Where to Find the Best Pizza in New York City: A Guide to the Top Pizzerias
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New York City is known for many things, but perhaps the most famous is its pizza. The city is home to a dizzying array of pizzerias, ranging from old-school joints that have been around for decades to trendy new spots that put a modern twist on the classic slice. With so many options to choose from, it can be tough to know where to start.
Fortunately, there are a few places that stand out as the best of the best. For a classic New York slice, head to Di Fara in Brooklyn. This legendary pizzeria has been around since 1965 and is still run by its founder, Domenico DeMarco. The pizza is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven.
If you're looking for something a bit more modern, try Lucali in Carroll Gardens. This cozy spot has a minimalist decor and a menu that focuses on just a few types of pizza, but everything they make is absolutely delicious. The crust is thin and crispy, the sauce is tangy and flavorful, and the toppings are always fresh and tasty. Be prepared to wait in line, though - Lucali is popular for a reason.
Historical Overview of NYC Pizza
New York City is known as the home of some of the best pizza in the world. The city's pizza culture has its roots in the early 1900s when Italian immigrants arrived in the city and brought with them their traditional pizza-making techniques. Over the years, the city's pizza scene has evolved, and today there are many different styles of pizza available in New York City.
One of the most popular styles of pizza in New York City is the Neapolitan pizza. This type of pizza originated in Naples, Italy, and is characterized by its thin, crispy crust and simple toppings. Neapolitan pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven, which gives it a distinct smoky flavor.
Another popular style of pizza in New York City is the Sicilian pizza. This type of pizza is characterized by its thick, doughy crust and generous toppings. Sicilian pizza is typically rectangular in shape and is often cut into squares.
Of course, no discussion of New York City pizza would be complete without mentioning the iconic New York slice. This style of pizza is characterized by its large, foldable slices and crispy crust. The toppings on a New York slice are usually simple, with just tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese.
Over the years, many pizzerias in New York City have become famous for their pizza. Lombardi's, which opened in 1905, is often credited as being the first pizzeria in the United States. Other famous pizzerias in New York City include Di Fara Pizza, Patsy's Pizzeria, and Grimaldi's Pizzeria.
Today, New York City's pizza scene continues to thrive, with new pizzerias opening all the time. Whether you prefer Neapolitan, Sicilian, or a classic New York slice, you're sure to find a delicious pizza in New York City.
Understanding Pizza Styles
New York City is famous for its pizza, and there are many different styles of pizza to choose from. Each style has its unique characteristics and flavor, making it essential to understand the differences between them before deciding which one to try.
Neapolitan Pizza
Neapolitan pizza is a traditional pizza style that originated in Naples, Italy. It is known for its soft, chewy crust and minimal toppings. The crust is made from high-quality flour, yeast, water, and salt, and cooked in a wood-fired oven at a high temperature. The toppings are typically limited to fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh basil.
Sicilian Pizza
Sicilian pizza is a thick, rectangular pizza that originated in Sicily, Italy. It has a spongy, focaccia-like crust and is typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various meats and vegetables. The cheese is usually placed on top of the toppings, creating a crispy, cheesy crust.
Thin-Crust Pizza
Thin-crust pizza is a popular style of pizza in New York City. It has a crispy, thin crust and is typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various meats and vegetables. The crust is made from a mixture of flour, yeast, water, and salt and is cooked in a high-temperature oven for a short period.
Roman Pizza
Roman pizza is a thin, crispy pizza that originated in Rome, Italy. It is typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various meats and vegetables. The crust is made from a mixture of flour, yeast, water, and salt and is cooked in a rectangular-shaped oven. The pizza is cut into squares and served as a snack or appetizer.
Detroit-Style Pizza
Detroit-style pizza is a square-shaped pizza that originated in Detroit, Michigan. It has a thick, chewy crust and is typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various meats and vegetables. The cheese is usually placed on top of the toppings, creating a crispy, cheesy crust.
Gluten-Free Pizza
Gluten-free pizza is a pizza that is made without gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye. It is typically made with a mixture of gluten-free flours, such as rice flour and almond flour, and is topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various meats and vegetables.
Understanding the different styles of pizza can help you choose the perfect slice in New York City. Whether you prefer a soft, chewy crust or a crispy, thin crust, there is a pizza style for everyone.
Best Pizza Places in Manhattan
Manhattan is home to some of the best pizza places in New York City. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Margherita or a wood-fired or coal-fired pizza, there's something for everyone. Here are some of the best pizza places in Manhattan:
Joe’s Pizza
Joe's Pizza is a classic New York pizza joint that has been around since 1975. Their pizza is made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a coal-fired oven, giving it a unique flavor and texture. The crust is thin and crispy, and the sauce is tangy and flavorful. Joe's Pizza is a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic New York pizza experience.
