A Slice Of New York History At Louie & Ernie’s Pizza In The Bronx
Tucked into a quiet corner of the Bronx, Louie & Ernie’s Pizza has earned a reputation that stretches far beyond its neighborhood.
For decades, this no-frills spot has been serving up pies that locals swear by and visitors make special trips to try.
Crispy crust, perfectly balanced sauce, and generous toppings have made it a New York institution, the kind of place where every bite feels like tradition carried forward.
A Slice of Bronx History Since 1959
Brothers Louie and Ernie Ottuso founded their namesake pizzeria in Harlem before relocating to the cozy Crosby Avenue spot in the Bronx in 1959.
The modest brick building with its vintage signage hasn’t changed much over the decades – and that’s exactly how locals like it.
Neighborhood Atmosphere That Takes You Back in Time
Walking into Louie & Ernie’s feels like stepping into a time capsule of old New York.
The wood-paneled walls are decorated with vintage photos of the Bronx, while the red-checkered tablecloths add to the nostalgic vibe.
Local families gather around small tables, construction workers grab slices at the counter, and first-timers stand in awe watching the pizza-making process.
Unlike trendy pizza spots in Manhattan, there’s no pretension here – just quality food served in a space where the neighborhood has gathered for generations.
The Secret Behind Their Legendary Thin Crust
Crispy yet flexible enough to fold – the hallmark of authentic New York pizza perfection.
Louie & Ernie’s crust achieves this delicate balance through a dough recipe that’s remained unchanged for decades.
The magic happens in their old-school gas ovens that create that distinctive char on the bottom while keeping the inside tender.
Regular customers swear it’s the Bronx water that makes the difference, giving the dough its unique texture and flavor that can’t be replicated elsewhere.
What makes it special? The dough gets a slow fermentation process, developing complex flavors before being hand-stretched (never tossed!) by pizza makers who’ve perfected their craft over years.
White Pizza That Rivals Their Red Sauce Masterpieces
Fresh ricotta clouds melt into pools of mozzarella, creating a creamy canvas dotted with roasted garlic and herbs.
The white pizza at Louie & Ernie’s has converted even the most devoted red sauce enthusiasts.
A sprinkle of pecorino romano cheese adds the perfect salty bite, while a drizzle of olive oil before serving brings everything together.
The absence of sauce allows the quality of each ingredient to shine through, showcasing the pizzeria’s commitment to freshness.
