The Ultimate Guide To Finding The Best Pizza Slice In NYC
Have you ever wondered what makes a New York City pizza slice truly exceptional? The quest for the perfect slice is a journey that many New Yorkers and visitors alike embark upon, often with varying degrees of success. From the iconic foldable crust to the perfect balance of cheese and sauce, the NYC pizza slice is a culinary icon that has captured hearts and taste buds for generations. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the best pizza slice spots in New York City, diving into the history, techniques, and flavors that make each establishment unique. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this article will help you navigate the bustling pizza scene and find your own slice of heaven in the Big Apple.
The History of New York Pizza
To understand what makes the best pizza slice in NYC, we must first delve into its rich history. New York-style pizza originated in the early 1900s when Italian immigrants brought their traditional pizza-making techniques to America. The first pizzeria in the United States, Lombardi's, opened in Manhattan's Little Italy in 1905, setting the stage for what would become a culinary phenomenon.
The New York pizza slice is characterized by its large, wide, and thin crust that's crispy on the outside but soft and pliable enough to be folded in half. This style evolved from the Neapolitan pizza but adapted to American tastes and ingredients. The use of high-gluten bread flour and the cooking method in coal-fired ovens contributed to the distinctive texture and flavor that New Yorkers have come to love.
What Makes a Great NYC Pizza Slice?
Before we dive into specific pizzerias, let's break down the elements that constitute an exceptional New York pizza slice:
The Crust: The foundation of any great pizza, a NYC slice should have a thin, crispy exterior with a slightly chewy interior. It should be sturdy enough to hold toppings but flexible enough to fold without breaking.
The Sauce: A well-balanced tomato sauce is crucial. It should be flavorful without overpowering the other ingredients, with a slight tanginess to complement the cheese.
The Cheese: Traditionally, a NYC slice uses low-moisture mozzarella, which provides a gooey, stretchy texture without making the slice soggy.
The Bake: The perfect NYC slice is typically baked in a deck oven at high temperatures, resulting in a crispy bottom and a well-melted cheese topping.
The Fold: A true New York slice can be folded in half lengthwise, allowing for easy eating on the go – a crucial aspect of NYC pizza culture.
Top 10 Best Pizza Slices in NYC
Now that we've established the criteria for a great slice, let's explore some of the most renowned pizzerias in New York City:
1. Joe's Pizza - Greenwich Village
Joe's Pizza, established in 1975, is often considered the quintessential NYC slice. Located on Carmine Street in Greenwich Village, it has been a favorite among locals and celebrities alike. Their classic cheese slice features a thin, crispy crust with the perfect ratio of sauce to cheese. The slice is large enough to fold but not so big that it becomes unwieldy.
Pro Tip: Visit Joe's late at night when the lines are shorter, and you can enjoy your slice in the vibrant atmosphere of the Village.
2. Di Fara Pizza - Midwood, Brooklyn
Di Fara Pizza, founded by Domenico DeMarco in 1965, is often hailed as one of the best pizzerias in New York. Located in Midwood, Brooklyn, it's worth the trip for pizza purists. Each pizza is handcrafted by Dom himself, using imported ingredients from Italy and a unique blend of cheeses. The result is a slice that's crispy on the bottom, chewy in the middle, and bursting with flavor.
Fun Fact: Di Fara is known for its long wait times, but many argue that the quality of the pizza makes it well worth the wait.
3. Patsy's Pizzeria - East Harlem
Patsy's Pizzeria has been serving coal-oven pizza since 1933. Their thin-crust slices are crispy and slightly charred, with a flavorful sauce and just the right amount of cheese. The original location on 1st Avenue in East Harlem is a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts.
Did You Know?: Patsy's was one of the first pizzerias to sell pizza by the slice, revolutionizing the way New Yorkers eat pizza.
4. Totonno's Pizzeria Napolitana - Coney Island, Brooklyn
Totonno's, established in 1924, is one of the oldest pizzerias in New York. Located near the Coney Island boardwalk, it offers a slice that's crispy, slightly charred, and full of flavor. The sauce is tangy, and the cheese is perfectly melted, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Insider Tip: Visit Totonno's in the off-season to avoid the summer crowds and enjoy your slice with a view of the Atlantic Ocean.
5. Prince Street Pizza - Nolita
Prince Street Pizza is famous for its square slices, particularly the Spicy Spring, topped with spicy tomato sauce, mozzarella, and crispy pepperoni cups. The crust is thick and crispy on the bottom, with a soft, airy interior. While not a traditional New York slice, it's a must-try for any pizza lover visiting the city.
Fun Fact: Prince Street Pizza's signature square slice is inspired by Sicilian-style pizza, adapted to New York tastes.
6. Grimaldi's Pizzeria - DUMBO, Brooklyn
Grimaldi's, located under the Brooklyn Bridge in DUMBO, offers a classic New York experience. Their coal-fired brick oven pizzas have a smoky flavor and a crispy, slightly chewy crust. The fresh mozzarella and homemade sauce complement each other perfectly.
Pro Tip: Visit Grimaldi's for lunch to avoid the long dinner lines, and enjoy your slice with a view of the Manhattan skyline across the East River.
