Luis Perez does things the hard way at Peels on Wheels, his farm-to-table takeout pizzeria in Rochester's Beechwood neighborhood. Now he's getting national attention for his efforts.
A new list published Aug. 21 by USA TODAY named Peels on Wheels one of the best places to go for a pizza in the country.
The Peels on Wheels Pizza Garage makes four styles of naturally leavened sourdough pizzas: Thin New York-style rounds and the thicker Detroit, Sicilian and Grandma rectangular styles. All have different dough recipes. It sources its meat proteins, vegetables and herbs from local sustainable farmers. It makes its own sauces, fresh mozzarella and stracciatella cheeses as well as bacon and some of its sausages.
farm-to-table pizzeria finds a new path
Pizzas range from the traditional pepperoni to its popular trio top, diagonally striped with vodka, pesto and marinara sauces. Seasonal specials change every few weeks. Its whole pies and slices are garnished to order to ensure freshness.
The restaurant is set up for takeout, but there's a long counter where customers will stand and enjoy a slice. On nice days, its front garage door is open and red woven lawn chairs are lined up, something that reminds owner Luis Perez of his childhood in New York City.
If you go
Peels on Wheels Pizza Garage is open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. It offers all four pizza styles every day it's open. In addition to selling whole pies, it offers about a dozen slices each day, in varied styles, with about half of the choices vegetarian.
It is at 1157 Culver Road. Parking is on the street. 585-355-411, peelsonwheelspizza.com
Check out the national list
The USA TODAY list features 27 spots including New York-style and Neapolitan. Detroit-style and Chicago-style (there's more than one kind of Chicago-style). Bar pies and brick-oven pies. Celebrity magnets and holes-in-the-wall.
Check out the full USA TODAY list of favorite pizza places around the country.
Tracy Schuhmacher has been food and drink reporter for the past 11 years. Email her at tracys@gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Rochester pizza place named one of the country's best by USA TODAY
