New York City has more pizzerias than anyone could visit in a year, and everyone has an opinion about which ones matter most. This list comes from my own experiences eating pizza across all five boroughs, combined with polls we ran asking our readers where they actually go when they want a great slice. It’s not meant to be definitive, it’s a snapshot of places that consistently come up in conversations, that have earned their reputations over time, or that are doing something interesting enough to pay attention to.
I know this list will spark disagreements. That’s the nature of ranking anything as personal as pizza in a city this opinionated. Some legendary spots might be missing. Some newer places might seem too green to be included. But these are the pizzerias I believe are worth your time based on what I’ve tasted, what our readers have told us, and what the broader conversation around NYC pizza looks like right now. Take what’s useful, skip what doesn’t fit your style, and feel free to argue your case in the comments below.
#30 – Joe’s of Avenue U
Joe’s of Avenue U in Brooklyn is a neighborhood favorite known for its welcoming atmosphere and classic approach to pizza. The pizzeria has built a loyal following over the years by keeping things simple and authentic. Visitors often mention the friendly service and the familiar, cozy setting that makes it easy to return. Its reputation comes from consistency and staying true to traditional flavors rather than chasing trends, which has helped it stand out in Brooklyn’s busy pizza scene.
One of the most popular offerings at Joe’s is the Sicilian-style pizza. Known for its thick, airy crust, rich sauce, and balanced cheese, this pizza is a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Many people come specifically for this option, praising its flavor and the way it reflects the pizzeria’s commitment to quality. For anyone looking for a classic slice in Brooklyn, the Sicilian pizza at Joe’s of Avenue U is a must-try.
#29 – John & Joe’s Pizzeria
John & Joe’s Pizzeria in the Bronx has been a neighborhood favorite for decades. The pizzeria offers a relaxed, familiar atmosphere where staff and regulars often interact, giving it a sense of community. Visitors appreciate the simple, classic setting and the focus on quality rather than trends. Its steady reputation comes from being a reliable spot for local New Yorkers who enjoy traditional pizza.
One of the most popular options is their plain cheese pizza. Known for its thin, foldable crust and well-balanced sauce and cheese, it delivers a classic New York slice that keeps customers coming back. For anyone looking for a straightforward, dependable pizza experience in the Bronx, John & Joe’s cheese pizza is a choice that reflects the pizzeria’s long-standing appeal.
#28 – Rose & Joe’s Italian Bakery
Rose & Joe’s Italian Bakery in Queens is a long-standing neighborhood spot known for its combination of bakery treats and pizza. The shop has maintained a loyal following over the years for its welcoming, simple atmosphere. Visitors often stop by for breads, pastries, or a quick slice of pizza. The space feels familiar and comfortable, making it a dependable choice for locals looking for classic flavors without any fuss.
The plain Sicilian pizza is the bakery’s most popular offering. It features a thick, square crust baked in a pan with tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese. Locals appreciate the balance of crispness and softness in the crust and the straightforward, satisfying flavor of the toppings. This pizza has helped Rose & Joe’s remain a trusted spot in Queens for those seeking a reliable and traditional slice.
#27 – Zero Otto Nove
Zero Otto Nove brings a taste of southern Italy to New York, specializing in authentic Salerno‑style pizza baked in a wood‑fired brick oven. The pizzeria has locations on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx and in Manhattan’s Flatiron district. It offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with wooden tables and rustic décor that feels true to traditional Italian trattorias. Guests often praise the attentive service and the careful preparation of each pizza.
One of the most popular pizzas is the La Riccardo. This pizza features butternut squash purée, smoked mozzarella, pancetta, and fresh basil. The combination of flavors gives a balance of savory, smoky, and slightly sweet notes that makes it a favorite among regulars and visitors alike. La Riccardo highlights the pizzeria’s ability to combine traditional techniques with creative toppings for a memorable pizza experience.
#26 – Joe & Pat’s
Joe & Pat’s in Staten Island has been a family-run pizzeria since 1960 and remains a staple for locals and visitors alike. The pizzeria is known for its simple, welcoming atmosphere and classic New York pizza approach. Many people return for the consistent quality, friendly service, and the authentic style rooted in the owners’ Naples heritage. The space has a modest, old-school feel that emphasizes the food rather than flashy décor.
Their thin-crust pizza, especially the plain cheese slice, is a favorite among customers. The crust is crisp yet light, paired with balanced tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella. Fans often highlight how this combination produces a reliable, classic New York pizza experience that has stood the test of time. Joe & Pat’s remains a go-to spot for anyone seeking an authentic slice in Staten Island.
