The pizza scene in New York is famous, and there are solid reasons for that. If you’re visiting for the first time or have lived here for years, you have to try a slice here. I have spent years discovering the city’s pizzerias, from well-known places to hidden treasures, and I’m eager to share my favourites.
From the crispy, foldable classics to unique options like sesame-crusted crusts or clam-topped pies, there’s something for every craving. Solo travellers will enjoy the fast service counters, and food lovers can indulge in handmade wood-fired dishes. Are you ready to get started?
Main Points
- New York’s pizza culture combines traditional methods with new ideas.
- Famous places and trendy spots provide a variety of tastes.
- Solo-friendly counters make it easy to grab a slice.
- Special toppings such as sesame crusts are noticeable.
- Discovering neighbourhoods uncovers hidden treasures.
Reasons to Try NYC Pizza
The tale of NYC’s pizza culture starts with Italian immigrants who transformed their traditions. In 1905, Gennaro Lombardi made America’s first licensed pizzeria using leftover bread dough. His coal-fired deck ovens, heated to 550°F, define the classic New York slice.
From Shopping to Worldwide Recognition
What was Lombardi’s brilliance? Making something wonderful with easy ingredients. Low-moisture mozzarella melted nicely, and the uncooked tomato sauce maintained its bright flavours. Today’s pizzerias continue to follow these methods, but some also include modern twists.
The Structure of an Ideal Slice
A perfect New York slice can be folded easily. It has a crisp crust that is flexible enough to support the toppings without drooping. Fermentation is important; letting it rise for 48 hours creates rich flavours. Traditional places focus on the essentials, while modern ones try out sourdough or sesame-covered crusts.
Whether you want classic flavours or something new, NYC’s pizza scene has it all. Each bite shares a tale.
Top Pizza in NYC: Traditional vs. Modern
The pizza scene in NYC is a tasty mix of classic styles and new ideas. On one side, classic places with cosy wooden booths and a long history. On the other hand, brightly lit shops are experimenting with sourdough and sesame seeds.
Classic Places That Always Deliver
Traditional pizzerias focus on what they do best: coal-fired ovens, hand-tossed dough, and flavourful tomato sauce. These places have perfected the foldable crust—thin yet strong enough to support a lot of cheese.
At Frank Pinello’s slice shop, the ingredients are the main focus. He makes his pies with tomatoes from local farms and fresh mozzarella. Simplicity is a reminder that quality stands out.
Revival Joints Changing the Slice
New-wave places like Mama’s Too try out different dough hydration levels (70% for added chewiness) and serve square slices. Scarr’s is unique because it mills its own flour, which adds a rich, nutty flavour to the crust.
- Fermentation is important: Traditional places proof for hours, while modern ones take days to develop complex flavours.
- At Mama’s Too, the square slices have crispy edges and fluffy centres.
- Flour power: Scarr’s house-milled flour trend is changing the game.
Whether you want a taste of the past or something new, NYC’s pizza scene offers it all—one slice at a time.
Louie & Ernie’s Pizza in the Bronx
Located in the Bronx, Louie & Ernie’s has been a beloved spot for locals since 1964. This straightforward place focuses on the basics—picnic tables, checkered tablecloths, and the smell of crispy crust filling the air.
Why This 60-Year-Old Treasure Still Sparkles
Time has not taken away their magic. This slice is a perfect example of balance: tangy tomato sauce, just the right amount of gooey cheese, and a crust that is both crisp and easy to fold. What’s their secret? Dough that is hand-stretched and baked in a hot oven to keep the flavour inside.
Try their signature thin crust.
Enjoy this slice fresh—no need to reheat it. Combine it with a walk to the Bronx Zoo or a relaxing afternoon at the nearby parks. Louie & Ernie’s is more than just a meal; it’s a piece of Bronx history.
Hidden Treasure on the Upper West Side: Mama’s Too
Frank Tuttolomondo’s family heritage is evident at Mama’s Too. This place opened in 2017 and combines Neapolitan methods with the bold tastes of NYC. This honours his grandfather’s recipes, refreshed for today’s pizza fans.
Neapolitan and New York Style Come Together
The secret is simple. Dough with 70% hydration makes a light and airy texture that is both crispy and chewy. After baking, fresh basil is placed on top, honouring Roman traditions. Each bite combines tangy tomato sauce with creamy mozzarella.
Make Sure to Enjoy the Square Slices
You have to try their pepperoni square slice. Spicy ’nduja oil gathers in the corners, and the crust breaks apart just right. For a quicker experience, check out their West Village location where the lines are shorter.
- Family tradition: Recipes handed down from Frank’s grandfather.
- For a lighter texture, use a water-to-flour ratio of 70%.
- Basil is added after baking for a fresh Roman touch.
