Local Guide: The Best Pizza Places in New York City

New York City is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, and pizza is no exception.

From classic thin-crust slices to innovative gourmet creations, the city offers something for every pizza lover. 

My wife and I embarked on a delicious journey to find the best pizza places in NYC. Here are our top picks.

1. Di Fara Pizza

Location: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230
Phone: +1 718-258-1367
Website: difarapizzany.com
Hours: 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM (Tue-Sun)

Di Fara Pizza is a legendary pizzeria in Brooklyn, known for its authentic, hand-crafted pies. Dom DeMarco, the founder, has been making pizzas for over 50 years. The fresh ingredients and meticulous preparation make each slice unforgettable. We loved the classic Margherita with its perfect balance of sauce, cheese, and basil.

2. Joe's Pizza

Location: 7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014
Phone: +1 212-366-1182
Website: joespizzanyc.com
Hours: 10:00 AM - 4:00 AM (Daily)

Joe's Pizza is a Greenwich Village institution, serving up some of the best slices in the city since 1975. The no-frills approach and consistently delicious pizza have made it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. My wife and I enjoyed the classic cheese slice, which was crispy, cheesy, and absolutely delicious.

3. Lombardi's Pizza

Location: 32 Spring St, New York, NY 10012
Phone: +1 212-941-7994
Website: firstpizza.com
Hours: 11:30 AM - 11:00 PM (Mon-Thu), 11:30 AM - 12:00 AM (Fri-Sat), 11:30 AM - 10:00 PM (Sun)

Lombardi's Pizza claims to be America's first pizzeria, opening its doors in 1905. The coal-fired oven creates a unique, smoky flavor that sets their pizza apart. We loved the classic pepperoni pizza, which had the perfect combination of crispy crust, spicy pepperoni, and gooey cheese.

4. Prince Street Pizza

Location: 27 Prince St A, New York, NY 10012
Phone: +1 212-966-4100
Website: princestpizzanewyork.com
Hours: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Mon-Sat), 12:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Sun)

Prince Street Pizza is famous for its thick, square Sicilian slices topped with spicy pepperoni. The Soho Square slice, with its crispy crust and generous pepperoni, was a standout. The rich, flavorful sauce and perfectly melted cheese made each bite a delight.

5. Patsy's Pizzeria

Location: 2287 1st Avenue, New York, NY 10035
Phone: +1 212-534-9783
Website: patsyspizzeria.us
Hours: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Daily)

Patsy's Pizzeria has been serving coal-oven pizza since 1933. The East Harlem location is the original, and it’s known for its thin, crispy crust and delicious toppings. We enjoyed the fresh mozzarella pizza, which had a light, airy crust and perfectly balanced flavors.

6. Juliana's Pizza

Location: 19 Old Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11201
Phone: +1 718-596-6700
Website: julianaspizza.com
Hours: 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM (Mon-Thu), 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Fri-Sun)

Juliana's Pizza, owned by pizza legend Patsy Grimaldi, offers some of the best pizza in Brooklyn. The Margherita pizza, with its fresh basil, mozzarella, and tangy tomato sauce, was a highlight. The airy, perfectly charred crust added to the overall experience.

7. Roberta's

Location: 261 Moore St, Brooklyn, NY 11206
Phone: +1 718-417-1118
Website: robertaspizza.com
Hours: 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Mon-Thu), 11:00 AM - 1:00 AM (Fri-Sat), 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Sun)

Roberta's in Bushwick is known for its innovative and artisanal pizzas. The Bee Sting, topped with soppressata, chili, and honey, was a unique and delicious combination. The bustling atmosphere and creative menu make it a must-visit spot.

8. Emily

Location: 919 Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11238
Phone: +1 347-844-9588
Website: pizzalovesemily.com
Hours: 5:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Mon-Wed), 5:00 PM - 11:00 PM (Thu-Fri), 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Sat), 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Sun)

Emily in Clinton Hill offers a cozy, intimate setting with a focus on quality ingredients. The Emmy Burger pizza, with its house-made sauce, mozzarella, and burger-inspired toppings, was a standout. The crust was perfectly chewy, and the flavors were spot on.

9. John's of Bleecker Street

Location: 278 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014
Phone: +1 212-243-1680
Website: johnsbrickovenpizza.com
Hours: 11:30 AM - 11:30 PM (Daily)

John's of Bleecker Street has been a staple in the West Village since 1929. The coal-fired brick oven pizzas are known for their crispy crust and rich flavors. We enjoyed the traditional Margherita pizza, which was simple yet incredibly delicious.

10. Lucali

Location: 575 Henry St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Phone: +1 718-858-4086
Website: lucali.com
Hours: 5:45 PM - 10:00 PM (Wed-Mon), Closed (Tue)

Lucali in Carroll Gardens is a pizza lover’s dream. The thin-crust pizza, made with fresh ingredients and cooked in a wood-fired oven, was exceptional. We loved the simplicity and quality of the Margherita pizza, with its perfect blend of sauce, cheese, and basil.

Practical Tips

Best Time to Visit: Weekdays and off-peak hours can help avoid long lines at popular pizzerias.

What to Bring: Bring cash, as some of the older establishments are cash-only.

Reservations: Some pizzerias do not take reservations, so be prepared for a wait, especially during peak times.

Overall Impression

Exploring the best pizza places in New York City was a delicious adventure. Each pizzeria offers its unique style and flavors, making it a pizza lover’s paradise. Whether you prefer classic thin-crust slices or innovative toppings, NYC has something to satisfy every craving.

Tips for Exploring New York City

While you’re in New York City, consider visiting these other top attractions:

• Central Park: Enjoy a leisurely walk or bike ride through this iconic park.

• Times Square: Experience the vibrant lights and bustling energy of this famous landmark.

• Empire State Building: Take in the stunning views from the observation deck.

• Brooklyn Bridge: Walk or bike across this historic bridge for breathtaking views of the skyline.

• Statue of Liberty: Visit this iconic symbol of freedom and democracy.

New York City is full of vibrant culture and endless things to do, making it an exciting destination for every traveler.

For those who love to travel, New York City is a must-visit destination. The incredible pizza, iconic landmarks, and vibrant atmosphere provide an unforgettable experience.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or planning your first visit, exploring New York City will create memories that last a lifetime.