Empire Slice House is a pizzeria that specializes in New York-style pizza. The restaurant was founded in 2010 by two friends, Matt and Mike, who were both born and raised in New York City. Matt and Mike were inspired to open Empire Slice House after spending many years eating pizza at their favorite pizzerias in New York City. They wanted to bring the same quality of pizza to Los Angeles, and they believed that they could do so by using the finest ingredients and following traditional New York-style pizza-making techniques.
Empire Slice House has quickly become one of the most popular pizzerias in Los Angeles. The restaurant has been featured in numerous publications, including The Los Angeles Times, The New York Times, and Food & Wine magazine. Empire Slice House has also been awarded several awards, including the "Best Pizza in Los Angeles" award from Los Angeles Magazine.
The secret to Empire Slice House's success is its commitment to using the finest ingredients and following traditional New York-style pizza-making techniques. The restaurant's dough is made from a blend of high-quality flours, and it is hand-tossed and cooked in a wood-fired oven. The restaurant's sauce is made from fresh tomatoes, and it is simmered for hours to develop a rich flavor. The restaurant's toppings are also fresh and flavorful, and they are added to the pizza after it has been cooked.
Empire Slice House
Empire Slice House, a renowned pizzeria, embodies the essence of authentic New York-style pizza in the heart of Los Angeles. Its unwavering commitment to culinary excellence shines through eight key aspects:
- Wood-fired Oven: The centerpiece of Empire Slice House, imparting a smoky, charred flavor to each slice.
- Hand-tossed Dough: Expertly crafted dough, yielding a perfectly crisp crust and airy interior.
- Fresh Ingredients: From vine-ripened tomatoes to premium mozzarella, every ingredient is meticulously sourced for maximum flavor.
- Signature Sauce: A closely guarded recipe, simmered to perfection, creating a rich and tangy base for every pizza.
- Generous Toppings: An array of classic and innovative toppings, ensuring a customized and satisfying experience.
- Cozy Atmosphere: A warm and inviting ambiance, reminiscent of traditional New York pizzerias.
- Exceptional Service: Knowledgeable and friendly staff, dedicated to providing an unforgettable dining experience.
- Local Gem: A beloved destination for Angelenos and tourists alike, a testament to its unwavering quality and community spirit.
These aspects intertwine seamlessly to create a pizza-eating experience that transcends mere sustenance. Each bite transports patrons to the bustling streets of New York City, evoking the vibrant energy and culinary passion that define the Empire State. Empire Slice House is not just a pizzeria; it is a culinary haven, a testament to the enduring legacy of New York-style pizza in the heart of Los Angeles.
1. Wood-fired Oven
The wood-fired oven lies at the heart of Empire Slice House's culinary prowess, playing an indispensable role in elevating its pizzas to the realm of excellence. Its intense heat and radiant energy create a unique cooking environment, bestowing upon each slice a symphony of flavors and textures.
The scorching flames within the oven's belly char the pizza's crust, yielding a captivating interplay of crispness and chewiness. The direct exposure to live fire infuses the dough with a tantalizing smokiness, reminiscent of age-old cooking traditions. This smoky undertone serves as a harmonious counterpoint to the pizza's other elements, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Moreover, the wood-fired oven's intense heat ensures an even distribution of cooking, preventing the dreaded soggy center that plagues lesser pizzas. As the pizza twirls within the oven's embrace, its toppings sizzle and dance, caramelizing and intensifying their flavors. The result is a pizza that is not merely cooked but transformed into a culinary masterpiece.
In the hands of Empire Slice House's skilled pizzaiolos, the wood-fired oven becomes an extension of their artistry. They deftly maneuver the pizzas within the oven's fiery depths, ensuring that each slice receives the perfect amount of heat and char. This masterful technique results in a consistent quality that has earned Empire Slice House its reputation as a purveyor of exceptional New York-style pizza.
The wood-fired oven is not merely a tool but a living, breathing entity that imbues each pizza with its unique character. It is the heart and soul of Empire Slice House, a testament to the transformative power of culinary tradition. Through its unwavering dedication to the wood-fired oven, Empire Slice House has established itself as a cornerstone of the Los Angeles pizza scene and a beacon of culinary excellence.
