In the bustling city of New York, where Pizza reigns supreme, there exists a hidden gem that defies all expectations. Tucked away in a Bushwick apartment, chef Chris Hansell has unlocked the secret to crafting the city’s most covetable pizzas. All within the confines of an “off-brand” home oven. The elusive nature of Chrissy’s Pizza has left enthusiasts yearning for a taste of its delectable pies.
Chrissy’s Pizza captured our attention when a close friend raved about the delightful Demon Pig Boy pie. And it was featured in our Places to Dine series last November. After months of failed attempts [for us], the opportunity to savor these extraordinary creations seems to be on the horizon. Chrissy’s Pizza will call the original Superiority Burger space home. Pre-orders are open all of July [Full pies ONLY], followed by walk-up orders in mid-August. In a fortunate turn of events, Chris Hansell enlisted the support of his longtime best friend, Chris Fratesi. Chris Fratesi is renowned for his successful pop-up venture, Fratesi Pizza.
For Chris Hansell, a proud New York native who grew up on the outskirts of Queens, Pizza holds an irreplaceable place in his heart. It is a cherished tradition he shared with his late father. Whose passing in 2011 left an indelible mark on Hansell’s culinary journey. However, his fascination with Pizza had always simmered beneath the surface. It was not until just before the pandemic that Hansell embraced his passion wholeheartedly. With newfound determination, he set out to unravel the secrets behind creating exceptional pizzas.
A Culinary Pilgrimage
Eager to refine his skills and pay homage to the pizzas that shaped his upbringing. Chris Hansell sought mentorship in some of the city’s renowned kitchens. His quest led him to the original Bellucci Pizza in Astoria. He delved into the rich history and traditional techniques that make New York pizza so revered. Hansell then ventured to L’industrie in Williamsburg, immersing himself in innovative and unconventional pizza creations. Lastly, he honed his expertise at F&F Pizzeria in Carroll Gardens. The place where he mastered the delicate balance of flavors and textures that elevate a pizza from good to exceptional.
Chrissy’s Pizza: A Bit of History
In December 2021, the culmination of Chris Hansell’s culinary odyssey emerged as Chrissy’s Pizza. It was aptly named after his beloved nickname. This venture marked the realization of his dream—a chance to recreate the nostalgic flavors that bonded him with his father during their pizza-filled moments. With an unwavering commitment to authenticity, Hansell’s goal was not to reinvent the New York-style pizza with trendy techniques. But to elevate and refine the classic pies he cherished as a child.
News of Chrissy’s Pizza spread like wildfire across the city. It ignited the curiosity and appetites of pizza lovers far and wide. The allure of these tantalizing creations lies in their ability to capture the essence of a traditional New York slice while infusing it with a touch of Hansell’s artistry and innovation. The demand for these limited-edition pies skyrocketed, resulting in sold-out orders through November. Aspirants eagerly turned to the Chrissy’s Pizza Instagram account, hoping to secure a coveted spot in the pre-order queue. Setting notifications became essential, ensuring that no opportunity would slip by unnoticed.
While the magic of Chrissy’s Pizza lies in the skillful mastery of its creator, Chris Hansell faces a unique challenge with his trusty home oven. Its humble capacity restricts him to crafting a mere twenty pies per week, amplifying the rarity and exclusivity of each delectable creation. The scarcity of Chrissy’s Pizza has only added to its mystique, encouraging patrons to seize the opportunity when pre-orders become available. The dance between supply and demand adds an element of thrill and anticipation to the quest for these extraordinary pies.
The Legacy of Chrissy’s Pizza: A Timeless Celebration of Tradition
Chrissy’s Pizza is not just about the incredible flavors. It symbolizes the enduring power of tradition and personal connections. Chris Hansell’s journey rekindles the bond with his late father. And recaptures the joy that sparked his pizza-making passion. In a dynamic culinary landscape, Chrissy’s Pizza is a testament to the unwavering dedication, evoking cherished memories and celebrating the simple pleasures of each mouthwatering bite. Finally, the long-awaited moment to savor this heavenly slice of nostalgia has arrived. And we could not be more excited.
Chef Chris Hansell’s remarkable journey from an unassuming home oven in Bushwick to the epicenter of New York City’s pizza scene embodies the essence of culinary adventure and personal connections. Chrissy’s Pizza represents not just an irresistible slice. But a celebration of tradition, family, and unyielding devotion. As pizza enthusiasts eagerly await the chance to indulge in these extraordinary creations, the legend of Chrissy’s Pizza continues to grow. It is a constant reminder that pursuing one’s passion can yield extraordinary results.
You can place your orders by calling 212-256-1192.
430 East 9th Street—East Village
