Where to Get an Awesome Pizza in NYC
New York City is to pizza as the best of all justifications. The tapestry of an assortment of pizzerias throughout the city, each with its unique flavor profile, offers something for almost every palate. From thin crusts to deep-dish to adventurous styles- New York City's pizza paradise has it all. This guide takes you around some of the city's best spots to grab an awesome pizza, thus making sure your next slice is nothing short of spectacular.
1. Juliana's Pizza
Brooklyn icon Juliana's Pizza is not to be missed and was actually founded by famous pizzaiolo Patsy Grimaldi. The restaurant offers coal-fired pizzas on the outside and chew on the inside. Topped with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella and basil, Classic Margherita is the top best-selling pizza at Juliana's Pizza. If you're feeling adventurous, the White Pie is great, with garlic and olive oil. They don't take reservations, but the lines move pretty fast.
2. Joe's Pizza
Joe's Pizza is the quintessential New York slice and has several locations around Manhattan. This cash-only joint cranks out burned-cheese slices and many topping options. Joe's is one of those very late-night places, so it's a staple that locals and tourists alike rely on after big events. The simplicity and consistency of Joe's pizza make it a favorite to many.
3. Prince Street Pizza
For an old-school pizza with a twist, try Prince Street Pizza in Nolita. Its famous slice in particular is known: the Spicy Spring, which involves an entire Sicilian-style pie topped with spicy pepperoni cups in what is quite the picturesque offering. Lines often stretch a block or more, but crispy pepperoni and savory sauce are classic flavors hard to resist. It can sometimes be hit-or-miss because of all the demand, but the catch when they are on a good day makes it worthwhile.
4. Di Fara Pizza
Di Fara Pizza in Midwood, Brooklyn, is a holy pilgrimage for any pizza aficionado. Founded in 1965, this legendary pizzeria was established by Dom DeMarco. The pies are crafted by hand with the finest ingredients. Fresh basil and imported olive oil crown each pie, lovingly prepared with great care. Plan to wait, but do so because the place is worth every minute of it.
5. Industrie Pizzeria
This Industrie Pizzeria in Williamsburg has been pulling in the crowds since opening in 2017. This place is perfect for great crust and creative topping combinations with both classic and innovative pies for your every taste. The relaxed vibe makes it wonderful for a hangout meal with buddies or the family. Their pepperoni slice is a huge hit, crispy on its edges and bursting to the brim with melted cheese.
6. Lucali
At Lucali in Carroll Gardens, pizza becomes an experience set amidst dimmed light with rustic decor. Simple menu: pizzas and calzones, all good quality ingredients and preparation. The wait often runs longer than expected since Lucali doesn't take reservations, but many think it is among the finest pizza spots in New York for its blistered crust and deep flavors.
7. Una Pizza Napoletana
True gem: Una Pizza Napoletana, just above 150th Street and Lenox. But plan ahead- it is only open three days a week and books up months in advance. Set yourself the challenge of the authentic Neapolitan experience, pretty hard to find elsewhere in NYC. High-quality ingredients from Italy make it a go, all cooked up in a wood-fired oven with well-charred crusts.
8. Paulie Gee's Slice Shop
This personal tradition continues in Greenpoint of updating the slices in new and bright: you get a whirl of innovative, first-burst toppings on your classic slices. There's hot honey poured all over pizzas and vegan options galore. Every crowd goes there without sacrificing one iota of taste or quality. The decor is old-school pizzeria with a modern twist for comfort food.
9. Bleecker Street Pizza
Since 2004, Bleecker Street Pizza has served classic New York-style slices in the West Village. Known for its hot and crispy slices, it embodies much of what people think of when they think of "the perfect pizza." Shorter wait times than some of the other super-touristy spots, it's a great choice for anyone looking for a tasty slice without waiting for an hour or so.
10. Patsy's Pizzeria
This is one of New York City's oldest coal oven pizzerias and a perennial institution since its founding in 1933. Thin crust, slightly sweet pizzas owe their flavor to their proprietary tomato sauce blend. Anyone wanting to go through Harlem and beyond should make sure to hit up Patsy's for pizza.
Conclusion
The neighborhoods of New York City vary almost as the multitude of pizzas-serve everything from classic slices from Patsy's to gourmet concoctions that play around the rules of cooking. From late-night slices at Joe's to patiently waiting your turn for a table at Lucali, every single pizza shop will offer you a try at experiencing one of life's simple pleasures: fantastic pizza. With this guide in hand, start your pizza adventure in NYC! Round up the gang or gather up the family and dive into the great flavors and unique styles that make New York pizza legendary. And if you find yourself in Queens, consider treating yourself with a cleaning service from Sparkly Maid NYC to wrap up your delicious day!