2. Hand-tossed Dough
At the heart of every exceptional Empire Slice House pizza lies a foundation of expertly crafted hand-tossed dough. This artisanal approach to dough-making sets the stage for a symphony of flavors and textures that has become synonymous with the Empire Slice House experience.
The dough's journey begins with carefully selected high-quality flour, which is then combined with just the right amount of water and a touch of salt. The dough is then kneaded by hand, a labor-intensive process that develops the dough's gluten structure, resulting in a dough that is both strong and elastic. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that each pizza is able to withstand the high temperatures of the wood-fired oven without becoming overly crispy or chewy.
Once the dough has been kneaded, it is left to rest and rise. This resting period allows the dough to develop its full flavor and aroma. The dough is then divided into individual portions, each of which is hand-tossed into a perfectly round shape. This hand-tossing technique creates a thin, evenly stretched dough that is the hallmark of a true New York-style pizza.
The hand-tossed dough is then topped with Empire Slice House's signature sauce and a generous helping of fresh, flavorful toppings. The pizza is then placed in the wood-fired oven, where it bakes to perfection. The high heat of the oven creates a perfectly crisp crust, while the interior of the pizza remains light and airy.
The combination of hand-tossed dough and wood-fired oven is what sets Empire Slice House pizzas apart from the competition. The hand-tossed dough provides a sturdy foundation for the pizza, while the wood-fired oven imparts a unique smoky flavor that elevates the pizza to new heights. The result is a pizza that is both delicious and satisfying, a true testament to the culinary artistry of Empire Slice House.
3. Fresh Ingredients
For Empire Slice House, the relentless pursuit of culinary excellence extends beyond the confines of the kitchen to the very source of its ingredients. Each element that graces their pizzas is carefully handpicked, meticulously inspected, and ethically sourced to ensure an unparalleled symphony of flavors.
The foundation of Empire Slice House's pizzas lies in the vibrant, vine-ripened tomatoes that form the base of their signature sauce. These tomatoes are cultivated in sun-kissed fields, where they bask under the Mediterranean sun, absorbing nature's natural sweetness and developing a rich, complex flavor profile. The tomatoes are handpicked at the peak of ripeness, capturing their essence at its zenith.
Complementing the exquisite sauce is the finest mozzarella cheese, crafted with artisanal precision. Empire Slice House sources its mozzarella from small, family-owned dairies, where time-honored traditions and meticulous care converge. The milk used to make the mozzarella is sourced from grass-fed cows, resulting in a cheese that is both creamy and flavorful, with a delicate balance of acidity and sweetness.
The commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients extends to every aspect of Empire Slice House's pizzas. From the fragrant herbs that adorn each slice to the hand-picked mushrooms and crisp vegetables, every ingredient is carefully selected to contribute its unique character to the overall gustatory experience.
The unwavering dedication to fresh ingredients is not merely a culinary philosophy but a testament to Empire Slice House's unwavering commitment to quality. By meticulously sourcing the finest ingredients, Empire Slice House ensures that each pizza that emerges from their ovens is a masterpiece of flavor, a culinary journey that transports taste buds to a realm of pure delight.
4. Signature Sauce
At the heart of every great pizza lies the sauce, and Empire Slice House's signature sauce is no exception. This closely guarded recipe has been passed down through generations, resulting in a sauce that is both unique and unforgettable.
- Secret Ingredients: The exact ingredients of Empire Slice House's signature sauce are a closely guarded secret, but it is said to contain a blend of fresh tomatoes, herbs, and spices. This secret blend of ingredients gives the sauce its distinctive flavor profile, which is both rich and tangy.
- Slow-Simmered: Empire Slice House's signature sauce is slow-simmered for hours, which allows the flavors to develop and meld together. This slow-simmering process also helps to create a sauce that is thick and flavorful, without being too heavy.
- Perfect Balance: Empire Slice House's signature sauce is the perfect balance of sweet and savory, with a hint of acidity. This balance of flavors makes the sauce versatile enough to be paired with a variety of toppings.
- Versatile: Empire Slice House's signature sauce is not only delicious on pizza, but it can also be used as a dipping sauce or marinade. This versatility makes it a great addition to any kitchen.
Empire Slice House's signature sauce is more than just a condiment; it is the foundation of their pizzas. This unique and flavorful sauce sets Empire Slice House's pizzas apart from the competition, and it is one of the reasons why they are so popular.
