Manhattan is a pizza lover’s dream where every block tells a different story, most of them ending with cheese and a perfect crust. The first time I had a proper New York slice, it was on a busy corner with yellow taxis honking past. The air carried the scent of freshly baked dough and bubbling tomato sauce—a sensory landmark almost as vivid as the Empire State Building. This city doesn’t let you settle for just any pizza. With every bite, you’re invited into a long-standing rivalry of old-school classics and innovative upstarts.
Choosing where to eat pizza in Manhattan is like picking your favorite song—everyone has an opinion, but it’s all about that memorable feeling. Whether you demand a crisp Neapolitan base, crave a floppy slice, or are hunting for a cheap thrill at $1.50 a pop, Manhattan’s pizzerias deliver the goods. Let’s break down the very best spots, so you can spend less time wondering and more time digging in.
Where to find the best pizza in Manhattan, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pizza in Manhattan, NY:
- Napoli Pizza
- Sotto Casa Pizzeria
- Numero 28 Pizzeria
- Bleecker Street Pizza
- B Side Pizzeria
- Song E Napule Pizzeria & Trattoria
- Filaga Pizzeria
- NY Pizza Suprema
- Ribalta Pizza
- Kesté Pizza e Vino
1. Napoli Pizza
+1 646-448-4922
Napoli Pizza is the sort of spot where lunch turns into a lingering meal and the crust never disappoints. My first visit started with a Margherita, crisp around the edges, still soft inside. The sauce tasted bright, and the mozzarella hit the right note between creamy and stretchy.
This pizzeria knows how to impress with both classic and modern pies. Their Bianca is a revelation—no tomato sauce, just bubbling cheese, garlic, and a hint of olive oil layered on the perfect base. If you’re feeling hungry, the Sicilian square is thick and satisfying, great for sharing or keeping to yourself.
Service is fast, whether you’re stopping by for takeout or settling in for dinner with friends. With table service, late-night hours, and family-size options, Napoli Pizza fits any occasion while remaining wallet-friendly. For a true taste of Manhattan’s pizza scene, Napoli stands tall.
2. Sotto Casa Pizzeria
Sotto Casa Pizzeria in Harlem feels like a little slice of Italy tucked into Manhattan. The first time I wandered in, the aroma of wood-fired dough made the outside world melt away. The space is cozy, filled with laughter, and there’s a kindness that starts with the staff and ends with the food.
Their pizzas lean traditional, with a playful twist on the classics. I was drawn to the Bufalina, with buffalo mozzarella and fresh basil, never overwhelmed by toppings—just perfectly balanced. For those preferring plant-based choices, the Vegana delivers bright flavors on a charred, chewy crust.
Gluten-free options make sure no one misses out, and their wine list is thoughtfully curated for any pie. Sotto Casa brings friends together for slow, satisfying meals, and every visit feels like a return to something familiar and good.
3. Numero 28 Pizzeria
Numero 28 Pizzeria on Carmine St. is where wood-fired pizza craft meets Italian tradition in the heart of Manhattan. My first slice was a moment of silence—the kind you only reserve for food that surprises you in the best way. The dough holds its own: chewy, airy, and kissed by the oven’s flame.
This spot stands out for its commitment to imported, certified Italian ingredients. Each pizza bursts with real flavor, especially their Capricciosa loaded with artichokes, mushrooms, and fresh mozzarella. For a subtler touch, the Margherita D.O.P. relies on tomato sweetness and basil, reflecting the pizzeria’s roots.
Vegan and gluten-free diners have plenty to celebrate here as well. The relaxed, bustling vibe and attention to detail make Numero 28 a must for serious pizza seekers who want a true taste of Italy, no passport required.
4. Bleecker Street Pizza
Bleecker Street Pizza has a reputation that’s impossible to ignore—and worth every bit of the buzz. My first visit was a quick bite on a chilly evening, but the heat from the oven and the staff’s genuine smiles made it feel like home. This spot masters the art of the crispy, thin-crust slice that locals and visitors crave.
The Nona Maria Pie is legendary for a reason. Built on a family recipe, it layers homemade marinara, fresh mozzarella, parmesan, and basil on a crackling crust. There’s a real balance here: no soggy middles or bland corners. If you want to get creative, build your own pizza with a huge variety of toppings.
Generous portions and gluten-free options make this a place anyone can enjoy. With fast service, late-night hours, and a laid-back West Village setting, Bleecker Street Pizza keeps the loyal crowds coming.
5. B Side Pizzeria
B Side Pizzeria hits the sweet spot between classic comfort and modern flair. Tucked just steps from the Theater District, it’s a favorite haunt for pizza-hungry locals and curious newcomers. The room always buzzes with conversation, but the oven’s promise of charred, bubbly crust keeps attention focused on the food.
Their menu feels inventive without ever straying too far from the soul of New York pie. The White Pie, loaded with ricotta, mozzarella, and roasted garlic, is both creamy and sharp. For something a bit lighter, the Funghi pie bursts with earthy mushrooms and tangy cheese.
Vegetarian and vegan options are represented with creativity and care. Whether you grab a quick lunch or linger over dinner with friends, B Side Pizzeria turns pizza night into something memorable.
