its original combinations. They offer nearly two dozen varieties, including an Edith’s Pastrami Reuben that contains swiss, sauerkraut, pastrami, caraway seeds, and Russian dressing. Favorites include A Whiter Shade of Kale (fresh mozzarella and nut-free kale pesto) and the Monte Cristo, with mild gouda, sliced Canadian bacon, and a pure maple syrup drizzle. They also do vegan pizza here, but you must dine in at the Greenpoint Avenue location. Need pizza to go? The Slice Shop at 110 Franklin Street offers pick up.

Paulie Gee’s is known for its creative (and delicious) pizzas and the crowds they attract. Examples include A Whiter Shade of Kale (fresh mozzarella and nut-free kale pesto) and the Monte Cristo, with mild gouda, sliced Canadian bacon, and a pure maple syrup drizzle. Need pizza delivery? The pizzeria offers classic pies from a delivery and takeout-only location (via Caviar) at 110 Franklin Street, also in Greenpoint.

60 Greenpoint Ave.
Williamsburg, Brooklyn

110 Franklin St.
Greenpoint, Brooklyn

Online: pauliegee.com

L&B Spumoni Gardens
Home to a Sicilian square slice with chewy dough, cheese on the bottom, and sweet sauce on top, this Gravesend institution was founded in 1939 by Ludovico Barbati—who rightfully claims that making pizza is an art. You can also get round pies here, as well as the namesake spumoni, a molded gelato, typically made with three flavors and candied fruits and nuts. Can’t make it to Gravesend? The popular restaurant is opening a location in Dumbo, coming soon.

2725 86th St.
Bensonhurst, Brooklyn
Online: spumonigardens.com

Rizzo’s Fine Pizza
Rizzo’s is the home of the “Original Thin Crust Square” pizza, a Sicilian pizza made with just cheese and sauce—no toppings). The establishment has also been family-owned and operated for more than 60 years. They now also turn out ultra-thin Neopolitan pies and specialty pizzas as well.

30-13 Steinway St.
Astoria, Queens
Online: rizzosfinepizza.com

Related: Chow, Baby! Where to Eat Brunch With Kids in NYC

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John’s of Bleecker Street
Famous for its comfortable, old-school ambiance, the charm of John’s is in its tile floors, tin ceilings, and wooden booths etched with the names of customers. Fun fact: this pizza joint was actually established in 1929 on Sullivan Street, until founder John Sasso lost his lease and dismantled the coal-fired brick oven of his shop and moved it to the restaurant’s current location. You can’t get a slice here (pies only), but the zesty sauce and charred crust will make you want to eat a whole pizza here anyway. John’s does take credit cards and also offers pizza delivery.

278 Bleecker St.
Greenwich Village, Manhattan
Online: johnsbrickovenpizza.com

Joe’s Pizza
Another Greenwich Village staple that tops the charts for unbeatable taste is Joe’s, named after Naples-born Joe Pozzuoli, who still owns and operates the restaurant since it opened in 1975. It only accepts phone orders at its original location on 7 Carmine St., but it’s expanded to several spots across Manhattan with a Brooklyn location in Williamsburg. A classic pie starts at $24. Bring cash, and expect standing room only!

Various location s across Manhattan and Brooklyn
Online: joespizzanyc.com

Prince Street Pizza
Not far from Little Italy and NYC pizza royalty Lombardi’s, Prince Street Pizza is known for delicious pizza (the Spicy Spring Pie, with fra diavolo sauce, spicy pepperoni, and fresh mozzarella is a favorite), late nights (they are open until 4 a.m. on Friday and Saturday), and pepperoni cooked into cup-shaped perfection, perfect for holding drops of savory oil. Need pizza delivery downtown? Prince Street Pizza is the way to go. Round pies start at $22, but order ahead to avoid the long line!

