Los Angeles Embraces Detroit-Style Pizza: A Rising Culinary Trend
For years, Los Angeles has been quietly building a reputation as a serious culinary destination, extending far beyond its famed taco scene. Whereas debates about the city’s water quality may persist (a long-discredited claim, as noted by Eater here), the city’s appetite for innovative pizza styles is undeniable. A recent surge in popularity for Sicilian-style square pizzas, originating in the mid-20th century and popularized through New York, has taken a notable detour through Detroit, landing squarely in the Los Angeles culinary landscape. This trend is being driven by a new generation of chefs who are reimagining classic techniques with a focus on quality ingredients and a distinctly Californian sensibility. Detroit-style pizza, with its crispy, caramelized edges and airy, focaccia-like crust, is quickly becoming a calling card for this wave of culinary creativity.
The latest addition to this burgeoning scene is Old Gold Tomato Pies, which opened in Los Feliz in October 2025. The pizzeria, helmed by chef Jeffrey Vance, is quickly gaining recognition for its dedication to both technical precision and high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Vance’s journey to Los Angeles is a testament to the dedication and experience that defines the city’s top chefs. He honed his skills in some of the nation’s most acclaimed kitchens, working alongside culinary giants such as Michael Mina, Charlie Palmer, Wolfgang Puck and Bradley Ogden. Prior to opening Old Gold, Vance earned a James Beard Foundation Award nomination in 2016 for Best New Restaurant while at No Anchor in Seattle, and previously worked at Navy Strength, also in Seattle.
A Retro Vibe with a Modern Approach
Old Gold Tomato Pies isn’t simply replicating a Detroit-style pizza; it’s offering a nostalgic experience infused with a modern sensibility. The restaurant’s design and atmosphere evoke a ‘90s retro charm, creating a relaxed and inviting space. This commitment to a specific aesthetic extends to the menu, which features Sicilian-style square pies inspired by Vance’s childhood memories in Canada – specifically, a fondness for Pizza Hut. Though, the execution is far from a simple throwback. The pizzeria prioritizes high-quality ingredients, and notably, vegan options comprise 30 percent of the menu, seamlessly integrated alongside traditional offerings. This dedication to inclusivity and quality sets Old Gold apart in a competitive culinary market.
The focus on technical excellence is evident in every bite. The crust, a hallmark of Detroit-style pizza, is expertly crafted to achieve the perfect balance of crispy edges and a light, airy interior. The sauce, made with locally sourced tomatoes, is bright and flavorful, complementing the rich, cheesy topping. The overall experience, as described by Eater, is “a delicious and downright pleasant combination.” This isn’t just about pizza; it’s about creating a complete dining experience that appeals to both seasoned pizza aficionados and newcomers alike.
Navigating the Logistics and Supporting a Local Business
While the pizza at Old Gold Tomato Pies is undoubtedly the main draw, potential customers should be prepared for a bit of a logistical challenge. Parking in the Los Feliz neighborhood can be notoriously difficult, and it’s advisable to add an extra 5 to 10 minutes to your travel time to account for finding a spot. The pizzeria is located on Hollywood Boulevard, and while street parking is available, it’s often limited. Exploring the perpendicular side streets may yield additional options, but be prepared for a short walk.
Old Gold Tomato Pies operates independently, without the backing of a larger restaurant group or public relations firm. Which means its success relies heavily on organic word-of-mouth marketing and repeat customers. The restaurant’s commitment to quality and its unique atmosphere are clearly resonating with diners, but continued support from the local community is crucial for its long-term viability. Customers can order pies by the slice or sheet, either halved or full, and enjoy a taste of Detroit-style pizza crafted with Californian flair. As the pizzeria itself suggests, it’s a place to “forget everything your friend’s annoying East Coast–transplant roommate says about dough in Los Angeles.”
The Broader Detroit-Style Pizza Scene in Los Angeles
Old Gold Tomato Pies is not alone in championing Detroit-style pizza in Los Angeles. The city has seen a growing number of pizzerias embracing this unique style, contributing to a vibrant and competitive culinary scene. According to a Yelp search conducted in January 2026 here, several establishments are leading the charge, including Apollonia’s Pizzeria, Detroit Pizza Depot, dtown pizzeria, Quarter Sheets, Fuji & Vi’s, Focaccia Boi, Prince Street Pizza, Pizza Cafe LA, and Little Dynamite.
Detroit Pizza Depot, as highlighted on their website here, specifically focuses on bringing authentic Detroit-style pizza to the Los Angeles area, emphasizing the crispy caramelized edges and fluffy crust that define the style. Dtown pizzeria, however, brings a particularly impressive pedigree to the table. According to their website here, dtown pizzeria is a three-time world champion in the pan division at the International Pizza Competitions in Las Vegas, winning in 2021, 2023, and 2025. Chef Ryan Ososky, the driving force behind dtown pizzeria, was named Pizza Maker of the Year in 2025. Ososky’s background, growing up in the Detroit suburbs and training under renowned chefs like Wolfgang Puck, underscores the dedication and expertise fueling this culinary movement. Dtown pizzeria is located at 8424 Santa Monica Blvd ste D, West Hollywood, CA 90069 and is open Monday 12-9pm, Tuesday 12-9pm, Wednesday 4-9pm, Thursday 12-9pm, Friday 12-10pm, Saturday 12-10pm, and Sunday 12-9pm.
The Appeal of Detroit-Style Pizza
The growing popularity of Detroit-style pizza can be attributed to several factors. Its unique texture – the crispy, cheesy edges and the light, airy interior – offers a satisfying contrast to more traditional pizza styles. The square shape also allows for more surface area for toppings, appealing to those who enjoy a generous amount of cheese, and sauce. The style’s origins in the working-class neighborhoods of Detroit lend it a sense of authenticity and nostalgia. The rise of Detroit-style pizza in Los Angeles reflects a broader trend towards regional American cuisine, as chefs and diners alike seek out unique and flavorful experiences.
The success of pizzerias like Old Gold Tomato Pies and dtown pizzeria demonstrates that Los Angeles is more than capable of embracing and elevating this classic American pizza style. As the trend continues to grow, it’s likely that even more innovative and exciting variations will emerge, further solidifying Los Angeles’s position as a serious pizza destination.
The next step for Old Gold Tomato Pies will be navigating the challenges of continued growth and maintaining the quality that has already earned them a loyal following. The restaurant’s commitment to local sourcing and its unique atmosphere will be key to its long-term success. We encourage readers to share their experiences at Old Gold Tomato Pies and other Detroit-style pizzerias in Los Angeles in the comments below.