Hunting for that perfect slice or a whole pie in the Upper East Side can feel like a delicious quest. With so many options, pinpointing the true top-rated pizza Upper East Side NYC establishments requires a discerning palate and a bit of insider knowledge. Forget endlessly scrolling through reviews; we’re diving deep into the UES’s pizza scene to uncover the spots that consistently deliver, whether you’re craving a classic New York slice, an authentic Neapolitan masterpiece, or something entirely unique.
At a Glance
- Discover diverse pizza styles: From traditional New York and Neapolitan to Detroit and unique fusion pies.
- Match your mood and occasion: Find perfect spots for date nights, quick slices, family dinners, or adventurous eats.
- Navigate crusts and toppings: Understand what sets each UES pizzeria apart, from coal-fired crispness to thick, airy squares.
- Get specific menu recommendations: Know the standout orders that define each top spot.
- Learn practical tips: When to reserve, what to expect, and how to make the most of your pizza outing.
The UES Pizza Landscape: More Than Just a Slice
The Upper East Side’s culinary scene is famously varied, and its pizza offerings are no exception. From upscale, sit-down experiences ideal for a romantic evening to no-frills counters perfect for a grab-and-go lunch, the neighborhood serves up an impressive range. It’s not just about a "slice" here; it’s about understanding the craft, the style, and the distinct personality each pizzeria brings to the table. This guide cuts through the noise to highlight the places where quality, consistency, and a true passion for pizza shine through.
Masters of the Flame: Neapolitan and Wood-Fired Gems
For those who appreciate the blistered crust, fresh ingredients, and distinct smoky char that only a high-temperature oven can provide, the UES has some standout pizzerias specializing in Neapolitan or wood-fired styles.
San Matteo: Neapolitan Excellence for a Date Night
Opened in 2010, San Matteo on 81st Street has quickly become synonymous with authentic Neapolitan pizza. Their pies emerge from a wood-fired oven with a perfectly thin, pliable crust and a delightful, almost "soupy" middle that’s a hallmark of true Neapolitan style. The focus here is on quality ingredients – think creamy buffalo mozzarella and savory prosciutto. Their buffalo mozzarella and prosciutto pie is a particular highlight, delivering a robust depth of flavor that complements its delicate texture. Pair it with a selection from their robust wine list, and you have all the ingredients for a premier UES date night spot. The ambiance is charming, making it a place to linger and savor each bite.
Nick’s Pizza: Traditional Char in a Homey Setting
Nick’s Pizza is a go-to for those seeking traditional New York-style pizza with a distinct wood-fired char. The brick-and-wood ambiance creates a warm, homey feel that, combined with friendly service and satisfying food, makes it another excellent choice for a date night. Their thin-crust pies are consistently crispy, offering that satisfying crunch with every bite. Fresh ingredients are key, elevating classic combinations. It’s the kind of place where you feel comfortable settling in, enjoying a well-crafted pie, and perhaps a casual conversation with the staff.
Numero 28 Pizzeria: Authentic Neapolitan, With a Twist
Numero 28 on the UES brings authentic Neapolitan pizza to the forefront, cooked in a traditional wood-fired oven. They pride themselves on fresh ingredients and a perfectly chewy, slightly charred crust. While offering classic pies, Numero 28 is also known for its super-long, 6-foot-plus party pizzas – a unique and impressive option for larger gatherings or events. It’s a place that respects tradition but isn't afraid to add a fun, modern spin to the Neapolitan experience.
Little Luzzo’s: Cozy, Authentic Wood-Fired Pies
For a more intimate, cozy setting while still enjoying delicious wood-fired pizza, Little Luzzo’s is a fantastic choice. Their menu features popular choices like the classic Margherita and the spicier Diavola, both showcasing the rich flavors that come from a high-temperature oven and quality ingredients. It’s a neighborhood gem perfect for a casual dinner where the pizza is the star.
Angelo’s Pizza: Coal-Fired, Crispy Perfection
Angelo’s Pizza is a name often whispered among UES pizza connoisseurs for its mastery of coal-fired pies. The coal oven imparts a distinct smoky flavor and an unparalleled crispness to their thin-crust pizzas. Each pie boasts a perfectly charred edge and rich, flavorful toppings, making it a compelling choice for those who prioritize a truly distinctive crust texture and deep flavor profile.
