11 Pizzerias In NYC That Are Absolutely Worth Visiting
Pizza isn’t just food in New York; it’s part of the city’s identity. The sheer number of slice shops and full-service pizzerias can overwhelm anyone trying to decide where to eat. Yet, some places rise above the rest, becoming true landmarks that locals trust and visitors seek out. From coal-fired classics that date back over a century to modern, wood-fired pies topped with honey or pistachios, the city offers something for every taste. These 11 spots prove why New York will always be pizza’s capital.
1. Di Fara Pizza
Di Fara in Brooklyn has achieved legendary status over decades, largely thanks to Dom DeMarco, who spent years hand-making every pie. Each pizza is topped with imported Italian cheeses, olive oil, and fresh basil, creating flavors that stand apart. The crust is crispy yet chewy, with a sauce that balances sweet and tangy notes. Crowds often line up for an hour or more, not just for the food but for the tradition. Eating here feels like stepping into a piece of pizza history, where every bite reflects care and craft.
2. Lucali
Lucali in Carroll Gardens is one of those places that feels both intimate and unforgettable. The menu is stripped down to just pizzas and calzones, yet each one is made with remarkable attention to detail. The crust is thin and charred just right, while the cheese and basil keep things fresh and balanced. Getting a table often means waiting outside for hours, but regulars swear the payoff is worth it. The candlelit setting creates a warm atmosphere that makes every slice taste even better. Lucali is simplicity perfected.
3. Prince Street Pizza
Prince Street Pizza has become a city icon for its Sicilian-style square slices. The thick, doughy crust is crisp along the edges, while the sauce carries bold tomato flavor. Their signature pepperoni slice is piled high with tiny, cupped pepperoni that char and pool with oil as they bake. It’s rich, spicy, and satisfying in a way that instantly sets it apart. The shop is small and lines stretch down the block, especially late at night, but service is fast. A visit here means tasting one of New York’s true slice legends.
4. Joe’s Pizza
Joe’s Pizza is about as classic as New York pizza gets. Since 1975, it has delivered the quintessential slice: thin crust, foldable, slightly charred, and topped with just enough cheese and sauce. This isn’t gourmet; it’s straightforward pizza done exactly right, the kind you can eat standing on a sidewalk without missing a beat. Whether you stop by during the day or late at night, you’ll find steady crowds. People often recommend Joe’s to first-time visitors because it captures everything the New York slice is supposed to be.
5. Lombardi’s
Lombardi’s is credited as America’s first pizzeria, opening its doors in 1905. Its coal-fired oven produces a distinct smoky crust that no gas or electric oven can replicate. The pies come topped with San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella, making each bite flavorful and balanced. Lombardi’s carries its history with pride, but the food speaks for itself even without the backstory. The restaurant feels timeless, with a warm and cozy interior that makes it easy to linger over a pie. A meal here is both tradition and taste at once.
6. John’s of Bleecker Street
Since 1929, John’s of Bleecker Street has been baking pies in its coal-fired brick oven, and it remains a beloved institution. Here you order full pies only, no slices, making it a spot best enjoyed with friends. The crust comes out crisp on the outside yet chewy inside, while the sauce offers just the right tang. Cheese stretches beautifully, creating that satisfying pull with every bite. The old wooden booths and murals on the wall add to the atmosphere, reminding you that this place has history and character to spare.
7. Patsy’s Pizzeria.
Patsy’s in East Harlem has been a staple since 1933, and it continues to deliver pizza that keeps locals loyal. Their coal-fired oven gives the crust a signature char, while the sauce is bright and balanced against the richness of the cheese. The pies are light enough that you can easily eat more than one slice without feeling weighed down. Generations of New Yorkers swear by Patsy’s because it keeps things simple. This is pizza without frills or fuss, relying on tradition and quality ingredients to speak for themselves.
8. L&B Spumoni Gardens
L&B Spumoni Gardens in Brooklyn is famous for its square Sicilian-style pies topped with thick, tangy tomato sauce and generous amounts of cheese. The crust is soft, airy, and slightly chewy, providing the perfect base for rich, flavorful toppings. The pizzeria has been serving generations of locals and visitors since the 1930s, and its outdoor seating makes it a fun spot to enjoy a slice on a sunny day. Between the pizza and their classic spumoni ice cream, it’s an experience that blends tradition, flavor, and nostalgia seamlessly.
9. Paulie Gee’s
Paulie Gee’s in Greenpoint blends creativity with old-world skill. The menu features pies baked in a wood-fired oven with unique flavor combinations. Their most famous is the Hellboy, which pairs fresh mozzarella and spicy soppressata with a drizzle of hot honey. The crust is soft yet structured, with just enough char to add depth. The atmosphere feels cozy, rustic, and relaxed, making it a perfect sit-down choice. If you want to try something inventive that still respects pizza traditions, Paulie Gee’s is where you’ll find it.
10. Two Boots Pizza
Two Boots Pizza blends New York tradition with bold, Louisiana-inspired flavors, creating a unique pizza experience. The crust is thin yet sturdy, baked to a perfect crisp while remaining soft inside. Toppings range from spicy Cajun sausage to fresh mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce, with inventive pies like the “Hurricane” mixing peppers, sausage, and a hint of heat. Each slice is a balance of textures and flavors, making it easy to savor every bite. The vibrant, casual atmosphere reflects the creativity behind the menu, proving pizza can be playful and satisfying at the same time.
11. Kesté Pizza & Vino
Kesté Pizza & Vino focuses on authentic Neapolitan-style pies that are both delicate and full of flavor. The crust is thin, airy, and blistered from their wood-fired oven, while the sauce uses fresh San Marzano tomatoes for a tangy, vibrant punch. Every topping, from fresh mozzarella to basil, is carefully sourced and balanced so that each bite feels harmonious. The intimate, lively atmosphere makes it feel like a little slice of Italy in the city. Kesté proves that traditional Neapolitan pizza can thrive in a modern New York setting without losing its soul.
