- National Geographic recognized Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana as one of the top pizza spots in the U.S. beyond NYC and Chicago.
- The iconic New Haven restaurant earned praise for its signature thin-crust, coal‑fired pies and local dedication to just‑right char.
- Frank Pepe’s continues to expand, including a new Westport location opening this summer.
National Geographic has shined a national spotlight on a Connecticut classic, naming Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana among the best places in the United States to enjoy standout pizza — specifically those outside the well‑known pizza hubs of New York and Chicago.
In its feature, the publication highlighted how excellent pizza can now be found in communities across the country, far beyond the major cities historically associated with Southern Italian immigrant traditions. Within that national roundup, Frank Pepe’s New Haven location stood out for its iconic, coal‑fired “apizza,” a regional style that National Geographic described as uniquely thin, crisp, and slightly denser than other American varieties. The report noted that the pizza’s edges don’t puff up in the typical Neapolitan fashion, giving it a signature look and texture beloved by locals.
Colin Caplan, New Haven pizza historian and founder of Taste of New Haven, told National Geographic that Connecticut diners expect a balanced char: enough to deliver the smoky flavor New Haven is known for, but not so much that the crust becomes overly bitter or burnt.
Among Pepe’s most recommended offerings, National Geographic pointed to three must‑try classics:
- the legendary white clam pie,
- the original tomato pie, and
- a traditional margherita.
The storied New Haven restaurant also enjoyed a high‑profile year, drawing visits from celebrities including Anna Kendrick, Bryan Adams, and longtime fan Paul Giamatti. Additionally, Food & Wine named Frank Pepe’s to its 2025 “must‑visit pizzerias in the United States” list.
The brand continues its East Coast expansion, with a new Westport, CT location slated to open this summer. Once completed, it will become the 18th Pepe’s location across New England, New York, Florida, and the Washington, D.C. area — extending the reach of a Connecticut culinary icon even further.
Source: Jayden Nguyen, Staff Writer, “CT pizzeria lands on National Geographic’s list of the best pizza spots in the US”, Stamford Advocate, January 7, 2026. (Note: access may require a login.)