Patsy's Pizzeria: A Slice of History, Coal-Fired Today
Originating in Harlem in 1933, Patsy's Pizzeria carries a significant legacy, with its UES location upholding the tradition of coal-oven excellence. More than just a pizzeria, it functions as a full Italian restaurant, yet its pizzas are the main draw. The original pie is lauded for the rich complexity of its dough, sauce, and cheese, all balanced on a famously thin crust with an ideal sauce-to-cheese ratio. This historical establishment, once a favorite of Frank Sinatra at its Harlem home, delivers a taste of authentic New York pizza history. It's a testament to enduring quality and the timeless appeal of a perfectly crafted, coal-fired pie.
Modern Innovations & Unique Styles
The Upper East Side isn't just about tradition; it also embraces pizzerias pushing boundaries with unique styles, creative toppings, and distinct dining concepts.
Emmy Squared: Detroit-Style Done Right
If you’re ready to venture beyond the round pie, Emmy Squared specializes in Detroit-style pizza, and it's a game-changer. Characterized by its square shape, thick, airy, and crispy crust (often caramelized cheese edges), and sauce on top, it’s a modern, trendy experience. This isn't a quick slice joint; it’s a destination for a sit-down meal. Expect a vibrant atmosphere and deeply satisfying pizza that’s rich and flavorful. Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends, as this spot is popular for a reason.
Williamsburg Pizza: Crispy, Creative, and Square Options
Bringing a Brooklyn vibe to the UES, Williamsburg Pizza offers a welcoming environment and friendly, efficient staff. This spot caters to fans of both ultra-crispy, crunchy thin crusts and a substantial, thicker grandma square-style pizza. They excel at high-quality, signature pies that creatively combine traditional and modern flavors. Don’t skip their garlic knots – they’re frequently praised and make an excellent accompaniment to any pie. It’s a place where you can find something for everyone, whether you prefer a classic pepperoni or a more inventive topping combination.
Saba’s Pizza: Kosher, Creative, and Surprisingly Delicious
Saba’s Pizza stands out as a dedicated Kosher pizza spot, but its appeal extends far beyond dietary needs. Their classic Margarita slice is simple yet distinguished by a perfectly balanced sweet and savory tomato sauce. For the adventurous, their unique falafel slice – topped with cucumbers, red onion, tomatoes, and falafel – is unexpectedly delicious and a must-try. While seating is limited, making takeout a popular choice, Saba’s offers great, affordable pizza with creative twists that cater to both Kosher and Halal diners. It’s a genuinely unique find that offers something different from the typical UES pizza scene.
Two Boots: Where Italian Meets Cajun
For adventurous eaters seeking a pizza experience with a twist, Two Boots delivers a unique blend of Italian and Cajun flavors. Known for its vibrant, quirky atmosphere, this pizzeria offers creative toppings and unexpected combinations that are sure to spark conversation. It's a place to go when you're feeling experimental and want to explore pizza outside the traditional box.
Pizza Beach: Fun, Fresh, and Flavorsome
Pizza Beach brings a laid-back, beach-themed vibe to the UES, matched by its innovative pizza combinations. Their thin-crust pizzas are designed to be light and flavorful, featuring fresh, seasonal ingredients that change with the calendar. It’s a great spot for a casual meal with friends, offering a refreshing take on pizza that feels both familiar and exciting.
Zazzy’s Pizza: Health-Conscious and Flavorful
Zazzy’s Pizza takes a slightly different approach, emphasizing organic and locally-sourced ingredients. This focus allows them to deliver a health-conscious pizza experience without compromising on flavor. It's a testament that quality ingredients, mindfully sourced, can create incredibly delicious pies. If you prioritize freshness and natural flavors, Zazzy's is a compelling choice.
The Everyday Heroes: Classic Slices and Neighborhood Staples
Sometimes, you just need a reliable, classic slice or a comforting neighborhood pie. The UES has a strong lineup of pizzerias that excel at delivering that quintessential New York pizza experience.
Famous Famiglia Pizzeria: Your Go-To for a Greasy Slice
When the craving hits for that classic, unapologetically greasy cheese slice and a cold beverage, Famous Famiglia Pizzeria is your reliable haven. This family-business atmosphere, combined with its convenient location, makes it a true neighborhood staple. You’ll find simple, flavorful pies that offer excellent value, with cheese slices typically around $3. It's the kind of place where you can quickly grab a consistent, satisfying bite without any fuss.
