From Brick Oven to Table: The Secret to Perfect Sicilian Pizza

In the world of pizza, there's something truly magical about the aroma that escapes a brick oven—crispy crust, bubbling cheese, and fresh toppings coming together in perfect harmony. At Russo’s New York Pizzeria, we believe great pizza starts with tradition, and there’s no tradition more satisfying than brick oven pizza. Especially when it’s done Sicilian-style.

Why the Brick Oven Method Matters

So what’s the big deal with a brick oven? It’s not just about looks—it’s about heat, texture, and flavor.

Brick ovens reach temperatures upwards of 700°F, much higher than your typical kitchen oven. This intense, even heat creates the iconic crust pizza lovers crave: crisp on the outside, soft and airy on the inside. The high temperature also locks in flavor quickly, resulting in perfectly caramelized cheese and toppings without drying them out.

“When you use a brick oven, every pizza becomes a showstopper,” says one of Russo’s head chefs. “It’s how you bring out the best in every ingredient, especially when you're working with a thick, Sicilian-style crust.”

What Makes Sicilian Pizza Special?

Sicilian pizza isn’t your average slice. Known for its thicker, square crust, it’s a hearty, satisfying take on pizza that originated from Palermo and was perfected in Italian-American kitchens across New York. Russo’s recipe features a light, pillowy dough that’s been slow-proofed for maximum flavor and texture, then baked to golden perfection in our signature brick oven.

Each tray is topped with:

• Generous layers of mozzarella

• A robust tomato sauce that’s made from scratch

• Premium toppings like hand-sliced pepperoni, sautéed veggies, and Italian sausage

The result? A pizza that’s bold, comforting, and unforgettable—especially when paired with that crackly brick oven bottom.

What Our Guests Are Saying

The love for our Sicilian pizza is real—and it’s growing.

“I’ve eaten a lot of pizza in New York and Houston, and Russo’s Sicilian is hands-down my favorite,” says local customer Andrea M. “It’s thick, cheesy, and the crust has that perfect crunch you can only get from a brick oven.”

Another regular shared:

“Every time I bring my family in, we order the Sicilian. The kids love the crust, and I love the leftovers the next day!”

At Russo’s, pizza isn’t just a meal—it’s an experience. From our handcrafted dough to the final bake in our brick oven, every detail is designed to deliver that perfect bite. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Sicilian pizza or ready to try it for the first time, we invite you to taste the tradition that’s been passed from oven to table for generations.

Order your Sicilian favorite today or stop in to see why Russo’s is the go-to for brick oven pizza.
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