Hidden Gems of New York City Pizza: Exploring the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Pizzerias

New York City is synonymous with pizza, and while it's easy to know the famous chain spots like Sbarro, Grimaldis, and Patsy's, many lesser-known pizzerias hidden in corners across the city offer some of the best slices. In this article, we'll explore some of the coolest, tastiest, and most unique places to enjoy pizza in NYC that go beyond the typical chain favorites.

Brooklyn’s Hidden Gem: Pizza Time in Midwood

If you're in Brooklyn, you might want to venture into Midwood to visit Pizza Time. This pizzeria, located at 1490 Knickerbocker Ave, Midwood, Brooklyn, is a bit off the main tourist route, and it's known for its fantastic original slice. While they don't have every classic topping, their Original Slice is absolutely FABULOUS. It's a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious, authentic New York experience that doesn't involve waiting in long lines or worrying about the price.

Original Pizzerias: Patsy's and Totonno's

When it comes to New York City's oldest and most iconic pizzerias, you'll want to check out Patsy's Pizzeria located at 2287 First Ave, East Harlem, and Totonno's Pizzeria at Coney Island. These locations are among the first four pizzerias in New York City and are famous for their coal oven pizzas. Patsy's offers a small slice for just $1.50, making it a great value for those wanting a genuine taste of New York City pizza. Totonno's, on the other hand, provides a classic, simple experience with high-quality ingredients and a traditional, well-baked pizza that's true to form.

Williamsburg’s Best: Tony’s and Enzo’s

For a slice of true Brooklyn pizza, head over to Tony’s Pizza in Williamsburg. This place is a hidden treasure, with a focus on quality and taste. Enzo’s Pizza, located at 1490 Knickerbocker Ave, Brooklyn, is highly recommended for its excellent weekday pizza, but be cautious during the weekends as the quality can vary. During the week, it's a solid choice for those seeking a great pizza in Williamsburg. However, it's advisable to reach out and confirm the quality as it can vary depending on the day and chef.

Exploring Beyond Chains

While famous chain pizza places like Domino’s and Papa John’s do exist in NYC, it's often the stand-alone pizzerias that truly stand out. These smaller, independent spots can offer a much more authentic experience, and in many cases, they blow away the chain restaurants. The sheer number of pizza spots in New York City ensures that local owners have a competitive edge—a huge market means that if they don’t provide quality and value, they'll likely go out of business.

So, the next time you're in NYC, look beyond the famous and commercial spots. Venture into the lesser-known areas, where you'll find some of the best pizza the city has to offer. From the original slice of Pizza Time in Midwood to the coal oven magic of Totonno's in Coney Island, there are many hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Enjoy the journey, and don't pass up the opportunity to taste the true flavors of New York City's legendary pizza scene.