Mariella Pizza: Simple, Unfussy, and Consistently Good
Mariella Pizza delivers on simple, unfussy pies that hit the spot every time. Their cheese slice is often highlighted as a particular favorite – a testament to the power of getting the basics perfectly right. With a variety of pies available, it’s easy to mix and match slices to create your ideal quick meal. Mariella’s is about straightforward, delicious pizza done well.
Don Filippo: A UES Favorite for Four Decades
Don Filippo has been a beloved UES favorite for over forty years, serving up slices and combos ideal for an easy grab-and-go lunch. This enduring popularity speaks volumes about its consistent quality and neighborhood appeal. Noted for its soft dough and generous cheese, Don Filippo offers classic pies like Margherita, pepperoni, and meat lovers. Beyond pizza, they also make paninis, and their garlic knots are a highly recommended side order to complete your meal.
Delizia 92: Family-Friendly Comfort for Over 30 Years
A local favorite for more than three decades, Delizia 92 offers comforting Italian cuisine perfect for dining in or takeout. Their Margherita pie is a standout, as is their scrumptious grandma slice, which boasts a fluffy crust and perfectly melted cheese. Beyond pizza, they also serve other Italian dishes like chicken parm, making it a versatile and welcoming spot for family meals where quality ingredients and a warm atmosphere are priorities.
Salvo’s Pizzabar: Laid-Back Slices and Beers
Established in 2012, Salvo’s Pizzabar offers a laid-back experience that blends a traditional pizza parlor with a sports bar vibe. It's a great spot to grab quick slices or a full pie, especially enjoyable if you're looking for a casual meal and maybe want to take your slices down by the East River on a sunny day. Their relaxed atmosphere and focus on good pizza and beer make it a local favorite for an easygoing meal.
Explore neighborhood pizza guides to understand how different regions influence pizza styles, from New York's iconic slices to the authentic Neapolitan pies and regional specialties like Detroit-style found right here in the UES.
Giacomo’s Pizza and Restaurant: Family-Owned Specialties
Giacomo’s Pizza and Restaurant is a family-owned establishment cherished for its thin-crust pizzas and exceptionally friendly service. They offer a diverse selection of specialty pies, with their vodka slice and thick-crust grandma slice frequently recommended. It’s a place where tradition meets creativity, providing a satisfying pizza experience in a welcoming, community-focused environment.
Roma Pizza: Traditional Italian with a New York Heart
Roma Pizza serves up traditional Italian pies infused with a distinct New York twist. Their commitment to quality is evident in their hand-tossed dough and homemade sauces, which form the foundation of every delicious pizza. It's a reliable spot for those who appreciate the classic flavors of Italian pizza, crafted with the energy and style of NYC.
Italian Village: Cozy Atmosphere, Classic Selection
Italian Village provides a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, making it an inviting spot for any meal. They boast a wide selection of pizzas, with their classic Margherita and hearty Sicilian pies being particularly popular choices. It's the kind of place where you can enjoy a comforting, well-made pizza in a relaxed setting, perfect for gathering with loved ones.
Your UES Pizza Playbook: Choosing Your Perfect Slice
With such a diverse array of options, knowing how to navigate the UES pizza scene can enhance your experience. Here’s a quick guide to matching the right pizzeria to your needs.
Matching Your Pizza to Your Occasion
- Date Night: For a romantic or special evening, consider San Matteo or Nick's Pizza. Both offer excellent ambiance, quality ingredients, and a sit-down experience conducive to conversation.
- Quick Slice & Grab-and-Go: When time is of the essence or you just need a classic fix, head to Famous Famiglia Pizzeria, Mariella Pizza, Don Filippo, or Salvo’s Pizzabar. These spots excel at efficient service and satisfying single slices.
- Family Meal: Delizia 92 and Italian Village are excellent choices for families, offering a welcoming atmosphere, a range of Italian dishes, and pizzas that appeal to all ages.
- Unique Pizza Adventure: If you’re craving something different, Emmy Squared (Detroit-style), Saba’s Pizza (Kosher, falafel slice), or Two Boots (Italian-Cajun fusion) will provide a memorable and distinct experience.
- Sit-Down Dinner with Friends: Emmy Squared, San Matteo, Williamsburg Pizza, or Numero 28 offer the space and menu to enjoy a full pizza dinner with company.
