While in Detroit, I craved authentic Detroit-style pizza, and Loui’s Pizza, often hailed as the best, delivered an unforgettable experience. Founded in 1977 by French chef Louis Tourtois, dubbed “the king of pizzas” by The Detroit News, this Hazel Park gem feels like a time capsule. Stepping inside, you’re greeted by a nostalgic vibe—wood paneling, cushy red booths, a retro bar with an aquarium, and walls adorned with decorated wine bottles.

Pro tip: Order a bottle of House Wine, decorate it, and hunt for it on your next visit—a fun tradition! Named one of Yelp’s Top 100 Pizza Spots in the Midwest, Loui’s, still family-run, is a must-visit for its charm alone.

Following my server’s advice, I started with the Antipasto Salad, a simple yet delightful dish. The tangy vinaigrette dressed the lettuce perfectly, tossed with tomatoes, cheese cubes, salami, and ham cubes. Each bite was so flavorful I had to pace myself, knowing pizza was on the way.

I chose the Meat Lovers pizza, loaded with cheese, pepperoni, ham, sausage, ground beef, and bacon. This square, Detroit-style pie was pure perfection! Served piping hot, the cheese stretched endlessly as I grabbed a slice. The thick, airy crust was buttery with crispy, charred edges, caramelized with melted cheese. The sauce-to-crust ratio was spot-on, and the high-quality meats and cheese shone through. A small pizza has four slices, and believe me—one is filling, but it’s so delicious, stopping there is a challenge.

One caveat: Parking can be tricky. I visited midweek during lunch, shortly after opening, and still struggled to find a spot. Don’t let that deter you, though—Loui’s is a time-traveling treat worth the effort. If you’re in the suburb of Detroit, don’t miss this iconic pizzeria for its bold flavors and retro charm.