L&B Spumoni Gardens
ClassicThis Bensonhurst institution has been serving its iconic Sicilian squares since 1939. The thick, pillowy crust is topped with tangy tomato sauce spread edge to edge, with cheese hidden underneath (yes, underneath). Don't skip their namesake spumoni for dessert.
Lucali
Celebrity FavoriteMark Iacono's Carroll Gardens pizzeria has achieved legendary status, drawing celebrities and pizza aficionados willing to line up hours before opening. The thin-crust pies are deceptively simple but stunningly delicious, cooked in a wood-fired oven and finished with fresh basil and grated Parmesan.
L'Industrie Pizzeria
This Williamsburg gem combines classic New York technique with a distinctly Italian sensibility. The result is a slice with a thin, crisp crust, premium imported toppings, and the perfect balance of flavors. Their burrata slice has developed a devoted following.
Mama's Too
This Upper West Side pizzeria transformed from a neighborhood joint to a destination thanks to its incredible square slices. The crust is exceptionally airy and crisp, with caramelized cheese edges that provide an irresistible textural contrast.
Rosario's Deli
Hidden GemDon't be fooled by its appearance as a standard Italian deli—Rosario's serves some of the most underrated slices in the city. Their Sicilian is a revelation: light, airy, and remarkably crisp despite its thickness, with a perfectly balanced sauce.
Di Fara Pizza
LegendaryFor decades, Dom DeMarco's meticulous pizza-making was a sight to behold. Though he passed away in 2022, his family carries on his legacy, crafting pies with imported ingredients and the same attention to detail. The blend of cheeses, fresh basil, and olive oil drizzle creates an unparalleled flavor experience.
Dani's House of Pizza
Local FavoriteA Queens institution since 1959, Dani's is famous for its sweet sauce that includes a secret honey component. The thin crust has a distinctive crispness that perfectly complements the slightly sweet sauce and generous cheese coverage.
Scarr's Pizza
InnovativeScarr Pimentel changed the game by milling his own flour in-house, resulting in a healthier, more digestible crust that's also incredibly flavorful. The retro Lower East Side parlor serves slices that honor the classic New York style while elevating it with superior ingredients.
F&F Pizzeria
A collaboration between the Frankies Spuntino team and legendary baker Chad Robertson, F&F serves pizza with a distinctively flavorful and chewy crust. The sauce and toppings are of exceptional quality, making even a simple slice extraordinary.
Patsy's Pizzeria
HistoricA Harlem institution since 1933, Patsy's is one of the few remaining coal-fired pizzerias in the city. The thin, slightly charred crust has a distinctive flavor that can only come from that intense coal heat. The original location still sells slices, a rarity among coal-oven establishments.
The Great NYC Pizza Debate
Notable Omissions
Of course, any "best pizza" list in New York is bound to spark debate. We've left off some beloved establishments like John's of Bleecker, Grimaldi's, and Totonno's—not because they aren't excellent, but because the pizza scene in NYC is so incredibly rich that tough choices must be made.
What Makes Them Special
What makes these 10 spots special is their commitment to quality and consistency. Whether you're craving a classic New York slice, a Sicilian square, or a Neapolitan-style pie, these pizzerias deliver exceptional experiences that represent the best of what New York pizza can be.
All pizzerias were visited multiple times, and all visits were paid for by dothings.nyc (we don't accept free food or special treatment).