Portnoy

The Portnoy is a pizza variety named after Dave Portnoy, founder of Barstool Sports and host of the *One Bite Pizza Reviews* series, where he rates slices on a highly influential scale. Though not a traditional regional style, the dish emerged from Portnoy’s frequent critiques of classic New York–style pies and has been adapted by pizzerias seeking his endorsement. A defining feature is its emphasis on a thin, hand-tossed crust with a crisp yet pliable undercarriage, allowing for the iconic “one bite” fold. Key ingredients include a high-quality, low-moisture mozzarella, a tangy tomato sauce often made from San Marzano tomatoes, and a simple topping—usually pepperoni or plain cheese—to let the balance of dough, sauce, and cheese shine.

A great version is distinguished by its “corner slice” structure: even char on the bottom, a slightly sweet sauce, and cheese that melts without pooling grease. The crust should be airy with a distinct crunch, not dense or bready. Regional variations are minimal, as most interpretations strictly follow the New York–style blueprint, though some West Coast pizzerias add artisanal touches like sourdough starter or imported cured meats. The most notable venue cited in *One Bite Pizza Reviews* is **Solar Slice Pizza** in Marietta, Georgia, which earned a high score for its Portnoy-inspired pie, demonstrating the dish’s reach beyond the Northeast. Despite its recent origin, the Portnoy has become a benchmark in pizza culture, symbolizing the intersection of social media influence and traditional craft.