When the craving for truly great pizza strikes, Queens rarely lets you down. You could stroll almost any block and catch a whiff of something bubbling in an oven that makes detours irresistible. Queens isn’t just “that borough near Manhattan”—it’s a delicious battleground where purists and risk-takers sling dough, cheese, and history with every slice. Think of it as the pizza world’s well-seasoned secret, where new arrivals and old favorites exist side by side.
Finding the best pizza here isn’t about hype—it’s about taste, tradition, and never settling for bland crusts. I’ve tasted pies with crisp, charred dough in tucked-away parlors, chatted with pizzaiolos who speak in half-whispered family recipes, and made plenty of room for one more slice along the way. If you’re aiming to discover those unforgettable bites, you’re about to get a passport to the flavors locals whisper about in between mouthfuls. Let’s see which spots made the cut.
Where to find the best pizza in Queens, NY
Here are some of the top spots to find the best pizza in Queens, NY:
- New Park Pizzeria
- Manetta’s Ristorante
- Nick’s Pizza
- Milkflower
- Tufino Pizzeria
- Piccolo Sogno
- Lucia Pizza
- Andrew Bellucci’s Pizzeria
- Margherita Pizza Incorporated
- Rosa’s Pizza
1. New Park Pizzeria
New Park Pizzeria sits on Crossbay Boulevard and feels like a place time refuses to leave behind. The first time I visited, the neon sign glowed against the night, and the aroma of baking dough pulled me in from halfway down the block. It’s an institution, where regulars might argue about the Yankees, but never about their favorite pie.
What makes New Park stand out is its devotion to the craft—thin, crispy crust with that just-right smoky char, and a sauce that manages to be both lively and comforting. You’ll watch pies go straight from the oven to the box, all with a no-nonsense attitude that sets the tone for your visit.
The classic cheese slice is a rite of passage and the most honest way to taste what makes New Park special. If you want a bit more kick, sprinkle on the signature chili flakes. This is where Queens pizza tradition runs deep.
2. Manetta’s Ristorante
Manetta’s Ristorante is what you imagine when you want something cozy yet stylish in Long Island City. The dining room always feels warm and welcoming, even on a rainy New York evening when all you want is comfort food done right. I’ve never left without feeling like I just spent a few hours in someone’s home kitchen.
What gives Manetta’s its edge is a wood-fired oven that delivers pizzas with a crisp, blistered crust and toppings that always taste fresh from the market. The staff treat the details with respect, valuing both tradition and modern taste.
The Margherita is their must-order—basil, mozzarella, and a light hand with the sauce make each bite sing. For a twist, try the Ortolana, topped with grilled veggies, which highlights Manetta’s knack for inventive, plant-friendly pies. The flavors reflect Queens’ knack for mixing old-school charm with a little innovation.
3. Nick’s Pizza
Nick’s Pizza in Forest Hills is that rare spot where every visit feels familiar, even if it’s your first. Twenty years of neighborhood loyalty shine in every slice; I dropped in once on a cold afternoon and found the interior buzzing with families trading stories and grabbing another round of pies.
What sets Nick’s apart is their legendary thin crust—delicate, crisp, and sturdy enough to hold a generous helping of cheese without ever turning soggy. The staff know their regulars and never seem to lose the warmth that makes you want to linger.
Start with their classic Margherita or a white pie for a pure, uncomplicated experience. If you want to branch out, try a veggie calzone, which showcases the same fresh produce and tender care Nick’s brings to their pizzas. Queens pizza culture thrives on places like this.
4. Milkflower
Milkflower in Astoria feels like the kind of spot where new traditions are born. Stepping inside, you notice the oven blazing and the buzz of people who know they’re about to eat well. The first time I grabbed a table, I was struck by how every pie looked like a work of art rushing out of the kitchen.
Milkflower stands out for its creative toppings and pillowy, wood-fired crusts that stay both chewy and crisp. There’s a clear sense of fun behind the menu, and each pizza celebrates a mix of old-school technique and bold flavors.
The Queen pizza, scattered with mozzarella, basil, and tomato, is essential for purists. For something adventurous, try the Stun Dunn, with smoked mozzarella and hot honey. Every bite speaks to Milkflower’s playful spirit and devotion to quality.
5. Tufino Pizzeria
Tufino Pizzeria hides on Ditmars Boulevard but doesn’t stay a secret for long. My last visit left a mark—the space hums with laughter and the unmistakable scent of dough meeting open flame. Pizzas arrive with an airy crust and a rustic finish that feels like Naples made a detour through Queens.
What makes Tufino shine is their devotion to authentic Neapolitan technique, but always with a local twist. The pizzaiolos stretch dough by hand, then top it with bright tomato sauce and creamy cheese that melts just right.
