Provocative Billboards Claim Out-of-State Pizza as ‘Nation’s Best,’ Sparking Fury Among NYers

Connecticut is stirring up some friendly competition with New York City through a cheeky billboard campaign aimed at promoting its pizza as superior. The campaign, spearheaded by the Connecticut Office of State Marketing and Tourism, features provocative messages such as “Connecticut Pizza Wins. NYC Takes The L” and “The Nation’s Best Pizza. Not You, New York.” The billboards have appeared in key areas of Brooklyn and Manhattan, igniting discussions among locals about the quality of pizza in both states.

Anthony M. Anthony, chief marketing officer for Connecticut, emphasized that this initiative is meant to celebrate a lighthearted rivalry that unites people over shared culinary interests. The idea is to focus on Connecticut’s longstanding pizza culture, positioning it as a significant player in the national pizza conversation. The campaign’s goal is to shift perceptions and entice onlookers to consider Connecticut pizza as a worthy contender or even the champion of pizza in the United States.

However, many New Yorkers were quick to defend their beloved city’s pizza. Local opinions varied, with some adamantly declaring Staten Island or Arthur Avenue as the ultimate destinations for a quality slice. Joey Schirripa, a manager at John’s of Bleeker Street, shared that while coal-fired pizzas from both states are somewhat similar, he believes the emphasis on cheese in New York pizza gives it a unique edge over its Hartford counterpart. As New Yorkers stood firm in their allegiance to their local pizza, it became evident that the rivalry is indeed a source of pride for both parties.

The campaign also invites consumers to engage with Connecticut’s pizza narrative by visiting a dedicated website or calling a provided number to share their views. This call to action further emphasizes Connecticut’s intent to boldly declare itself as the holder of the pizza crown. Anthony underscored that the state’s pizza legacy doesn’t need validation; it merely needs exposure, claiming that Connecticut’s offerings are rich in flavor and diversity.

Despite the marketing drive, many New Yorkers expressed skepticism about traveling to Connecticut for pizza. Comments from locals highlighted a reluctance to venture two hours north, fearing the potential disappointment of a less-than-stellar slice. Young patrons working in New York pizza shops suggested that the trip might not be worth the risk, reiterating that New York’s pizza experience speaks volumes on its own.

Interestingly, opinions were mixed even amongst visitors and natives of Connecticut. A Connecticut resident passionately defended his home state’s pizza, while others exhibited indifference, equating pizza preferences with broader views on food quality. The billboard placements strategically target busy areas where millions commute daily, including high-traffic locations like Times Square and subway stations, ensuring that Connecticut’s playful pizza challenge stays at the forefront of local discourse.