27 Prince St.
Nolita, Manhattan
Online: princestreetpizzanyc.com

Don Antonio
No list of the best pizza places in NYC would be complete without midtown restaurant Don Antonio. Established by partners Roberto Caporuscio (owner of the popular Kesté Pizza & Vino), and Antonio Starita, the third-generation owner of one Naples’ oldest and most revered pizzerias, Don Antonio’s reigns have been passed down to Roberto’s daughter, Giorgia Caporuscio, whose culinary experience is leading to what many believe is “La Mecca” of pizza. This spot serves more than 40 classic and creative takes on pizza—including vegan and gluten-free—made in the Neapolitan tradition. The pies are wood-fired and the mozzarella is made in-house. Many people say the lightly fried pizza, the “Montanara Starita,” is a must.

309 W. 50th St.
Hell’s Kitchen, Manhattan
Online: donantoniopizza.com

—additional reporting by Wai Sze Zara

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LA’s Best Pizza Spots to Try Right Now

by Jennifer O'Brien

From Chicago and Pittsburgh-style to, of course NY-style pizza, we’ve found the best pizza spots in LA worth your time and money

Is there anything more comforting than a delicious, piping-hot pizza? Uh, doubtful. And luckily, LA is having its very own pizza renaissance with more and more incredible pizza joints leveling up the pie game every day. (Thankfully, gone are the days when people would quietly chuckle when they mentioned pizza for dinner in LA). Nowadays, it’s almost (almost) too hard to keep up with which pizza joint is the best. But we did our research and are excited to deliver what we’ve known all along—not all pizza is created equal. After many bites and stuffed bellies, we’re delivering the best pizza in LA that is worth your time and hard-earned dollars.

Where to Find the Best New York Style Pizza in Los Angeles

Danny Boy's: New York City native, Daniel Holzman, owner of Danny Boy’s Famous Original Pizza in DTLA, says the secret to authentic New York Style pizza is in the water temperature used to make the dough—41 degrees to be exact. Holzman believes that making a premium pie is all about the flavor of the dough, the perfect cheese blend, using Stanislaus tomatoes for the sauce, and creating the right structure of a true New York slice—when you fold it to take a bite, it should crack, but not break in half.

Good to Know: The shop is only open Mon.-Fri. so make sure to get your pizza fix on a weekday.


330 S. Hope St.
Downtown
Online: dannyboysfamousoriginalpizza.com

U Street Pizza: When the crew behind Pasadena’s crazy popular Union Italian restaurant decided to open a pizza place last spring, it was bound to be a booming success. Executive Chef, Chris Keyser, brings his East Coast roots to create one of the best New York style pizza shops in town by concentrating on the crust—thin and crispy with the perfect amount of breadiness. Flavors run from classics like pepperoni and a fab sausage pie to pizzas topped with little neck clams, fresh garlic, lemon and Fiscalini Cheddar.

Insider Tip: Save room for dessert. Kiddos will definitely want a bowl of U Street’s amazing soft serve for dessert.

33 E. Union St.
Pasadena
Online: ustreetpizza.com

Secret Pizza LA: Sean Lango, the once anonymous owner of Secret Pizza LA, started his highly successful pizza biz out of his apartment during the pandemic. As a New Jersey native and major pizza lover, he was looking for a way to supplement his income when his job as a musician came to halt during COVID. After a lifetime of making pies for friends and watching people work in his favorite pizza joints back home, Lango learned how to make a simple, yet unbelievably perfect New York style pie. He began advertising on Instagram, and a viral sensation (and business) was born. He sold a limited number of pizzas out of his apartment each week with orders consistently selling out every time. This past July, Lango moved his small business into a Moneticito Heights space where customers can still book time slots for weekend pick-ups via Instagram links. New orders open on Mon. at 11 a.m. sharp. Act quick cause slots go quickly.

Online: instagram.com/secretpizzala

Where to Find the Best Chicago Style Deep Dish Pizza in Los Angeles

Masa: In the heart of Echo Park is Masa, a mom and pop, family-owned restaurant specializing in Chicago Deep Dish Pizza made with love by a true Chicago son. With a two-inch-deep cornmeal crust, hand-crushed whole pear tomatoes and fillings like Masa’s secret recipe Sweet Italian Sausage & Authentic Hot Giardiniera imported from Chicago, it’s one of the best in LA for sure. But one of the sweetest parts of coming to Masa is the warm, welcoming atmosphere where you always feel like family.

