Bianco — Review by Food Network
Los Angeles, United States — Italian - Pizza
Chris Bianco's Los Angeles pizzeria showcases extraordinary pizza-making mastery with perfectly executed dough, impeccable ingredient selection, and innovative daily hydration adjustments. The signature Bianco Verde pizza exemplifies his philosophy of artisanal craftsmanship, earning universal praise as some of the best pizza ever made. His wood-fired oven technique and attention to detail in every element make this a singular pizza experience.
What was great: Perfect dough with exceptional crust quality, masterful fermentation technique, carefully selected cheeses with distinct roles, signature Bianco Verde pizza, wood-fired oven char at 725 degrees, high-quality single varietal olive oil from Puglia
What could improve: Nothing mentioned
The Dishes
The star of the show is the Bianco Verde, Chris's signature pizza that represents the essence of his culinary philosophy. This artisanal pie features a perfectly crafted white and green composition, starting with his legendary dough base. The crust, described as having a crispy uncle crust quality rated 10 out of 10, showcases visible fermentation bubbles and air pockets created through meticulous technique. The cheese composition is strategically layered with Parmesan for saltiness, mozzarella for its stretchy pull, and ricotta for creaminess. Fresh arugula is added after baking, finishing with flake salt and single varietal extra virgin olive oil sourced from Puglia, Italy, where Chris's family originates.
The Experience
Watching Chris work is compared to witnessing Mozart compose a symphony or Einstein working his scientific genius. The wood-fired oven operates at approximately 725 degrees, creating the perfect char while the wood smoke imparts layers of personality into each pizza. Chris demonstrates a calm, serene presence while working, describing the oven as a peaceful sanctuary despite the world's chaos. The atmosphere reflects artisanal mastery, with every element methodically considered and executed.
Value and Pricing
While specific pricing is not mentioned in the transcript, the pizzas are presented as high-end artisanal creations requiring significant skill and premium ingredients, suggesting a higher price point appropriate for restaurant-quality gourmet pizza.
Notable Moments
This is hands-down best pizza I've ever had
I usually don't eat my crust, but I ate all my crust when I his pizza. So, that says something, right?
If you ask those other 19 who makes the best pizza and they all point to Chris
Chris explains his daily approach to dough: He changes the hydration ratio on a daily basis if needed, adapting to conditions and fermentation variables. His philosophy centers on making something better than what he inherited from his New York Italian-American roots.
The Verdict
Chris Bianco's Los Angeles location represents the pinnacle of American pizza-making artistry. This restaurant is essential for pizza enthusiasts and those seeking pizza perfection. The combination of masterful technique, premium ingredients, and genuine passion makes Bianco an unmissable destination. Best suited for discerning diners willing to invest in exceptional food experiences and those who appreciate the science and soul behind craft pizza making.