New York City is a paradise for food lovers, and no culinary journey here is complete without exploring its legendary pizza scene. From iconic thin-crust slices to innovative artisan pies, the city’s pizzerias offer a taste of history and culture in every bite. In this guide, we’ll explore the best pizzerias in NYC, uncovering their unique stories and providing practical tips for your visit.
History of Pizza in New York City Pizza arrived in New York City in the early 1900s with Italian immigrants who brought their recipes and traditions. The first pizzeria, Lombardi’s, opened in 1905 in Manhattan’s Little Italy and remains a cornerstone of NYC’s pizza heritage. Over the decades, pizza evolved from a humble street food into a celebrated culinary art form, blending traditional Italian techniques with New York’s vibrant, multicultural influences.
Today, NYC is home to thousands of pizzerias, each offering its own twist on this beloved dish. Whether you’re drawn to coal-fired pies, classic Neapolitan styles, or creative toppings, there’s a pizzeria to satisfy every craving.
What to Visit: Must-Try Pizzerias in NYC Here are some of the city’s most iconic and beloved pizzerias:
- Lombardi’s Pizza
- Location: 32 Spring St, Manhattan
- Famous for: Traditional coal-fired pizza with fresh mozzarella and San Marzano tomato sauce.
- Don’t miss: The classic Margherita pizza.
- Joe’s Pizza
- Location: Multiple locations, including 7 Carmine St, Manhattan
- Famous for: Iconic NY-style thin crust slices.
- Di Fara Pizza
- Location: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn
- Famous for: Handcrafted pies by legendary pizzaiolo Dom DeMarco.
- Don’t miss: The classic square Sicilian pizza.
- Roberta’s
- Location: 261 Moore St, Brooklyn
- Famous for: Creative, wood-fired pizzas in a hip, industrial setting.
- Don’t miss: The Bee Sting, topped with spicy honey and soppressata.
- Prince Street Pizza
- Location: 27 Prince St, Manhattan
- Famous for: Thick, square slices with crispy edges and pepperoni cups.
- Don’t miss: The Spicy Spring square slice.
- Lombardi’s: 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM
- Joe’s Pizza: 10:00 AM – 4:00 AM
- Di Fara Pizza: 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
- Roberta’s: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Prince Street Pizza: 11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
It’s always a good idea to check the pizzeria’s website or call ahead, especially for smaller establishments.
Prices of Visits Pizza prices in NYC vary depending on the pizzeria and style:
- By the Slice: $3 – $5 (average)
- Whole Pies: $20 – $40
- Specialty Pies: $30 – $50 (e.g., truffle toppings, premium ingredients)
Cash is often preferred at classic spots like Di Fara, so come prepared.
Location and How to Get There Each pizzeria is easily accessible via NYC’s extensive public transportation system:
- Subway: Use the NYC Subway map to find the nearest station. For example, Lombardi’s is close to the Spring Street station (6 train).
- Bus: MTA buses serve all boroughs, offering a scenic way to explore.
- Walking: Many pizzerias are located in vibrant neighborhoods perfect for strolling.
Where to Eat Nearby If you’re planning a pizza tour, consider pairing your visit with other local attractions:
- Near Lombardi’s: Explore the boutiques and galleries of SoHo.
- Near Roberta’s: Visit Bushwick’s famous street art murals.
- Near Prince Street Pizza: Stroll through Nolita and Little Italy for unique shopping and culture.
Additional Information for Visitors
- Dietary Options: Many pizzerias offer gluten-free or vegan options; inquire in advance.
- Waiting Times: Iconic spots like Di Fara and Prince Street Pizza often have lines. Arrive early to avoid long waits.
- Pizza Tours: Join a guided tour to sample multiple pizzerias and learn about their history. Check out companies like Scott’s Pizza Tours.
