Pizza is an iconic culinary staple deeply woven into the fabric of New York City. As distinct as the neighborhoods themselves, pizzerias offer unique twists that reflect local culture, tastes, and even history. Each establishment serves as a small universe, contributing to the overarching narrative of what makes New York’s pizza extraordinary. Below is a curated list of ten pizzerias across various neighborhoods, each exhibiting their own distinctive flair.
1. Roberta’s
Address: 261 Moore Street, Brooklyn, NY 11206
Contact: (718) 417-7631
Website: robertaspizza.com
Roberta’s, nestled in the heart of Bushwick, is synonymous with innovative pizza crafting. Renowned for its wood-fired pies, the menu is a kaleidoscope of flavors. The vibrant atmosphere complements its eclectic dishes, such as the Bee Sting, which tantalizes with its blend of spicy honey and fresh mozzarella. Unquestionably, Roberta’s appeals to a hipster clientele keen on artisanal food experiences.
2. Di Fara Pizza
Address: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230
Contact: (718) 258-1367
Website: difarapizza.com
A Brooklyn institution, Di Fara Pizza has garnered a legion of devoted fans since the 1960s. This family-operated pizzeria is famed for its hand-crafted pies, topped with ingredients procured fresh from local markets. Each slice is a labor of love, making the wait for a seat at Dom DeMarco’s pizza haven worth every minute. The unrivaled mozzarella and imported San Marzano tomatoes create a harmonious symphony of flavors.
3. Joe’s Pizza
Address: 7 Carmine Street, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 366-1182
Website: joespizza.com
Revered as the quintessential New York slice, Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village epitomizes the classic pizza experience. The no-frills environment allows diners to focus on what truly matters: the food. Offering a slice that is crispy yet chewy with a perfect balance of sauce and cheese, Joe’s is a nod to traditional pizza-making methods, maintaining an unwavering commitment to quality.
4. Lucali
Address: 575 Henry Street, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Contact: (718) 858-2020
Website: lucali.com
In the serene streets of Carroll Gardens resides Lucali, known for its charming ambiance and romantic candlelit setting. Owner Mark Iacono crafts pizzas that are lauded for their meticulous preparation. The margherita is particularly popular, celebrated for its delicate balance of flavors, and often accompanied by fresh basil and buffalo mozzarella, exuding Italian authenticity.
5. Paulie Gee’s
Address: 60 Greenpoint Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Contact: (347) 987-4242
Website: pauliegee.com
In Greenpoint, Paulie Gee’s distinguishes itself with imaginative toppings and a cozy atmosphere adorned with local art. This pizzeria embraces a range of culinary influences, offering unique options such as the Hellboy, which combines spicy soppressata and honey for an irresistible sweet-and-spicy contrast. The welcoming vibe encourages patrons to explore and experiment with their pizza choices.
6. L&B Spumoni Gardens
Address: 2725 86th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11223
Contact: (718) 372-8998
Website: spumonigardens.com
Famed for its Sicilian-style pizza, L&B Spumoni Gardens has become a beloved fixture in Bensonhurst. With a thick, pillowy crust topped with a generous layer of sauce, this rendition of pizza champions the essence of comfort food. The complimentary spumoni dessert served here perfectly complements the savory experience, encapsulating the joviality of family gatherings.
7. Motorino
Address: 349 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (646) 602-1300
Website: motorinopizza.com
Located in the East Village, Motorino specializes in Neapolitan-style pizza cooked in a wood-fired oven. Its famous Margherita pizza is a testament to simplicity at its finest, yet it is anything but plain. The crust’s charred exterior and chewy interior creates textural delight, paired with fresh basil and rich tomato sauce, embodying the spirit of authentic Italian cuisine.
8. Pizza Suprema
Address: 413 W 31st St, New York, NY 10001
Contact: (212) 594-2330
Website: pizzasuprema.com
Adjacent to Penn Station, Pizza Suprema has carved its niche for serving classic New York-style slices. The hustle and bustle of commuters only add to its charm. Known for its generous toppings and classic cheese pizza, it represents the quintessential grab-and-go option, embodying the fast-paced lifestyle of New Yorkers while maintaining exceptional quality.
9. Slice
Address: 12 W 72nd St, New York, NY 10023
Contact: (646) 681-7695
Website: slice.com
Slice appeals to a modern generation of pizza lovers, offering a selection of artisanal pies along with the convenience of online ordering. The Upper West Side’s bustling crowds flock to experience its creative toppings and sustainably sourced ingredients. Innovative flavor combinations invite culinary experimentation, making it a perfect choice for those seeking something outside the traditional.
10. Totonno’s
Address: 1524 Neptune Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11224
Contact: (718) 372-8600
Website: totonnospizza.com
Totonno’s has a storied history dating back to 1924, setting it apart as a historical gem in Coney Island. Its coal oven-baked pizzas possess a unique flavor profile that harkens back to the roots of pizza making. This traditional establishment is revered for adhering to authentic techniques, delivering flavors that tell the tale of a culinary evolution through the decades.
In conclusion, each of these pizzerias reflects the multifaceted nature of New York City’s pizza scene. The diversity in styles, flavor profiles, and preparation techniques showcases more than just a meal—it illustrates a piece of New York’s cultural landscape. Whether one prefers a classic slice or an avant-garde creation, the allure of pizza endures, making it a universal favorite.
