NYC's Best Pizzerias: A 5-Borough Pizza Pilgrimage

New York City boasts a diverse pizza scene, from coal-fired to Neapolitan, Sicilian, and classic New York-style slices. While the debate rages on about the ultimate best pizza, a few pizzerias have achieved iconic status. This guide highlights must-visit spots across all five boroughs.

Louie & Ernie's Pizza (Bronx)

Open since 1947, this Bronx institution serves thin-crust pies in a cozy setting. Their white pizza and sausage pizza are local favorites. They also offer calzones.

Mama's Too (West Village)

Known for its incredibly delicious and generous square slices, Mama's Too features crunchy crusts and a subtly sweet tomato sauce. Don't miss their poached pear and gorgonzola square!

Rose & Joe's Italian Bakery (Ditmars)

A unique bakery specializing in pizza, Rose & Joe's offers thick, cheesy square slices with tangy tomato sauce. Arrive when a fresh pie is coming out for the best experience.

Don Antonio (Multiple Locations)

Run by Giorgia Caporuscio (2024 Pizza Maker of the Year!), Don Antonio is known for its soft, doughy, slightly charred pizzas, best enjoyed with a knife and fork. Their deep-fried Montanara pizza is a must-try.

John's of Bleecker Street (Greenwich Village)

A historic pizzeria dating back to 1929, John's offers thin, coal-oven-fired pizzas sold whole, with various toppings available.

Joe's Pizza (Multiple Locations)

A New York slice champion with multiple locations, Joe's Pizza is a go-to for a classic New York experience.

Arturo's (Greenwich Village)

Since 1957, Arturo's has served coal-oven pizzas in a charming setting with live jazz. They offer a wide variety of toppings and classic Italian-American dishes.

Una Pizza Napoletana (Lower East Side)

Known for its authentic Neapolitan pizzas, Una Pizza Napoletana uses high-quality ingredients and wood-fired ovens for perfectly charred pies. Open Thursday-Saturday only.

Lucia Pizza (Multiple Locations)

Starting as a slice shop, Lucia Pizza now has multiple locations. Their specialty slices, including the cream of spinach and vodka slices, are highly recommended.

Scarr's Pizza (Multiple Locations)

Owner Scarr Pimentel's perfect slices using freshly ground flour draw lines even at their larger new location.

L'Industrie Pizzeria (Multiple Locations)

L'Industrie offers high-quality slices with unique toppings like ricotta, burrata, spicy salami, and truffle oil. Their outdoor seating includes a school bus!

New Park Pizza (Rockaways)

New Park Pizza is known for its excellent slices, a perfect reward after a day at the beach or before a flight from nearby JFK.

L&B Spumoni Gardens (Bensonhurst)

Since 1939, this Bensonhurst gem offers delicious pillowy square pies and round pizzas. Don't forget to try their spumoni!

Denino's Pizzeria & Tavern (Multiple Locations)

Famous for its clam pie, Denino's offers a unique pizza experience, combining minced clams and mozzarella on a crispy crust. Their Greenwich Village location is highly rated.