6. Song E Napule Pizzeria & Trattoria
Song E Napule Pizzeria & Trattoria channels the energy of Naples right into Manhattan’s streets. The first time I stopped in, the scent of fresh dough and woodsmoke felt like an instant getaway. The dining room bustles, but every table gets personal attention—a rarity in the city.
Their pizzas are pure Neapolitan craft, each one with a soft, airy base and blistered edges. The Margherita is a standout, with fresh mozzarella and a sauce that tastes sun-kissed. For a slice of Southern Italy, the Salsiccia e Friarielli brings earthy broccoli rabe and delicate mozzarella together in bold harmony.
Vegans and gluten-free diners find robust options here without compromise. Lunch, dinner, or a slow brunch, Song E Napule never skimps on quality or heart, serving up one of the city’s most transporting pizza experiences.
7. Filaga Pizzeria
Filaga Pizzeria is a rare find even by Chelsea Market’s high standards, bringing Sicilian authenticity to every square slice. My first visit was fueled by curiosity, but the aroma of tomato and olive oil sealed the deal. Each piece feels light, thanks to their artisan dough proofed for up to 48 hours.
Filaga’s pizzas are all about rich tomato, delicate mozzarella, and golden crust. Try the Caponata slice—it highlights classic Sicilian flavors with roasted eggplant and sweet peppers, all layered on that airy crust. For a more classic experience, the Margherita Siciliana balances freshness with cheese in every bite.
Vegetarian and vegan eaters will find bold options that never sacrifice authenticity. For a taste of southern Italy while weaving through Chelsea Market, Filaga stands out as a must-visit.
8. NY Pizza Suprema
+1 212-594-8939
See Menu
NY Pizza Suprema is legendary for its focus on one thing and one thing only: classic New York pizza. My first slice was just before a concert at Madison Square Garden, where the aroma of melting cheese cut right through the city’s noise. The busy, no-frills counter says it all—this pizzeria lives and breathes for the perfect slice.
What sets Suprema apart is obsessive attention to sauce and cheese. Their signature slice balances five house-made tomato sauces and the kind of aged parmigiano you can taste in every bite. Simplicity and technique come together for a perfect bite every time.
Vegetarian and vegan options are available without compromise. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick lunch or a late-night bite, NY Pizza Suprema always delivers that genuine New York experience.
9. Ribalta Pizza
Ribalta Pizza goes all-in on the Neapolitan experience, offering genuine flavors in every pie. My first visit was a real wake-up call for what pizza could taste like—the dough is airy, charred, and full of character. Each bite felt like a quick trip to Naples without leaving Manhattan.
Their strict focus on Italian ingredients and technique is what sets Ribalta apart. Buffalo-milk mozzarella from Campania, fresh tomatoes, and natural yeast come together on a crust that is both pillowy and crisp. For the purest taste, order the Margherita: it’s a classic, flawlessly executed and perfect for purists.
Vegans and gluten-free diners aren’t left out, with options crafted with the same respect for tradition. Ribalta doesn’t just serve pizza—it reminds you why Neapolitan style became a New York obsession.
10. Kesté Pizza e Vino
Kesté Pizza e Vino feels like a secret handshake for Neapolitan pizza devotees, hidden downtown on Fulton Street. My first encounter with their pies turned a quick meal into a slow, unforgettable evening. The menu is vast, but every pizza bears the same devotion to craft and quality.
Kesté’s edge comes from its flawless dough and homemade mozzarella. The Regina Margherita, with creamy mozzarella di bufala and sweet tomato, highlights the pizzeria’s attention to Italian tradition. For something more adventurous, the Pistacchio e Salsiccia shows their creative side with roasted pistachios and fresh cheese—no bland slices in sight.
Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diners get thoughtful choices here too. Whether you’re a serious pizza purist or seeking something bold and new, Kesté delivers one of the most memorable pies in Manhattan.
More Things to Try in Manhattan, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of pizza is Manhattan known for?
Manhattan is famous for its classic New York-style pizza—large, foldable slices with a thin, crispy crust. There are also excellent Neapolitan and Sicilian options if you’re exploring beyond the basics.
Where can I find pizza by the slice in Manhattan?
Most pizzerias offer pizza by the slice. Iconic spots like Joe’s Pizza, 2 Bros Pizza, and NY Pizza Suprema are top picks for a quick, satisfying bite.
Are there good options for vegetarians and vegans?
Absolutely. Many spots, such as Sotto Casa Pizzeria and Ribalta Pizza, offer creative vegetarian and vegan pies with plenty of fresh ingredients.
Is gluten-free pizza available in Manhattan?
Yes. Many top pizzerias, including Kesté Pizza e Vino and Song E Napule, have excellent gluten-free options so everyone can enjoy a proper slice.
What’s the average price for a slice or a pie?
A typical slice ranges from $1.50 to $5, while a whole pie can go from $15 to $30, depending on the location and toppings.
Do Manhattan pizzerias usually offer delivery and takeout?
Most do. Takeout is a staple, and delivery options are widely available through phone orders or popular apps.