New York City, the city that never sleeps, is renowned for its diverse culinary scene, but one dish stands out above the rest: pizza. The streets of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the other boroughs are lined with pizzerias, each claiming to serve the best slice in the city. But what is the number one pizza place in New York? In this article, we’ll embark on a journey to discover the ultimate pizza joint in the Big Apple.
A Brief History of New York-Style Pizza
Before we dive into the quest for the best pizza place, it’s essential to understand the rich history of New York-style pizza. The story begins in the early 20th century, when Italian immigrants brought their traditional Neapolitan-style pizza to the United States. Gennaro Lombardi, often credited as the “Father of New York Pizza,” opened the first licensed pizzeria, Lombardi’s, in 1905 in Manhattan’s Little Italy. Lombardi’s menu featured a thin crust, hand-tossed pizza topped with fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce, and various meats or vegetables.
Over time, New York-style pizza evolved, and its characteristics became distinct from its Neapolitan counterpart. The crust grew thicker, the slices became larger, and the toppings more diverse. Today, New York-style pizza is synonymous with the city’s culinary identity, with pizzerias sprouting up on every corner.
The Criteria for the Best Pizza Place
Determining the number one pizza place in New York is no easy feat. With hundreds of pizzerias to choose from, we needed to establish a set of criteria to evaluate each contender. Our team of pizza enthusiasts considered the following factors:
- Crust: A perfect crust should be crispy on the outside, chewy on the inside, and have a subtle crunch.
- Sauce: The sauce should be tangy, slightly sweet, and made with high-quality, fresh ingredients.
- Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and other cheeses should be melted to perfection, with a creamy texture and a touch of saltiness.
- Toppings: Fresh, high-quality ingredients should be used, and the toppings should be balanced and harmonious.
- Ambiance: The pizzeria’s atmosphere should be inviting, clean, and welcoming.
- Value: The price should be reasonable, considering the quality and portion size.
The Contenders
After weeks of research, tastings, and deliberation, we narrowed down the list to the top five contenders for the best pizza place in New York:
| Pizzeria | Location | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|
| Lombardi’s | Manhattan | Oldest licensed pizzeria in the United States, coal-fired oven |
| Joe’s Pizza | Greenwich Village | Classic New York-style pizza, no-frills atmosphere |
| Louie & Ernie’s | Astoria, Queens | Family-owned, traditional Italian recipes, generous portions |
| Robertas | Bushwick, Brooklyn | Trendy atmosphere, creative toppings, wood-fired oven |
| Lucali | Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn | Cozy, intimate atmosphere, high-quality ingredients, classic Neapolitan-style pizza |
The Winner: Lucali
After a thorough evaluation of each contender, our team declared Lucali the winner. This cozy pizzeria in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, exceeded our expectations in every category.
Crust: Lucali’s crust is cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven, resulting in a crispy, well-balanced base for their delicious pies.
Sauce: The sauce is made with fresh, high-quality ingredients and has a perfect balance of tanginess and sweetness.
Cheese: A blend of mozzarella and parmesan cheese is melted to perfection, creating a creamy, salty, and utterly addictive combination.
Toppings: Fresh, seasonal ingredients are used to create simple yet elegant topping combinations, such as the classic margherita or the more adventurous “Prosciutto e Arugula.”
Ambiance: Lucali’s intimate atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with a warm decor that evokes a sense of nostalgia.
Value: The prices are reasonable, considering the high-quality ingredients and generous portions.
A Closer Look at Lucali
Lucali, owned by Mark Iacono, is a family-run pizzeria that has been a Carroll Gardens staple since 2009. The pizzeria’s name is a tribute to Iacono’s grandmother, Lucali, who inspired his passion for cooking. The menu features a range of traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas, as well as some innovative creations.
One of the standout features of Lucali is its commitment to using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients. Iacono sources his ingredients from local farmers and suppliers, ensuring that every pie is made with love and care.
Awards and Accolades
Lucali has received widespread acclaim from food critics and enthusiasts alike. The pizzeria has been featured in prominent publications, such as The New York Times, New York Magazine, and Eater NY. It has also been awarded a rating of “Excellent” by The New York Times and has been named one of the “Best Pizzas in New York” by NY Daily News.
Conclusion
The search for the number one pizza place in New York was a daunting task, but our team is confident that Lucali is the winner. This charming pizzeria in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, has set a new standard for pizza in the city, with its commitment to using only the freshest ingredients, its cozy atmosphere, and its delicious, mouth-watering pies.
Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or just looking for a great slice, Lucali is a must-visit destination in New York City. So, the next time you’re in the Big Apple, make sure to stop by Lucali and taste the difference for yourself.
What makes New York the Pizza Capital of the World?
