This article was inspired by content originally published on Eater
Introduction
When New York City’s legendary Prince Street Pizza announced it was opening a new location in Charleston’s historic French Quarter, the buzz was instant and deserved. But this is more than a new pizza joint in a trendy Southern city; it’s a sign of how beloved pizza brands are traveling, evolving, and influencing how we all eat, make, and sell pizza.
So what can pizza enthusiasts, suppliers, and shop owners learn from Prince Street’s Southern leap? Turns out, plenty.
A Slice of New York, With a Southern Twist
Prince Street Pizza made its name with thick, airy Sicilian squares and pepperoni cups that practically broke the internet. For Charleston, they’re betting that the same crispy, charred crust and spicy toppings will win over a city already rich in culinary pride.
Pizza enthusiasts: if you’ve never tried to recreate a proper NYC Sicilian pie at home, let Prince Street inspire you to level up. A true Sicilian requires serious dough management which starts with the right flour and proofing tools. Consider investing in an authentic dough proofing box and some Caputo 00 flour to nail that airy, focaccia-like base.
Mastering the Pepperoni Cup
Prince Street’s signature slices are famous for those crispy pepperoni “cups.” That magic comes from thick-cut, high-quality pepperoni and an oven that runs hot and steady. Try a portable pizza oven that can hit 800°F your pepperoni will thank you. And for a finishing touch, stock your pantry with artisan cured meats that crisp up perfectly.
The Expansion Lesson
So why does a brand like Prince Street Pizza deeply rooted in NYC succeed in a city like Charleston? It’s not just the hype. It’s because they know how to adapt while staying true to their roots.
Takeaway #1: Protect your signature. Prince Street’s pepperoni squares are non-negotiable a reminder to every pizza operator that your “hero pie” should be untouchable.
Takeaway #2: Embrace local context. Word is that the Charleston location will feature new toppings with nods to Southern flavors. If you’re expanding or experimenting with new markets, balance your brand identity with flavors that resonate locally.
Takeaway #3: Invest in scalable equipment. A move like this requires reliable ovens, streamlined prep, and training that guarantees every slice is consistent. If you’re considering growth, now’s the time to look at commercial pizza ovens and restaurant POS systems that grow with you.
Trends to Watch
Prince Street’s expansion is also a reminder to suppliers that independent brands with cult followings are scaling and they need partners who can handle premium ingredients, small-batch meats, and logistics for multi-city operations.
If you’re a supplier, think about how you can support indie pizza shops with bulk deals on specialty toppings, or help them source regional ingredients that make them stand out in new markets. Offering a flexible wholesale program can make you indispensable.
Why It Matters: Pizza’s Next Chapter
The Charleston opening shows that pizza is still one of the most adaptable, beloved foods around and that hometown legends can grow without losing their soul. For the rest of us, it’s a delicious invitation to keep experimenting, keep innovating, and keep sharing what we love about a perfect slice.
So whether you’re a die-hard home pizza maker perfecting your pepperoni curl, a supplier helping brands cross state lines, or a shop owner eyeing your next big move, remember: pizza is personal but its reach is limitless.
Affiliate Disclosure: This article was inspired by content originally published on Eater. This article contains affiliate links, which means we may earn a commission if you purchase them.