#25 – Lee’s Tavern
Lee’s Tavern in Staten Island has been a neighborhood staple since 1940. The space keeps a vintage feel with wood‑paneled walls, tin ceilings, and a relaxed, familiar atmosphere. Locals often visit for casual meals and drinks. The focus is on simple, steady service and classic flavors, which has helped Lee’s Tavern maintain a loyal following over the years.
One of the most popular pizzas is the thin‑crust white clam pizza. The crust is crisp and light, and the fresh clams provide a strong, savory flavor that fans appreciate. This pizza has become a signature item for the tavern, drawing both locals and visitors seeking a classic Staten Island slice with character and history.
#24 – Milkflower
Milkflower in Astoria, Queens is known for its cozy, wood‑fired pizzeria atmosphere. The dining area features exposed brick and reclaimed wood, creating a casual and welcoming space. The kitchen focuses on Neapolitan-style pizzas baked in a brick oven, and visitors often praise the quality of the dough and the care taken with both simple and creative toppings.
One of Milkflower’s popular pizzas is the Van Dammer. This pie includes mozzarella, Brussels sprouts, a soft‑center egg, black pepper, and a touch of truffle oil. The combination of creamy egg, crisp sprouts, and melted cheese on a slightly charred, chewy crust has made it a favorite among locals and visitors looking for a unique take on traditional pizza.
#23 – Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitana
Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitana in Brooklyn has been a landmark since 1924. The pizzeria uses a coal-fired brick oven and fresh dough made daily, giving the pizzas a distinctive crust and flavor. The setting is classic and no-frills, focusing on tradition and quality, which has helped it remain a favorite among locals and visitors.
One of the most popular pizzas at Totonno’s is the white pie. It features house-made mozzarella, pecorino romano, garlic, and olive oil without tomato sauce. This simple combination highlights the crisp, slightly smoky crust and the fresh, flavorful cheese. Fans consider the white pie a must-try and a key reason the pizzeria has maintained its reputation for nearly a century.
#22 – New Park Pizza
New Park Pizza in Howard Beach, Queens, has been serving the local community for decades. The pizzeria is known for its simple, no-frills setting and consistent New York‑style pizza. Customers appreciate the reliable service, classic flavors, and the way the shop stays true to tradition rather than following trends. It remains a favorite spot for locals and visitors seeking a genuine slice in a casual, welcoming environment.
One of the most popular items at New Park Pizza is the plain cheese slice. Fans often highlight the crispy crust, balanced tomato sauce, and fresh mozzarella. Other favorites include the Sicilian and white pizza, which are praised for their hearty crust and rich flavor. For anyone looking for a straightforward, traditional pizza experience in Queens, New Park Pizza offers a dependable choice.
#21 – Luigi’s Pizza
Luigi’s Pizza in Brooklyn has been a neighborhood staple since 1973. The pizzeria features a simple, no-frills setting with wood-paneled walls, an old-school counter, and a relaxed atmosphere. Many locals and visitors appreciate the straightforward service and the focus on quality, which has helped Luigi’s build a loyal following over the years.
One of the most popular offerings is the plain cheese slice. The crust is crisp yet chewy, paired with a balanced tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella. Another favorite is the grandma-style pizza, a square, pan-baked pie with a slightly different texture and deep flavor that still stays true to the pizzeria’s roots. Luigi’s Pizza continues to be a go-to spot for those seeking a classic Brooklyn slice.
#20 – Louie & Ernie’s Pizza
Louie & Ernie’s Pizza in the Bronx has been a neighborhood landmark since its move to Pelham Bay in 1959. The pizzeria offers a modest, unpretentious setting and a welcoming atmosphere. Locals and visitors appreciate the straightforward service and focus on quality, which has helped the shop build a loyal following over decades.
One of the most popular pizzas is the sausage pie. The sausage is rich, fennel‑spiced, and cut into chunks that hold up under the thin, crispy crust and generous layer of cheese. Many customers cite this pizza as a top reason to visit, praising its flavor and classic New York‑style texture. Louie & Ernie’s continues to be a trusted spot for reliable, traditional pizza in the Bronx.
#19 – Denino’s Pizzeria & Tavern
Denino’s Pizzeria & Tavern in Staten Island has been a neighborhood landmark since 1937. The pizzeria has an old‑school tavern vibe with a family-friendly atmosphere. Dough is made daily and pizzas are baked thin and crispy, giving them a distinctive texture and flavor. Customers appreciate the straightforward setting and consistent quality, which has helped Denino’s maintain its reputation over decades.
