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The Best Places to Eat Pizza in New York City: A Slice of Heaven
New York City’s Pizza Scene: A Brief Overview
New York City may be famous for its skyscrapers, Broadway shows, and yellow cabs, but it’s also known as the pizza capital of the United States. With over 1,000 pizzerias serving up millions of pies annually, it’s safe to say that the city takes its pizza seriously.
The pizza culture in NYC is deeply embedded in the city’s history and culture. From classic coal-fired pies to modern artisanal slices with unconventional toppings, there’s a pizza place for everyone.
Personal Experience with Pizza in NYC
As a lifelong resident of New York City, I’ve had my fair share of pizza slices throughout my life. I’ve been spoiled by the abundance of options and quality available throughout the city.
My earliest memories are of grabbing a greasy slice from my local pizzeria after school or sharing a pie with friends at a neighborhood spot on weekends. My love affair with pizza has only grown stronger over time as I’ve tried countless variations across all five boroughs.
Whether it’s thin-crust or deep-dish, spicy or cheesy, there’s just something about New York-style pizza that keeps me coming back for more. So join me as we take a deep dive into some of the best places to eat pizza in New York City – from classic joints that have been around for decades to newer spots that put their own spin on this delicious dish.
Classic Pizza Joints
Where History Meets Flavor
New York City has a rich history when it comes to pizza, and these classic joints are the perfect example of that. Lombardi’s is often credited as the first pizzeria in the United States, having opened in 1905. Located in Little Italy, Lombardi’s is known for its coal-fired brick ovens and thin-crust pies.
The simplicity of their Margherita pizza is what keeps locals and tourists coming back for more. Di Fara Pizza, in Midwood Brooklyn, is another classic spot with a storied history.
It was founded in 1965 by Domenico De Marco, who still makes every single pie himself today at the age of 83. The wait time here can be long but trust us – it’s worth it.
Each pizza is made to order with fresh mozzarella cheese and homemade sauce made from San Marzano tomatoes imported from Italy. This spot has been featured on countless “best of” lists and has become a pilgrimage site for foodies around the world.
If you’re looking for a family-owned establishment that serves up delicious thin-crust pies since 1933, head to Patsy’s Pizzeria located on First Avenue near East 118th Street in East Harlem. Opened by immigrant Pasquale “Patsy” Lancieri who brought his recipes over from Naples, this place is all about tradition and quality ingredients that keep customers coming back time after time.
Try their signature Coal Oven Margherita pizza or their spicy Fra Diavolo pie topped with shrimp and red pepper flakes. Overall, these classic pizza joints have stood the test of time because they continue to serve up delicious pies using simple yet high-quality ingredients that have been perfected over generations – making them an absolute must-visit for any serious pizza lover in New York City.
Modern Pizza Spots
If you’re looking for a more contemporary take on the classic NYC slice, then you’ll definitely want to check out these modern pizza spots. These establishments have managed to put their own unique spin on pizza, experimenting with different flavors and ingredients to create truly unforgettable pies.
Roberta’s: A Trendy Brooklyn Spot with Creative Toppings and a Hip Atmosphere
If you’re into the hipster scene in Brooklyn, then Roberta’s is definitely worth checking out. Not only is the atmosphere buzzing with cool vibes, but their pizzas are some of the most creative in town.
You can choose from toppings like housemade ricotta and honey or speck and egg, which really set Roberta’s apart from other pizzerias. But don’t be fooled by its trendy reputation – this place takes its craft seriously, using a wood-burning oven to cook their Neapolitan-style pies to perfection.
Paulie Gee’s: Unique Flavor Combinations on Wood-Fired Pies in Greenpoint
Paulie Gee’s has garnered quite a following over the years thanks to its commitment to using fresh, high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations. Their menu boasts everything from classics like margherita pizzas to more adventurous options like their “Hellboy” pie topped with spicy soppressata and honey. And if that wasn’t enough reason to visit, Paulie Gee’s also bakes all of their pizzas in a wood-fired oven for an authentic taste that can’t be beat.
Lucali’s: A Cozy Carroll Gardens Spot with a Cult Following and No Reservations Policy
You know a pizzeria must be good when they don’t even bother taking reservations – that’s what makes Lucali’s such a beloved institution in the Carroll Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn. With a warm and cozy atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy a slice with friends or family.