Navigating Different Pizza Styles
Understanding the basic styles can help you choose more wisely:
- New York Style: Characterized by a large, thin, hand-tossed crust that’s crispy yet foldable. Often cooked in a deck oven. Examples: Nick's, Patsy's, Famous Famiglia, Mariella, Don Filippo, Giacomo's, Roma.
- Neapolitan Style: Originating from Naples, Italy, these pizzas are traditionally cooked in a wood-fired oven at very high temperatures. They have a soft, chewy, thin crust with a slightly charred, airy edge (cornicione) and often a "soupy" center. Examples: San Matteo, Numero 28, Little Luzzo’s.
- Detroit Style: A square or rectangular pizza with a thick, airy, focaccia-like crust. It's typically baked in a deep pan, often with cheese spread to the edges, creating a caramelized, crispy "frico" crust. Sauce is sometimes applied on top after baking. Example: Emmy Squared.
- Grandma Style: A rectangular, thinner-crust pizza than Sicilian, often baked in an olive oil-coated pan, leading to a crispy bottom. It typically features cheese first, then dollops of crushed tomato sauce, and is baked until golden. Examples: Delizia 92, Williamsburg Pizza (square style), Giacomo's (thick crust grandma).
- Coal-Fired Pizza: Uses a coal oven for intense, dry heat, resulting in a very crispy, often slightly blistered and smoky crust with a distinctive texture. Examples: Patsy’s Pizzeria, Angelo’s Pizza.
Pro Tips for Your UES Pizza Adventure
- Reservations Can Save You Time: For popular, sit-down spots like Emmy Squared or San Matteo (especially on weekends), calling ahead or booking online is a smart move to avoid a wait.
- Don't Dismiss Takeout: While some places offer great dine-in experiences, others like Saba's are perfectly suited for takeout, allowing you to enjoy their unique offerings at your leisure.
- Look Beyond the Pie: Many UES pizzerias, such as Williamsburg Pizza and Don Filippo, offer excellent garlic knots or other Italian sides that are absolutely worth adding to your order.
- Consider the Whole Menu: Places like Delizia 92 and Patsy's Pizzeria are full Italian restaurants that also happen to make amazing pizza. If part of your group wants pasta or another dish, these are ideal choices.
Quick Answers: Your UES Pizza FAQs
Q: What pizza styles can I find in the Upper East Side?
A: The Upper East Side boasts a wide array of pizza styles, including classic New York-style thin crusts, authentic Neapolitan pies (often wood-fired), thick and airy Detroit-style, crispy Grandma slices, and even coal-fired variations. You'll also find unique fusion options and Kosher pizzerias.
Q: Are there good pizza places for a date night on the UES?
A: Absolutely. San Matteo and Nick's Pizza are highly recommended for date nights, offering charming ambiance, excellent service, and delicious wood-fired or Neapolitan-style pizzas, often complemented by wine lists.
Q: Where can I get a quick, classic New York slice in the UES?
A: For a no-fuss, classic New York slice, head to Famous Famiglia Pizzeria, Mariella Pizza, Don Filippo, or Salvo’s Pizzabar. These spots are known for their consistent, flavorful, and often greasy (in the best way) grab-and-go options.
Q: Any unique or specialty pizza options in the Upper East Side?
A: Yes! Emmy Squared specializes in unique Detroit-style square pizzas with thick, crispy crusts. Saba’s Pizza offers a notable Kosher menu, including an unexpectedly delicious falafel slice. Two Boots blends Italian and Cajun flavors for adventurous toppings, and Williamsburg Pizza offers creative signature pies alongside their crispy and grandma-style crusts.
Q: Is it hard to find a good pizza place for families in the UES?
A: Not at all. Delizia 92 and Italian Village are excellent family-friendly options, offering comforting Italian cuisine, a welcoming atmosphere, and a variety of pizzas and other dishes that cater to all ages. Giacomo's Pizza and Restaurant is another family-owned spot with a great selection.
Your Next UES Pizza Adventure Awaits
The Upper East Side’s pizza scene is rich, varied, and genuinely exciting. Whether you’re a purist seeking a traditional New York slice, an aficionado craving the delicate char of a Neapolitan pie, or an adventurer ready for a Detroit-style square or a falafel-topped wonder, the UES delivers. Take this guide as your starting point, knowing that each recommendation comes from a deep appreciation for quality and flavor. Don't be afraid to try something new, revisit an old favorite, or embark on your own delicious exploration. Your perfect slice is out there, waiting to be discovered.