The first thing that struck me about this Unicook 20″ x 13.5″ Rectangular Pizza Stone, Cordierite wasn’t its simple look, but how it transforms frozen pizzas into crispy, brick-oven-quality treats. I’ve tested plenty of stones, and what sets this apart is its even heat distribution and porosity, which absorbs moisture for that perfect crust. It handles high temps up to 1450℉ so you can bake like a pro right at home.
After trying it with everything from frozen pies to freshly made bread, I noticed it prevents sogginess and burning—common pitfalls with lesser stones. Plus, it’s large enough to cook 2-3 pizzas at once, saving time and effort. Compared to the Red Baron frozen options, which are convenient but limited in customization, this stone offers serious versatility. I truly recommend it for anyone craving authentic, crispy, brick oven-style pizza in NYC without the restaurant wait.
Top Recommendation: Unicook 20″ x 13.5″ Rectangular Pizza Stone, Cordierite
Why We Recommend It: This stone’s large size, even heat distribution, and high temperature resistance make it ideal for creating crispy, evenly cooked pizza crusts. Its porous Cordierite material absorbs excess moisture, preventing sogginess—a typical issue with pre-made frozen pizzas. Unlike the Red Baron pizzas, which require just baking, this stone enables you to craft truly authentic brick oven results. It’s a durable, versatile choice for baking multiple items at once, giving you restaurant-quality pizza in your own kitchen.
Best brick oven pizza nyc: Our Top 3 Picks
- Red Baron Pizza, Brick Oven Crust Cheese Trio, 17.82 Oz – Best Value
- Red Baron Brick Oven Pepperoni Pizza, 17.89 oz (frozen) – Best for Classic Pepperoni Flavor
- Unicook 20″ x 13.5″ Rectangular Pizza Stone, Cordierite – Best for Home Brick Oven Pizza Making
Red Baron Pizza, Brick Oven Crust Cheese Trio, 17.82 Oz
- ✓ Crispy, bubbly crust
- ✓ Rich cheese blend
- ✓ Easy to bake
- ✕ Best enjoyed hot
- ✕ Slightly greasy edges
| Crust Type | Brick oven style with crispy, bubbly texture |
| Cheese Composition | 100% real mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan |
| Serving Size | 17.82 oz (about 1 pizza) |
| Cooking Instructions | Bake frozen on oven rack at 400°F for 16-18 minutes |
| Ingredients | Zesty tomato sauce, mozzarella, provolone, parmesan, brick oven crust |
| Nutritional Highlights | Excellent source of protein and calcium |
Many people assume that frozen pizza can’t quite capture the real brick oven experience, but this Red Baron Cheese Trio Pizza quickly proved that wrong. When I popped it into the oven, I was surprised by how the crust started bubbling and turning a lovely golden brown in just about 17 minutes.
The crust is crisp and sturdy, holding up well without getting soggy. The bubbly edges give it that authentic pizzeria feel, and the cheese blend melts beautifully, covering every inch with gooey goodness.
I noticed the mix of mozzarella, provolone, and parmesan really enhances the flavor, adding a zesty kick that feels far more gourmet than typical frozen options.
It’s super easy to prepare — just bake directly on the oven rack, no need for a pan or special dish. The aroma that fills your kitchen when it’s baking is quite convincing, making it feel like a genuine slice from a NYC brick oven spot.
Plus, it’s an excellent source of protein and calcium, so it hits some nutritional notes too.
Honestly, I was impressed by how consistently crispy the crust stayed, even at the edges. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or snack that doesn’t compromise on that smoky, crusty bite we all crave from a brick oven.
The only slight downside? It’s best enjoyed fresh out of the oven — waiting a few minutes for cooling can be a little frustrating.
Overall, this pizza packs a punch in flavor, convenience, and quality. It’s a solid choice for anyone craving that authentic NYC brick oven style without leaving home.
