DUPONT PIZZA

In many ways, the work of a critic is easy. We risk very little, yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and their selves to our judgment. We thrive on negative criticism, which is fun to write and to read. But the bitter truth we critics must face, is that in the grand scheme of things, the average piece of junk is probably more meaningful than our criticism designating it so. But there are times when a critic truly risks something, and that is in the discovery and defense of the *new*. The world is often unkind to new talent, new creations. The new needs friends. Last night, I experienced something new: an extraordinary slice from a singularly unexpected source. To say that both the slice and its maker have challenged my preconceptions about fine pizza is a gross understatement. They have rocked me to my core.

In the past, I have made no secret of my disdain for Dupont Pizza's famous motto, "Anyone can cook." But I realize, only now do I truly understand what they meant. Not everyone can become a great artist; but a great artist *can* come from *anywhere*. It is difficult to imagine more humble origins than those of the genius now baking at Dupont pizza, who is, in this critic's opinion, nothing less than the finest pizza Baker in DC.

I will be returning to Dupont Pizza soon, hungry for more.

On quality, this place is in solid three star territory. A good crisp, flaky crust, mild cheese, plentiful toppings, totally bland sauce. All in all, it's a totally mediocre slice. However--a "slice" is equivalent in size to a quarter of an extra large pizza from most restaurants. And it's $5. So for $10, you get an enormous quantity of food, which even if only average, is an excellent deal.

Also, the "vermin" mentions about this place are BS and just a smear. Don't believe them for a second.

(updated: Standing in line and watching the counter attendant actively discriminate.) Never saw this behavior again. They have a sign posted at the front ALL are welcome. Best slice in DC for a couple reasons. $5 for basically two slices. But it's also thin crust, flavorful dough, good cheese. It doesn't need much else made this way. I'm glad they got their lives.

There pizza sizes offered here are huge for the price and are good.