Are you planning a visit to the Big Apple and craving a slice of authentic New York-style pizza? Look no further! As a native New Yorker and self-proclaimed pizza aficionado, I am excited to share with you an insider’s guide to the best pizza in New York City. From classic thin-crust pies to innovative toppings and styles, I’ve scoured the city to bring you the ultimate pizza experience.
What makes New York-style pizza so special? Is it the crispy, thin crust? The tangy tomato sauce? The gooey, melted cheese? Perhaps it’s the decades-long tradition of pizza making in the city, or the intense competition among pizzerias to churn out the perfect slice. Whatever the secret may be, one thing is certain: you can’t truly experience New York City without trying its world-famous pizza. So buckle up and get ready for a delicious journey through the boroughs as we discover the best pizza spots in the city.
Slice of Heaven: The Best Pizza in New York City
There’s no denying that New York City is the pizza capital of the world. From classic Neapolitan pies to inventive toppings, there’s something for everyone when it comes to pizza in the Big Apple. So what makes New York pizza so special, you may wonder?
First and foremost, it’s all about the crust. The ideal New York slice should have a thin, crispy crust that has a bit of chew. This perfect balance is achieved through a process of kneading and proofing the dough, followed by baking it in a super hot oven. The result is a crust that’s sturdy enough to hold the toppings, but not so thick as to be overwhelming.
The sauce and cheese also play a key role in making New York’s pizza so delicious. The sauce should be tangy and flavorful, without being too sweet or overpowering. As for the cheese, mozzarella is the classic choice, but some pizzerias also use a blend of cheeses to give their pies even more depth of flavor.
History of Pizza in NYC: A Brief Overview
Pizza may be an Italian invention, but it was in New York City where it really took off in the United States. The first pizzeria in America is widely believed to be Lombardi’s, which opened in 1905 in Manhattan’s Little Italy neighborhood.
In the decades since then, pizza has become an integral part of New York’s culinary landscape, with countless pizzerias serving up slices to locals and tourists alike. While the classic cheese and pepperoni toppings remain popular, many pizzerias have also pushed the boundaries with creative toppings like truffle oil, bacon, and even brisket.
Today, some of the most famous pizzerias in the city include Di Fara, Patsy’s, and Grimaldi’s. Whether you’re a lifelong New Yorker or just visiting the city for the first time, trying the pizza is an absolute must.
Totally Sauced: The Best Pizza Sauce in NYC
If you’ve ever had a slice of pizza in New York City, you know the sauce can make or break the entire experience. But what exactly makes the sauce so delicious? It’s a combination of high-quality ingredients and the perfect techniques.
Tomatoes are the main ingredient for pizza sauce, but it’s not just any tomato that will do. San Marzano tomatoes from Italy are the preferred choice for the best pizza sauce in NYC. These tomatoes are grown in volcanic soil, giving them a naturally sweet and flavorful taste. They are also low in acidity, which makes them the perfect choice for pizza sauce.
The sauce is also made with only a few additional ingredients, such as garlic, olive oil, and basil. The garlic is typically sautéed in the olive oil before adding the tomatoes for a deeper flavor. And fresh basil is added at the end for a burst of herbaceous goodness. The sauce is then simmered for hours to allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich, delicious sauce.
The Perfect Cheese: Best Mozzarella in NYC
When it comes to pizza, the cheese is just as important as the sauce. The most common cheese used on pizza in NYC is mozzarella. But not all mozzarella is created equal.
The best mozzarella cheese for pizza is fresh mozzarella, which is made from whole milk and has a soft, creamy texture. This type of cheese is typically sold in round balls and can be found at specialty cheese shops or Italian markets throughout NYC.
Another type of mozzarella that is commonly used on pizza is low-moisture mozzarella. This cheese has a firmer texture and is easier to grate, making it a popular choice for pizzerias that want to save time. However, it doesn’t have the same creamy texture and flavor as fresh mozzarella.
For the ultimate pizza experience, try finding a pizzeria that makes their own mozzarella in-house. This is a sign of a truly authentic pizzeria and will elevate your pizza to the next level.
