​I have a deep-seated obsession with pizza. So, when my son-in-law Seth suggested we hit up a New York-style spot in Plymouth this past Saturday, I didn’t hesitate for a second: “Let’s go!”

​The place is called El Mar’s New York Pizza. Now, I’ve been to NYC a few times, but I honestly couldn’t tell you if I ever had an authentic slice there. I definitely remember trying Chicago-style “pie” in the Windy City, but it just wasn’t for me—too much dough, too much weight. I’m a thin-crust guy through and through.

​We were in the cities for a busy sports weekend—cheering on and broadcasting the LQPV boys’ volleyball matches and watching my granddaughter, Gretta, crush it with her Minnesota Fury AAU team. So, Saturday evening I had a craving for pizza that just wouldn’t quit. When Seth mentioned El Mar’s was rated the #1 pizza in Minnesota, my mouth started watering.

​The Experience

​Tucked into a cozy corner of a strip mall between a nail salon and a brewery, El Mar’s is a hidden gem. The moment you walk in, you’re greeted by the heavenly aroma of baking dough and bubbling mozzarella.

​The first thing you notice is the glass display case showcasing massive, golden-brown slices. These aren’t just snacks; one slice is a full meal! For about $8 a slice, you get a piece of art. I went for the “Garbage” pizza (their version of a loaded supreme), while Roxie kept it classic with pepperoni.

​When our order arrived, I actually gasped. The waitress set down what looked like a massive, whole pizza. I almost told her she had the wrong table, but then I realized: it was just our individual, oversized slices arranged together on one giant platter. It was a sight to behold!

​The Fold

​After the mandatory “pizza selfie,” we dove in. Some of the family had tropical chicken and pineapple, while others had slices loaded with pepperoni, onions, and mushrooms. Then, Seth taught me the “New York Secret.”

​Apparently, you don’t just eat New York pizza; you fold it like a sandwich. I did a quick Google search and found out El Mar’s actually uses a special water filtration system to mimic NYC water! That’s why the crust has that perfect, elusive balance: crispy on the bottom, yet soft and chewy enough to fold.

​The Verdict

​I folded my slice, took that first bite, and I was in love. The sauce was tangy, the cheese was perfectly melted, and that crust… wow. It was an absolute hit with me and the whole family.

​While El Mar’s easily fought its way into my Top 5 pizza joints of all time, I have to be honest: my heart still belongs to the Polish-German sauerkraut pizza at PK Egans. Nothing quite touches that! But if you’re looking for a world-class, foldable slice that feels like a trip to Manhattan, El Mar’s is a must-visit.