New York City, a culinary capital renowned for its diverse food offerings, holds a special place for pizza lovers. From its classic, foldable slices to wood-fired Neapolitan pies and creative, modern variations, the city’s pizza scene is vast, filled with traditional pizzerias and innovative new spots. But which is the best pizza in NYC? With so many choices, selecting just one is almost impossible, but this article will explore some of the most iconic, top-rated, and fan-favorite pizzerias in the city, each offering a unique slice of New York’s rich pizza culture.
The New York Slice: A Cultural Staple
The “New York slice” is recognized worldwide. Traditionally, it is a large, thin-crust pizza, served by the slice and folded down the middle for convenient eating on the go. This style originated in Italian-American communities and quickly became synonymous with New York City itself. Many consider it the city’s signature food, competing with other iconic eats like bagels and hot dogs. Yet, despite being widely imitated, the real New York slice has a taste and texture that are hard to replicate outside the five boroughs.
Best Traditional Pizzerias in NYC
Some of the best pizza places in New York have a history that spans several decades, and their recipes remain largely unchanged. These are the pizzerias that serve classic New York slices and pies, focusing on traditional ingredients, coal or wood-fired ovens, and old-school charm.
1. Di Fara Pizza
Located in Midwood, Brooklyn, Di Fara Pizza is legendary for its perfectly balanced slices and its dedication to tradition. Founded in 1965 by Domenico DeMarco, who was born in Italy, Di Fara has a reputation for using high-quality ingredients, including imported Italian olive oil, basil, and cheese.
DeMarco himself would make each pizza by hand, adding a touch of olive oil and fresh basil to each pie just before serving. While Di Fara often has long lines and slightly higher prices, loyal patrons believe the experience and quality are worth it. The pizzeria’s classic round and square pies have made Di Fara a must-visit spot for anyone looking for authentic NYC pizza.
2. Joe’s Pizza
Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, Joe’s Pizza has been a staple in New York since 1975. Known for its simplicity and consistency, Joe’s serves up a classic New York slice with the perfect balance of sauce, cheese, and a thin, slightly crisp crust. With several locations now open across the city, Joe’s has expanded its reach while maintaining quality and staying true to its roots.
Joe’s is known for its no-frills approach, focusing solely on the pizza without any extra embellishments or trendy toppings. For many locals and tourists alike, Joe’s Pizza is the ultimate example of a traditional New York slice, making it one of the top choices for those who want a taste of the city’s classic pizza culture.
3. Patsy’s Pizzeria
Patsy’s Pizzeria in East Harlem is one of New York’s oldest pizzerias, established in 1933. Known for its coal-fired brick oven, Patsy’s creates a unique flavor that many believe defines New York pizza. The pizza has a thin, slightly charred crust with simple toppings and a savory tomato sauce that captures the essence of Italian-American pizza.
The original location in Harlem has a rich history, with stories that Frank Sinatra and other famous figures were regular customers. Patsy’s remains a nostalgic spot for traditionalists and pizza connoisseurs, offering a taste of old New York and an iconic coal-fired pie that’s difficult to find elsewhere.
Best Neapolitan-Style Pizza in NYC
In addition to the traditional New York slice, NYC has embraced the Neapolitan style, with its thin, soft crust and simple, fresh ingredients. While the New York slice is the city’s signature, many pizzerias are renowned for their authentic Italian flavors.
1. Roberta’s
Located in Bushwick, Brooklyn, Roberta’s is an artisanal pizzeria that’s gained a cult following for its wood-fired Neapolitan pies and its creative take on pizza. Roberta’s makes use of fresh, local ingredients, and the pizzas have a unique, charred crust that’s light, airy, and packed with flavor. One of the most popular pizzas at Roberta’s is the “Bee Sting,” which combines mozzarella, soppressata, and honey, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savory.
Beyond pizza, Roberta’s has expanded into a full restaurant with an extensive menu, but its pizza remains the star of the show. Roberta’s blend of traditional Neapolitan techniques with inventive toppings has set it apart as one of the best pizzerias in NYC for those looking to experience a modern twist on an Italian classic.