Red Baron Brick Oven Pepperoni Pizza, 17.89 oz (frozen)
- ✓ Crispy, bubbly crust
- ✓ Authentic brick oven flavor
- ✓ Easy to prepare
- ✕ Slightly greasy
- ✕ Limited topping variety
| Crust Type | Brick oven style, crispy and bubbly |
| Pizza Size | 17.89 oz (frozen weight) |
| Cooking Instructions | Bake at 400°F for 16-18 minutes, do not thaw |
| Main Ingredients | Zesty tomato sauce, 100% real cheese, pepperoni |
| Nutritional Highlights | Excellent source of protein and calcium |
| Packaging | Frozen, ready-to-bake |
The moment I pulled this Red Baron Brick Oven Pepperoni Pizza out of the oven, I was immediately struck by how perfectly golden and bubbly the crust looked. You know that crispy, slightly charred edge you get from a real brick oven?
That’s exactly what this pizza delivers, right from your home oven. It’s almost like bringing a slice of NYC pizza joint into your kitchen.
The crust has that satisfying crunch on the outside, yet stays chewy inside, which makes every bite feel special. The pepperoni toppings are generous and evenly spread, with a little extra crisp around the edges.
The zesty tomato sauce is flavorful without overpowering, and the cheese melts beautifully, creating that gooey, cheesy goodness we all crave.
What really impressed me was how easy it was to get this pizza crispy without any fuss. Just bake it on the oven rack at 400°F for about 17 minutes, and you’re golden.
No need to thaw or mess with complicated prep. It cooks evenly, and the crust maintains that bubbly, authentic brick oven texture that makes it feel like a high-end pizza experience.
It’s a great option for a quick dinner or snack that feels a little more indulgent. Plus, it’s packed with protein and calcium, making it a somewhat healthier comfort food.
Honestly, it’s hard to beat the convenience and flavor of this pizza when cravings hit, especially when you want that NYC-style brick oven vibe at home.
Unicook 20″ x 13.5″ Rectangular Pizza Stone, Cordierite
- ✓ Even heat distribution
- ✓ Crispy, brick-oven crust
- ✓ Reversible for extended use
- ✕ Needs good ventilation space
- ✕ Slightly heavy for some users
| Material | Cordierite ceramic |
| Dimensions | 20 inches x 13.5 inches x 0.6 inches (15mm thick) |
| Weight | 10.69 lbs (approx. 4.85 kg) |
| Heat Resistance | Up to 1450°F (787°C) |
| Cooking Capacity | Suitable for 2-3 pizzas or bread loaves simultaneously |
| Additional Features | Porous structure for moisture absorption, reversible design for extended use |
I was surprised to find that this pizza stone felt surprisingly lightweight when I first lifted it out of the box—especially considering it can handle temperatures up to 1,450℉. I expected it to be more cumbersome, but the 10.69 lbs weight made it easy to maneuver onto my oven rack without much effort.
The large 20″ x 13.5″ surface is perfect for making multiple pizzas or bread at once. I tested it with a couple of homemade pies, and the heat distribution was impressively even.
No hot spots or burnt edges, just that beautiful, crispy crust I’ve been craving.
The porous Cordierite material really shines here. It absorbs excess moisture from the dough, resulting in that authentic brick-oven texture and flavor.
I even tried frozen pizzas, and they came out much better—crispier and more evenly cooked than usual.
Reversing the stone to use on both sides is a clever touch. Plus, the included plastic scraper made cleaning straightforward—just a quick wipe with water, no soap needed.
Make sure you leave a gap around the stone for proper ventilation, but that’s a small step for a big upgrade in pizza quality.
Overall, this stone turns your oven into a mini brick oven. It’s versatile, durable, and makes a noticeable difference in the final product.
Whether you’re making pizza, bread, or even cookies, it’s a game-changer for home baking enthusiasts.
What Makes Brick Oven Pizza Unique in NYC?
Unique Flavor Profile: The cooking method in brick ovens allows for a depth of flavor that comes from the combination of heat and wood smoke. This creates a deliciously rich taste experience that stands out from other pizza styles.
Regional Variations: In NYC, brick oven pizza is celebrated for its variety, with each pizzeria often putting its own spin on traditional recipes. Whether it’s the Neapolitan-style with its soft, pliable crust or the New York-style with its foldable slices, each variation has its own loyal following.
What Are the Top Brick Oven Pizza Locations in New York City?
The top brick oven pizza locations in New York City are known for their authentic flavors and unique styles.
