Peter clarke
Google
If there's one place in New Jersey where pizza transcends from mere food to an experience, it's got to be DeLucia's Brick Oven Pizza. Nestled in the quaint town of Raritan, this pizzeria isn't just a business; it's a legacy that dates back to 1917, and every bite you take here feels like a homage to that rich history.
Walking into DeLucia's, you're immediately struck by the warmth of the place. The 100-year-old brick oven, which has been the heart of this establishment for generations, greets you with its inviting glow and the tantalizing aroma of baking pizza. This isn't just any oven; it's a piece of pizza heritage, crafted with the same meticulous care as the pies it cooks.
The pizza here is nothing short of spectacular. The crust is the star - perfectly crispy on the outside yet with a delightful chewiness inside. It's cooked in that venerable oven, which imparts a unique char and flavor you can't replicate elsewhere. The sauce, a family recipe no doubt, is tangy yet balanced, complementing the high-quality mozzarella that melts just right, offering a stretch with every bite but never overwhelming the taste.
DeLucia's offers a variety of pies, but their plain cheese pizza is where the magic truly happens. It's simple, yet each ingredient sings in harmony. Even their specialty pizzas, like the Clams Casino or BBQ Chicken, maintain that high standard while adding inventive twists that still respect the foundation laid by Constantino DeLucia over a century ago.
The atmosphere at DeLucia's is as authentic as its pizza. It's a family-run joint with a community feel, where regulars and newcomers alike are welcomed with the same warmth. Despite the fame brought by Dave Portnoy's near-perfect review, the shop retains its humble, no-frills charm, focusing purely on the art of pizza-making.
Service here is personal. You're not just another customer; you're part of the DeLucia's story for that moment. Even with the surge in popularity, they manage orders with grace, ensuring everyone gets a taste of their craft, though patience is key as they often sell out due to high demand.
In a world where pizza chains dominate, DeLucia's stands as a beacon of what pizza can be when it's made with passion, tradition, and an unyielding commitment to quality. If you're anywhere near Raritan or willing to make the journey, this is not just pizza; it's a culinary pilgrimage well worth the visit.
In summary, DeLucia's isn't just serving pizza; they're serving slices of history, tradition, and unparalleled taste. Five stars isn't enough - they deserve a stratospheric rating for keeping the art of true brick oven pizza alive and well in New Jersey.