1. Di Fara Pizza
Di Fara Pizza thrives on the mouthwatering flavor of each bite of its fresh pies. The unorganized, long lines are a worthwhile penance to bask in the joy that comes when the owner uses a kitchen shears to snip fresh basil onto your searing pie. For the ultimate ecstasy, order a pie with porcini mushrooms—note that takeout your the best option.
2. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria is perfect for travelers arriving in New York City for the first time. Just take a stroll from Manhattan to Brooklyn across the historic Brooklyn Bridge, and you’ll be moments away from waiting in line for one of the best coal-oven pies in the world. Grimaldi’s uses fresh ingredients and has a level of consistency that is unrivaled. Be prepared to sit in close proximity to your fellow pizza lovers.
Di Fara
3. Totonno’s Pizzeria
This Coney Island institution has fans lining up to partake in a ritual of devouring its coal-oven masterpieces. The decor is simple, but the taste of Totonno’s pies is divine. Don’t be surprised to see a group of teenagers polish off a pie–each. Do note that the pizzeria closes once the fresh dough runs out for that night.
4. Famous Joe’s Pizza
This award-winning institution is one of the few exceptional pizzerias to offer slices. Though the decor and seating aren’t inviting, the mozzarella and sauce on the thin slices of this crowd-pleaser will have you coming back. This is the perfect place for anyone dropping in for a couple of slices, or the backpacker who wants a quick bite of NYC’s best without denting their wallet.
5. John’s Pizzeria
The carved wooden booths of this institution house hundreds of loyal, passionate clients who order pies at this no-slice haven. Long lines develop before lunch and dinner to taste John’s scrumptious, thin-crusted pies. As one of several coal-fired pizzerias on the list, John’s always leaves its customers satiated.
Top Pizza
6. Lombardi’s Pizza
Lombardi’s was the first pizzeria in the United States. The original establishment was opened in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi. Today, Lombardi’s continues to make exceptional pies for its eagerly awaiting patrons. This cash-only establishment creates the perfect crispy crust to go along with the aura of its history.
7. Una Pizza Napoletana
The most unique choice on the list is this Anthony Mangieri pizzeria, modeled after traditional Italian styles and features wood-fired, brick-oven pizza. With a limited menu of four pies, Una Pizza Napoletana relies on fresh ingredients, such as mozzarella di bufala and San Marzano tomatoes, to keep its customers returning.
8. Ottimo Restaurant
Ottimo is the perfect place for a group of friends who want to select from a variety of Italian fare. After the meal, those who didn’t try the Neapolitan-style pizza with fresh mozzarella di bufala will be wondering if they made the best choice. Unlike most of places on the list, Ottimo has a restaurant ambiance with sufficient and comfortable seating.
Minor updates and edits were made from the original article.
Photos © Gennaro Salamone
___________________________________________________________________________________
Gennaro Salamone is the founder and editor of Enduring Wanderlust. Please contact him with questions regarding article or photo submissions.