Flushing’s Hidden Pizza Place
Flushing has a simple pizza place that stands out in its strip-mall location. Located by the Whitestone Motorway, it’s a classic New York experience—simple yet memorable.
Unexpected Place, Incredible Taste
This place is a great stop on your way from JFK or LaGuardia. During lunchtime, construction workers gather around picnic tables, all for one reason: the pepperoni grandma slice.
- Try the square-cut grandma slice with crispy edges and spicy pepperoni curls. It’s a must-order!
- Only cash accepted: going to the ATM is part of the experience.
- Get a taro bubble tea next door—it’s a perfect mix of sweet and savoury.
This place shows that greatness doesn’t require fancy decorations. Only a crispy crust, a tangy sauce, and a devoted fan base. A tasty aspect of Flushing’s food culture.
Astoria’s Tribute: Andrew Bellucci’s Pizzeria
Astoria pays tribute to a pizza legend at Andrew Bellucci’s restaurant. This place opened before his passing in 2023, combining his lifelong work with the lively spirit of Queens. Every detail—from the blisters of the coal oven to the hand-torn basil—reflects his legacy.
The Legacy of a Pioneer Continues
Bellucci’s crust is truly exceptional. The Neapolitan-style crust cooks beautifully in 900°F coal ovens, creating a nice smoky flavour while remaining light and chewy. His sauce, made from San Marzano tomatoes, remains uncooked for a fresh, tangy flavour.
From Margherita to Pesto—All Amazing
Try something different with the pesto and potato slice. Creamy ricotta and crispy potatoes are placed on garlicky pesto—a surprising combination that is effective. Lunch specials are budget-friendly, featuring pies for less than $10 that highlight seasonal ingredients.
- The indoor mural of Bellucci is a hidden gem that reminds diners of his influence.
- Tip: Get there early for lunch—people in the area know this place is worth it.
NY Pizza Suprema: The Favourite Spot in Midtown
Located just steps from Penn Station, NY Pizza Suprema has been a beloved part of Midtown since 1964. The wood-panelled booths and checkered floors give the impression of entering classic New York. It’s a place where theatre lovers and commuters meet, all looking for that ideal slice.
Sicilian Sausage and the Craft of Crust
Their square Sicilian slice is famous. The crispy edges lead to a soft inside, covered with banger seasoned with fennel and melted cheese. The secret is simple. A crust that is baked twice, making it strong enough to support plenty of toppings without becoming soggy.
The pre-show rush can be hectic, but it’s definitely worth it. Regulars love to enjoy a slice with their homemade lemonade—it balances the richness just right. Open until 1 AM, it’s a lifesaver for those taking late-night trains.
- Classic recipes that have remained the same since the 1960s, with many fans to show for it.
- In the midst of the modern Penn District towers, this simple place maintains its traditional roots.
- Here’s a helpful tip: take some extra napkins—the sausage grease adds to the experience.
Paulie Gee’s: A Colourful Place in Greenpoint
Paulie Gee’s in Greenpoint transforms pizza into a vibrant, neon-lit experience. The colourful booths and bright signs are perfect for Instagram. But the true highlight? Their crust is made from dough that has been fermented for 72 hours, resulting in a perfectly blistered finish.
Every slice has a story to tell.
The Freddy Prince slice stands out the most. A crunchy sesame-seed crust surrounds gooey cheese and zesty sauce. It’s a crispy take on the classic. Enjoy it with a local beer—their late-night combos are famous.
Attention, Weekend Warriors
By Friday, lines stretch down the block. Get there early or pick up a slice on your way home. Tip: Visit on weekday afternoons for shorter waits and more time to enjoy Greenpoint’s unique shops.
- Making dough: 72 hours of fermentation creates rich flavour.
- Check the atmosphere: bright neon lights and classic booths come together.
- For a late-night treat, try pairing a sesame slice with an IPA. It’s a perfect combination.
Chrissy’s Pizza: No Slices, No Worries
Chrissy’s Pizza in Greenpoint doesn’t serve slices for a reason. This place specialises in whole pies, making sure each bite is fresh out of the oven. Their policy focuses on ensuring quality rather than restricting options.
Reasons to visit a place that serves only pies
The 18″ pepperoni pizza is a favourite among the group. With its crispy edges and gooey cheese, it’s perfect for sharing. On Thursday nights, there are specials like garlic knots or extra toppings.
It’s best to enjoy it in the parks close by.
Take your pie and go to McCarren or McGolrick Park. The quick walk adds to the fun. A helpful tip: bring your own drinks for a picnic in the shade of the trees.
- Pies are served hot, and there’s no need to reheat them or worry about soggy slices.
- Tip: Get there before 6 PM to avoid the dinner crowd.
- The advantages of the park: The shady benches at McGolrick are better than sitting indoors.