2. Kesté Pizza & Vino
Kesté Pizza & Vino in the West Village is dedicated to authentic Neapolitan pizza. With a dough that’s soft and chewy and ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, Kesté offers a true taste of Naples in the heart of NYC. The name “Kesté” means “this is it” in Neapolitan dialect, capturing the pizzeria’s commitment to the traditional pizza style of Naples.
Kesté’s menu includes classics like the Margherita as well as more adventurous options such as the “Montanara,” a fried pizza topped with smoked buffalo mozzarella. For pizza lovers who value authenticity, Kesté is often regarded as one of the top destinations for true Neapolitan pizza in New York City.
3. Motorino
Motorino, with locations in the East Village and Williamsburg, Brooklyn, is another top spot for Neapolitan pizza. Known for its soft and flavorful crust, Motorino’s pizzas use high-quality ingredients and stay close to Italian traditions. Popular choices include the Margherita, Brussels Sprout & Pancetta, and Soppressata Piccante.
The wood-fired pies at Motorino have a distinct char, which adds a smoky element to the taste. Motorino’s dedication to quality and authenticity has earned it a loyal following, with fans claiming it’s one of the best places for Neapolitan pizza in the city.
Modern and Unique Pizza Spots in NYC
New York City’s pizza scene isn’t limited to traditional styles. Some pizzerias offer unique and experimental flavors, combining influences from other cuisines and utilizing unexpected ingredients to create innovative pies that attract adventurous eaters.
1. Prince Street Pizza
Located in Nolita, Prince Street Pizza is famous for its square pepperoni slice, known as the “Spicy Spring.” This Sicilian-style pizza has a thick crust that’s crisp on the outside and soft on the inside. The standout feature of the Spicy Spring slice is the small, crispy pepperoni cups that form during baking, adding a burst of flavor and texture.
Prince Street Pizza’s unique approach to the Sicilian slice has made it one of the city’s most talked-about pizzerias, especially for those who appreciate a thick, hearty crust with bold toppings. The spicy, savory flavor of the pepperoni and cheese, combined with the satisfying crunch of the crust, has made the Spicy Spring a fan favorite and a must-try for visitors to NYC.
2. Emmy Squared
Emmy Squared in Brooklyn offers a Detroit-style pizza that’s thick, rectangular, and has a crispy, cheesy edge. Unlike New York’s typical thin crust, Emmy Squared’s Detroit-style pies have a light, fluffy interior with a caramelized cheese crust. The “Colony” is a standout pie, featuring pepperoni, pickled jalapeños, and honey for a sweet and spicy kick.
The Detroit-style pizza has gained popularity in NYC, with Emmy Squared leading the charge. Its unique square shape, thick crust, and creative toppings provide an exciting alternative to traditional New York slices, attracting pizza lovers looking for something different.
3. Paulie Gee’s
Paulie Gee’s in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, combines traditional techniques with modern creativity, offering wood-fired pizzas with inventive toppings. Paulie Gee’s menu features pizzas with ingredients like fennel sausage, hot honey, and vegan options, making it a hit with a diverse crowd.
One of the most popular options is the “Hellboy,” which includes fresh mozzarella, Italian tomatoes, soppressata, and a generous drizzle of Mike’s Hot Honey. Paulie Gee’s approach to pizza emphasizes bold flavors and unique combinations, making it a standout among NYC’s modern pizza spots.
Conclusion
The best pizza in NYC ultimately depends on individual preferences, as the city offers a vast selection of styles and flavors. From classic New York slices at Joe’s Pizza and the coal-fired tradition at Patsy’s, to Neapolitan pies at Roberta’s and unique, modern flavors at Prince Street Pizza, each pizzeria brings something special to the table. New York City’s pizza scene remains a symbol of the city’s culinary diversity and creativity, with options for everyone to enjoy. For those seeking the best pizza, the journey across NYC’s pizzerias is as satisfying as any single slice.
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