1800 Sunset Blvd.
Echo Park
Online: masaofechopark.com

Gino's East: For Chicagoans who are living in LA, Gino’s East feels like a real taste of home. The beloved restaurant got its start in Chi-Town where according to the owners, "People know pizza." Lucky for us, they’re now serving up authentic deep dish in Sherman Oaks, along with 15 TVs highlighting Chicago sports, comfy booths for piling in the whole family and lots of Chicago memorabilia on the walls.

12924 Riverside Dr.
Sherman Oaks
Online: ginoseast.com

Hollywood Pies: This pizza spot serves up deep dish deliciousness that would make The Windy City proud. With a perfect combo of incredible crust, homemade sauce, custom butchered meats and locally sourced high-quality ingredients, it’s easy to see why this shop has earned a cult-like following around town.

6116 W. Pico Blvd.
Los Angeles
Online: hollywoodpiesla.com

 

Where to Find the Best Detroit Style Pizza in Los Angeles

DTown: Crowned "World Champion of the 2021 International Pizza Competition," it’s no surprise DTown’s Detroit-Style pizza has gained such a devoted fan following. Run by Chef (and Michigan native) Ryan Ososky, DTown is turning out deep crust square pizzas with incredible flavor, perfectly caramelized crust and such divine texture it would impress even the most die-hard Motor City critic. We especially love The Goomba Pepperoni with pepperoni and fennel.


7326 Santa Monica Blvd., Ste. 10 (inside Phorage WeHo)
West Hollywood
Online: dtownpizzeria.com

Quarter Sheets Pizza Club: Echo Park’s Quarter Sheets Pizza Club knows exactly what they’re doing when it comes to making "Detroit-ish" pan-style pies. What started as a pop-up during the pandemic, is now one of the most sought-after brick-and-mortar pizza shops in town. There are just a few flavors to choose from—our fave is the Red Top with mozzarella, red sauce and Grana. And the desserts…oh man, the desserts are a must as well—Quarter Sheets’ Slab Cake is what dreams are made of.

1305 Portia St.
Echo Park
Online: instagram.com/quartersheets

Where to Find the Best California Style Pizza in Los Angeles

Side Pie: If we can thank the pandemic for anything, it’s sweatpants and that many of LA’s most inventive pizza shops were created during that time. Among them, Side Pie started as a pop-up in the side yard of owner Kevin Hockin’s home in Altadena. Hockin constructed a dome shaped pizza oven in his backyard, finessed his outstanding wood-fired recipes and word quickly spread about his insanely delicious pizza. Today, Side Pie has its own retail space and is still cooking up delish pies like The Bobby Green with kale, mushrooms, mozzarella, lemon oil, onion, parmesan and garlic or The Ramblin’ Peach with peaches, mozzarella, ricotta, basil and honey.

900 E. Altadena Dr.
Altadena
Online: side-pie.com

Where to Find the Best Pittsburgh Style Pizza in Los Angeles

Gorilla Pies: Ever had a Pittsburgh style pizza? Well, Chef of Gorilla Pies, Benjamin Osher, is here to change that. Pittsburgh pies have a puffy crust with a smoky edge, a bit more heft to the bread than their New York counterparts, lotsa mozzarella and a really, really diverse range of toppings. If your fam is feeling adventurous, we say check out The Rabbi with pastrami, Swiss-smoked kraut-chi, red cabbage, Reuben sauce and Caraway seed crust.