The Margherita stands as the signature, with flavors both simple and deep. For a kick, the Tartufo with mushrooms and truffle oil proves they’re not afraid to push a little further. These pies reflect Queens’ passion for melding heritage with creativity.
6. Piccolo Sogno
Piccolo Sogno feels like a small Italian dream tucked away in Flushing. Executive Chef Maurizio greets you not just with a menu, but genuine hospitality that draws you into each meal. My visit was marked by rich aromas and a dining room filled with both laughter and the clink of glasses.
What separates Piccolo Sogno from the pack is its careful attention to the ingredients—you taste the freshness in every bite, from vibrant sauces to the stretchy mozzarella.
Their Margherita offers the purest pizza experience, with the thinnest crust you’ll find this side of Naples. For something a touch different, try the Primavera, brimming with fresh vegetables. Piccolo Sogno’s pizzas feel homemade, yet impossibly refined, making it a favorite in Queens’ pizza scene.
7. Lucia Pizza
Lucia Pizza has anchored Flushing since 1962, and stepping inside feels a bit like returning to a favorite family gathering. The staff remember faces, and the warm welcome is as much a part of the visit as the savory aroma from the ovens. My last trip here was all about comfort, conversation, and classic slices.
The beauty of Lucia Pizza lies in its unwavering devotion to tradition—no gimmicks, just consistently delicious, hot pies. There’s a nostalgia built into every bite, thanks to recipes honed over decades.
The plain cheese slice is a must and perfectly captures the spot’s old-school appeal. If you want to taste a house specialty, go for the veggie pie—fresh toppings shine, and you get a sense of Lucia’s standards in every forkful.
8. Andrew Bellucci’s Pizzeria
Andrew Bellucci’s Pizzeria feels like a love letter to pizza crafted right on 30th Ave. The energy here is magnetic, with Andrew himself often at the oven, flour-dusted and grinning as he pulls golden pies for regulars and newcomers alike. My last visit had me trading stories with strangers over a shared slice.
The pizzeria stands out for Andrew’s passion—he’s a true craftsman, chasing the perfect crust and balance of flavors every day. The dough is fermented just long enough for that deep flavor, and every ingredient feels handpicked.
Order the classic Margherita or the White Pie for a real taste of Bellucci’s style. The balance of creamy cheese, subtle sauce, and crisp dough shows why Andrew’s reputation stretches citywide.
9. Margherita Pizza Incorporated
Margherita Pizza Incorporated on Jamaica Ave feels timeless, with a buzzing counter and pizza boxes stacked high, ready for another lunch rush. I remember grabbing a slice between subway stops and marveling at how a simple pie could feel so satisfying yet effortless. There’s no fuss here—just the steady rhythm of dough and sauce coming together for decades.
The real appeal lies in consistency and honest flavor—every crust comes out just crisp enough, and the cheese-to-sauce ratio never disappoints. The atmosphere is pure, classic Queens: friendly, quick, and genuinely inviting.
Go for their namesake Margherita slice. It’s not just in the name; it’s a proven crowd-pleaser, letting the freshness of the ingredients shine. You’ll leave with that perfect combo of full stomach and good mood.
10. Rosa’s Pizza
+1 718-446-5910
Rosa’s Pizza in Maspeth is the kind of place where the sound of the oven door is as familiar as small talk at the counter. I stopped in one late afternoon; the crowd moved fast, but nobody left without a smile and a warm box in hand. It’s a fixture in the neighborhood, known for honest food and reliable service.
Rosa’s makes a name for itself with light, foldable slices and a crust that delivers just the right amount of chew. The sauce always tastes bright, not overly sweet, and pairs perfectly with a generous layer of cheese.
The plain slice is classic, but the Sicilian stands out—thick, hearty, and golden around the edges. Each bite reminds you why Rosa’s keeps regulars coming back.
More Things to Try in Queens, NY
Frequently Asked Questions
What style of pizza is Queens known for?
Queens pizzerias serve a wide variety, but the classic New York thin crust and Sicilian square slices get top billing. No matter your preference, you’ll find both old-school and creative styles.
Are there halal or vegetarian pizza options in Queens?
Yes, many pizzerias in Queens offer vegetarian and halal-friendly choices. Options like Margherita, veggie-loaded pies, and custom builds are common at most reputable spots.
Which pizza place in Queens is a must-visit for first-timers?
New Park Pizzeria and Nick’s Pizza often top the list for first-time pizza lovers. Both serve classic slices that reflect authentic local flavor and tradition.
Can I get gluten-free or vegan pizza in Queens?
Several spots, including Manetta’s Ristorante and Milkflower, offer gluten-free crusts and vegan-friendly toppings. You won’t have trouble finding something to suit your diet needs.
Do Queens pizzerias offer delivery and takeout?
Almost all pizzerias in Queens provide delivery and takeout. Many also have online ordering through their websites or popular delivery apps, making a hot pie just a few clicks away.