The start of a new year is not truly complete without a look back at the past. That said, we appreciated the hardcore foodies who surveyed the U.S. in order to create the following “best of” pizzerias lists of 2014:

• Thrillist: The Best Pizzeria in Every State of America
• Gayot: 2014 Top 10 Pizza Restaurants in the US
• MSN: 101 Best Pizzas in America 2014

We too have literally traveled around the U.S. (and globe for that matter), seeking out the best pies out there. So what really makes a pizza outstanding? What makes one pizzeria stand out from the rest?Through our travels, we have learned there are numerous factors that can affect the quality and ultimately, the taste of a pizza. What kind of flour is used? Is the pizza baked in a wood-fired, gas, coal, or electric oven? How long is the dough fermented? What kind of water is being used for the dough?The perfect pizza? Is it an art? Is it a science? Perhaps it’s a thoughtful synergy of both!Be sure to check out our past pizza blog articles on some of our favorite pizzerias.