Scarr’s Pizzeria: The Legend of Orchard Street
Visit Scarr’s, where the 1970s atmosphere blends with expert dough-making. This slice shop in the Lower East Side feels like a time capsule, featuring vinyl booths, vintage posters, and a hint of flour in the air. Their 2023 expansion preserved the original charm, including the use of hand-milled grains.
Homemade Flour Makes a Difference
Scarr’s Mills organic heritage flour is made in-house, adding a unique nutty flavour to their crust. The ingredients stand out: San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil picked every day. Even the vegan cheese option, which is uncommon in traditional places, receives great praise.
Tip: Stay away from lines on Friday nights.
To avoid the 30-minute waits on Fridays, come by at lunchtime. You can also enjoy some vintage shopping nearby, as the thrift stores on Orchard Street are just a short walk away. Believe me, that sesame-crusted square is definitely worth the trip.
- Vintage appeal: Imagine chequerboard floors and the lively spirit of the disco era.
- Flour power: Freshly milled grains create a rich, toasty flavour.
- During weekday afternoons, there’s more room to enjoy.
The Best Pizza in Williamsburg
The pizza scene in Williamsburg combines a relaxed atmosphere with great taste. The stylish patios and craft beer make enjoying a simple slice a special experience. Whether you’re sitting in a beach chair or trying your hand at tossing dough, this neighbourhood has a lot to offer.
Beach chair and beer combinations
The patio at Best Pizza is a charming urban retreat. With exposed brick walls and metal stools, along with string lights, it creates a lovely setting for their white pie. Adding a squeeze of lemon enhances the creamy ricotta beautifully.
Local breweries are working together to create special IPAs, such as the “Friends Giving” batch that helps food banks. Enjoy a pint and relax—the crust here stays good even as the sun goes down.
The quieter area of East Williamsburg
If you like a quieter atmosphere, their East Williamsburg spot has picnic tables instead of crowds. Enjoy the same crispy squares without the wait. A helpful tip: go on weekends for pizza-making classes. You’ll walk away with dough-stained hands and new skills.
- The space is defined by industrial charm, featuring raw materials such as concrete and steel.
- Lemon adds a zesty touch to white pizza, balancing the rich cheeses perfectly.
- Local connections: Brewery partnerships transform pizza into community gatherings.
- There are two feelings: the main area is lively, while East Williamsburg has a hidden charm.
L’Industrie Pizzeria: Burrata Delight
Entering L’Industrie feels like finding a hidden gem. The smell of fresh bread blends with the rich scent of burrata, making you pause. Their Roman-style thin crust breaks just right, preparing you for what comes next.
At their West Village location, which opened in 2023, the atmosphere is both stylish and inviting. Exposed brick pairs with modern lighting, resulting in a space that feels both chic and comfortable. It’s a place where chefs greet regulars with a nod between serving slices.
Cold and Hot: The Burrata Delight
The highlight here is a slice with chilled burrata on a hot, crispy crust. The difference in temperature is amazing—cool, creamy cheese gently melts over tangy tomato sauce. Adding truffle honey gives a sweet and savoury touch that enhances each bite.
Lunch specials make it easy to treat yourself. Enjoy the $5 midday deal that includes a classic Margherita slice and a soda. It’s a great value for such quality.
Original and Expansion: Two Styles, One Goal
Their Williamsburg origins are evident, but the West Village location brings a touch of elegance. Both focus on quality—hand-stretched dough, fresh mozzarella, and seasonal toppings. The new spot simply enhances the experience.
Take a seat by the window for the best view of Greenwich Village. Enjoy your meal with an Aperol spritz while you watch the neighbourhood come to life.
- Combining a crispy crust with smooth burrata creates the perfect dish.
- Lunch tip: Take advantage of midday specials to save money while enjoying great quality.
- Two experiences: the raw charm of Original and the bright transformation of West Village.
- Truffle honey adds a delightful flavour that elevates savoury dishes to a whole new level.
- In the neighbourhood theatre, the window seats provide free entertainment.
Clam Pizza from F&F in Carroll Gardens
Nothing quite compares to the salty flavour of a delicious clam pie. At F&F, they have mastered this seaside favourite with a New York style. You can smell the garlic and fresh herbs before you even enter.
A Tribute to New Haven, With a Touch of NYC Style
This is not your usual Connecticut-style white clam pie. F&F includes mozzarella in their recipe, which gives a creamy balance to the salty chopped clams. Toasted breadcrumbs provide a nice crunch, and a lemon wedge on the side enhances the flavour of each bite.
Their sauce is light yet tasty—just right to let the seafood stand out. Enjoy it with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc from the nearby wine bar. The refreshing acidity balances the richness beautifully.
