Top 10 best pizza in NYC
1. New York-Style Pizza
Review:
The quintessential NYC slice, this pizza is a crowd-pleaser. Its thin, yet sturdy crust makes it perfect for folding and eating on the go. The balance of tomato sauce, gooey mozzarella, and crispy crust is unbeatable. A true classic that represents the city’s fast-paced and flavorful character.
2. Sicilian Pizza
Review:
Hearty and satisfying, Sicilian pizza is perfect for those who love a thicker, doughier crust. The rectangular shape and cheese-under-sauce approach ensure a well-structured bite every time. It’s filling and often feels more like a meal than a snack. A great choice for a cozy, carb-loaded indulgence.
3. Grandma Pizza
Review:
Grandma pizza is all about simplicity and flavor. The thin, crispy crust gives it a delightful crunch, and the light tomato sauce adds a homemade feel. Fresh basil and mozzarella elevate this style into a gourmet experience without being overly heavy. Perfect for those who want a rustic, nostalgic slice.
4. Neapolitan Pizza
Review:
Neapolitan pizza is the sophisticated cousin of the NYC slice. Its soft, chewy crust and minimalist toppings highlight the quality of ingredients. While it might not satisfy those seeking a heartier pizza, it’s a must-try for fans of authentic Italian cuisine. The charred, blistered crust adds a smoky depth of flavor.
5. Detroit-Style Pizza
Review:
A standout style in NYC’s pizza scene, Detroit-style pizza impresses with its thick, fluffy crust and crispy, caramelized cheese edges. The sauce-on-top approach locks in moisture, creating a perfectly balanced bite. Ideal for cheese lovers and fans of bold, hearty pizzas.
6. Chicago-Style Deep Dish Pizza
Review:
Though rare in NYC, Chicago-style deep dish offers a unique experience. Its buttery crust and deep layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce make it feel more like a casserole than a traditional pizza. A fun treat, but its heaviness might not appeal to all New Yorkers.
7. Artisanal Pizza
Review:
Artisanal pizzas are perfect for foodies looking for something creative and refined. The use of high-quality ingredients and inventive toppings like truffle oil or prosciutto makes these pizzas feel luxurious. While often pricier, the elevated flavors and unique combinations are worth the splurge.
8. Vegan and Gluten-Free Pizza
Review:
NYC’s vegan and gluten-free pizza options have come a long way. Plant-based cheeses and alternative crusts ensure dietary restrictions don’t mean sacrificing flavor. While the texture and taste might differ slightly from traditional pizzas, many options are delicious enough to satisfy all pizza lovers.
9. Fusion Pizza
Review:
Fusion pizzas are a testament to NYC’s multicultural food scene. The blending of flavors like Korean BBQ or tikka masala adds an exciting twist to the classic pizza. While not for purists, these innovative creations are fun and delicious experiments that highlight the city’s culinary diversity.
10. Dollar Slice Pizza
Review:
The ultimate budget-friendly option, dollar slices are a lifesaver for quick eats. While the quality can be hit or miss, they often deliver on the essentials: a hot, cheesy slice with a satisfyingly greasy crust. Perfect for late-night cravings or a quick snack during a busy day.
Top 10 best pizza places in nyc.
1. Lombardi’s Pizza
- Location: 32 Spring St, Manhattan
- Known For: America’s first pizzeria, offering coal-fired, thin-crust pizzas with a historic ambiance.
2. Di Fara Pizza
- Location: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn
- Known For: Legendary handcrafted pies made by Domenico DeMarco, with a cult following.
3. Joe’s Pizza
- Location: Multiple locations, including 7 Carmine St, Manhattan
- Known For: Classic New York-style slices perfect for tourists and locals alike.
4. Prince Street Pizza
- Location: 27 Prince St, Manhattan
- Known For: Iconic spicy pepperoni-topped square slices with crispy edges.
5. Lucali
- Location: 575 Henry St, Brooklyn
- Known For: Thin-crust pies served in a charming, BYOB setting; consistently ranked among NYC’s best.
6. Patsy’s Pizzeria
- Location: 2287 1st Ave, Manhattan
- Known For: Coal-fired pizzas with a light, charred crust; a Harlem institution since 1933.
7. John’s of Bleecker Street
- Location: 278 Bleecker St, Manhattan
- Known For: Brick-oven pies served in a casual, no-slice setting; a true NYC classic.
