Here’s a list of the ten best pizza restaurants in New York City that have garnered multiple awards and focus exclusively on pizza. These establishments are celebrated for their unique offerings, history, and the passion of their owners. Each restaurant has a distinct style and legacy, contributing to New York’s rich pizza culture.
1. Di Fara Pizza
Owner: Domenico “Dom” DeMarco Signature Pizza: Di Fara Classic (mozzarella, Parmesan, basil, olive oil) History: Established in 1965, Di Fara is renowned for its meticulous preparation by Dom DeMarco, who has been handcrafting pizzas since its inception. Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Website: Di Fara Pizza
2. Lucali
Owner: Mark Iacono Signature Pizza: Classic Margherita (fresh basil, buffalo mozzarella, Parmigiano-Reggiano) History: Opened in 2006, Lucali is famous for its thin crust, fresh ingredients, and the personal touch of owner Mark Iacono. Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Website: Lucali
3. Joe’s Pizza
Owner: Joe Pozzuoli Signature Pizza: Classic New York Slice History: Founded in 1975, Joe’s Pizza is a Greenwich Village staple, known for its authentic New York-style pizza. Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Website: Joe’s Pizza
4. Patsy’s Pizzeria
Owner: Pasquale “Patsy” Lancieri Signature Pizza: Traditional Coal Oven Pizza History: Patsy’s has been a Harlem institution since 1933, known for pioneering the use of coal-fired ovens. Tripadvisor Rating: 4.0/5 Website: Patsy’s Pizzeria
5. Roberta’s
Owner: Brandon Hoy, Carlo Mirarchi Signature Pizza: Bee Sting (tomato, mozzarella, soppressata, basil, chili, honey) History: Since opening in 2008 in Brooklyn, Roberta’s has become a hipster favorite with a focus on creative toppings. Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Website: Roberta’s
6. Prince Street Pizza
Owner: Frank Morano Signature Pizza: Spicy Spring (spicy pepperoni, fresh mozzarella) History: Known for its spicy pepperoni slices, Prince Street Pizza has been a downtown favorite since its opening. Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Website: Prince Street Pizza
7. Paulie Gee’s
Owner: Paul Giannone Signature Pizza: Hellboy (mozzarella, soppressata, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Mike’s Hot Honey) History: Opened in 2010, Paulie Gee’s in Greenpoint is celebrated for its wood-fired pizzas and innovative toppings. Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Website: Paulie Gee’s
8. Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano
Owner: Antonio “Totonno” Pero Signature Pizza: Margherita History: Established in 1924, Totonno’s is one of the oldest pizzerias in the U.S., known for its traditional recipes and coal-fired ovens. Tripadvisor Rating: 4.0/5 Website: Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano
9. Lombardi’s
Owner: Gennaro Lombardi Signature Pizza: Original Margherita History: Opened in 1905, Lombardi’s is often credited as the first pizzeria in the United States, famous for its coal-oven baked pizzas. Tripadvisor Rating: 4.0/5 Website: Lombardi’s
10. L&B Spumoni Gardens
Owner: Ludovico Barbati Signature Pizza: Sicilian Square Pie History: Founded in 1939, L&B Spumoni Gardens is beloved for its thick, square Sicilian slices and homemade spumoni. Tripadvisor Rating: 4.5/5 Website: L&B Spumoni Gardens
These establishments not only serve some of the best pizza in New York City but also hold significant places in the city’s culinary history