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This Michigan pizzeria should be on your bucket list says Food and Wine

Michigan's Hidden Gem: Why This Pizzeria Deserves a Spot on Your Culinary Bucket List

In the ever-evolving world of American cuisine, where trends come and go like seasonal ingredients, there's something timeless about a perfectly crafted pizza. It's a dish that transcends borders, cultures, and even dietary preferences, uniting people around shared slices of cheesy, saucy goodness. Recently, Food & Wine magazine, a trusted authority on all things gastronomic, shone a spotlight on a Michigan pizzeria that's been quietly perfecting its craft for decades. According to their latest feature, this spot isn't just a local favorite—it's a must-visit destination that belongs on every food lover's bucket list. Nestled in the heart of Detroit, Buddy's Pizza has earned its place among the nation's elite eateries, celebrated for its iconic Detroit-style pizza that combines crispy edges, pillowy dough, and a symphony of flavors that pay homage to the city's rich industrial heritage.

Buddy's Pizza, originally founded in 1946 as Buddy's Rendezvous, started as a humble tavern on Detroit's east side. What began as a neighborhood bar serving simple sandwiches and drinks quickly evolved into a pizza powerhouse when the owners experimented with a new style of pie. Drawing inspiration from the sturdy steel pans used in nearby auto factories, they created what we now know as Detroit-style pizza: a rectangular, deep-dish marvel baked in blue steel pans that give it a signature caramelized crust. Food & Wine praises this innovation, noting that Buddy's didn't just invent a pizza style—it redefined American pizza culture. "In a sea of Neapolitan wannabes and New York folds, Buddy's stands out for its unapologetic boldness," the magazine writes. "It's the kind of place where history meets hedonism on every plate."

What makes Buddy's truly bucket-list worthy? Let's start with the pizza itself. The classic Detroiter features layers of Wisconsin brick cheese melted right to the edges, creating that irresistible cheese pull and crunchy frico border. Topped with pepperoni that curls and crisps under high heat, and finished with stripes of tangy tomato sauce dolloped on top (a technique that prevents sogginess), it's a textural masterpiece. Food & Wine highlights variations like the Henry Ford, loaded with ground beef, bacon, and barbecue sauce, evoking Michigan's automotive legacy, or the vegetarian-friendly Greektown, bursting with feta, spinach, and olives. But it's not just about the toppings; it's the dough—fermented slowly for depth of flavor—and the pans, seasoned over years of use, that impart a unique, almost nutty taste. Reviewers rave about the balance: "It's hearty without being heavy, indulgent without guilt," as one Food & Wine contributor put it.

Beyond the food, Buddy's embodies the spirit of Detroit's resilience. The original location on Conant Street, with its retro signage and no-frills interior, feels like stepping into a time capsule. Exposed brick walls, wooden booths, and black-and-white photos of old Detroit add to the ambiance, making it more than a meal—it's an experience. Food & Wine emphasizes this cultural immersion, suggesting visitors pair their pizza with a local craft beer from the likes of Atwater Brewery or a classic Faygo soda, both Michigan staples. The magazine even recommends timing your visit with a Tigers game or a tour of the nearby Motown Museum to fully appreciate the city's vibe. "Buddy's isn't just eating out; it's dining in the soul of the Motor City," they assert.

Of course, Buddy's success hasn't come without challenges. In the post-World War II era, when Detroit was booming, the pizzeria thrived on blue-collar workers seeking affordable, filling meals. But as the city faced economic downturns in the latter half of the 20th century, Buddy's adapted by expanding to multiple locations across Michigan, from Ann Arbor to Farmington Hills. Today, with over a dozen outposts, it remains family-owned, with the third generation at the helm. Robert Jacobs, the current CEO and grandson of founder Gus Guerra, shared in a recent interview (echoed in the Food & Wine piece) that the secret to their longevity is consistency. "We've never changed the recipe because it doesn't need changing," he says. "It's about honoring our roots while welcoming new fans." This dedication has garnered a loyal following, including celebrities like Eminem and Kid Rock, who have been spotted grabbing slices.

Food & Wine's endorsement places Buddy's in elite company, alongside bucket-list spots like Pizzeria Bianco in Phoenix or Di Fara in Brooklyn. But what sets it apart is its accessibility. Prices are reasonable—a large pizza feeds a family for under $30—and the welcoming atmosphere draws everyone from tourists to lifelong Detroiters. The magazine delves into the broader Michigan pizza scene, noting how Buddy's influence has sparked a renaissance. Competitors like Supino Pizzeria in Eastern Market offer thin-crust alternatives with gourmet twists, while places like Loui's Pizza in Hazel Park stick to the Detroit-style tradition with their own flair. Even national chains like Little Caesars, born in Michigan, owe a nod to this heritage. Yet, Buddy's remains the gold standard, with Food & Wine calling it "the birthplace of a movement."

For those planning a visit, timing is key. Weekends can be bustling, so arrive early or opt for takeout. Food & Wine suggests starting with an antipasto salad—crisp lettuce, salami, cheese, and house dressing—to whet the appetite, followed by a pizza and perhaps a cannoli for dessert. And if you're feeling adventurous, try the limited-time specials, like seasonal pies featuring local produce from Michigan farms. The article also touches on the pizzeria's community involvement, from supporting local charities to participating in Detroit's annual pizza festivals, reinforcing its role as a community anchor.

In an era where food trends lean toward fusion and Instagram-worthy presentations, Buddy's Pizza reminds us of the power of simplicity done extraordinarily well. Food & Wine's bucket-list nod isn't just hype; it's a testament to a place that's weathered time, trends, and economic shifts while staying true to its essence. Whether you're a pizza purist chasing the perfect crust or a traveler seeking authentic American eats, Buddy's offers more than a meal—it's a slice of history, culture, and unbridled flavor.

Michigan's culinary landscape is vast, from the cherry orchards of Traverse City to the craft breweries of Grand Rapids, but pizza holds a special place in its heart. Detroit-style, with its reversed layering (cheese before sauce) and focaccia-like base, has gained national acclaim, appearing on menus from coast to coast. Buddy's pioneered this, and Food & Wine credits them with putting Michigan on the pizza map. The magazine's feature includes insights from food historians who trace the style back to Sicilian immigrants like Guerra, who adapted old-world recipes to American ingredients. This cultural fusion is evident in every bite, blending Italian tradition with Midwestern ingenuity.

Critics and customers alike praise the consistency across locations. While the original spot retains its dive-bar charm, newer branches offer modern twists like outdoor patios and expanded menus with gluten-free options. Food & Wine notes the chain's commitment to quality ingredients: cheese from local dairies, sauce made from vine-ripened tomatoes, and dough proofed daily. This attention to detail elevates what could be everyday fare into something extraordinary.

As travel rebounds and food tourism surges, spots like Buddy's are seeing renewed interest. The magazine encourages readers to make it part of a Michigan road trip, perhaps combining it with visits to the Henry Ford Museum or a hike in the Upper Peninsula. "It's not just about the food," they write. "It's about the stories baked into every pan."

In summary, Food & Wine's proclamation elevates Buddy's from local legend to national treasure. If your bucket list includes chasing the best bites America has to offer, pencil in a stop at this Michigan icon. With its crispy corners, gooey centers, and heartfelt hospitality, Buddy's Pizza proves that sometimes, the simplest things are the most unforgettable. So, grab your appetite and head to Detroit—your taste buds will thank you.

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[ https://www.mlive.com/business/2025/07/this-michigan-pizzeria-should-be-on-your-bucket-list-says-food-and-wine.html ]