12416 Burbank Blvd.
Valley Village
Online: gorillapies.com

The Best Artisanal Pizza in Los Angeles

Pizzeria Bianco: Widely regarded as one of the best pizza makers in America, Chef Chris Bianco, finally brought his highly successful pizza restaurant, Pizzeria Bianco, all the way from Phoenix to LA. What makes his pizza a standout and has earned him countless accolades is his meticulous usage of the highest quality seasonal ingredients possible right down to the salt and pepper, making his own cheese and sausage and cooking everything to absolute perfection in a wood-fired oven. Make sure to check out the Sonny Boy and the Rosa pizzas during dinner service—you will not regret it.

1320 E. 7th St., #100
The Row in DTLA
Online: pizzeriabianco.com

L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele: Skip the cost of airfare to Naples and head over to world-renowned L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele in Hollywood for some of the most scrumptious Neopolitan pizza in town. With a bubbling crust that that’s expertly done and pies like the Bianca with double fior di latte, pecorino and basil, this won’t be your last visit.

1534 N. McCadden Pl.
Hollywood
Online: damicheleusa.com

The Best Vegan Pizza in Los Angeles

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Double Zero Venice: Chef Matthew Kenney, known for specializing in plant-based cuisine, is currently making some of the tastiest Vegan pizza in LA. Double Zero Venice is the second location for his New York-based flagship with a goal of bringing a healthy perspective to the world’s most popular food. Notable pizzas include his Truffle Pizza with cashew cream, wild mushrooms, Tuscan kale and lemon vinaigrette, as well as the Pesto Pizza with macadamia ricotta, zucchini, arugula and parmesan.

1700 Lincoln Blvd.
Venice
Online: matthewkenneycuisine.com/double-zero-venice-ca

PS: These noteworthy pizza spots are also worth checking out: Hail Mary in Atwater Village, Brandoni Pepperoni near The Grove and Pizzeria Sei in the Pico-Robertson neighborhood. 

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The Best Pizza in San Diego

by Aimee Della Bitta

Dishing on the best pizza spots in San Diego that the whole family will love

Best known for its fish tacos, craft brews and tasty juice bars, San Diego is quietly leveling up its pizza game too. And, since most families agree that the perfect pie is an instant mood booster, we’re thrilled to share the best pizza joints in the county. From artisan pizzas in Little Italy to authentic Chicago slices, keep reading for the 12 best pizza spots in San Diego that will have the whole family rejoicing, “That’s amore!”

Buona Forchetta: After biting into a slice of pizza at Buona Forchetta you’ll immediately understand why the business, that started as a small Italian restaurant nestled on a corner in South Park, has grown into a “family of restaurants throughout the county. The owners have mastered the Neapolitan style pie—think blistered crusts, San Marzano tomato sauce, and five-star olive oil. The pies are simple, allowing high-quality ingredients like fresh buffalo mozzarella, basil, and everyone’s favorite salami to shine. If you’re starving and want to treat the kids to an appetizer try the pizzelle, a deep-fried pizza dough (like a pizza before the pizza).

South Park, Liberty Station & Encinitas
Online: buonaforchettasd.com

URBN Pizza: For delicious coal-fired pizza, this is your pizza place. Their craft pies have a paper-thin crust and toppings that range from the simple pepperoni to the more complex and rich-tasting (B)URBN BBQ Chicken or fresh littleneck clams. Or if you really want something new, try the famed garlic mashed potato and bacon pie. Good to know, the pizza is oblong, so you will have both triangular and square pieces. If you’re looking to add some greens to your meal, the URBN Salad is an excellent choice!

Vista, Encinitas, Del Mar Heights, North Park & San Diego
Online: urbn.com

Blue Ribbon: Slip into a booth in this cozy Encinitas spot after a long day and the whole family will exhale. The restaurant is welcoming and the pies are “blue ribbon” worthy. Be sure to try their “Signature” pizza which has lemon EVOO, fresh mozzarella, ricotta, Parm-Reg, lemon zest, red onion, and basil. Don’t leave without trying the butterscotch pudding with sea-salt caramel and housemade whipped cream.

897 S. Coast Highway
Encinitas
Online: blueribbonpizzeria.com

Monello: Order the Monello pizza special to satisfy your pizza craving! It comes with spinach, roasted bell peppers, sausage, and a bunch of cheese. Half-pints will happily dig into the Margherita pizza. Also, for dessert, the chocolate custard with berries or the gelato made daily make the meal complete!

