This Is The Best Pizza Chain In America

Earlier this year, we opened a poll asking you to vote for your favorite American pizza chains. More than 100 chains were considered, from the largest international behemoths to far smaller regional ones.

What exactly did our voters look for in determining their favorites? We asked them to vote only for chains that they've been to, of course, but also asked them to choose those they truly respect. They were told to take into account the freshness and deliciousness of the product as well as the service, convenience, menu diversity and overall experience. Some voted based on a loyalty to local chains, while others preferred the big guys.

Nearly 600 voters chimed in, and while the race was tight, one chain rose to the top of the heap: Bertucci's.
 

Every pizza made at Bertucci's, which got its start in Somerville, Massachusetts, in 1981, is cooked in a brick oven, one of which is on display at each of its 58 East Coast locations; the vast majority are in Massachusetts. 

You can craft your own pizza or try one of its unique topping combinations, like the Nolio, with caramelized onions, prosciutto, seasoned cream, mozzarella, and pecorino romano; and the Ultimate Bertucci, where each quarter has a different topping: sweet Italian sausage, meatballs, rosemary ham, and chicken. Calzones, Roman-style long pizzas, and a whole slew of starters, salads, and pastas are also available.

Despite the chain's great pizza and service, it has struggled financially and applied for bankruptcy protection earlier this year. The chain was recently acquired by the company that operates Planet Hollywood and Earl of Sandwich, and the restaurants continue to operate under existing management.

So congratulations, Bertucci's! If you want to check out the whole ranking of America's 35 top pizza chains, you can do so here.