Weekend Warriors, Get Ready
Lines get long on Saturdays. Try to arrive before noon or after 2 PM to avoid the crowd. It’s worth it, though. Their new dining room makes enjoying a slice even more pleasant.
- East Coast fusion: Mozzarella combines with New Haven tradition.
- Sauvignon Blanc brings out the salty flavours beautifully.
- Visit during off-peak times for more space to enjoy your experience.
- Upgrade alert: The larger space brings comfort while keeping its charm.
Essential for Queens Beach Day: New Park Pizza
After a sunny day at Rockaway Beach, nothing satisfies like a hot slice from New Park Pizza. This Crossbay Blvd spot has been serving beachgoers since 1956 with its crispy, foldable pizzas. If you still have sand between your toes, that makes it even better.
Tables for picnics and gentle ocean winds
Take a seat at their old picnic tables—the ideal spot to enjoy a cheesy slice while you watch the sunset. The crust breaks perfectly, and the sauce has a nice tang that balances the salty air. A helpful tip: bring extra napkins. This is messy, but delicious eating.
- After a day at the beach, locals love to enjoy a pepperoni square following their surfing or swimming.
- Cash only: The trip to the ATM adds to the experience, and the crispy crust is definitely worth it.
- Boardwalk rival: This place offers a genuine experience without the tourist crowds and unnecessary extras.
New Park may not be luxurious, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s a must-visit in Queens—where sandy flip-flops and melted cheese come together perfectly.
Joe & Pat’s: Staten Island’s Thin-Crust Star
Staten Island has a special treat—Joe & Pat’s thin crust pizza that has been loved since 1960. Their slice is a perfect example of simplicity: hand-tossed dough, flavourful sauce, and just the right amount of cheese to highlight the texture.
Two Places, One Heritage
The original Staten Island location feels like a step back in time, with wood-panelled walls, checkered floors, and the sound of coal ovens. Their East Village branch maintains the same vibe but uses gas instead, resulting in a slightly chewier crust. Both places offer that classic thin base, although traditionalists prefer the smoky char of the original.
When Squid Takes Centre Stage
Yes, squid is a great topping for pizza here. Their seasonal seafood slice features a thin crust topped with tender calamari, garlic, and chilli flakes. It’s salty, spicy, and surprisingly good. Those who like to try new things should also taste the clam white pie—another favourite from Staten Island.
- Food mission on the ferry: Enjoy a slice while taking in the skyline views on the Staten Island Ferry.
- Oven comparison: Coal makes food crispier, while gas cooks faster. Both options are impressive.
- The borough has a warm, family-like atmosphere, while the East Village is lively and full of nightlife excitement.
- Great news: Staten Island has a lunch special—two slices and a soda for just $8.
Your New York City pizza journey begins now.
Are you ready to make this list an exciting adventure? It’s time to plan your route through New York’s famous places. Begin with a MetroCard and a budget—$20 can take you a long way here.
Comfortable shoes are important. You’ll be walking a lot between meals. In summer, enjoy pizza on rooftops; in winter, find warmth in cosy corner booths.
Don’t overlook the unexpected. Sesame crust or clam toppings could surprise you. The best way to discover? One slice at a time.
FAQ
What makes a great slice of New York pizza?
It’s all about finding the right balance—crispy yet foldable crust, tangy tomato sauce, and just the right amount of melted mozzarella. The dough should have a slight chew, and the flavours should stand out.
Where can I find classic, old-school places?
Visit spots like L&B Spumoni Gardens in Sheepshead Bay or Joe & Pat’s in Staten Island. These places have been known for their amazing slices for many years.
Are there any pizzerias in the revival style that I should definitely try?
Sure! You should try Mama’s Too on the Upper West Side or L’Industrie in Williamsburg. They mix traditional flavours with creative ideas.
What makes Louie & Ernie’s in the Bronx unique?
Their thin crust is famous—crispy, light, and covered with top-notch ingredients. It has been a local favourite for more than 60 years.
Are there any hidden treasures in Queens or Brooklyn?
Check out New Park Pizza close to Rockaway Beach and F&F Pizzeria in Carroll Gardens. Both offer amazing pizzas without any fuss.
Is Scarr’s on Orchard Street worth waiting for?
Absolutely. Their freshly milled flour creates a special texture for the crust. Arrive early to avoid the crowds.
What’s the situation with square slices?
Square slices, similar to those at Mama’s Too, feature a thicker, lighter crust with crispy edges. They are ideal for adding plenty of toppings.
Where can I find unique toppings to try?
Andrew Bellucci’s in Astoria serves pizzas topped with pesto and squid, while Paulie Gee’s in Greenpoint features a sesame seed crust that really stands out.
Do you have any advice for people visiting for the first time?
Begin with a classic cheese slice, then venture out. Always enjoy it fresh—never microwave a New York slice!
