Pizza. For New Yorkers, it’s so much more than just a meal. In the city that never sleeps, where the hum of yellow cabs and the chatter of millions create a symphony of energy, our love for pizza is a unifying force. For New Yorker’s, pizza is a cultural institution in and of itself; a communal experience that transcends the boundaries of the boroughs. From the storied streets of Brooklyn to the towering skyscrapers of Manhattan, the quest for the ideal slice is an ongoing saga that fuels debates, sparks camaraderie, and establishes lifelong allegiances. As the cityscape evolves, so does the pizza scene, with pizzerias serving up slices as diverse and eclectic as the city’s own inhabitants.
Join me as I tap into the wisdom of the NYC Navigator team on my quest for the perfect slice!
BRENDA LEVIS
Favorite Pizza Place: Grimaldi’s, DUMBO
Must-Try Slice: They do not sell “pizza by the slice”; they only sell whole pies!
A beloved pizza shop (rated #1 by Zagat) located right underneath the Brooklyn Bridge. It has expanded with locations all over the country due to popular demand. Their pies are round with a thin crust, tomatoes, mozzarella and a raised border, making this a Neapolitan-style pizza. You cannot pay with a credit card here. Cash only! If you love a good drama, you will also love reading about the riveting feud with Patsy’s Pizzeria in the 90’s!
JESSIE CASIULIS
Favorite Pizza Place: John’s of Bleecker Street
Must-Try Slice: Everything is great, but my favorite is the Boom pie
Super thin crust, delicious cheese, fresh and greasy toppings… John’s has it all and everyone in the neighborhood knows it! The line can be long but their pizza is well worth the wait. Just make sure to come hungry, the pies are generously served
ALEXA BRONFMAN
Favorite Pizza Place: Rubirosa
Must-Try Slice: Vodka Pie or Tie Dye Pie
Rubirosa in Nolita is an eatery that was established by the son of one of the founders of Staten Island classic Joe & Pat’s, and its menu pays homage to its predecessor. I love being able to get a true New York pie while also in a sit down setting that is very social and old school Italian!
COLLEEN FARLEY
Favorite Pizza Place: Two Boots
Must-Try Slice:V is for Vegan
Two Boots is a NYC chain that has both regular and vegan slices. The name, Two Boots, comes from the geographical shapes of Italy and Louisiana. Their creative pies, perfectly thin crust, and folk art decorated restaurants have been attracting New York locals and visitors since 1987.
KASIA KEANE
Favorite Pizza Place: Lombardi’s
Must-Try Slice: Rustic double pepperoni
Lombardi’s opened in 1905. It has been recognized by the Pizza Hall of Fame as the first pizzeria in the United States. My husband and I had our first dinner at Lombardi’s on the day we arrived in NYC!
LEAH ELLMAN
Favorite Pizza Place: Slice LIC
Must-Try Slice: Grandma Slice
Slice in Long Island City is a pizza joint that’s as unpretentious and unassuming as they come. What this hole-in-the-wall spot lacks in outer pizazz they make up for in flavor. As a native New Yorker, pizza to me means quick, comfort food and this place hits the nail on the head, molto bene!
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