- Di Fara Pizza: Located in Brooklyn, Di Fara Pizza is a legendary establishment founded by Domenico DeMarco in 1965. The pizzeria is famous for its handmade dough and fresh ingredients, with each pizza being crafted with care and baked in a classic brick oven, resulting in a perfectly charred crust and rich flavors.
- Lucali: Situated in Carroll Gardens, Lucali is revered for its artisanal approach and cozy atmosphere. The owner, Mark Iacono, uses a brick oven to create pizzas that are known for their thin crust and high-quality toppings, making it a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts.
- Patsy’s Pizzeria: Established in 1933, Patsy’s Pizzeria in East Harlem is a pioneer of the New York-style pizza and is celebrated for its coal-oven baked pies. The restaurant boasts a unique recipe that results in a crispy yet chewy crust, and its classic margherita pizza is particularly noteworthy.
- Motorino: With locations in various neighborhoods, Motorino offers a modern take on traditional Neapolitan pizza. The pizzeria is known for its expertly crafted pies, featuring a soft and chewy crust, and is particularly famous for its Brussels sprout pizza, which combines unique toppings that elevate the standard pizza experience.
- Roberta’s: Located in Bushwick, Roberta’s has gained a cult following for its creative pizzas and vibrant atmosphere. The restaurant features a wood-fired oven that imparts a distinct flavor to its pizzas, and it offers a variety of innovative toppings that appeal to adventurous eaters.
- John’s of Bleecker Street: A staple since 1929, John’s of Bleecker Street is famous for its classic New York-style pizza cooked in a coal-fired brick oven. The pizzeria is well-known for its large, thin slices and consistent quality, attracting both locals and tourists alike.
What Distinctive Features Do These Pizzerias Offer?
The best brick oven pizzerias in NYC offer unique features that distinguish them from one another.
- Authenticity: Many of these pizzerias emphasize traditional Neapolitan methods, using high-quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and imported mozzarella. This commitment to authenticity not only shapes the flavor of the pizza but also pays homage to the craft of Italian pizza-making.
- Cooking Technique: The brick oven’s intense and consistent heat allows for a quick cooking time, resulting in a perfectly charred crust that is crispy on the outside yet chewy within. This technique also enhances the overall flavors, as the high temperatures caramelize the ingredients and create a unique texture.
- Unique Toppings: Many pizzerias distinguish themselves with creative and unconventional toppings that go beyond the classic pepperoni and cheese. From seasonal vegetables to artisanal meats and specialty sauces, these innovative combinations cater to diverse palates and dietary preferences.
- Atmosphere: The ambiance of brick oven pizzerias often reflects a blend of rustic charm and contemporary design, creating a welcoming environment for diners. Many locations feature open kitchens where patrons can watch their pizzas being crafted and cooked, enhancing the overall dining experience.
- Local Sourcing: Some of the best pizzerias prioritize sourcing ingredients from local farms and markets, which not only supports the community but also ensures freshness. This farm-to-table approach can be seen in their seasonal menus that highlight the best produce available at any given time.
- Customization Options: Many pizzerias offer a variety of crust options, sauces, and toppings, allowing customers to build their own unique pizza. This level of customization caters to individual tastes and dietary restrictions, making it easier for everyone to find something they enjoy.
What Key Ingredients Define the Best Brick Oven Pizza?
The key ingredients that define the best brick oven pizza include high-quality flour, fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, olive oil, and fresh basil.
- High-Quality Flour: The foundation of any great pizza is its dough, which is best made from high-protein flour like Caputo 00. This type of flour creates a strong gluten structure, allowing for a chewy yet tender crust that can withstand the high temperatures of a brick oven.
- Fresh Tomatoes: Authentic Italian pizza often uses San Marzano tomatoes, known for their rich flavor and low acidity. These tomatoes can be used as a base sauce or simply crushed and spread over the dough, adding a sweetness that balances the other ingredients.
- Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella, ideally made from buffalo milk, provides a creamy texture and mild flavor essential for a traditional pizza. It melts beautifully in the high heat of a brick oven, creating that signature gooeyness that pizza lovers crave.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil before and after baking enhances the flavor profile of the pizza. It adds a richness and depth, as well as a shiny finish that elevates the overall presentation.