New York’s pizza scene has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century when Italian immigrants brought their traditional Neapolitan-style pizza recipes to the United States. Over the years, New York-style pizza has evolved to become a unique fusion of flavors, textures, and cooking techniques that set it apart from other pizza styles. The city’s diverse neighborhoods, such as Little Italy, Greenwich Village, and Brooklyn, have played a significant role in shaping the pizza culture, with each area offering its own distinct spin on the classic dish.
Today, New York City is home to over 1,600 pizzerias, with new shops opening every year. The city’s pizza joints offer a wide range of options, from classic slice shops to gourmet eateries, and everything in between. Whether you’re a lifelong New Yorker or just visiting, you’ll find a pizza joint that suits your taste buds. The sheer variety of options, combined with the city’s fast-paced and busy lifestyle, has earned New York the reputation as the Pizza Capital of the World.
What are some popular types of pizza found in New York?
New York is famous for its classic Neapolitan-style pizza, which is characterized by a thin crust, soft center, and fresh toppings such as mozzarella, tomato sauce, and basil. However, over the years, various pizza styles have emerged, each with its unique twist. Some popular types of pizza found in New York include Sicilian-style, which features a thick, square crust and a thick layer of mozzarella; Grandma-style, which is made with a thick, rectangular crust and a sweet tomato sauce; and Artisanal-style, which often features gourmet toppings such as truffle oil and prosciutto.
In addition to these traditional styles, many modern pizzerias in New York are experimenting with innovative toppings and cooking techniques. You’ll find pizzerias serving pizza with unique toppings such as pineapple and ham, or even dessert pizzas with sweet toppings like Nutella and marshmallows. With so many options available, you’re sure to find a pizza that suits your taste buds.
How do I find the best pizza joint in New York?
Finding the best pizza joint in New York can be a daunting task, given the sheer number of options available. One way to start is by asking locals and fellow foodies for recommendations. You can also read online reviews and ratings on websites such as Yelp or TripAdvisor to get an idea of the top-rated pizzerias. Additionally, look for pizzerias that have been featured in food blogs, magazines, or TV shows, as they often have a reputation for serving high-quality pizzas.
Another way to find the best pizza joint is by exploring different neighborhoods and trying out different pizzerias. Be adventurous and try out different types of pizzas, toppings, and cooking styles. You might stumble upon a hidden gem that serves the most delicious pizza you’ve ever had. Don’t be afraid to ask the pizzeria staff for recommendations or try out their signature pies.
What are some must-try pizza joints in New York?
There are many iconic pizza joints in New York that are a must-try for any pizza enthusiast. Some of the most famous pizzerias include Lombardi’s, which is often credited as the first pizzeria in the United States; Joe’s Pizza, which has been serving classic New York-style pizza since 1975; and Di Fara Pizza, which is known for its artisanal, handcrafted pizzas. Other popular pizzerias include Lucali, Roberta’s, and Artichoke Basille’s Pizza.
These pizzerias offer a range of options, from classic cheese slices to gourmet pies topped with truffle oil and prosciutto. Be prepared for long lines and busy atmospheres, especially during peak hours or weekends. However, the wait is well worth it, as these pizzerias offer some of the most delicious and authentic pizzas in the city.
What is the best way to order a pizza in New York?
Ordering a pizza in New York can be a unique experience, especially for out-of-towners. When ordering at a traditional pizzeria, it’s best to keep it simple and order like a local. Start by ordering a slice or a pie, and then specify the toppings you want. For example, you can say “I’ll take a slice of cheese with pepperoni and mushrooms.” If you want a specialty pizza, be sure to ask about the toppings and ingredients.
When ordering at a gourmet pizzeria, the process might be more similar to ordering at a restaurant. Take a look at the menu, which often features unique pizza combinations and toppings. Don’t be afraid to ask the staff for recommendations or ask about the ingredients and cooking techniques used.
Are there any pizza festivals or events in New York?
Yes, New York City hosts several pizza festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the annual Pizza Festival, which takes place in October in Little Italy. The festival features live music, cooking demonstrations, and of course, plenty of pizza tastings from some of the city’s top pizzerias.
Another popular event is the Slice Out Hunger, a charity event that takes place in September. The event brings together over 20 pizzerias from around the city, with all proceeds going towards supporting local food banks and charities. Additionally, many pizzerias in New York offer pizza-making classes, workshops, and tours, which are a great way to learn about the art of pizza-making and sample some of the city’s best pies.
Can I get pizza delivery in New York?
Yes, pizza delivery is a way of life in New York City. With the rise of food delivery apps and online ordering platforms, it’s easier than ever to get pizza delivered to your doorstep. Many pizzerias in New York offer delivery services, either through their own websites or through third-party platforms such as Grubhub, Uber Eats, or DoorDash.
However, be prepared for longer delivery times, especially during peak hours or in high-demand areas. Some pizzerias may also have minimum order requirements or additional fees for delivery. Nevertheless, with the sheer number of pizzerias in New York, you’re sure to find a place that delivers to your area and meets your pizza cravings.