20 Top Pizza Places In New York City You Can’t Miss
New York City, a haven for pizza lovers, offers a dizzying array of options ranging from coal-fired legends to trendy newcomers. Here are 20 must-visit pizzerias, each with its unique flair, to savor a slice of NYC’s pizza heritage.
1. Una Pizza Napoletana – Lower East Side
Obsessively crafted pies with a pillowy crust are the hallmark of Una Pizza Napoletana. Anthony Mangieri brings his passion for Neapolitan pizza to the Lower East Side.
With a minimalist menu, this spot feels more like a temple to dough than a casual slice joint. Each pie is a work of art, with just a few perfect toppings.
Regularly ranked among the top pizzerias globally, it’s a must-visit for any pizza aficionado. The experience is more about quality and tradition than quantity.
2. Lucali – Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn
In the heart of Carroll Gardens, Lucali stands as a beacon for pizza lovers. Known for its big, thin pies, this cash-only spot often has lines out the door.
The cozy, candlelit atmosphere complements the experience as you watch pies being crafted in front of you. It feels like a slice of Brooklyn’s soul.
Minimal toppings allow the quality of ingredients to shine. Lucali is not just pizza; it’s a cherished local ritual.
3. L’Industrie Pizzeria – Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Where New York slice meets Italian flair, L’Industrie is a slice shop that pushes boundaries. Often topped with unique ingredients like burrata and figs, the pies never feel gimmicky.
The thin, snappy slices pack a punch, balancing tradition with modern tastes. Locals and tourists alike flock to this Williamsburg hotspot.
The consistent accolades and long lines are a testament to its reputation. Keep an eye out for their soft-serve ice cream too!
4. Joe’s Pizza – Multiple Locations
Joe’s Pizza is the quintessential New York slice. Since the 1970s, it has been serving thin, foldable slices with just the right amount of cheese and sauce.
Whether in Greenwich Village or Times Square, the taste is consistent—a nostalgic slice of NYC. The experience is as much about the atmosphere as it is about the pizza.
Known for its classic charm, it’s a staple for both locals and tourists. Grab a slice and enjoy a piece of New York history.
5. Prince Street Pizza – Nolita
Prince Street Pizza is renowned for its iconic Spicy Spring slice. Thick, square Sicilian slices are topped with perfectly curled pepperoni cups.
The robust flavors and satisfying crunch make it a must-try. Social media fame has only added to its allure, drawing pizza lovers from far and wide.
Despite the lines, the quick service ensures you won’t wait long. It’s a feast for the eyes and the palate.
6. Di Fara Pizza – Midwood, Brooklyn
Di Fara Pizza is a Brooklyn legend, attracting pizza pilgrims to Midwood for decades. Renowned for its hand-made pizzas, the crust is both chewy and perfectly charred.
Topped with high-end ingredients and fresh basil, each pie is a masterpiece. The small, intimate setting only enhances the experience.
Though it’s not cheap, the quality and tradition justify every penny. It’s a slice of history and passion.
7. Rubirosa – Nolita
Rubirosa combines family warmth with exquisite pizza. Known for its ultra-thin “tie-dye” pizza, the mix of vodka, tomato, and pesto sauces is a crowd favorite.
Located in Nolita, it feels both welcoming and vibrant. The toppings are a perfect blend of comfort and creativity.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Rubirosa offers a slice of home in every bite. It’s a cherished experience in Manhattan’s pizza scene.
8. Roberta’s – Bushwick, Brooklyn
Roberta’s is where pizza meets creativity. The Bushwick staple offers a funky, laid-back vibe with its backyard tables and unique, wood-fired pies.
Expect innovative toppings like speck and honey on charred, leopard-spotted crusts. It’s a place where pizza becomes a fun culinary experiment.
Having grown from a local favorite to a global brand, Roberta’s retains its original charm. It’s a joyful exploration of flavor and community.
9. John’s of Bleecker Street – Greenwich Village
John’s of Bleecker Street is a piece of New York history. With its coal-oven pies, no slices policy, and cash-preferred service, it’s a nostalgic journey back in time.
The crisp, airy crust comes out blistered and perfect, ready to be shared in cozy booths. It’s more than just pizza; it’s a cultural experience.
Engraved with decades of memories, the atmosphere adds to the timeless appeal. A must-visit for those seeking authenticity.
10. Lombardi’s – Little Italy
Often credited as America’s first pizzeria, Lombardi’s offers a slice steeped in history. Located in Little Italy, it serves coal-fired pies in a space rich with old photos.
While its title as the “best” may be debated, its significance is undeniable. The smoky-crusted, charred-edge pie is a testament to pizza heritage.