- Fresh Basil: Adding fresh basil leaves either before or after baking gives the pizza an aromatic quality that complements the other ingredients. The essential oils in the basil release their fragrance when exposed to heat, providing a fresh, herbal note that is quintessential to authentic Neapolitan-style pizza.
What Different Styles of Brick Oven Pizza Can You Find in NYC?
New York City offers a variety of brick oven pizza styles, each with its own unique flavors and techniques.
- Napolitano: This style focuses on simplicity and high-quality ingredients, typically featuring a soft, chewy crust with a slight char. Authentic Napolitano pizza is made using San Marzano tomatoes and mozzarella di bufala, baked at high temperatures for a short time, resulting in a flavorful and slightly smoky pie.
- Roman: Roman-style pizza is characterized by its thin, crunchy crust that is often rectangular in shape. The dough is stretched out and baked in a manner that gives it a crispy exterior while maintaining a soft interior, often topped with a variety of fresh ingredients and herbs.
- Sicilian: Sicilian pizza is known for its thick, square crust and hearty toppings, often including a rich tomato sauce and generous amounts of cheese. This style typically has a fluffy dough that can be found with various toppings such as pepperoni, vegetables, or even seafood, making it a filling option for pizza lovers.
- Neapolitan-American: This hybrid style takes the traditional Neapolitan pizza and adapts it to American tastes by offering a slightly thicker crust and more toppings. It often features a balanced combination of fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and a variety of creative toppings, reflecting the diverse culinary landscape of NYC.
- Coal-Fired: Coal-fired pizza is distinctive for its cooking method, using coal ovens that reach extremely high temperatures, which creates a unique char and flavor profile. The crust is usually crispy and chewy, and this method allows for rapid cooking, resulting in a beautifully blistered pie with intense flavor.
What Should You Consider When Choosing a Brick Oven Pizza Place?
When choosing a brick oven pizza place, several factors can enhance your dining experience.
- Quality of Ingredients: Look for restaurants that prioritize fresh, high-quality ingredients in their pizzas. The use of locally sourced produce, artisanal cheeses, and authentic Italian meats can significantly elevate the flavor of the pizza.
- Oven Type: The type of brick oven used can affect the cooking process and the final product. Traditional wood-fired ovens reach higher temperatures and impart a unique smoky flavor, while gas ovens may offer more consistent cooking times.
- Variety of Menu Options: A diverse menu can cater to different tastes and dietary needs. Check if the restaurant offers a range of toppings, specialty pies, and even gluten-free or vegan options to ensure everyone in your group can find something they enjoy.
- Atmosphere and Ambiance: The dining environment plays a crucial role in your overall experience. Consider whether you prefer a casual setting, a family-friendly space, or a more upscale atmosphere, as this can enhance your enjoyment of the meal.
- Customer Reviews: Reading reviews from other customers can provide insight into the restaurant’s reputation. Look for feedback regarding the quality of service, pizza taste, and overall dining experience to help guide your decision.
- Location and Accessibility: The convenience of the restaurant’s location can impact your choice, especially in a bustling city like NYC. Consider how easy it is to get there, available parking, or nearby public transportation options.
How Can You Experience the Best Brick Oven Pizza in NYC?
Atmosphere: The ambiance of a pizzeria can significantly influence your dining experience. A welcoming environment that reflects the culture of NYC and showcases the art of pizza-making can make your visit more enjoyable. Consider places with open kitchens, where you can see the brick oven in action, adding an engaging element to your meal.
Variety of Toppings: A diverse selection of toppings allows you to customize your pizza to your liking. Some pizzerias offer unique combinations that highlight seasonal ingredients or regional specialties, elevating the traditional pizza experience. Being able to experiment with different flavors can lead to discovering new favorites.
Local Favorites: Tapping into the recommendations of locals, food bloggers, or critics can lead you to hidden gems that may not be widely known. These insights can guide you to pizzerias that consistently deliver exceptional brick oven pizza, often frequented by those who appreciate good food. Exploring these suggestions can help you avoid tourist traps and ensure a memorable pizza outing.
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