7. Scarr's Pizza - Lower East Side
Scarr's Pizza is a relative newcomer to the NYC pizza scene, having opened in 2016. However, it has quickly gained a reputation for its organic approach, milling its own flour on-site. The result is a slice with a unique, nutty flavor and a perfectly crispy crust.
Did You Know?: Scarr's commitment to organic ingredients and traditional techniques has earned it a spot on many "best of" lists in recent years.
8. John's of Bleecker Street - Greenwich Village
John's of Bleecker Street, opened in 1929, is known for its no-slice policy – you have to order a whole pie. However, their pizza is so good that it's worth the extra commitment. The coal-fired oven creates a crispy, slightly charred crust that's the perfect base for their flavorful sauce and cheese.
Fun Fact: John's has a strict "no slices" policy, which means you'll need to come with friends or be prepared to take home leftovers.
9. L&B Spumoni Gardens - Bensonhurst, Brooklyn
L&B Spumoni Gardens is famous for its Sicilian-style square slices. The thick, airy crust is topped with sauce that goes on top of the cheese, creating a unique flavor profile. Don't forget to try their namesake spumoni, a traditional Italian ice cream, for dessert.
Insider Tip: L&B Spumoni Gardens is a bit off the beaten path in Bensonhurst, but many argue it's worth the trip for their unique take on pizza.
10. Artichoke Basille's Pizza - Multiple Locations
Artichoke Basille's is known for its creative toppings and large, filling slices. Their signature Artichoke slice, topped with artichoke hearts, spinach, cream sauce, mozzarella, and pecorino romano cheese, has become a cult favorite among New Yorkers.
Fun Fact: Artichoke Basille's has expanded to multiple locations across the city and even has a food truck, making it easier than ever to get your hands on one of their famous slices.
The Art of the Perfect Pizza Fold
One of the most iconic aspects of eating a New York slice is the fold. The proper technique involves folding the slice in half lengthwise, creating a U-shape. This serves multiple purposes:
- It prevents the slice from drooping and making a mess.
- It allows for easier, one-handed eating – perfect for busy New Yorkers on the go.
- It creates a slight overlap of crust and toppings, enhancing the flavor in each bite.
Pro Tip: Practice your pizza fold technique at home with a slice from your local pizzeria. Remember, the perfect fold is firm but not so tight that it squeezes out the toppings.
Pizza Etiquette and Culture in NYC
In New York, pizza is more than just food – it's a cultural institution. Here are some unwritten rules of NYC pizza culture:
Eating on the Go: It's perfectly acceptable (and common) to eat your slice while walking down the street. In fact, many New Yorkers consider it the ideal quick lunch or late-night snack.
The Great Debate: New Yorkers love to argue about which pizzeria has the best slice. Don't be surprised if you find yourself in a heated discussion about pizza supremacy.
Cash is King: Many of the best slice joints are cash-only establishments. Always have some dollar bills on hand for your pizza adventures.
Respect the Line: Popular pizzerias often have long lines, especially during peak hours. Be prepared to wait, and don't try to cut in front of others – it's considered very rude.
Beyond the Cheese Slice: Exploring NYC Pizza Varieties
While the classic cheese slice is the foundation of NYC pizza culture, there are many other varieties to explore:
Pepperoni: A close second to the cheese slice, pepperoni adds a spicy, salty kick to the classic combination.
White Slice: Made without tomato sauce, this slice features ricotta and mozzarella cheeses, often with garlic and herbs.
Sicilian: A square slice with a thick, fluffy crust, often topped with sauce, cheese, and various toppings.
Grandma Slice: Similar to Sicilian but with a thinner crust and cooked in a pan, resulting in a crispy bottom.
Margherita: A nod to the pizza's Italian roots, this slice features fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce.
The Future of NYC Pizza
As New York City continues to evolve, so does its pizza scene. Recent trends include:
Gourmet Toppings: While classic slices remain popular, many pizzerias are experimenting with high-end ingredients like truffle oil, prosciutto, and exotic cheeses.
Vegan Options: With the rise of plant-based diets, many pizzerias now offer vegan cheese and meat alternatives.
Neapolitan Revival: There's been a resurgence of interest in traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas, with their soft, chewy crusts and simple toppings.
Sustainability: Some pizzerias are focusing on locally-sourced, organic ingredients and eco-friendly practices.
Conclusion
The quest for the best pizza slice in NYC is a never-ending journey that reflects the city's diverse and evolving culinary landscape. From century-old institutions to innovative newcomers, each pizzeria offers a unique take on the classic New York slice. Whether you prefer a crispy, thin crust or a thick, doughy square, there's a perfect slice waiting for you in the Big Apple.
Remember, the best pizza slice is often a matter of personal preference. Don't be afraid to explore different neighborhoods and try various styles. And most importantly, enjoy the experience – because in New York, pizza isn't just food; it's a way of life.
So, the next time you find yourself in New York City, armed with this guide, you're ready to embark on your own pizza adventure. Who knows? You might just find your new favorite slice in an unexpected corner of the city. Happy pizza hunting!