John's of Bleecker Street
John's of Bleecker Street is another classic New York pizza joint that has been around since 1929. Their pizza is made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a coal-fired oven, giving it a crispy crust and a smoky flavor. The sauce is made with San Marzano tomatoes and the cheese is fresh and delicious. John's of Bleecker Street is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Motorino
Motorino is a popular pizza place in Manhattan that serves Neapolitan-style pizza. Their pizza is made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven, giving it a crispy crust and a smoky flavor. The sauce is made with San Marzano tomatoes and the cheese is fresh and delicious. Motorino is a great place to go if you're looking for a more upscale pizza experience.
Kesté Pizza & Vino
Kesté Pizza & Vino is a trendy pizza place in Manhattan that serves Neapolitan-style pizza. Their pizza is made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven, giving it a crispy crust and a smoky flavor. The sauce is made with San Marzano tomatoes and the cheese is fresh and delicious. Kesté Pizza & Vino is a great place to go if you're looking for a more upscale pizza experience.
In conclusion, Manhattan is home to some of the best pizza places in New York City. Whether you're in the mood for a classic Margherita or a wood-fired or coal-fired pizza, there's something for everyone. Joe's Pizza, John's of Bleecker Street, Motorino, and Kesté Pizza & Vino are all great options for anyone looking for a delicious pizza experience.
Top Pizza Spots in Brooklyn
Brooklyn is known for its diverse food scene, and pizza is no exception. Whether you're looking for a classic New York slice or a gourmet wood-fired pie, Brooklyn has plenty of options to choose from. Here are some of the top pizza spots in Brooklyn:
Lucali
Lucali is a beloved pizza joint in Carroll Gardens that has been serving up delicious pies since 2006. The restaurant has a cozy, candlelit atmosphere and a simple menu that focuses on quality ingredients and traditional techniques. Their signature pie is a classic margherita, but they also offer toppings like pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms. Be prepared to wait in line, as they don't take reservations and the restaurant is always packed.
Roberta's
Roberta's is a Bushwick institution that has gained national attention for its creative, wood-fired pizzas. They use a custom-built oven that reaches temperatures of up to 1000 degrees, resulting in perfectly charred crusts and bubbling cheese. Their menu features both classic and innovative pies, like the Bee Sting (topped with tomato, mozzarella, soppressata, chili flakes, and honey) and the Famous Original (topped with tomato, mozzarella, caciocavallo, and oregano).
Ops
Ops is a cozy pizzeria in Bushwick that specializes in naturally leavened, wood-fired pizzas. They use locally sourced ingredients and have a rotating selection of seasonal pies. Their menu also includes small plates, salads, and a great selection of natural wines. Be sure to try the Sausage & Kale pizza, which is a customer favorite.
Paulie Gee's
Paulie Gee's is a Greenpoint pizzeria that has gained a cult following for its creative pies and quirky atmosphere. The restaurant is decorated with vintage records and has a cozy, neighborhood vibe. Their menu features both classic and inventive pizzas, like the Hellboy (topped with tomato, mozzarella, soppressata, honey, and spicy honey) and the Greenpointer (topped with fresh mozzarella, baby arugula, olive oil, and shaved Parmigiano-Reggiano).
Scarr's Pizza
Scarr's Pizza is a Lower East Side transplant that recently opened a second location in Crown Heights. The restaurant has a retro, 70s-inspired vibe and a menu that focuses on simple, classic pies. They use a wood-burning oven and high-quality ingredients to create pizzas that are crispy, chewy, and delicious. Be sure to try the pepperoni pizza, which is a standout on the menu.
Overall, Brooklyn has no shortage of great pizza spots to choose from. Whether you're in the mood for a classic slice or something more gourmet, these restaurants are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Pizza in Queens and The Bronx
Queens and The Bronx are two of the five boroughs of New York City that are known for their diverse food culture. When it comes to pizza, both boroughs offer a wide range of options to choose from.
For those who prefer thin-crust pizza, Queens has several options worth checking out. One of the most popular places is Artichoke Basille's Pizza, which has a location in Astoria. Their signature pizza, the artichoke pizza, is a must-try for anyone who loves artichokes. Another great option is Sac's Place, which has been serving up delicious thin-crust pizza in Astoria for over 20 years.
In The Bronx, one can find a mix of classic New York-style pizza and more unique options. One of the most well-known places is Louie & Ernie's Pizza, which has been a staple in the Bronx for over 60 years. Their pizza is known for its crispy crust and generous toppings. For those looking for something a bit different, there is Emmy Squared, which serves up Detroit-style pizza. Their signature pizza, the Emmy, is topped with banana peppers, onions, and ranch dressing.
