If you find yourself in New York City and the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pizza wafts through the air, you may wonder: what truly defines the quintessential New York-style pizza? With its thin, yet sturdy crust, an impeccable balance of sauce and cheese, and that irresistible ability to fold effortlessly, the challenge lies in locating the ten best establishments across various neighborhoods that serve this beloved delicacy. Let’s embark on a flavorful journey through NYC, exploring just a few of the many pizza places worth your time and appetite.
1. Di Fara Pizza
Address: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230
Contact: (718) 258-1367
Website: www.difarapizza.com
Located in Brooklyn, Di Fara is an institution of pizza lovers. The proprietor, Domenico DeMarco, has been hands-on for decades, meticulously crafting each pizza to perfection. The quality of ingredients shines through, with imported San Marzano tomatoes and creamy mozzarella from Poland, all for a sumptuous experience.
2. Joe’s Pizza
Address: 7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014
Contact: (212) 255-3940
Website: www.joespizza.com
A pilgrimage to Joe’s Pizza is a rite of passage for any New Yorker. This West Village staple has been doling out classic slices since 1975. The no-frills atmosphere allows for a laser focus on the deliciously gooey cheese and perfectly tangy tomato sauce, cementing its status in the pantheon of NYC’s best.
3. Lombardi’s Pizza
Address: 32 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 941-7994
Website: www.firstpizzanyc.com
Regarded as America’s first pizzeria, Lombardi’s has been serving its coal-oven pizza since 1905. The charred crust and unique flavor profile are attributed to the cooking method, which can be traced back to its Italian roots. This pizza place serves a rich tapestry of tradition and taste, making it imperative to visit.
4. Patsy’s Pizzeria
Address: 2287 1st Ave, New York, NY 10035
Contact: (212) 534-9783
Website: www.patsyspizzeria.com
Don’t let the establishment’s humble appearance deter you. Patsy’s has garnered acclaim for its exceptional thin-crust slices and artisanal approach. The sumptuous tomato sauce and generous helpings of cheese create a delightful marriage of flavors, drawing visitors to enjoy her culinary creation.
5. Prince Street Pizza
Address: 27 Prince St A, New York, NY 10012
Contact: (212) 228-2954
Website: www.princestreetpizza.com
A hidden gem in Nolita, Prince Street Pizza rekindles the love for spicy pepperoni on a crispy base. The “Soho” slice is a fan favorite, offering a perfect synergy of zesty sauce and perfectly melted cheese. The lunchtime rush here can be overwhelming—can you brave the queue for a slice?
6. Juliana’s Pizza
Address: 19 Old Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Contact: (718) 596-6700
Website: www.julianaspizza.com
Founded by legendary pizza maker Patsy Grimaldi, Juliana’s is a bastion of high-quality ingredients and authentic flavors. The atmosphere is serene, making it an ideal stop for families. Each slice showcases a fine balance of crispy crust and exquisite toppings, complemented by the panoramic view of the Manhattan skyline.
7. Scarr’s Pizza
Address: 22 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002
Contact: (212) 334-3050
Website: www.scarrspizza.com
Scarr’s embodies the spirit of NYC pizza with its vintage vibe and stellar offerings. The thin crust is the ideal canvas for creatively topped pies that hark back to the flavors of yesteryear. Each bite is a delicious exploration of pizza perfection, making you question whether you can stop at just one.
8. Motorino
Address: 349 E 12th St, New York, NY 10003
Contact: (212) 383-4252
Website: www.motorinopizza.com
Fusing Neapolitan styles with New York influences, Motorino has quickly carved out a niche among the pizza elite. The wood-fired crust is unmatched, with a delightful chewiness and delectable toppings that elevate traditional concepts. Don’t pass up the opportunity to sample the Brussels sprouts pie.
9. Best Pizza
Address: 33 Havemeyer St, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Contact: (718) 599-2210
Website: www.bestpizzapizza.com
As the name suggests, Best Pizza delivers on its promise. With a simple menu that focuses on quality ingredients, the restaurant makes each pizza with care. The appealing environment further enhances the experience, challenging you to spend more time immersed in pizza glory.
10. Roberta’s Pizza
Address: 261 Moore St, Brooklyn, NY 11206
Contact: (718) 418-7690
Website: www.robertaspizza.com
When you step into Roberta’s, you’re entering a culinary haven where organic ingredients and artisanal creativity collide. The Neapolitan pies, with their blistered crusts and inventive toppings, redefine your expectations. Can you resist the allure of their signature bee sting pizza?
Finding the best New York-style pizza is no small feat; each of these establishments presents not only memories but also flavors that captivate your taste buds. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, the true challenge is settling on just one slice in this glorious pizza paradise. Where will your pizza adventure begin?
