When it comes to the New York City dining experience, few dishes evoke as much fervor and passion as pizza. With its tantalizing combination of crispy crust, zesty sauce, and an array of delectable toppings, pizza has evolved into a beloved comfort food—one that draws legions of devotees to riverside pizzerias across the city. Have you ever pondered what makes a pizza truly sublime? Could it be the perfect balance of flavors or perhaps the ambiance of the place serving it? To put your taste buds to the test, we invite you to explore ten exceptional riverside pizzerias located in New York neighborhoods. Each one boasts its distinct personality, making it a worthy contender for your pizza pilgrimage. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure!
1. Lombardi’s Pizza
Address: 32 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 941-7994
Website: lombardis.com
Nestled in the heart of Little Italy, Lombardi’s is hailed as America’s first pizzeria. With an old-world charm and history that resonates with every bite, their coal-oven baked pizza is a tantalizing culinary experience. Indulging in their Margherita is not merely eating; it’s a vivid stroll through time and culture.
2. Juliana’s Pizza
Address: 19 Old Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Contact: (718) 596-6700
Website: julianaspizza.com
Situated just steps away from the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, Juliana’s Pizza offers an inviting ambiance, complemented by stunning views of the skyline. Known for its incredibly light crust and vibrant toppings, the classic New York-style pizza here is a masterpiece that has locals and tourists alike licking their plates clean.
3. Roberta’s Pizza
Address: 261 Moore St, Brooklyn, NY 11206
Contact: (347) 704-5356
Website: robertaspizza.com
Emerging from the vibrant Bushwick neighborhood, Roberta’s is a brew of creativity and flavors. Renowned for its artisanal approach, the “Bee Sting” pizza—topped with spicy honey, mozzarella, and soppressata—is a must-try that exemplifies the culinary innovation brewing in Brooklyn.
4. Paulie Gee’s
Address: 60 Greenpoint Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Contact: (347) 987-3524
Website: pauliegee.com
If you fancy a pizzeria with a rustic yet cozy feel, Paulie Gee’s will enchant your senses. Known for its wood-fired pizzas featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, their creations are extensive. The “Hellboy”—a spicy pie adorned with pepperoni and hot honey—offers a perfect combination of sweetness and heat.
5. Patsy’s Pizzeria
Address: 2287 1st Ave, New York, NY 10035
Contact: (212) 427-9415
Website: patsyspizza.com
An institution in the city, Patsy’s Pizzeria serves classic Neapolitan-style pizza that harkens back to its 1930s origins. With a focus on high-quality ingredients and a time-honored baking process, each pizza is a testament to the art of traditional pizza-making that has endeared it to many.
6. Bleecker Street Pizza
Address: 69 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 460-4030
Website: bleeckerstreetpizza.com
Known as a stand-alone gem, Bleecker Street Pizza has captured the essence of New York dough artistry. The quintessential “Sicilian” style here is a love letter to the city—square, chewy, and full of flavor. Pair this with their creamy ricotta to create an unforgettable gastronomic experience.
7. Di Fara Pizza
Address: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230
Contact: (718) 258-1367
Website: difarapizza.com
A pilgrimage for pizza aficionados, Di Fara is a family-run establishment where the owner, Dom DeMarco, crafts each pizza by hand with exceptional dedication. Utilizing fresh ingredients, the tomato sauce glistens invitingly atop the crispy homemade crust—a testament to lifelong expertise in the art of pizza-making.
8. Joe’s Pizza
Address: 7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 255-3946
Website: joespizza.com
Synonymous with quintessential New York pizza, Joe’s Pizza offers delicious by-the-slice options that capture the essence of convenience without compromising quality. It’s the perfect stop for a late-night snack after a long evening exploring the lively West Village.
9. Prince Street Pizza
Address: 27 Prince St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (646) 496-4442
Website: princestreetpizza.com
A cult favorite, Prince Street Pizza is famous for its pepperoni slice—crispy-edged and decadently topped. The anticipation built by the queue is well worth it, and the flavorful explosion of spices will undoubtedly make it a highlight of your culinary journey.
10. Motorino
Address: 349 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 777-2644
Website: motorinopizza.com
Finally, Motorino can be likened to a symphony of flavors presented in a wood-fired masterpiece. Their artisanal pies, particularly the Margherita with fresh basil, demonstrate the delicate balance of simplicity and sophistication that defines great Italian pizza.
As our exploration of riverside pizzerias comes to a close, the challenge remains—can you choose just one to embark on this flavorful journey? Each pizzeria encapsulates unique traditions, history, and culinary artistry. The crux of the matter may not simply lie in the choice of toppings, crust thickness, or sauce, but rather in the experience you derive from each slice. So, gather your friends or family, create a delightful itinerary, and savor the diverse offerings representative of New York’s love affair with pizza in its vibrant riverside neighborhoods. Whether basking in the ambiance of a cozy eatery or relishing pizza by the slice on the go, the adventure is sure to be unforgettable.
