Pi-Squared Pizza
About us
Square-pan style pizza has an intriguing origin story that dates back to the post-World War II era when American soldiers returned from Europe craving the deep-dish pizza they had enjoyed abroad. This demand sparked a culinary innovation in Detroit, where a local pizzeria owner, drawing on Sicilian pizza-making techniques, saw an opportunity to create something unique. Utilizing square steel pans—originally designed for oil pans in the area’s thriving automobile-manufacturing industry—he crafted a distinctive pizza with a thick, airy crust and crispy, caramelized edges.
This innovative style of pizza quickly gained popularity, capturing the hearts of pizza lovers all across the US. Today, this rich tradition continues at Pi-Squared Pizza in Spartanburg, SC, where we proudly honor the legacy of square-pan pizza. Our pizzas feature the same substantial crust and flavorful toppings that made the style famous, bringing a taste of where it originated to the Carolinas. Whether you're a local or just passing through, our square-pan pizza offers a unique and satisfying dining experience that celebrates this beloved culinary innovation.
WHAT IS DETROIT-STYLE PIZZA?
Square or rectangular in shape.
The steel pan used provides superior heat conductivity and caramelization on the crust (the mark of the great Detroit-style pizza).
Thick crust – light and airy inside, crispy outside.
Cheese is spread to the edges of the pan.
After the cheese, any additional toppings can be placed on top.
Last is the sauce – placed on top and in rows. This is why it's earned the nicknames "red top pizza" and "upside down pizza." Placing the sauce on top allows for a fluffier crust.
As the pizza bakes the cheese slowly melts down the sides and forms a delicious, caramelized rim of crust.