Northville Now

On Detroit’s bustling east side, a culinary revolution was quietly taking shape in 1946. Gus Guerra, working at a small establishment called Buddy’s Rendezvous Pizzeria, created something that would forever change Michigan’s food landscape. Using borrowed automotive pans from local factories—a quintessentially Detroit touch—Guerra crafted a square pizza with a light, crispy crust unlike anything Americans had seen before. This innovation wasn’t just another pizza variant; it was the birth of what would become known as the best pizza in Michigan, characterized by its unique square shape and those coveted, caramelized cheesy corners that pizza enthusiasts now crave.

What started as a local eastside favorite at Six Mile and Conant street gradually gained momentum throughout the region. The thick, buttery crust with its distinctive crispness perfectly complemented the reverse-layering technique that set this style apart from traditional round pies. While many Detroit residents immediately recognized they were enjoying the best pizza in Michigan, few could have predicted how this regional specialty would eventually capture national attention. Buddy’s unassuming innovation transformed not just local tastes but would eventually influence pizza culture across America, proving that authentic culinary revolutions often begin with simple, practical solutions.

The secret to Detroit-style pizza’s enduring appeal lies in its meticulous preparation method. Buddy’s pioneered a double-proofed dough technique, allowing the dough to rise twice before being stretched into those signature automotive pans. This patient approach creates the perfect foundation for what many consider the best pizza in Michigan. The most revolutionary aspect, however, was the reverse layering system—placing toppings directly on the dough, followed by a generous layer of Wisconsin brick cheese spread edge to edge, ensuring those beloved crispy, caramelized corners. This approach defied pizza convention but created a distinct texture and flavor profile that became instantly recognizable.

Food critics and culinary publications have consistently celebrated Buddy’s innovation. Food & Wine Magazine declared Detroit’s pizza scene “one of the most exciting in the country,” while USA Today called Buddy’s offerings “pilgrimage-worthy pizza.” The Daily Meal ranked Buddy’s #6 among the 101 Best Pizzas in America, cementing its reputation beyond regional acclaim. These accolades aren’t just hanging on restaurant walls as decoration—they represent over seven decades of culinary consistency and excellence that transformed a local specialty into a nationally recognized style that continues to influence pizza makers across the country.

Buddy’s commitment extends far beyond perfecting their signature square pies. Throughout its 75+ year history, the restaurant has maintained strong ties to the Detroit community that first embraced its innovative approach. Working with the Capuchin Soup Kitchen to feed hungry residents, creating sustainable “Buddy’s Bones” for local pets, and championing numerous local causes, the pizzeria has established itself as a civic institution as much as a culinary one. This dedication to community service has earned Buddy’s the Michigan Restaurant Neighbor Award multiple times, demonstrating that their legacy encompasses more than just reinventing pizza.

Perhaps most remarkable is how Buddy’s regional creation has sparked national interest, with major pizza chains now offering their own interpretations of Detroit-style pizza across America. What began in a single location has inspired pizza entrepreneurs nationwide to adopt the square format, automotive-pan cooking technique, and reverse layering method. This spread of Detroit-style pizza represents more than just a trend—it’s validation of Buddy’s original vision and craftsmanship. Through changing times and shifting tastes, Buddy’s has maintained its standards while watching its innovation become an established pizza category that continues winning new fans across generations and geographic boundaries.