Tourists and locals alike flock here for a taste of the past. It’s an essential stop on any pizza journey.
11. Mama’s Too – Upper West Side
Mama’s Too has revolutionized the Upper West Side pizza scene. Known for its thick, bubbly crusts, the slices are both inventive and respectful of pizza fundamentals.
The creamy vodka squares and upside-down Sicilian are standout choices. Despite its small size, it has a big impact on the local pizza landscape.
With a perfect balance of creativity and tradition, it’s a neighborhood gem. Expect a line, as word spread quickly about this spot.
12. Scarr’s Pizza – Lower East Side
Scarr’s Pizza is a love letter to classic slice culture. Milling its own flour, Scarr’s elevates the crust to new heights, offering flavor in every bite.
The retro wood-paneled vibe evokes nostalgia while the slice itself remains a taste of modern perfection. It’s more than a pizzeria; it’s a slice of LES life.
Cheese, pepperoni, or a special, each slice is an experience unto itself. A beloved spot for both locals and pizza enthusiasts.
13. Lucia Pizza of SoHo – SoHo
Lucia Pizza of SoHo is a hidden gem for pizza aficionados. Known for its perfect balance of crisp base, light sauce, and ideal cheese amount.
It’s become a favorite among those in the know, earning a spot alongside the city’s top-tier pizzerias. The vibe is lively, fitting for its SoHo location.
With each bite, you’re reminded of what makes New York pizza special. It’s a must-try for those in search of authentic flavor.
14. Ops – Bushwick, Brooklyn
Ops is a Bushwick haven for sourdough enthusiasts. This cozy spot, known for its airy, chewy crust, is a favorite among locals seeking something different.
With a focus on long-fermented dough and thoughtful, seasonal toppings, each pie is a culinary exploration. The natural wine offerings complement the food perfectly.
Ops feels like a neighborhood gathering spot, welcoming all who appreciate quality and creativity. It’s a delightful escape into flavor.
15. Juliana’s Pizza – DUMBO, Brooklyn
Juliana’s Pizza offers a classic coal-oven experience beneath the Brooklyn Bridge. Founded by the original Grimaldi, it’s often preferred by locals for its quality.
The thin crust with leopard spots and fresh toppings make every bite memorable. Sharing a white pie or margherita at a window table captures the essence of Brooklyn.
Despite its popularity, Juliana’s retains an authentic charm. It’s a definitive Brooklyn pizza moment.
16. Kesté Pizza e Vino – Manhattan
Kesté Pizza e Vino was pivotal in New York’s Neapolitan pizza revival. With soft, puffy cornicione and charred blisters, it offers a true Naples-style experience.
Toppings range from classic Margherita to elaborate combinations, ensuring something for every palate. The atmosphere is as inviting as the food.
Located in Manhattan, it’s a go-to for those craving authenticity. Each visit feels like a trip to Italy without leaving the city.
17. L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele – West Village
L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele brings a slice of Naples to the West Village. Known for soft, chewy Neapolitan pies, it focuses on dough and sauce.
The Margherita and Marinara are stars, staying true to the legendary Naples original. Eating here feels like a mini Italian vacation in the heart of NYC.
The minimalist approach allows the quality to shine. It’s a destination for those seeking purity in pizza.
18. Fini Pizza – Multiple Locations
Fini represents the new era of slice culture. With big walk-up windows and creative branding, it offers slices that are carefully crafted.
The thin, crisp base and thoughtfully balanced toppings make each bite a standout. It’s pizza engineered to perfection, drawing fans citywide.
The lively energy and innovative approach make it a favorite among new-school pizza lovers. It’s a place where tradition meets modern flair.
19. Paulie Gee’s & Paulie Gee’s Slice Shop – Greenpoint, Brooklyn
Paulie Gee’s offers a dual pizza experience in Greenpoint. The original spot serves wood-fired pies with inventive toppings, while the slice shop leans into retro vibes.
Both locations offer a unique take on pizza, showcasing a modern versus old-school approach. The cozy ambiance ties it all together.
Whether enjoying a creative pie or a classic slice, the flavor and community spirit is undeniable. It’s a full-circle pizza adventure.
20. Ceres – Little Italy, Manhattan
Ceres is a new sensation in Little Italy, run by former fine-dining chefs. Known for limited daily pies with long-fermented dough, each is a study in technique.
The balanced sauce and crust have earned it a quick rise to fame. Despite the lines, it’s worth the wait for what’s hot in NYC pizza.
The fine-dining approach adds sophistication to the humble pie. It’s a trendsetting spot for those chasing innovation.