One of the most popular pizzas at Denino’s is the Margherita pie. It features fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce, and basil on a crisp crust, providing a classic and balanced flavor. Another favorite is the Garbage Pie, loaded with a mix of meats and vegetables for a hearty option. Denino’s continues to be a trusted choice for traditional, reliable pizza in Staten Island.
#18 – Chrissy’s Pizza
Chrissy’s Pizza in Greenpoint, Brooklyn began as a pop‑up but quickly grew a strong following thanks to top‑quality dough and a no‑frills vibe. The setting is small and casual with standing‑room‑only counter space, giving it a cozy, old‑school feel that fans appreciate. The pizzeria sticks to full pies only (no slices) and often sells out, which keeps demand high and gives the place a bit of a cult status among pizza lovers.
One of Chrissy’s standout pies is their pepperoni with jalapeños. It features a thin, crispy crust, a rich tomato sauce made from California and New Jersey tomatoes, and generous cheese with the jalapeños adding a nice kick. Customers often praise how the crust stays crisp and the toppings balance out without overwhelming the pie. For anyone looking for a newer pizza spot in Brooklyn that mixes tradition with a little edge, Chrissy’s Pizza is worth checking out.
#17 – Lucia Pizza
Lucia Pizza in Brooklyn has quickly earned a reputation for its high-quality New York–style pies. The pizzeria is family-owned and keeps a down-to-earth, welcoming atmosphere that appeals to both locals and visitors. Customers praise the care put into each pizza, from the fresh dough to the quality toppings, making it a reliable spot for classic, satisfying slices.
One of the most popular pizzas at Lucia Pizza is the Salsiccia pie. It features Italian sausage, red onions, Calabrian chilis, and whipped ricotta on a thin, crisp crust. The combination of flavors is balanced and bold, making it a favorite among regulars. The Salsiccia pie reflects the pizzeria’s focus on simple ingredients done exceptionally well.
#16 – Lombardi’s Pizza
Lombardi’s Pizza in Manhattan dates back to 1905 and is often recognized as the first licensed pizzeria in the United States. The restaurant maintains a historic charm with classic décor and a focus on quality. The dough is hand-stretched and baked in a coal-fired oven, giving the crust a crisp underside while staying soft and airy inside. Customers appreciate the consistency and authenticity that have kept Lombardi’s a New York institution for over a century.
One of the most popular pizzas at Lombardi’s is the Margherita. It features San Marzano-style tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil. The simple combination highlights the quality of the dough and the baking method, delivering a balanced flavor that represents the classic New York pizza experience. The Margherita remains a favorite for both locals and visitors seeking a traditional, historically significant slice.
#15 – Roberta’s
Roberta’s is a popular pizzeria in Brooklyn that opened in 2008. It is known for its wood‑fired pizzas and casual, creative atmosphere. The rustic décor and lively vibe make it a favorite among locals and visitors. Many people appreciate Roberta’s for blending traditional pizza techniques with a modern, relaxed setting that emphasizes quality ingredients and straightforward service.
One of the most popular pizzas at Roberta’s is the Bee Sting Pizza. It features tomato sauce, mozzarella, spicy soppressata, chili flakes, and a drizzle of honey. The combination of heat and a subtle sweet finish, along with the chewy, slightly charred crust, makes this pizza a standout choice. Fans often cite it as a top reason to visit Roberta’s and enjoy its signature flavor profile.
#14 – NY Pizza Suprema
NY Pizza Suprema in Midtown Manhattan has been serving New York‑style pizza since 1964. Located near Penn Station and Madison Square Garden, it attracts both locals and visitors. The pizzeria focuses on traditional pizza methods, using fresh dough daily, high-quality cheese, and a well-balanced tomato sauce. Customers appreciate the consistent quality and casual atmosphere, which keeps the attention on the pizza itself.
One of the popular pizzas at NY Pizza Suprema is the Upside‑Down Pizza. This pie places the sauce on top of the cheese and crust, allowing the crust and cheese to remain firm and crisp underneath. The texture and balance make it a favorite among regulars and visitors looking for a slightly different take on a classic New York slice.
#13 – L&B Spumoni Gardens
L&B Spumoni Gardens in Brooklyn has been serving its community since 1939. It started as a small shop and grew into a full-scale pizzeria and Italian‑American restaurant over the decades. The place draws people for its old‑school charm, family‑own roots, and no‑frills dining area where you can grab a slice, a full pie, or classic dishes. Its long history and steady commitment to quality have helped L&B become a landmark that many locals and visitors think of when they want an authentic Brooklyn pizza experience.