Top Toppings: Classic vs. Unique
When it comes to pizza toppings in NYC, there are classics that are a must-try, but there are also unique toppings that are worth a try. The classic pizza toppings that most New Yorkers can’t get enough of are pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and onions. If you’re looking for the perfect slice that embodies these classic toppings, then you have to go to Di Fara’s Pizza in Brooklyn. This pizzeria has been around since 1965 and is known for their classic New York-style pizza topped with fresh ingredients.
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something outside of the classic pizza toppings, then you have to try the mashed potato pizza at Artichoke Basille’s Pizza. This unique pizza has a creamy garlic sauce, sliced potatoes, and is finished off with fresh rosemary. It may sound a bit odd, but trust us, it’s a delicious combination.
Another unique pizza topping that many New Yorkers can’t get enough of is the clam pizza. This pizza is topped with fresh clams, garlic, and parsley, and it’s one of the most popular pies at Patsy’s Pizzeria. Patsy’s is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it’s been serving up delicious pies since 1933.
The Pizza Joint Scene: Best Places to Grab a Slice
Lombardi’s Pizza
Lombardi’s Pizza in Little Italy is one of the oldest pizzerias in NYC, and it’s a must-visit spot for pizza lovers. This pizzeria has been around since 1905 and is known for its thin-crust pizza that’s cooked in a coal-fired oven. The most popular pie is the margherita pizza, which features fresh mozzarella cheese, San Marzano tomatoes, and basil.
Joe’s Pizza
If you’re looking for a classic New York slice, then you have to go to Joe’s Pizza. This pizzeria has been around since 1975 and is known for its thin-crust pizza that’s cooked to perfection. The most popular pie at Joe’s is the plain slice, which is topped with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Lucali
Lucali in Brooklyn is another must-visit pizzeria in NYC. This casual spot is known for its delicious pies that are topped with fresh ingredients. The most popular pie at Lucali is the plain pie, which is topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil.
Whether you’re a fan of classic pizza toppings or unique combinations, there’s no shortage of incredible pizza joints in NYC that are worth checking out. From old-school pizzerias that have been around for decades to new spots that are pushing the boundaries of what pizza can be, there’s something for everyone in the Big Apple.
Hidden Gems: The Best Secret Pizza Places in NYC
While famous pizza places in New York City like Lombardi’s and Di Fara get a lot of hype, there are some hidden gems that only locals know about. These lesser-known pizza joints are just as good, if not better, than some of the more well-known pizzerias in the city. Here are a few secret places to try:
| Pizzeria | Location | What to Try |
|---|---|---|
| Joe’s Pizza | Greenwich Village | Classic New York-style slice |
| Lucali | Carroll Gardens | Thin-crust pizza with fresh toppings |
| Prince Street Pizza | Nolita | Sicilian-style pepperoni slice |
Joe’s Pizza has been serving pizza in the city since 1975 and their classic New York-style slice is a must-try. Lucali has a cult following and is known for their fresh ingredients and thin-crust pizza. Prince Street Pizza is a small shop in Nolita that serves up crispy, square-shaped slices with pepperoni cups that hold pools of grease.
The Pie’s The Limit: Pizza Restaurants with a View
Who says you can’t have great pizza and a view in New York City? There are several pizzerias in the city that offer breathtaking views while you enjoy your delicious pie. Here are a few pizza places with a view:
| Pizzeria | Location | View |
|---|---|---|
| Juliana’s Pizza | DUMBO | Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline |
| Barboncino | Crown Heights | Back garden patio |
| Motorino | Williamsburg | East River and Manhattan skyline |
Juliana’s Pizza in DUMBO is located just under the Brooklyn Bridge and offers stunning views of the bridge and Manhattan skyline. Barboncino has a back garden patio where you can enjoy your pizza and a cocktail. Motorino in Williamsburg overlooks the East River and the Manhattan skyline.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic New York-style slice or want to enjoy pizza with a view, New York City has something for everyone. Don’t be afraid to venture off the beaten path and try some of the city’s hidden gems. You might just discover your new favorite pizza place.