5. Generous Toppings
Empire Slice House is renowned for its generous toppings, an array of classic and innovative ingredients that elevate each pizza to a culinary masterpiece. This commitment to topping excellence is deeply rooted in the restaurant's philosophy of providing a customized and satisfying experience for every customer.
- Classic Toppings, Elevated: Empire Slice House honors the timeless flavors of traditional pizza toppings, such as pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms. However, the restaurant sets itself apart by using premium-quality ingredients and preparing each topping with the utmost care. The result is a familiar taste elevated to new heights, offering a nostalgic yet refined experience.
- Innovative Toppings, Explored: Beyond the classics, Empire Slice House embraces culinary creativity, introducing a rotating menu of innovative toppings that push the boundaries of pizza. From truffle oil to arugula to roasted butternut squash, these toppings add unexpected dimensions of flavor and texture, inviting customers to embark on a journey of taste discovery.
- Customization Encouraged: Empire Slice House empowers its customers to create pizzas that perfectly align with their preferences. With a wide array of toppings to choose from, guests can mix and match to their heart's content, ensuring that each pizza is a reflection of their unique taste. This level of customization fosters a sense of ownership and satisfaction, making every dining experience deeply personal.
- Quality Ingredients, Guaranteed: Empire Slice House's commitment to quality extends to every ingredient, including its toppings. The restaurant sources only the finest meats, vegetables, and cheeses, ensuring that each topping is bursting with flavor and freshness. This unwavering dedication to quality guarantees that every bite is a testament to culinary excellence.
In conclusion, Empire Slice House's generous toppings are not merely an afterthought; they are a fundamental aspect of the restaurant's identity. By offering an array of classic and innovative toppings, embracing customization, and prioritizing quality, Empire Slice House creates pizzas that are not just satisfying but truly memorable.
6. Cozy Atmosphere
Empire Slice House is not just a pizzeria; it's an experience that transports patrons to the heart of New York City's vibrant pizza culture. The cozy atmosphere it exudes plays a crucial role in creating this authentic experience.
- Familiar Ambiance: Step into Empire Slice House, and you're greeted by a warm and inviting ambiance that instantly evokes the bustling pizzerias of New York City. The checkered tablecloths, exposed brick walls, and vintage posters create a sense of familiarity, making customers feel like they've been transported to the heart of the Big Apple.
- Nostalgic Charm: The cozy atmosphere extends beyond the decor, encompassing every aspect of the dining experience. The air is filled with the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pizzas and the lively chatter of patrons, creating a nostalgic charm that transports customers back in time to the golden age of New York pizza.
- Community Spirit: Empire Slice House fosters a strong sense of community, just like traditional New York pizzerias. The friendly staff greets regulars by name, and customers often strike up conversations with each other, creating a convivial and welcoming environment.
- Attention to Detail: The attention to detail in creating a cozy atmosphere is evident throughout Empire Slice House. From the carefully curated music playlist to the comfortable seating arrangements, every element is designed to enhance the overall dining experience and transport customers to the heart of New York City's pizza culture.
In conclusion, the cozy atmosphere at Empire Slice House is not just a backdrop; it's an integral part of the dining experience. By creating a warm and inviting ambiance reminiscent of traditional New York pizzerias, Empire Slice House transports patrons to the heart of the Big Apple, offering an authentic and unforgettable pizza experience.
7. Exceptional Service
Exceptional service lies at the heart of the Empire Slice House experience, where knowledgeable and friendly staff are dedicated to providing an unforgettable dining experience. This commitment to service is not merely a component of Empire Slice House; it is the very foundation upon which the restaurant's reputation is built.
The staff at Empire Slice House are not just order-takers and food deliverers; they are pizza enthusiasts who are passionate about sharing their love of great pizza with every customer. They are well-versed in the menu, offering informed recommendations and guiding customers through the diverse array of pizzas and toppings. Their friendly demeanor and warm smiles create a welcoming atmosphere that makes every visit a pleasure.
The importance of exceptional service cannot be overstated. In today's competitive restaurant landscape, it is no longer enough to simply serve good food. Customers expect a memorable experience, and Empire Slice House delivers on this expectation with its unwavering commitment to service. The staff's attention to detail and dedication to customer satisfaction ensure that every diner leaves feeling happy and well-cared for.
