New York City is truly a pizza paradise. There’s nothing like grabbing a slice on the go or sitting down to enjoy a whole pie fresh out of the oven. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these 5 pizzerias are absolute must-tries. From iconic thin-crust slices to wood-fired Neapolitan pies, each spot offers a taste of NYC’s diverse pizza scene.
1. Lucali – Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn
- Google Maps: Lucali Location
Address: 575 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Best For: Classic, wood-fired pizza, BYOB, cozy atmosphere
Lucali tops many best-of lists for pizza in NYC, and for good reason. This family-owned, cozy spot in Carroll Gardens serves up some of the most delicious, wood-fired pizzas you’ll ever taste. With thin, crispy crusts and fresh, flavorful toppings, the pies are simple yet exquisite. Lucali’s BYOB policy makes it the perfect spot for a relaxed date night or gathering with friends. Be prepared for a wait—this popular pizzeria doesn’t take reservations, but trust us, it’s worth it.
What to Order: The classic margherita pizza is a must, topped with fresh basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella. Add some pepperoni or their special hot peppers for an extra kick.
2. Di Fara Pizza – Midwood, Brooklyn
- Google Maps: Di Fara Pizza Location
Address: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230
Best For: Authentic NYC slice, legendary status, traditional recipe
Di Fara Pizza has been an NYC pizza institution for over 50 years. Founded by Italian-born Dom DeMarco, Di Fara continues to be a family-run pizzeria where every pie is made with love and tradition. The secret to their incredible flavor? The highest quality ingredients, including imported cheeses and olive oil from Italy. Each pizza is hand-crafted and topped off with a drizzle of olive oil before serving, creating a flavor experience that has people lining up around the block.
What to Order: The square Sicilian pie is a fan favorite, featuring a thick, airy crust and the perfect balance of sauce and cheese. For a classic round pie, go with the regular cheese pizza—simple and perfect.
3. Joe’s Pizza – Greenwich Village & Multiple Locations
- Google Maps: Joe’s Pizza – Carmine St. Location
Address: 7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014
Best For: Classic NYC slice, quick bites, iconic spot
If you’re craving that classic New York slice, Joe’s Pizza is the place to be. Established in 1975, Joe’s has maintained its status as a go-to spot for both locals and tourists alike. Their thin, foldable slices are simple yet incredibly satisfying, making them the ideal choice for a quick lunch or a late-night snack. With multiple locations throughout the city, you can always find a Joe’s close by when that pizza craving hits.
What to Order: You can’t go wrong with the plain cheese slice. The perfect combination of a thin, crispy crust, slightly tangy tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese makes it an NYC classic.
4. Roberta’s Pizza – Bushwick, Brooklyn
- Google Maps: Roberta’s Pizza Location
Address: 261 Moore St, Brooklyn, NY 11206
Best For: Wood-fired pizza, inventive toppings, hipster vibes
Located in the heart of Brooklyn’s Bushwick neighborhood, Roberta’s Pizza has become a pizza legend for its creative pies and cool atmosphere. This pizzeria brings a hipster touch to traditional pizza, using their wood-fired oven to craft Neapolitan-style pizzas that are thin, slightly charred, and full of flavor. The menu features a range of unique toppings, so you’ll never get bored with their selection.
What to Order: The « Bee Sting » pizza is a crowd favorite, topped with tomato, mozzarella, soppressata (Italian cured salami), chili flakes, and a drizzle of honey that adds a delightful sweet and spicy kick.
5. Prince Street Pizza – Nolita
- Google Maps: Prince Street Pizza Location
Address: 27 Prince St A, New York, NY 10012
Best For: Thick, square slices, spicy pepperoni, takeout
Known for their thick, square-cut slices, Prince Street Pizza has become an NYC favorite for those seeking bold flavors and hearty bites. This no-frills pizza joint serves one of the city’s best pepperoni Sicilian slices, which is crispy on the outside, fluffy on the inside, and topped with spicy pepperoni that curls up perfectly as it bakes. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or heading there specifically for a pizza fix, Prince Street is a must-visit.
What to Order: The « Spicy Spring » pepperoni slice is their signature. Covered with spicy pepperoni cups and tangy tomato sauce, this thick, chewy slice is bursting with flavor.
FAQs About Pizza in NYC
Q: Which pizza spot is best for a classic New York slice?
A: If you’re looking for the quintessential NYC experience, head to Joe’s Pizza for a classic thin, foldable slice.
Q: Where can I find a great Sicilian slice in New York City?
A: For the best Sicilian slice, Di Fara Pizza and Prince Street Pizza are highly recommended for their thick, square-cut pizzas loaded with delicious toppings.
Q: Are any of these pizzerias family-friendly?
A: Absolutely! Lucali and Roberta’s Pizza are great for a family dinner, offering cozy seating and a variety of pizza options to please all ages.
Wrapping It Up
New York City is home to some of the best pizza in the world, each pizzeria offering its unique flavors and styles. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a classic New York slice, the gourmet touch of wood-fired pizza, or a hearty Sicilian pie, NYC has something for every pizza lover. Be sure to visit these top 5 spots and experience the rich, diverse pizza culture the city has to offer.