Behind The Scenes: Pizza Making Classes in NYC
If you’re a true pizza lover, why not take your passion to the next level by learning how to make your own pizza? Luckily, New York City is home to some excellent pizza making classes where you can learn from the experts.
Pizza School NYC
Pizza School NYC offers hands-on classes where you can learn to make your own pizza from scratch. Their classes cover everything from dough-making to sauce preparation, and of course, pizza toppings. Classes are taught by professional pizza makers, so you know you’re getting top-notch instruction. And the best part? You get to eat your freshly baked pizza at the end of the class.
Kesté Pizza & Vino
Another great option for pizza-making classes is Kesté Pizza & Vino. Their classes are led by the restaurant’s head pizza chef, Roberto Caporuscio, who has been named the best pizza maker in New York City by the New York Times. In these classes, you’ll learn all about the Neapolitan pizza-making process and get hands-on experience making your own pizza, from start to finish.
Get Your Slice On-The-Go: The Best Pizza Places for Fast Bites
When you’re in New York City, you don’t always have time to sit down for a full pizza meal. Luckily, there are plenty of pizza places that offer delicious slices on-the-go.
Joe’s Pizza
Joe’s Pizza has been a Greenwich Village institution since 1975, serving up delicious, classic New York-style pizza by the slice and the pie. Their slices are large and thin, with just the right amount of sauce and cheese. Plus, they’re quick to serve, so you can get in and out in no time.
Artichoke Basille’s Pizza
Artichoke Basille’s Pizza is known for their unique and delicious pizza flavors, like their famous artichoke pizza. They have multiple locations in New York City, making it easy to grab a slice on-the-go. Their slices are thick and hearty, so one slice is usually enough to satisfy your hunger.
Whether you’re looking to learn how to make your own pizza or just want a quick slice to-go, New York City has plenty of options to satisfy your pizza cravings.
Pizza and Beyond: Best Italian Restaurants in NYC
While pizza certainly reigns supreme in the culinary world of New York City, there are a plethora of Italian restaurants that offer so much more. For a taste of Italy beyond the classic slice, check out these top Italian restaurants:
| Name | Neighborhood | Specialty Dish |
|---|---|---|
| Carbone | Greenwich Village | Spicy Rigatoni Vodka |
| Don Angie | West Village | Lasagna for Two |
| Del Posto | Chelsea | Five-Course Pasta Tasting Menu |
| Marea | Midtown West | Octopus and Bone Marrow Fusilli |
| Ultima | East Village | Cacio e Pepe Pizza |
From traditional dishes like spaghetti carbonara to inventive creations like cacio e pepe pizza, these Italian restaurants will transport your taste buds straight to Italy.
Crust Us, We Know Pizza: NYC Pizza Experts
For the ultimate pizza experience in New York City, it’s important to seek advice from the experts. Here are a few pizza gurus who know everything there is to know about the city’s best pies:
Scott Wiener, Scott’s Pizza Tours
As the founder of Scott’s Pizza Tours, Scott Wiener is a true pizza expert. He’s been featured on numerous media outlets, including Food Network, Travel Channel, and The New York Times. Scott’s tours take you on a journey through the history of pizza in New York City, as well as providing you with the inside scoop on the city’s best slices.
Adam Kuban, Slice Pizza Blog
As the creator of Slice Pizza Blog, Adam Kuban has been covering the New York pizza scene since 2003. His blog provides in-depth reviews of pizzerias throughout the city, as well as conversations with some of the industry’s most influential figures. If you’re looking for insider information on the city’s best pizza, look no further than Slice Pizza Blog.
With advice from these pizza experts, you’re sure to find the perfect slice of pizza in New York City.
The Best Pizza in NYC – Your Ultimate Guide
Congratulations! You’ve now explored the most iconic, delicious, and memorable pizza joints in New York City. From traditional and classic pies to modern and experimental twists, you’ve tasted it all. You’ve learned about the history behind each shop, the ingredients they use, the cooking techniques they employ, and the vibe they evoke.
So, the next time you crave a slice of authentic pizza, you know where to go – it all depends on your mood, preferences, and location. Keep this guide handy, share it with your friends and family, and savor every bite of the perfect pizza in the Big Apple!
