SYOSSET, NY — Tomato sauce, shredded mozzarella, and dough are the typical ingredients of a New York slice – but a newly-opened pizzeria is adding one more element to the mix: sourdough.

Americano Pizza, which opened in February in Syosset, is putting a twist on the classic New York-style slice by using sourdough in its pizza dough – a technique that has been gaining popularity for its flavor and digestibility.

Owner and Baldwin resident Vinny Corrao said sourdough is the shop’s specialty and a key part of what sets Americano apart.

“We are taking the traditional slice shop idea and just adding our cleaner twist to it,” Corrao said.

Sourdough has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, especially among bakers who value the natural fermentation process for its tangy flavor, lighter texture, and proposed gut benefits. Corrao said bringing that style to a neighborhood slice shop was a big part of his vision.

Since opening on Feb. 9, Corrao said customers have already traveled from across Long Island to try the pizza.

“We hope it brings a sense of joy and relief as we bring a similar product to some of the top shops in Manhattan,” he said.

One of its specailty pies. / Courtesy of Americano Pizza

Corrao, who has lived on Long Island his entire life, said he felt there was a gap in the local pizza scene, making it difficult in finding a top-notch slice shop near him.

“Long Island is saturated with bad pizza, and we are trying to change that,” he said. “If we didn’t do something different to stand out, we would be like the 10 other pizzerias in this town.”

The shop’s menu features traditional slices and specialty pizzas, including:

Bee Sting Slice – A traditional slice with ricotta, cup & crisp pepperoni, and hot honey.Fig & Pig Slice – Fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, fig jam, and extra virgin olive oil.Sweet Heat Slice – A traditional slice with crumbled sausage, hot cherry peppers, and hot honey. One of the pizza pies. / Courtesy of Americano Pizza

In addition to the storefront, Corrao also operates an Americano Pizza truck.