Overall, Queens and The Bronx have something to offer for all pizza lovers, whether they prefer classic New York-style or more unique options.
Staten Island Pizza Gems
Staten Island is often overlooked when it comes to finding the best pizza in New York City, but it has some hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are a few places to check out:
Denino's Pizza - Located in the heart of Staten Island, Denino's has been serving up delicious pizza since 1937. Their pizzas are made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven. The crust is crispy and chewy, and the toppings are generous. Denino's is also known for their famous mozzarella sticks, which are a must-try.
Joe & Pat's Pizzeria - This family-owned pizzeria has been a staple in Staten Island since 1960. Their pizzas are made with a secret family recipe that has been passed down for generations. The crust is thin and crispy, and the sauce is tangy and flavorful. Joe & Pat's is also known for their garlic knots, which are a customer favorite.
Totonno's Pizzeria Napolitano - Totonno's is a legendary pizzeria that has been around since 1924. Their pizzas are made in a coal-fired brick oven, which gives them a unique flavor and texture. The crust is thin and crispy, and the toppings are simple and delicious. Totonno's is a cash-only establishment, so be sure to bring some bills with you.
Overall, Staten Island has some great pizza options that are worth checking out. Whether you're in the mood for a wood-oven pizza or a brick oven pizza, there's something for everyone.
Exploring Unique Pizza Toppings
New York City is known for its pizza, and there are many great pizzerias to choose from. While classic toppings like cheese, mozzarella, and pepperoni are always popular, many pizzerias in the city offer unique and creative toppings that are worth trying.
One popular topping that has gained popularity in recent years is honey. Pizzerias like Paulie Gee's in Brooklyn offer pies with honey drizzled on top, adding a touch of sweetness to the savory pizza. Burrata, a soft Italian cheese, is another unique topping that can be found at many pizzerias in the city. It pairs well with tomato sauce and basil, creating a creamy and flavorful pizza.
For those who enjoy spicy food, jalapeños and soppressata are great options. The jalapeños add heat to the pizza, while the soppressata, a type of Italian salami, adds a salty and savory flavor. Broccoli rabe and mushrooms are also popular toppings that add a unique twist to the classic pizza.
Ricotta is another cheese that is commonly used as a topping, and it pairs well with a variety of other ingredients. Pizzerias like Roberta's in Brooklyn offer pies with ricotta, sausage, and tomato sauce, creating a delicious and hearty pizza.
Overall, there are many unique pizza toppings to explore in New York City. Whether you prefer sweet or savory, spicy or mild, there is a pizza topping for everyone to enjoy.
Pizza Dough and Sauce
The foundation of any good pizza is its dough and sauce. In New York City, you can find a variety of styles and flavors of pizza dough and sauce, ranging from thin and crispy to thick and chewy, and from tangy tomato sauce to sweet tomato sauce.
When it comes to dough, many pizzerias in New York City use a classic Neapolitan-style dough recipe, which consists of flour, water, yeast, and salt. However, some pizzerias have started to experiment with sourdough, which adds a unique flavor and texture to the dough. If you're a fan of sourdough, you might want to check out places like Paulie Gee's or Roberta's.
As for sauce, the most common type of tomato sauce used in New York City pizza is made from San Marzano tomatoes, which are known for their sweet and tangy flavor. However, some pizzerias use a sweeter tomato sauce, which is made by adding sugar to the sauce. If you prefer a sweeter sauce, you might want to try places like Di Fara Pizza or Patsy's Pizzeria.
Overall, there is no one-size-fits-all answer to what makes the best pizza dough and sauce. It really depends on your personal preferences and what kind of pizza you're in the mood for. But with so many great pizzerias in New York City, you're sure to find a pizza that suits your taste buds.
Conclusion
In conclusion, New York City is home to some of the best pizza in the world. From coal-oven pizza to thin-crust slices, there's something for everyone. Whether you're looking for a classic joint or something more modern, the city has it all.
For those who love garlic knots, there are plenty of options available. Many pizza joints offer these delicious treats, which are perfect for sharing with friends or family. If you're looking for a unique experience, consider checking out a coal oven or wood oven pizza place. The natural wine scene in NYC is also thriving, offering the perfect pairing for your slice.
While many pizza places in the city serve their pies on a paper plate, don't let that fool you. The quality of the pizza is what matters most, and many of these places have won awards and accolades for their delicious creations.
For those who prefer vegan pies, there are plenty of options available as well. Many pizza places now offer vegan cheese and toppings, making it easy to enjoy a delicious pie without any animal products.
Finally, if you're a fan of spicy salami, be sure to check out some of the city's best pizza places that offer this topping. It adds the perfect kick to any pie and is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Overall, when it comes to finding the best pizza in NYC, it's all about exploring and trying new places. With so many options available, you're sure to find the perfect slice for you.
