Connecticut Launches First-Ever Connecticut Pizza Trail

After drawing more than 13,000 votes and months of anticipation, the State of Connecticut officially unveiled the Connecticut Pizza Trail — the first-ever statewide trail celebrating the pizzerias, makers, and partners that earned the state its title as the Pizza Capital of the U.S.

The launch event took place at Modern Apizza in New Haven, the number one vote-getter in the statewide survey that determined the trail’s Top 100 pizzerias.

“Pizza is one of America’s most beloved foods, and nowhere does it better than Connecticut,” said Anthony Anthony, Chief Marketing Officer for the State of Connecticut. “For more than a century, our apizza has been a source of pride, community, and economic strength. The Connecticut Pizza Trail brings that story to life – and this new experience for residents and visitors alike shines a global spotlight on the people and places that make this state the undisputed Pizza Capital of the U.S.”

About the Connecticut Pizza Trail

The Connecticut Pizza Trail highlights the Top 100 pizzerias statewide — determined by more than 13,000 votes. To ensure the trail reflects the full breadth of Connecticut’s pizza identity, the final list of 100 pizzerias was reviewed by a diverse panel of judges, including culinary experts, restaurant leaders, influencers, and media talent.

The official trail map is available on CTvisit.com inviting visitors to explore the Pizza Capital of the U.S. all year long.

“Pizza in Connecticut is about more than pies and its slices,” added Anthony. “It’s proof about how food powers travel, drives economic growth, and shapes identity. It’s about neighborhoods, traditions, and the people who built them. Our new pizza trail doesn’t just celebrate a beloved state staple – it invites the world to taste and be a part of our story.”

The Economic Power of Apizza

The state is home to more than 1,300 pizza restaurants, and nearly 80% are independently owned or family-run — well above the national average, where estimates suggest only 40-60% of pizzerias nationwide are independent. This deep-rooted tradition of small, locally owned establishments not only defines Connecticut apizza culture but also fuels its economy. Collectively, these restaurants generate an estimated $600 million in annual sales, drive more than $3.5 billion in economic activity, and contribute upwards of $45 million in state tax revenue, according to a recent Special Examination on Pizza conducted by the Connecticut Office of the State Comptroller. New Haven alone attracts over 2 million visitors each year for its coal-fired slices, adding more than $100 million to the local economy. In a state ranked just 29th in population and 48th in size, pizza’s outsized impact underscores why Connecticut has earned its place as the nation’s Pizza Capital.

Even before the official launch, Connecticut’s year-long pizza campaign has already delivered measurable results. While the full impact of the Pizza Trail is still to come, early data from Connecticut’s June billboard campaign in New York City is clear:

• 22% increase in day trips from NYC to New Haven*

• 12% rise in overnight stays from NYC to New Haven*

• 50% surge in pizza-related searches on CTvisit.com**

*Arrivalist, **Google Analytics

 "Pizza has a long and proud history in Connecticut, and now it has a statewide platform that gives it the recognition it deserves,” said Scott Dolch, President & CEO of the Connecticut Restaurant Association. “The Pizza Trail doesn’t just celebrate great food - it shines a spotlight on the small businesses and families who built this legacy. It benefits our restaurants, our local economy, and solidifies our reputation as the Pizza Capital of the U.S.”

Trail Highlights & Launch Celebration

Following the press conference, attendees embarked on the Connecticut Pizza Trail Tour aboard a DATTCO bus wrapped in pizza-themed artwork, making stops at some of the iconic pizzerias that made New Haven famous, including the legendary Wooster Street. Pizza’s significance in the city’s past, present, and future was highlighted with an evening celebration at Lost in New Haven, an immersive cultural destination making its public debut.

“Lost in New Haven is proud to open our doors as part of the Connecticut Pizza Trail launch,” said Rob Greenberg, founder of Lost in New Haven. “Our mission has always been to tell New Haven’s story through the artifacts, art, and everyday treasures that shaped it. Pizza is a central part of that story — not just a food, but a tradition that connects generations and cultures. To us, this isn’t just an event; it’s the beginning of inviting the world to see New Haven’s history and culture the way we do.”

The growing New Haven pizza culture movement, complete with fine art, sculpture, on-stage performances, and documentaries, was documented on the trail tour with a stop at District New Haven, home of New Haven Pizza Club.

“For New Haven and Connecticut, pizza is so much more than just great food,” said New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker. “It’s a part of our heritage, culture and civic pride — and it’s a big economic driver for our city as well. New Haven has dozens of pizzerias, which employ hundreds of workers that serve thousands upon thousands of customers every year. Our pizzerias are both regular favorites for locals as well as national and international destinations for tourists, and we’re proud to be the Pizza Capital of the United States.”