Real-life examples abound of the exceptional service provided at Empire Slice House. Customers frequently praise the staff's willingness to go the extra mile, such as accommodating special requests, providing thoughtful suggestions, and even offering to box up leftover pizza in a way that ensures it remains crispy and delicious. These small gestures may seem insignificant, but they add up to create a dining experience that is truly unforgettable.
In conclusion, the exceptional service provided at Empire Slice House is not just a component of the restaurant; it is the lifeblood that keeps the business thriving. The knowledgeable and friendly staff are the heart and soul of Empire Slice House, and their unwavering dedication to providing an unforgettable dining experience is what sets the restaurant apart from its competitors.
8. Local Gem
Empire Slice House stands as a beloved destination for Angelenos and tourists alike, a testament to its unwavering quality and community spirit. This local gem has become a culinary beacon, attracting patrons from all walks of life with its exceptional pizzas and convivial atmosphere.
The unwavering quality of Empire Slice House's pizzas is the cornerstone of its success. The restaurant's commitment to using the finest ingredients and traditional cooking techniques shines through in every bite. From the hand-tossed dough to the slow-simmered sauce and carefully selected toppings, each element is thoughtfully chosen to create a harmonious and unforgettable taste experience.
Beyond its culinary excellence, Empire Slice House fosters a strong sense of community spirit. The friendly and knowledgeable staff greets regulars by name, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Customers often strike up conversations with each other, sharing their love of pizza and their experiences at the restaurant. This sense of community extends beyond the restaurant's walls, as Empire Slice House actively supports local businesses and charitable organizations.
The practical significance of understanding the connection between Empire Slice House and its status as a local gem is twofold. Firstly, it highlights the importance of maintaining high standards of quality and service in the hospitality industry. By consistently delivering exceptional pizzas and fostering a welcoming atmosphere, Empire Slice House has built a loyal customer base and earned a reputation as a must-visit destination.
Secondly, it underscores the value of community involvement for businesses. Empire Slice House's active participation in the local community has not only strengthened its ties to the neighborhood but has also contributed to the overall vitality of the area. This understanding can serve as a valuable lesson for other businesses looking to establish a strong and sustainable presence in their communities.
In conclusion, Empire Slice House's status as a local gem is a direct reflection of its unwavering commitment to quality and community spirit. By consistently serving exceptional pizzas and fostering a welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant has earned the love and loyalty of Angelenos and tourists alike. Furthermore, its active involvement in the local community has strengthened its ties to the neighborhood and contributed to the overall well-being of the area.
Empire Slice House
Empire Slice House, renowned for its exceptional New York-style pizzas, has garnered a loyal following and critical acclaim. To address commonly raised inquiries and misconceptions, we present this comprehensive FAQ section:
Question 1: What sets Empire Slice House's pizzas apart from others?Empire Slice House's pizzas are a symphony of culinary excellence, meticulously crafted using only the finest ingredients and traditional techniques. The dough, hand-tossed to perfection, provides a crispy yet airy base for the vibrant sauce, made from vine-ripened tomatoes and simmered for hours to develop a rich, tangy flavor. Generously topped with premium-quality meats, vegetables, and cheeses, each pizza is a testament to the unwavering commitment to culinary artistry.
Question 2: How does Empire Slice House maintain the authenticity of its New York-style pizzas?At the heart of Empire Slice House's authenticity lies its dedication to time-honored methods and ingredients. The wood-fired oven, an indispensable tool in the New York pizza-making tradition, imparts a smoky, charred flavor to each slice. The dough, made fresh daily, is hand-tossed and cooked to achieve the perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness. By adhering to these principles, Empire Slice House transports its patrons to the bustling streets of New York City, offering a genuine and unforgettable pizza experience.
Question 3: What dietary preferences does Empire Slice House cater to?Empire Slice House is committed to inclusivity, offering a diverse menu that accommodates various dietary preferences. Vegetarian and vegan patrons will delight in the tantalizing array of meatless options, ensuring they are not deprived of the authentic New York-style pizza experience. Gluten-free alternatives are also available, allowing those with gluten sensitivities to indulge in the joy of pizza without compromising their well-being.