But be warned: there’s usually a wait, so come prepared with some conversation topics to pass the time. Once you finally get your hands on one of their pies though, you’ll understand why it’s worth it – simple yet classic toppings like fresh basil and homemade mozzarella make for an unforgettable slice.
Specialty Pizza Places
New York City’s pizza scene is more than just classic pizzerias and modern spots. Specialty pizza places have also been making waves in recent years with unique toppings and styles that go beyond the traditional New York slice. Here are three of the best specialty pizza places in the city:
Prince Street Pizza: Famous for their Spicy Pepperoni Square Slice
If you’re looking for a spicy kick in your pizza, look no further than Prince Street Pizza. Their pepperoni square slice is legendary, with a generous amount of sliced pepperoni on a thick, square-shaped slice covered in tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. The crust is crispy and chewy, providing the perfect base for the flavorful toppings.
In addition to their famous square slice, Prince Street Pizza also offers other delicious options like a Sicilian-style pie and a white pizza with ricotta cheese and garlic. With two locations in Manhattan, it’s easy to get your hands on one of their delicious pies.
Motorino: Neapolitan-Style Pies with Locations in Manhattan and Brooklyn
For those who prefer Neapolitan-style pizzas with fresh, high-quality ingredients, Motorino is the perfect spot. With locations in both Manhattan and Brooklyn, Motorino specializes in wood-fired pies that are cooked to perfection.
Their Margherita pizza is a standout dish – made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella cheese, basil leaves and olive oil – it’s a simple yet delicious combination of flavors that showcases the quality of their ingredients. In addition to their classics like Marinara or Quattro Formaggi pizzas they offer seasonal specials which feature unique ingredients like truffles or seasonal vegetables.
Artichoke Basille’s Pizza: Huge Slices with Unconventional Toppings like Artichokes and Crab
If you want a slice of pizza that’s bigger than your head, head to Artichoke Basille’s Pizza. Known for their massive slices, this pizzeria offers unconventional toppings like artichokes, crab, and even vodka sauce.
Their namesake pizza – the Artichoke pizza – is a creamy and rich combination of artichoke hearts, spinach dip and cheese on top of a thick crust. It’s definitely not your classic New York slice!
They also offer other unique creations like the crab pie made with fresh lump crabmeat, red sauce and mozzarella cheese. With multiple locations throughout the city, including one in Brooklyn and two in Manhattan, Artichoke Basille’s Pizza is worth a visit for those looking for something different from their typical slice of pizza.
Hidden Gems
Joe & Pat’s Pizzeria: Staten Island’s Best-Kept Secret
While the other pizza places I’ve mentioned are known by most New Yorkers and tourists alike, Joe & Pat’s Pizzeria is a hidden gem located on Staten Island. The pizzeria has been around since 1960 and serves up some of the crispiest thin-crust pizza you’ll ever have.
The secret to their delicious pies lies in their fresh mozzarella cheese made in-house daily. Joe & Pat’s menu is simple but effective, with classic toppings like pepperoni and sausage alongside more unique options like eggplant and ricotta.
They also have a fantastic clam pie that uses fresh clams from nearby Long Island. Aside from the food, the atmosphere at Joe & Pat’s is cozy and inviting, with friendly staff who treat you like family.
Emily: Upscale Pizza with Unique Toppings
If you’re looking for a more upscale pizza experience, Emily is the spot for you. With locations in Brooklyn and Manhattan, Emily offers creative toppings like truffle cheese and honey on their wood-fired pies. Unlike many other gourmet pizzerias, Emily doesn’t sacrifice flavor for presentation – every bite is bursting with flavor.
In addition to their fantastic pizzas, Emily also offers an impressive selection of craft beers and cocktails that pair perfectly with their pies. The restaurant itself has a sleek and modern design that adds to its overall upscale vibe while still feeling cozy enough for a casual night out.
Conclusion
New York City has no shortage of amazing pizza places to choose from, whether you’re looking for classic or modern styles or unique toppings. From Lombardi’s to Prince Street Pizza to Joe & Pat’s Pizzeria and Emily, each place offers its own distinct experience that both locals and visitors can enjoy. One of the things that makes pizza in New York City so special is the sense of community and tradition that surrounds it.
Many of these pizzerias have been around for decades and have become gathering spots for families, friends, and neighbors to come together over a shared love of pizza. So next time you’re in NYC, be sure to check out some of these amazing pizza places – you won’t be disappointed!
