When you step into the world of pizza, Detroit-Style owns a special chapter in the culinary book of America. Birthed from the heart of the Motor City back in 1946, Detroit-Style Pizza began its journey at Buddy’s Rendezvous Pizzeria, marking the genesis of a pizza revolution. Initially crafted in the borrowed steel pans from automotive plants, this pioneering approach not only rendered an iconic square shape but also introduced a unique crust texture that's light and airy, yet crispy. This innovation transformed a simple pie into a legendary dining experience, propelling Detroit-Style Pizza from a local treasure to national fame.

What truly sets Detroit-Style Pizza apart isn’t just its storied origins but its distinctive characteristics. The square shape offers more than just visual charm; it delivers the promise of crispy, cheesy edges that aficionados swear by. The secret lies in its backward assembly - first, the double-proofed dough is snugly fit into square pans, then topped with pepperoni, followed by a generous layer of Wisconsin brick cheese, and finally adorned with stripes of sauce. This reverse layering is not merely for show; it deepens the flavors, ensuring every slice is saturated with the essence of each topping. Publications like Food & Wine Magazine and USA Today have lauded this style, highlighting Detroit’s prominent place on America’s pizza map.

But for those of us in Novi, the legend of Detroit-Style Pizza isn’t just a tale from the past—it's a taste we relish in the present, thanks in large part to Buddy’s. Buddy’s Pizza has not only sustained its legacy by holding true to the original recipes and techniques that made Detroit-Style Pizza a phenomenon, but it has also become a staple of our community. My personal visits to Buddy's have always been about more than just enjoying a meal; they're about experiencing a slice of history, wrapped in the warmth of gathered friends and family, evoking the same sense of community that Buddy's cherished from the start.

Indeed, Buddy’s continues to be my favorite spot in Novi for grabbing a pizza. Their unwavering dedication to quality, from maintaining the original pans that give the crust its signature crisp to their custom blend of cheeses, ensures that every bite is as memorable as the last. The ambiance of their outlets, adorned with accolades that span its illustrious journey, serves as a testament to their contribution not just to Detroit's culinary scene but to our local culture here in Novi. It's this blend of tradition, quality, and community that makes Buddy’s stand out as a beacon of culinary excellence and keeps locals and visitors alike coming back for that unique, square slice.

The making of a Detroit classic: Highlighting the unique square shape and layered toppings of Detroit-Style Pizza.
The making of a Detroit classic: Highlighting the unique square shape and layered toppings of Detroit-Style Pizza.  Source: buddyspizza.com

As we explore the secrets behind the Detroit-Style Pizza, it's clear that Buddy’s has not only mastered the art but has also woven it into the fabric of our community, making it an indispensable part of our local identity. Whether it’s a family dinner, a quiet date night, or a lively gathering with friends, Buddy’s in Novi stands ready to serve, reminding us that some flavors are timeless, bringing people together in a way that few other things can. So, here’s to the unique square that continues to make Novi special—Detroit-Style Pizza, our town’s favorite slice of history.