750 W Fir St., Ste. 102 B
San Diego
Online: lovemonello.com

7-Mile Kitchen: Where to eat pizza after a visit to LEGOLAND? Try 7-Mile Kitchen, named for Carlsbad’s seven miles of coastline. The pizzas are crafted with house-made dough and baked in a wood-fired pizza oven. Their gluten-free pizza is one of the best tasting around. You’ll also find rotating taps of San Diego’s favorite local, craft beers. And finally, top off dinner with a scoop from their gelato bar.

5420 Grand Pacific Dr
Carlsbad
Online: 7milekitchen.com

Sisters Pizza: Voted runner-up for Best Pizza in San Diego Magazines in San Diego Magazines’ latest poll, Sisters Pizza is making a name for itself throughout the city. Established in loving memory of Kate Green, the older Sisters’ sister,  the community-focused pizza restaurant delivers on its passion for pizza and how sharing a slice brings together family and friends. They offer east coast-style pizza you can order by the pie or by the slice, as well as a full Italian-inspired menu with plenty of kid-friendly options. Most pizzas are available gluten-free and come 16″, 18″ or 20″.

3603 Fourth Ave. (corner of 4th & Brookes)
San Diego
Online: sisterspizzasd.com

Leftys Pizza: Only true Chicago expats can deliver the deep-dish beasts that land on your table at Lefty’s Pizza. The husband-wife duo moved to San Diego from the Windy City and strive to bring the best Chicago-style pizza along with a few of their home-town city’s other infamous street treats like Chicago Hot Dogs and Chicago Polish Sausage Dogs to San Diegans. Bite into the “Meaty Pie” or the “Monster of the Midway” and you’ll know they’ve succeeded.

North Park & Mission Hills
Online: leftyspizza.com 

Pizzo’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar: This Eastlake spot is the perfect place for families to sit down for an authentic Italian pizza in the South Bay. Pizzo’s is beautiful inside with huge windows that provide a great view of the city. Outside you’ll find patio seating with a grassy area for the kids to play. Besides tempting slices heaping with cheese, your fam will enjoy fresh huge salads with shaved parmesan too. Try their Salsiccia or fennel sausage pizza with roasted peppers, basil, roasted onions, and fresh mozzarella with organic tomato sauce.

2322 Proctor Valley Rd.
Chula Vista
Online: pizzospizzeria.com

Bronx Pizza: Craving a genuine New York slice? Bronx Pizza has been serving New York-style thin-crust pizza to San Diego since 1997.  Sit down at this family-friendly, casual spot and take in a little slice of the East Coast while you gaze up at the New York memorabilia that adorns the walls. Not sure which pizza to try? The Whitestone and the Bronx Deluxe are both local favorites. 

111 Washington St.
San Diego
Online: bronxpizza.com

Pauly’s Pizza Joint: This friendly, laid-back pizza place known for its thin, crispy New York crust draws in families from all over the county. With outdoor seating, your family can enjoy a fun slice of Christmas Pizza (spinach, bacon, pepperoni, garlic and feta cheese) in the sunshine any time of year. Kiddos also like their Hawaiian-style slices.

6780 Miramar Rd. Ste.105
San Diego
Online: paulyspizzajoint.com

Napizza: Being square is part of the fun at Napizza, where you order by the slice and can try all the varieties. The square slices of pie contain natural, organic ingredients that are sourced locally. A healthy option the Veggy Festa, with fresh veggies or The Bolognese pizza, a savory combo of ground beef, homemade tomato sauce and mozzarella are favorites. Try their delicious combos with fresh soup or salad too.

Little Italy & Encinitas
Online: na-pizza.com

Forchettabouddit: For an easy night out and a mouthwatering pie, stop by Forchettabouddit in Encinitas. The north county restaurant is part of the Bueno Forchetta family and serves NY-style pizza and classic Italian cuisine like 10″ subs, fresh hand-made pasta and more. It’s a no-frills, family-friendly spot that also happens to have one of the best gluten-free pizza options in all of San Diego.

