Descendant Detroit Style Pizza

Since opening in 2015, Descendant has been the undisputed pioneer of Detroit-style pizza in Toronto. Tucked away in Leslieville, this petite, art-filled spot is where you go when you want a serious, heavy-hitting pie. The magic lies in their meticulous process: a 48-hour cold-fermented dough pressed into traditional blue steel automotive pans, resulting in that signature airy, thick crust with caramelized, crispy cheese edges. The atmosphere is cozy and unpretentious, with a small dining room that feels like a hip, local art gallery. It is a place that takes its craft seriously, focusing entirely on delivering a consistent, high-quality product that has earned a fiercely loyal following in the East End.

For a first-timer, the 'No Name' is the quintessential order, featuring a perfect balance of Ezzo pepperoni, house-made fennel sausage, ricotta dollops, and a drizzle of hot honey. If you want something different, the Electric Avenue—topped with jerk chicken and curried lime aioli—is a local favourite. Pizzas come in small (8x10) or large (10x14) formats; a small is plenty for one person, while a large easily feeds two to three. Expect a wait for your pie, as they are baked to order, so plan accordingly. Prices are mid-range for the quality and portion size. While they do take reservations, the space is tiny, so booking ahead is smart if you want to dine in, though takeout is a very popular option for locals.