This week’s Neighborhood Eats celebrates a pizzeria that has captured the hearts of New Yorkers—and its founders are proving that pizza can be more than just a slice of tradition. Cuts & Slices, the viral pizzeria known for its innovative dishes, has expanded its roots from Brooklyn to a new Lower East Side location, just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Founded by husband-and-wife duo Randy and Ashlee McLaren, Cuts & Slices first gained attention in February 2018 when long lines formed around their small Bedford-Stuyvesant pizzeria. Fast forward to 2024, and the couple has grown their brand, with new locations in St. Albans, Queens, and now, a third on Houston Street in Manhattan.
Randy McLaren recalled the early days of the venture: “I came to Ashlee with the idea and asked, ‘Should we open a pizzeria?’ And she said, ‘What do we have to lose?’”
As they ventured into a city flooded with pizzerias, Ashlee insisted they needed a unique offering to stand out. “You usually see an Italian cooking pizza in New York City. I asked him, ‘What are you going to do differently?’”
The answer? A menu full of their personal favorites and unconventional pizza toppings, setting the stage for a standout dish: oxtail pizza. It became an instant sensation, with some customers waiting up to three hours to try it.
Ashlee shared her pride in their success: “It was great to feel that our food is serving a community, and that people are willing to wait for it. It didn’t stop.”
With just one oven capable of baking eight pies at a time, the McLarens experienced overwhelming demand, with Cuts & Slices even selling out regularly. “They didn’t know what we were doing in that kitchen, we were creating magic,” Ashlee said.
Over time, the pizzeria’s reputation grew beyond its signature oxtail pizza. Even vegan customers at their Brooklyn location found themselves trying it, much to Randy’s surprise.
Despite their rapid growth, the couple reassures potential patrons that waiting in line is no longer an issue at their new locations. At most, the wait is five minutes, and they encourage guests to stop by and explore their unique menu.
Among their most popular slices are the sweet chili chicken pizza, curry oxtail pizza, and shrimp and lobster alfredo pizzas. Randy’s personal favorites include the jerk chicken black truffle alfredo pizza and the fried salmon black truffle alfredo pizza, both topped with imported fresh truffle and parmesan for a decadent finish.
For those seeking something truly special, Cuts & Slices also offers a $20 slice, a treat for adventurous pizza lovers.
Randy encourages customers to think beyond the traditional pizza. “We’ve all been brainwashed to think that only cheese and sauce belong on pizza,” he said. “But if you step outside that box and try something new, I guarantee you won’t be disappointed.”
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