250 N Coast Hwy.
Encinitas
Online: buonaforchettasd.com/forchettabouddit

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Grilled Cheese With Apple & Jam

by Erin Lem

 

Take your sandwich to the next level with two ingredients you already have in your kitchen

Tired of your go-to sliced cheddar on white bread? Mix up your routine with this no-brainer recipe from the food bloggers Jennie and Corelyn of Garlic My Soul. With two ingredients we bet you already have in your kitchen–apples and jam–the classic grilled cheese gets a major upgrade. The cooks’ secret to this delicious sandwich? Use Fontina cheese, which Jennie and Corelyn swear takes this dish to the next level.

Serves 1

Grilled Cheese with Apple and Jam Ingredients:

2 slices sourdough bread
2-3 oz fontina cheese
2 tbsp blueberry jam
¼ an apple, thiny sliced
4-5 basil leaves, chopped thinly sliced
butter
soup of your choice, optional

Method:

1. Butter both sides of your bread.

2. Spread the jam on the inside of both pieces of bread, then layer on the cheese, with the basil in the center.

3. Heat a pan over medium heat, and butter well.

4. Cook over medium heat on each side until the bread is well browned. Pro tip: if you want to, you can use a cast iron bacon press or another cast iron to put weight on the sandwich so everyone gets nice and melty.

5. Serve hot with soup!

 

This recipe was created by Jennie and Corelyn of the food blog, Garlic My Soul. East Coasters now living on the West Coast these foodies can be found adventuring around LA or cooking up something delicious. Visit Garlic My Soul for more fabulous recipe ideas that use in-season ingredients. 

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Here’s Where to Score Free Pies & More for Pi Day, because Math Is Delicious

by Erica Loop

If you love baked goods and math, it’s almost your lucky day! We’ve got the scoop on where to get free pie—and a whole lot more—for Pi Day. Arithmetic enthusiasts already know that Mar. 14, a.k.a., 3/14 is the first three digits of the mathematical constant known as Pi. In celebration of this day, plenty of eateries are offering either deep discounts or straight-up freebies.

Here’s where can you find Pi Day pies this year, of both the sweet and savory varieties.

Grand Traverse Pie Company

Get a free slice of ABC Crumb Pie, with any purchase, at all 15 of the Michigan-based pie shops on Mar. 14. GT Pie Company’s ABC Crumb Pie features apples, blueberries and cherries—all from Michigan! If you don’t live in or near one of GT’s shops, order your Pi Day pies online via the company’s website. You’ll need to order by Mar. 10 for Pi Day delivery. Sorry, the promotional free slice doesn’t apply to online orders.

Lauretta Jean’s Pie Bakery

The Portland, Oregon pie shop is featuring three pie slices for $14 on Pi Day. Get it? Three for 14—3/14.

Blaze Pizza

If pizza-pie is your idea of “pie,” Blaze Pizza has a Pi Day deal for you. Download the eatery’s app before Mar. 14 and get a special reward to use.

Kaminsky’s Dessert Cafe

With locations in Charleston, Columbia and West Ashley, South Carolina, this pie place has slices on sale for $3.14 from 5 pm through 10 pm on Mar. 14.

CiCi’s Pizza

Get access to the endless pizza buffet for just $3.14 at Cici’s.

7-Eleven

Grab a whole pizza for $3.14 each when you stop in-store at your local 7-Eleven using the  7Rewards or Speedy Rewards app.

Boston Market

Get a free Rotisserie Chicken Pot Pie with the purchase of another pot pie and drink through the Boston Market app.

ModCloth

Grab 31.4% off when you shop modcloth.com today only.

 

—Erica Loop & Karly Wood

 

 

RELATED STORIES

Want to Find the Cheapest Pizza? This Map Has the Answers

All the Pie Recipes You’ll Ever Need for the Holidays

 

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