Introduction
When it comes to pizza, New York City is in a league of its own. The city's pizza culture is so iconic that it has been dubbed the Pizza Capital of the World. In this ultimate guide, we'll explore the top pizza places in NYC, from traditional picks to modern and non-traditional options. But first, let's delve into the historical background of pizza in NYC and the top factors we considered when choosing our picks.
Why NYC is the Pizza Capital of the World
New York City's obsession with pizza can be traced back to its early Italian immigrants, who brought with them their love for Neapolitan-style pies. Over time, pizza became a staple food in NYC and a symbol of its diverse culinary scene. Today, you can find hundreds of pizzerias across all five boroughs.
What to Expect from the Ultimate Guide
This guide aims to provide you with an insider's look at the best pizza spots in NYC. We've scoured through countless reviews and conducted our own taste tests to bring you a curated list of top picks that are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Historical Background of Pizza in NYC
Pizza made its way to America through Ellis Island in 1905 when Gennaro Lombardi opened his pizzeria on Spring Street in Manhattan. From there, it quickly spread throughout the city and became a beloved food staple among New Yorkers.
The Top Factors Considered in Choosing the Picks
We considered several factors when selecting our top picks for this guide, including quality of ingredients, authenticity of flavors, crust texture and thickness, overall taste and value for money. We also took into account each pizzeria's reputation among locals and visitors alike.
Stay tuned as we take you on a mouthwatering journey through some of the best pizza places in New York City!
Traditional Picks
When it comes to the top pizza places in NYC, you can't go wrong with the traditional picks. These pizzerias have been around for decades and have stood the test of time, earning their spot as some of the best pizza in New York.
Lombardi's
Lombardi's is often credited as being the first pizzeria in America, opening its doors in 1905. Located in Manhattan's Little Italy neighborhood, this iconic spot has been serving up coal-fired pies for over a century. The classic Margherita pizza is a must-try, with fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and basil on a thin crust.
Di Fara Pizza
If you're looking for an authentic slice of Brooklyn-style pizza, head to Di Fara Pizza in Midwood. This family-owned pizzeria has been around since 1965 and is known for its perfectly crispy crust and homemade sauce. The wait can be long but trust us, it's worth it.
Totonno's Pizzeria Napolitano
Another Brooklyn favorite is Totonno's Pizzeria Napolitano in Coney Island. This cash-only joint has been churning out Neapolitan-style pies since 1924 and hasn't changed much over the years - including their policy of no slices! Order a whole pie with toppings like pepperoni or anchovies.
Joe's Pizza
For a classic New York slice that won't break the bank, head to Joe's Pizza in Greenwich Village. This no-frills spot has been serving up thin-crust pies since 1975 and has become a staple for locals and tourists alike. Grab a slice (or two) to-go and enjoy it while walking through Washington Square Park.
These traditional picks are just the beginning - stay tuned for our recommendations on modern and non-traditional pizza places in NYC.
Modern Picks
When it comes to the best pizza in NYC, you can't forget about the modern picks. These places have taken traditional pizza and given it a unique twist that will leave your taste buds wanting more. Here are some of the top modern picks for pizza in NYC.
Paulie Gee's
Located in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Paulie Gee's is known for their wood-fired pizzas with creative toppings. Their menu features options like the Hellboy, which has fresh mozzarella, Italian tomatoes, Berkshire soppressata picante and Mike's Hot Honey. The atmosphere is cozy and intimate, making it perfect for a date night or dinner with friends.
Roberta's
Roberta's in Bushwick has become a staple in the NYC pizza scene since its opening in 2008. Their pizzas are made with fresh ingredients from their own garden and local farms. Try their famous Bee Sting pizza with tomato sauce, mozzarella, soppressata, chili flake and honey – you won't regret it! Roberta's also has a great outdoor space for dining during warmer months.
Rubirosa
Rubirosa has been serving up some of the best thin-crust pizza in Manhattan since 2010. Their classic margherita is a must-try but they also have unique options like vodka sauce and spicy honey pizza. The atmosphere is lively and fun – perfect for a night out with friends or family.
Emily
Emily started as a pop-up restaurant before opening its permanent location in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn in 2014. They're known for their Detroit-style pizzas that come with crispy edges and thick crusts that are light on the inside. Try their Emmy Burger Pizza which features caramelized onions, Grafton cheddar cheese, special sauce and pickles – it’s worth every calorie!
Overall, these modern picks offer a unique take on traditional pizza that is worth trying. Don't forget to pair your pizza with a local beer or wine for the ultimate NYC experience.
Non-Traditional Picks
If you're looking for something a little different from the traditional New York-style pizza, these non-traditional picks are sure to satisfy your taste buds.
Motorino
Motorino is a Neapolitan pizzeria that has made its mark in the city with its wood-fired pizzas. Their toppings are simple yet flavorful, and their crust is crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. The Brussels sprouts pizza is a must-try for vegetarians, while meat lovers will enjoy the soppressata piccante.
Speedy Romeo
Speedy Romeo has been serving up wood-fired pizzas since 2012 and has quickly become a favorite among Brooklynites. Their menu features unique toppings such as smoked brisket and clams, as well as classic options like margherita and pepperoni. Don't forget to try their delicious appetizers like the crispy artichokes or meatballs.
