Upstate NY's best pizza: 5 things to know about Sovrana in Albany - NYup.com

ALBANY, NY -- Our quest for the best pizza in Upstate New York has led us to Albany, and to Sovrana Pizza.

This was the sixth and final stop in newyorkupstate.com's Best Upstate NY Pizza tour. Our team of judges have criss-crossed the state to try pizza from the six finalists chosen by our readers.

The judges will pick their choice for the top pizza. We've also invited readers to pick their favorite from among the finalists. We will announce both winners Wednesday, June 22.

In the meantime, here are 5 things you should know about Upstate Pizza Finalist No. 6:

1.

Sovrana or Sovrana's?

Like many places, the way it appears on the sign is not always how people say it. The sign says Sovrana, but everyone seems to call it Sovrana's. The word means "sovereign" in Italian.

2.

It's family.

It was founded in 1985 by Demetro and Lina Greco, and is now run by their daughter and son-in-law, Rose and John Virgiglio. Other family members, like the Virgiglio's son, Cristian, and niece, Alessandra Bazzoffi, also work there.

3.

It's small.

Sovrana is located on a street corner in downtown Albany, and has limited space. The Albany Times-Union once wrote, "It's a store, it's a bakery, it's a deli. Mostly, it's crowded, and worth the quick wait in line."

4.

Those daily specials.

Each day, Sovrana offers a special pizza topped with something you don't expect on a pizza. On our visit, it was a French Onion Pizza (think French Onion soup).

5.

For those with a sweet tooth.

Along with the pizzas, subs, calzones and other savory offerings, there are also baked goods. Try, really try, to save a little room for the chocolate eclairs.

- NYup.com (09/21/23)

NYup.com Link - https://www.newyorkupstate.com/food/2016/06/upstate_nys_best_pizzas_5_things_to_know_about_sovrana_in_albany.html