8. Roberta’s Pizza
- Location: 261 Moore St, Brooklyn
- Known For: Creative, wood-fired Neapolitan-style pies in a hip, Brooklyn atmosphere.
9. Artichoke Basille’s Pizza
- Location: Multiple locations, including 328 E 14th St, Manhattan
- Known For: Unique, indulgent slices like the creamy artichoke-spinach pie.
10. Emily
- Location: 919 Fulton St, Brooklyn
- Known For: Detroit-style pizzas and the cult-favorite “Emmy Burger.”
Each of these places offers a distinct experience and flavor, showcasing NYC’s diverse and vibrant pizza culture.
The Best Pizza Slice in NYC: A Slice Above the Rest
New York City is synonymous with pizza. From the thin, foldable crust to the perfect ratio of cheese and sauce, a NYC pizza slice is not just food—it’s a cultural icon. Walking through the city, you’ll find pizzerias on almost every corner, each claiming to have the “best slice.” But what really makes a pizza slice the best? Let’s dive in, explore some top contenders, discuss the art of making it at home, and ultimately find that perfect bite.
Types of NYC Pizza Slices
- Classic Cheese Slice
A thin crust with a slightly crispy bottom, a layer of rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s simple but perfect when done right. - Pepperoni Slice
The classic cheese slice topped with crispy, curled pepperoni that adds a savory, spicy kick. - Grandma Slice
A square slice with a thin, dense crust, topped with fresh mozzarella, crushed tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil. It’s a lighter, more rustic alternative. - Sicilian Slice
A thick, square slice with a pillowy crust. The sauce is often sweet, and the cheese is layered generously. - White Slice
No tomato sauce here—just ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese with garlic and herbs for flavor. - Specialty Slices
These vary widely but can include toppings like buffalo chicken, barbecue sauce, or even vegan cheese.
The Best Pizza Slice in NYC
After scouring the city and trying slices from legendary spots like Joe’s Pizza, Prince Street Pizza, and Di Fara Pizza, the winner in my book is the Pepperoni Slice from Prince Street Pizza.
Why? The slice strikes the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The spicy pepperoni is crispy and pools just enough oil to flavor the thin, airy crust. The sauce is tangy, with a touch of sweetness, while the cheese is rich and gooey. It’s indulgent, satisfying, and uniquely New York.
Taste Breakdown: What Makes It So Good?
- Crust: Slightly crispy outside but soft inside, with a subtle chew.
- Sauce: Balanced—neither overly sweet nor too acidic.
- Cheese: High-quality mozzarella that melts evenly and provides just the right saltiness.
- Toppings: Fresh, flavorful, and never overdone.
Recreating NYC Pizza at Home
If you’re craving that authentic NYC slice but can’t make the trip, you can recreate it at home with a little effort. Here’s how:
Ingredients (for 2 medium-sized pizzas):
- For the dough:
- 3 ¾ cups bread flour
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 ½ tsp salt
- 1 tsp instant yeast
- 1 ½ cups warm water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- For the sauce:
- 1 can (28 oz) San Marzano tomatoes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- For the toppings:
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- Optional: pepperoni, fresh basil, Parmesan cheese
Steps:
- Prepare the Dough
Mix flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a bowl. Gradually add warm water and olive oil, kneading until smooth. Cover and let rise for 2 hours or until doubled. - Make the Sauce
Blend the tomatoes until smooth. In a saucepan, heat olive oil and garlic. Add blended tomatoes, salt, sugar, and oregano. Simmer for 20 minutes. - Assemble the Pizza
Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone inside, if possible. Roll out the dough thinly, transfer to parchment paper, and spread the sauce evenly. Add mozzarella and your toppings. - Bake
Slide the pizza onto the stone and bake for 7-10 minutes or until the crust is golden and the cheese bubbles. - Slice and Serve
Let the pizza cool slightly, then cut into slices. Enjoy!
Tips for First-Time Pizza Makers
- Use bread flour for a chewier crust.
- Don’t overload with toppings—they can make the crust soggy.
- Invest in a pizza stone or steel for even cooking.
- Let your dough rise slowly in the fridge overnight for better flavor.
Final Thoughts
The beauty of NYC pizza lies in its diversity and simplicity. Whether you’re grabbing a $1 slice on the go or savoring a gourmet creation, there’s something magical about that first bite. If you can’t make it to NYC, making pizza at home is a fun and rewarding way to capture that magic.
So, next time you’re in New York—or in your own kitchen—grab a slice, take a bite, and enjoy a true taste of the city!