Question 4: How does Empire Slice House ensure the quality and freshness of its ingredients?Empire Slice House places paramount importance on the quality and freshness of its ingredients. The restaurant has forged strong relationships with local purveyors who share its dedication to culinary excellence. From the vine-ripened tomatoes used in the sauce to the premium-quality meats and cheeses, every ingredient is carefully selected to meet the exacting standards of Empire Slice House. This unwavering commitment ensures that each pizza is a masterpiece of flavor and freshness.
Question 5: What is the secret behind Empire Slice House's signature sauce?The secret to Empire Slice House's signature sauce lies in its carefully guarded recipe, passed down through generations and fiercely protected by the restaurant's culinary team. A symphony of flavors, the sauce is crafted using only the finest vine-ripened tomatoes, slow-simmered for hours to achieve a rich, complex taste. Herbs and spices, blended with precision, add layers of depth and nuance, resulting in a sauce that perfectly complements the crispy dough and generous toppings.
Question 6: How does Empire Slice House maintain its status as a local gem?Empire Slice House's status as a local gem is a testament to its unwavering commitment to the community. The restaurant actively supports local businesses and charitable organizations, fostering a sense of connection and shared purpose. By embracing the neighborhood's spirit and contributing to its well-being, Empire Slice House has earned the love and loyalty of the local residents, solidifying its position as an integral part of the community fabric.
In essence, Empire Slice House is more than just a pizzeria; it is a culinary destination that embodies the true spirit of New York-style pizza. Through its unwavering commitment to quality, authenticity, inclusivity, and community involvement, Empire Slice House continues to captivate the hearts and taste buds of pizza enthusiasts, solidifying its status as a beloved local gem.
Feel free to visit our website or contact us directly for further inquiries or reservations. Our knowledgeable and friendly staff will be delighted to assist you.
Tips from Empire Slice House
At Empire Slice House, we're passionate about pizza. We've been serving up authentic New York-style pizza in Los Angeles for over a decade, and we've learned a thing or two about what makes a great pizza.
Here are five tips from the pros at Empire Slice House:
Tip 1: Use high-quality ingredients. The quality of your ingredients will have a major impact on the flavor of your pizza. Use the best tomatoes, cheese, and meats that you can find. You'll be able to taste the difference.
Tip 2: Don't overwork the dough. Overworking the dough will make it tough and chewy. Gently knead the dough until it just comes together, then let it rest for at least 30 minutes before rolling it out.
Tip 3: Cook the pizza at a high temperature. The hotter the oven, the crispier the crust will be. Preheat your oven to the highest temperature it will go, and then cook the pizza for 10-12 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tip 4: Don't overload the pizza with toppings. Too many toppings will make the pizza soggy. Stick to a few of your favorite toppings, and don't be afraid to leave some space between them.
Tip 5: Let the pizza rest before slicing. Letting the pizza rest for a few minutes before slicing will allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a cleaner cut and a more flavorful pizza.
By following these tips, you can make a delicious New York-style pizza at home. So what are you waiting for? Get cooking!
Conclusion
Empire Slice House has established itself as a culinary beacon in Los Angeles, captivating pizza enthusiasts with its unwavering commitment to authenticity, quality, and community spirit. Through the masterful execution of traditional New York-style pizza-making techniques and the use of premium ingredients, Empire Slice House has elevated the art of pizza-making to new heights.
As we conclude our exploration of Empire Slice House, we are left with a deep appreciation for the dedication and passion that drives this exceptional establishment. The restaurant's commitment to culinary excellence, exemplified by its signature sauce, hand-tossed dough, and generous toppings, serves as a testament to the enduring legacy of New York-style pizza.
Furthermore, Empire Slice House's dedication to its community, through its support of local businesses and charitable organizations, underscores its commitment to the well-being of its surroundings. By embracing the neighborhood's spirit and contributing to its vitality, Empire Slice House has cemented its status as an integral part of the local fabric.
As Empire Slice House continues its culinary journey, we are confident that it will remain a beloved destination for Angelenos and tourists alike. Its unwavering dedication to quality, authenticity, and community engagement ensures that the Empire Slice House experience will continue to captivate taste buds and foster a sense of shared joy for years to come.
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