Its most popular offering is the Sicilian‑style square pizza. This “upside‑down” pie layers mozzarella directly on the dough, then adds tomato sauce and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. The crust bakes to a crisp edge while staying soft and slightly chewy inside. Fans often praise the way the thick crust, minimal cheese under sauce, and tangy tomato topping combine for a slice that’s rich, well‑balanced, and deeply satisfying.
#12 – Ops
Ops is a cozy pizzeria in the Bushwick section of Brooklyn. It’s known for wood-fired sourdough pizzas, a warm vibe, and a simple but stylish interior that feels welcoming whether you’re there with friends or grabbing a meal solo. Many visitors like how the place blends classic pizza making with a relaxed atmosphere and good service.
One of the most popular pizzas at Ops is the Margherita. It features tomato sauce, creamy mozzarella, and basil on a lightly charred sourdough crust. The combination of fresh ingredients and a chewy-crisp crust makes the Margherita a favorite among regulars.
#11 – Rubirosa
Rubirosa sits in the Nolita neighborhood of Manhattan. The restaurant is family-run and known for its thin-crust pizzas, made from a recipe handed down through generations. Inside, the vibe mixes casual and cozy, with a rustic-style interior and a welcoming atmosphere. Many people go for a reliable meal that balances tradition and a bit of creativity.
One of the pizzas most talked about at Rubirosa is the “Tie-Dye” pizza. It combines vodka sauce, tomato sauce, pesto, and fresh mozzarella over a cracker-thin crust. The mix of sauces adds layers of flavor, and the crisp crust gives a different texture than many standard pies. For anyone curious about a pizza that stands out in New York, the Tie-Dye at Rubirosa is often the slice that draws the most attention.
#10 – Lucali
Lucali is a Brooklyn favorite found in the Carroll Gardens area. It has a small, warm setting with a marble counter where guests can watch the pies being made. People often line up early because the place is known for its thin-crust, wood-fired pizzas and its simple menu. The focus is on quality ingredients, careful preparation, and a relaxed, old-school feel that draws both locals and travelers.
One of the most well-known pizzas at Lucali is the plain pie. It uses tomato sauce, a mix of cheeses, and fresh basil on a thin crust that bakes to a light crisp. Many fans appreciate how the crust, sauce, and cheese come together in a clean and balanced way without going overboard. It’s a go-to option for anyone who enjoys a classic New York pie made with care.
#9 – Prince Street Pizza
Prince Street Pizza sits in the Nolita area of Manhattan and has a steady crowd most days. The shop is small and filled with photos that give it a classic slice-shop feel. Since opening in 2012, it has grown popular for its thick Sicilian pies and bold flavors. Many people line up outside because the slices are known for their strong seasoning, crisp crust, and the kind of walk-in energy that feels very New York.
Its most well-known slice is the Spicy Spring, a square Sicilian slice topped with curled pepperoni cups, mozzarella, and a spicy tomato sauce. The crust is firm enough to hold the toppings without feeling heavy, and the pepperoni adds a punch that fans talk about often. It is the slice that many visitors come for when they want something filling and full of flavor.
#8 – Patsy’s Pizzeria
Patsy’s Pizzeria in East Harlem is known for its long history and its thin-crust pies baked in a coal-fired oven. The shop opened in 1933 and still keeps a simple setup that focuses on the basics. Many people come for the crisp crust, light char, and the traditional New York style that has stayed consistent over the years.
A top favorite at Patsy’s is the Original pie. It has tomato sauce, mozzarella, and a thin crust that cooks quickly in the coal oven, giving it a slight char that fans enjoy. The mix of sauce and cheese stays balanced, and many visitors seek it out for a classic slice that reflects the shop’s long-standing approach.
#7 – Di Fara Pizza
Di Fara Pizza in Brooklyn has been a well-known name since 1965. The shop is small and simple, and many people appreciate how the pizzas are made with care using ingredients like buffalo mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, and fresh herbs. The team keeps the process focused on tradition, which is a big part of why the place draws steady lines and long-time fans.
A popular choice at Di Fara is the pepperoni slice. The crust has a balance of crisp and chew, the cheese melts evenly, and the pepperoni cooks until the edges curl slightly. Fresh basil is added before baking, which gives the slice a clean and fragrant finish. Many visitors consider this slice one of the most memorable in Brooklyn.
