A Guide to the Best Pizzerias in New York City

Pizza in New York is a part of the city's culture and history. Each pizzeria has its story, often reflecting the neighborhood's character and the passion of the people who run them. Here are 10 of the best pizzerias in New York that you should try.

1. Joe’s Pizza

Joe's Pizza is a classic New York pizzeria that has been around since 1975. It's a favorite spot for people who want a quick and tasty slice. You can always expect a good flavor without fancy ingredients. The crust is thin, the cheese is gooey, and the sauce is simple. This place doesn’t need decorations; it just offers delicious pizza. It’s great for a quick snack—grab a slice and keep moving. Joe’s is a part of everyday life in the city.

Photo Credit: ubereats.com

2. L&B Spumoni Gardens

L&B Spumoni Gardens is known for more than just pizza; they also serve spumoni, a traditional Italian ice cream. Their special style is thick, square slices that are more like homemade pizza than standard pie. This Sicilian pizza has a thick, soft crust, topped with tomato sauce and cheese. Located in Brooklyn, families and friends love to come here to relax and enjoy a meal together. The way they make pizza and their generous portions make it special. It's hard to find anything like this in other pizzerias in New York.

Photo Credit: facebook.com/LBSpumoniGardens/

3. Di Fara Pizza

Di Fara is a family-run place where the owner, Dominic DeMarco, still makes every pizza himself. He has been working here since 1965, and it has become legendary. The secret is that they only use the freshest ingredients, most of which come from Italy: olive oil, cheese, tomatoes, and basil. The dough is made with care, and each slice is loaded with cheese. The lines can be long because people are willing to wait for such quality.

Photo Credit: facebook.com/difarapizza/

4. John’s of Bleecker Street

John’s of Bleecker Street has been serving pizza since 1929 and is famous for its coal-fired pies. They only sell large pizzas, not slices, but that doesn’t stop people from coming. Customers love the crispy crust that the coal oven creates. It gives a traditional New York taste, and that’s what makes this place unique.

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5. Una Pizza Napoletana

Una Pizza Napoletana specializes in authentic Neapolitan recipes. The owner, Anthony Mangieri, pays close attention to every step of making pizza. They bake their pizzas in a wood-fired oven, which is their main feature. The dough is very thin, and the toppings are minimal, using only a few ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes, fresh basil, and mozzarella. This place is for those looking for something as close to traditional Italian food as possible. Una Pizza Napoletana doesn’t try to impress with lots of toppings; they focus on making it just like in Naples, and that makes their pizza special.

Photo Credit: unapizza.com

6. Kesté Pizza e Vino

Kesté is a place where modern meets tradition. They also serve Neapolitan pizza but with a wider choice of toppings and a more modern approach. The menu even includes gluten-free options, making Kesté accessible to more customers. Their cooking is careful, so the dough is light and tender. The toppings range from traditional mozzarella and tomatoes to more unusual ones like cherry tomatoes and arugula. This place is perfect for those who want to try classic flavors but are also open to new combinations.

Photo Credit: facebook.com/kestepizza/

7. L’Industrie Pizzeria

This Brooklyn spot stands out with its modern take on pizza. They offer various toppings, including more exotic options like burrata or pesto. The ingredients are chosen to create a balanced flavor. L’Industrie is a place for those who want something different from the classic pizza. They offer dishes that can surprise you with their flavor combinations, making it a favorite for many who return for new experiences.

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8. Paulie Gee’s

Paulie Gee’s is known for its wood-fired pies. Here, you can try not just classic versions but also unusual combinations, like pizza with pepperoni, honey, and spicy peppers. This place attracts those who like to experiment with flavors as they always offer something new and interesting.

Photo Credit: reddit.com

9. Lucia Pizza

Lucia Pizza in SoHo is a traditional place that serves large portions of pizza. There’s nothing unusual here—just a cheese, and tomato sauce—but this simplicity attracts customers. It’s a popular spot for locals who appreciate quality food without extra fuss. This pizzeria is where you can be sure to get a tasty, classic option.

Photo Credit: lucia.pizza

10. Scarr’s Pizza

Scarr’s Pizza is a place where the owner makes everything himself. They grind their flour, giving the dough a special taste. This is one of the few pizzerias that uses their ingredients for the dough. Scarr’s has a retro vibe, adding charm to the place. It’s for those who appreciate quality products and a careful approach to making pizza.