NY Times Names South Philly’s San Lucas Pizzeria One of the 22 Best Pizza Places in the United States

If there’s anything foodies do well is put others on to “hidden gems” and argue about who has the best (insert food item). Well, the pot is about to be stirred because when it comes to pizza, Philly has some great spots and the New York Times has just listed South Philly’s San Lucas Pizzeria (2000 S Bouvier St.) on their list of 22 best pizza places in the country

Their description reads, “When Valentin Palillero and his wife, Eva Mendez, opened their South Philadelphia pizzeria in 2005, the couple sold traditional pies, with toppings like pepperoni and green peppers that were familiar to their historically Italian neighborhood. But Mr. Palillero, who emigrated from Puebla, Mexico, also wanted to appeal to his own community that had been settling in the surrounding blocks for the last decade or so. Using the same simple crust as a base, new recipes used ingredients found in Mexican cuisine: slightly smoky guajillo sauce, spiced pork, black beans, flecks of onion and chopped cilantro. Nowadays, these varieties, served with a side of lime wedges, are as popular as the originals. But they’re also a vivid link in a neighborhood that’s been an epicenter of Italian and Mexican immigration, roughly three-quarters of a century apart,” stated writer Regan Stephens.

We tried to look but it seems San Lucas doesn’t have an Instagram but does hold a respectable 4.3 on Yelp and a very good 4.6 on Google Reviews.  Although, other pizzeria spots have been featured in national publications as the best in the city, San Lucas Pizzeria will no doubt now draw crowds and pizza afficianados who haven’t yet been to see for themselves.

For those looking to check them out,  the San Lucas website reads “San Lucas Pizzeria remains one of the most popular in Philadelphia. Give them a try and see what makes them such a favorite. You’ll find more than just pizza at the top restaurants in Philadelphia. Try some of the local top dishes for a treat. Don’t miss the chance to try the popular Pepperoni Pizza. It’s a classic for a reason.”