#6 – Scarr’s Pizza
Scarr’s Pizza in Manhattan is located on the Lower East Side and opened in 2016. The pizzeria is known for using high-quality ingredients, including dough made from a mix of stone-milled flour and organic upstate New York flour. The space has a vintage feel with wood-paneled walls and retro décor, creating a casual and welcoming atmosphere that highlights the focus on pizza.
One of the most popular pizzas at Scarr’s is the Hotboi. It features beef pepperoni, jalapeños, and a drizzle of hot honey over a thin, crisp crust. The combination of heat, savory toppings, and a touch of sweetness makes it a standout choice for both first-time visitors and longtime fans. The Hotboi reflects the pizzeria’s attention to flavor and detail in every slice.
#5 – Una Pizza Napoletana
Una Pizza Napoletana on the Lower East Side of Manhattan is known for its careful approach to pizza. The pizzeria uses naturally-leavened dough made fresh on site and bakes pies in a wood-fired oven. Each pizza receives focused attention, resulting in a crust that is tender with a slight char, and toppings made mostly from high-quality imported Italian ingredients.
One of the most popular pizzas at Una Pizza Napoletana is the Margherita. It features San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, basil, and olive oil over the carefully baked crust. Many fans highlight this pizza as a perfect example of why the pizzeria is highly regarded, noting the balance of flavors, the quality of the dough, and the clean execution of simple ingredients.
#4 – John’s of Bleecker Street
John’s of Bleecker Street in Greenwich Village has been serving coal-fired, brick-oven pies for nearly a century. The space keeps an old-New-York charm with wood-worn booths, tin ceilings, classic black-and-white tile floors, and walls full of history. It does not serve slices, only full pies baked in an 850 °F oven, which gives the crust a crisp bottom and a chewy texture. The simple and genuine setting attracts both longtime locals and new visitors who appreciate traditional pizza.
One of the most popular pizzas at John’s is the John’s Original pie. It features tomato sauce and mozzarella over a thin coal-oven crust for a balanced flavor. Many fans also enjoy the Sasso pie, which adds grated cheese, oregano, and black pepper to the base recipe. These pizzas highlight what makes John’s stand out: a carefully baked crust, strong flavors, and a New York pizza experience rooted in history.
#3 – Mama’s Too
Mama’s Too opened on Manhattan’s Upper West Side in 2017 and quickly became known for its thick-crust square slices and creative topping combinations. The shop has a casual counter-service setup and often draws a line out the door. Fans appreciate the dough, which is crisp at the edges but light and chewy inside. The combination of tradition and creativity gives the pizzeria a modern yet familiar feel in New York’s competitive pizza scene.
One of the most popular pizzas at Mama’s Too is the Angry Nonna square slice. It features hot soppressata, tomato sauce, mozzarella, Calabrian chili oil, and a drizzle of hot honey for a sweet and spicy flavor. The bold toppings over a satisfying square crust make it a standout choice for anyone seeking a pizza that balances inventive flavors with high-quality dough.
#2 – Joe’s Pizza
Joe’s Pizza in Greenwich Village, Manhattan has been serving classic New York–style slices since 1975. The pizzeria keeps things simple with fresh dough, a thin crust baked just right, and a straightforward setting that reflects the city’s street-slice tradition. Its foldable, crisp-yet-chewy crust and quick service make it a favorite among both locals and visitors seeking an authentic New York slice.
One of the most popular pizzas at Joe’s is the plain cheese slice. It features tomato sauce, mozzarella, and the signature thin crust that New Yorkers love. The balance of sauce, cheese, and crust captures the essence of a classic NYC slice, making it a go-to choice for anyone wanting a traditional taste of the city’s pizza culture.
#1 – L’Industrie Pizzeria
L’Industrie Pizzeria began in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, and opened a second location in Manhattan’s West Village in 2023. It is known for thin-crust, long-fermented dough and a simple, slice-shop style that focuses on quality. The pizzeria often sees lines forming early, reflecting its popularity. The crust is crisp on the bottom while remaining light and airy, which holds toppings well and allows the slice to fold like a classic New York pizza.
One of the most popular pizzas at L’Industrie is the Burrata Slice. It features warm tomato sauce and mozzarella topped with creamy burrata, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. The mix of the hot crust with chilled cheese creates a pleasing contrast, making this slice a favorite among both regulars and first-time visitors. It is often the recommended choice for anyone trying L’Industrie for the first time.
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