Jean Banchet finalists include new pizza category

Friction point: The pizza finalists serve such vastly different styles — from pan and Neapolitan to Detroit and NYC — that judging among them seems like an impossible feat.

• Finalists are Pistores, Milly's Pizza In The Pan, Spacca Napoli Pizzeria and Robert's Pizza and Dough Co.

Dig in: Other categories include chef of the year, restaurant of the year, best new restaurant, rising chef, pastry chef of the year, bar of the year, best heritage restaurant, sommelier of the year, best neighborhood restaurant, best design and best hospitality.

The intrigue: We love the focus on the city's more casual eateries, including those in the best counter service category, which this year features:

• Migos Fine Foods
• Ragadan
• Santa Masa Tamaleria
• J.P. Graziano Grocery

Find the whole list of finalists here.

What's next: The awards will be held Jan. 26 at Venue Six10. Tickets go on sale Nov. 19 on Tock.