NYC Pizza – Where the Best Pizza in the World is Found!

NYC pizza: the mere mention of those two words conjures up images of foldable slices, gooey mozzarella, and a symphony of flavors that define the city’s culinary soul. But beyond the iconic image lies a world of diverse styles and passionate pizzaiolos, each crafting pies that tell a unique story. From thin-crust wonders to thick, coal-fired masterpieces, the NYC pizza scene is a treasure trove waiting to be explored.
Forget digging for gold, in New York City, the real treasure lies beneath the layers of concrete and steel in the form of pizza. This city, with its diverse boroughs and even more diverse pizza scene, offers a slice for every palate. From classic New York-style to innovative creations that push the boundaries of pizza perfection, finding a good pie is a piece of cake (or should I say, pizza?). But finding a truly great slice? That’s an art form.
Luckily for you, intrepid pizza enthusiasts have braved the subway crowds and ferry lines to sample 50 of the city’s most talked-about pizzerias. Their mission? To uncover the 25 spots serving slices so good, you’ll savor every last bite of crust.
Here are a few highlights from their pizza pilgrimage:
- Andrew Bellucci’s Pizzeria (Astoria): This Astoria gem honors the legacy of the late Andrew Bellucci with its legendary clam pizza. Imagine fresh clams bathed in a fragrant blend of oregano, parsley, and garlic, all topped with a vibrant ring of lemon slices. Just remember to plan ahead and reserve your clam pie at least 24 hours in advance!
- Arturo’s Coal Oven Pizza (Greenwich Village): Step back in time at Arturo’s, where coal-fired ovens churn out thick-crust pizzas with irresistible char marks. The “Fiesta” pie, a symphony of sausage, peppers, onions, and tomato sauce, is a must-try. With live jazz, cozy tables, and walls adorned with vintage paintings, Arturo’s offers a charmingly nostalgic dining experience.
- Chrissy’s Pizza (Greenpoint): This pandemic-born pizza haven is the brainchild of Chris Hansell, a self-taught pizzaiolo with an obsession for perfection. His thin-crust New York-style pizzas are as delicious as they are Instagrammable. Be warned, though: Chrissy’s only sells whole pies, so come hungry or bring friends!
- Dani’s House of Pizza (Kew Gardens): This 65-year-old Queens institution is a testament to the power of unique flavors. Their signature sweet tomato sauce, a creation of Albanian immigrant Ramiz Dani, defies expectations and delights taste buds. Don’t miss their pesto pizza, a vibrant green masterpiece that’s herbaceous, cheesy, and utterly addictive.
- Denino’s Pizzeria & Tavern (Staten Island): No pizza tour of New York City is complete without a visit to Staten Island’s legendary Denino’s. Since 1951, they’ve been serving up crackery-crust pizzas with a satisfying char. The “M.O.R.” pie, topped with meatballs, onions, and ricotta, is a local favorite.
This is just a taste of the pizza perfection that awaits you in New York City. So, grab your MetroCard, your appetite, and embark on your own pizza adventure!
Read The 25 Best Pizza Places in New York Right Now (NYTimes.com) for more details and the entire list.