Craving a slice of authentic New York-style pizza in Billings, MT? You're in luck! Billings offers some fantastic spots that serve up pizza that could rival the best pizzerias in the Big Apple. Let's dive into where you can find that perfect foldable, cheesy, and saucy slice right here in Montana.

What Makes New York-Style Pizza Special?

Before we get into the best places in Billings, let's talk about what exactly defines New York-style pizza. This isn't just any pizza; it's a specific type with distinct characteristics:

• Thin, Hand-Tossed Crust: The foundation of any great New York slice is its thin crust. It's not too crispy, not too soft, but just right, with a slight chewiness. This is achieved by hand-tossing the dough, a technique that requires skill and practice. The crust needs to be sturdy enough to hold the toppings, yet flexible enough to be folded in half for that classic New York-style eating experience.
• Simple Tomato Sauce: Forget overly sweet or heavily seasoned sauces. New York-style pizza uses a simple tomato sauce made from high-quality tomatoes, often with just a touch of herbs and spices. The sauce complements the other ingredients without overpowering them.
• Low-Moisture Mozzarella: The cheese of choice is low-moisture mozzarella. This type of mozzarella melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy layer that stretches perfectly with each bite. It also browns nicely in the oven, adding to the pizza's visual appeal.
• Large Slices: New York slices are known for their size. They're typically cut into large, wide slices that are meant to be folded in half for easy eating. This makes them perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on the go.
• Coal or Gas-Fired Ovens: Traditionally, New York pizzerias use coal-fired ovens to achieve a unique flavor and slightly charred crust. However, many modern pizzerias use gas-fired ovens that can still deliver excellent results.

These elements combine to create a pizza that is both satisfying and iconic. When you're searching for New York-style pizza in Billings, these are the qualities you should be looking for.

Top Spots for New York-Style Pizza in Billings

Okay, guys, let's get to the good stuff! Where can you actually find authentic New York-style pizza in Billings, MT? Here are a few places that should definitely be on your radar. Each of these spots brings something special to the table, so you're sure to find a slice you'll love.

Stacked A Montana Grill

Stacked A Montana Grill is a popular spot in Billings that offers a fantastic take on New York-style pizza. What sets them apart is their commitment to using fresh, local ingredients whenever possible. This dedication to quality shines through in every slice.

• The Pizza: Their pizza features a thin, hand-tossed crust that's crispy on the bottom and slightly chewy on top. The sauce is made from ripe, locally sourced tomatoes, giving it a bright and fresh flavor. They use high-quality mozzarella cheese that melts perfectly, creating a gooey and satisfying experience. Stacked offers a variety of toppings, from classic pepperoni to more adventurous options like roasted vegetables and gourmet cheeses. Each pizza is cooked to perfection in a high-temperature oven, ensuring a slightly charred and flavorful crust.
• The Atmosphere: Stacked A Montana Grill has a relaxed and inviting atmosphere. It's a great place to grab a quick lunch, enjoy a casual dinner with friends, or watch a game on TV. The staff is friendly and attentive, always ready to make recommendations or answer any questions you might have. The restaurant is clean and well-maintained, creating a comfortable dining experience.
• Why It's Special: What makes Stacked A Montana Grill stand out is their focus on quality and local ingredients. They take pride in sourcing the best possible ingredients from Montana and the surrounding region, which results in a pizza that is both delicious and unique. Their commitment to customer service and creating a welcoming atmosphere also makes them a favorite among locals.

The Garage Pub & Grill

The Garage Pub & Grill might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of New York-style pizza, but they've quietly been serving up some seriously good slices. This spot is known for its laid-back vibe and delicious food, making it a great place to unwind after a long day.

• The Pizza: Their New York-style pizza is characterized by a thin, crispy crust that's slightly thicker than some other places, but still foldable. The sauce is rich and flavorful, with a hint of sweetness that complements the other ingredients. They use a generous amount of mozzarella cheese, creating a cheesy and satisfying experience. The Garage offers a variety of toppings, from classic pepperoni and sausage to more creative options like BBQ chicken and buffalo chicken. Each pizza is cooked to perfection, with a slightly browned and bubbly crust.
• The Atmosphere: The Garage Pub & Grill has a casual and fun atmosphere. It's a great place to hang out with friends, watch a game, or enjoy some live music. The staff is friendly and welcoming, always ready to make recommendations or pour you a cold beer. The restaurant is decorated with automotive memorabilia, giving it a unique and quirky vibe.
• Why It's Special: What makes The Garage Pub & Grill special is their combination of great food, a fun atmosphere, and friendly service. They've created a place where people can come to relax, unwind, and enjoy some delicious pizza. Their commitment to quality and consistency has made them a local favorite.

Bullman's Pizza

For those seeking a more traditional New York-style pizza experience, Bullman's Pizza is a solid choice. They focus on simplicity and quality ingredients, delivering a classic slice that's hard to beat. If you appreciate a no-frills approach to pizza, this is your spot.

• The Pizza: Bullman's Pizza sticks to the basics, and they do it well. Their pizza features a thin, hand-tossed crust that's crispy and foldable. The sauce is simple and flavorful, made from high-quality tomatoes and a touch of herbs. They use low-moisture mozzarella cheese, which melts perfectly and creates a slightly browned and bubbly top. Bullman's offers a limited selection of toppings, focusing on classic options like pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms. Each pizza is cooked in a traditional pizza oven, ensuring a crispy and flavorful crust.
• The Atmosphere: Bullman's Pizza has a no-frills, family-friendly atmosphere. It's a great place to grab a quick and affordable meal. The staff is friendly and efficient, focused on getting you your pizza as quickly as possible. The restaurant is clean and well-maintained, providing a comfortable dining experience.
• Why It's Special: What makes Bullman's Pizza special is their commitment to simplicity and quality. They don't try to reinvent the wheel; they just focus on making a classic New York-style pizza using the best possible ingredients. Their affordable prices and quick service make them a popular choice for families and individuals alike.

Tips for Finding the Best New York-Style Pizza

Alright, pizza lovers, before you head out on your New York-style pizza adventure in Billings, here are a few tips to keep in mind to ensure you find the perfect slice:

• Check Online Reviews: Before visiting a pizzeria, take a look at online reviews. See what other people are saying about the pizza, the atmosphere, and the service. Pay attention to reviews that mention the crust, sauce, and cheese, as these are key components of New York-style pizza.
• Ask the Locals: Don't be afraid to ask locals for recommendations. They often know the hidden gems and the best places to get a great slice. Strike up a conversation with someone at a local bar or coffee shop and ask them where they go for pizza.
• Look for the Fold: One of the hallmarks of New York-style pizza is its ability to be folded in half. When you get your slice, try folding it. If it folds easily without breaking, that's a good sign.
• Observe the Crust: Take a close look at the crust. It should be thin, crispy on the bottom, and slightly chewy. Avoid pizzas with overly thick or doughy crusts.
• Taste the Sauce: The sauce should be simple and flavorful, not too sweet or overpowering. It should complement the other ingredients without being the dominant flavor.
• Consider the Cheese: The cheese should be low-moisture mozzarella that melts evenly and creates a gooey texture. Avoid pizzas with excessive amounts of cheese or cheese that doesn't melt properly.

Enjoy Your Pizza Adventure in Billings!

So there you have it, folks! Your guide to finding the best New York-style pizza in Billings, MT. With a little bit of research and a willingness to explore, you're sure to find a slice that satisfies your cravings. Remember to check out Stacked A Montana Grill, The Garage Pub & Grill, and Bullman's Pizza, and don't forget to use our tips for finding the perfect slice. Happy pizza hunting!