Emmy Squared
Emmy Squared is known for their Detroit-style pizza, which features a thick crust that's crispy on the bottom and chewy on top. Their Colony pie, topped with pepperoni, pickled jalapenos, honey, and ricotta cheese, is a fan favorite. They also offer delicious sandwiches like the chicken parm or burger.
Lucali
Lucali's thin-crust pizza has been praised by celebrities such as Beyonce and Jay-Z, but don't let that intimidate you from trying it out yourself! This cash-only spot in Brooklyn offers simple yet delicious pies with fresh ingredients like basil and homemade mozzarella cheese. Be prepared to wait in line for this popular spot though.
If you're looking to switch up your pizza game in NYC, these non-traditional picks are definitely worth checking out!
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Hidden Gems
If you're looking for something off the beaten path, these hidden gems are sure to satisfy your cravings for the best pizza in NYC.
Kesté Pizza & Vino
Located in Greenwich Village, Kesté Pizza & Vino offers a true taste of Naples with its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas. The menu features classic pies like Margherita and Marinara, as well as unique creations like the Pistacchio e Salsiccia, topped with pistachio pesto and spicy sausage. Pair your pizza with a glass of wine from their extensive list for the ultimate dining experience.
Patsy's Pizzeria
Established in 1933, Patsy's Pizzeria is a family-owned institution that has been serving up some of the best pizza in Harlem for decades. Their thin-crust pies are cooked to perfection in a coal-fired oven and come topped with fresh ingredients like homemade mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes. Don't miss out on their famous Patsy's Special pizza, loaded with pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, peppers, onions, and extra cheese.
Artichoke Basille's Pizza
Artichoke Basille's Pizza is known for its over-the-top slices that are piled high with toppings like artichokes, spinach, and cream sauce. Their signature slice is the Artichoke slice - a creamy concoction that combines artichoke hearts, spinach dip, cream sauce, mozzarella cheese and pecorino romano cheese on top of a crispy crust. With locations throughout Manhattan and Brooklyn, you won't have to travel far to try this unique take on pizza.
L&B Spumoni Gardens
Located in Brooklyn's Bensonhurst neighborhood since 1939, L&B Spumoni Gardens is famous for its Sicilian-style pies that are topped with a layer of mozzarella cheese followed by a layer of tomato sauce. The crust is crispy and airy, and the sauce has just the right amount of sweetness. Be sure to save room for their signature spumoni - a tri-colored Italian ice cream that is the perfect way to end your meal.
Whether you're a local or just visiting, these hidden gems are worth seeking out for some of the best pizza in NYC.
Tips for the Ultimate Pizza Experience
Pizza is not just a food in New York City; it is an experience. To make the most of your pizza adventure, here are some tips to keep in mind.
How to Order Pizza Like a New Yorker
New Yorkers take their pizza seriously, and you should too. To order like a pro, skip the fancy toppings and stick to the classics. When ordering a slice, don't ask for toppings on half or anything that might slow down the line. And always remember to say regular when ordering a plain slice with cheese.
The Art of Folding Pizza
Folding your pizza is an art form in NYC. The proper technique involves folding the slice in half lengthwise and then folding it again from crust to tip. This creates a sturdy base that allows you to eat on-the-go without making a mess.
Common Pizza Mistakes to Avoid
One of the biggest mistakes people make when eating pizza in NYC is using utensils. This is considered sacrilegious by locals who prefer to eat with their hands. Another mistake is overloading your slice with toppings, which can make it difficult to fold and eat properly.
How to Pair Pizza with Drinks
Pizza pairs well with beer, but there are other options too! A crisp white wine or fruity red can complement the acidity of tomato sauce while a hoppy IPA can cut through the richness of cheese and meat toppings.
Remember these tips as you embark on your quest for the best pizza in NYC!
Conclusion
Recap of Picks
In this ultimate guide to the best pizza in NYC, we've covered traditional picks like Lombardi's and Di Fara Pizza, modern picks like Paulie Gee's and Roberta's, non-traditional picks like Motorino and Emmy Squared, and hidden gems like Kesté Pizza & Vino and L&B Spumoni Gardens. Each of these top pizza places in NYC offers a unique experience that will satisfy any pizza lover's cravings.
Final Thoughts on NYC Pizza
It's no secret that NYC is the pizza capital of the world. With so many amazing options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go for the best pizza in New York. But one thing is for sure: you won't be disappointed no matter where you end up. From thin crust to deep dish, classic toppings to creative combinations, there's something for everyone in the city that never sleeps.
Recommendations for First-Timers
If you're a first-timer looking for the best pizza in Brooklyn or Manhattan, start with one of the traditional picks like Lombardi's or Totonno's Pizzeria Napolitano. These iconic spots have been serving up delicious pies for decades and are a must-try for any pizza enthusiast. For those looking for something more modern or non-traditional, check out Paulie Gee's or Motorino. And don't forget about the hidden gems like Kesté Pizza & Vino or Patsy's Pizzeria - they may not be as well-known as some of the other spots on this list, but they're definitely worth seeking out.
Future of Pizza in NYC.
The future of pizza in NYC is bright - there are always new pizzerias popping up around town and pushing the boundaries with innovative toppings and techniques. While classic spots like Lombardi's and Di Fara Pizza will always hold a special place in the hearts of New Yorkers, it's exciting to see what the next generation of pizza makers will bring to the table. One thing is for sure: the best pizza in New York will always be hotly debated, but no one can deny that NYC is home to some of the most delicious pies on the planet.
