It’s in the blood around here to produce the best pizza in the country. There’s some tough competition, but we’ve narrowed down our selection of the best pizza in New York and New Jersey, to these 10 impressive eateries. Whether you’re old-school or looking for something unique, or need gluten-free, or vegan, these pizzerias have a fantastic choice.
Brooklyn has a real gem with Juliana’s Pizza – it has classic and specialty pizzas cooked in a coal-fired oven by Patsy Grimaldi. Named after Patsy’s Italian grandmother, the recipes are traditional and super-tasty. Adding to the authenticity, they are closed every day for a half hour from 3.30-4pm in order to, literally, stoke the fire. We highly recommend the No 1 which is a delicious mix of mozzarella, scamorza, affumicata, pancetta, scallions and decadent white truffles.
Frequently hailed in the leading lists of the best pizza in the area, and with good reason, is Razza in New Jersey. This is a casual spot with an ambience of relaxation aided by the cheerful service and aroma of wood smoke. It’s impossible to pick out one particular pizza from their delicious offering, you’ll be happy with whatever you pick. Get here early, Razza is so popular that they don’t accept reservations.
On Carmine Street in New York, this may be a chain but they’ve got their wood-fired Neopolitan pizza recipes – made with the finest ingredients – just right. In fact, they only use Italian ingredients, which are certified as made in Italy – and you can taste it. The crusts here we’d describe as medium, and come with the perfect amount of topping. The staff here are friendly and relaxed and you can happily unwind over a mealtime. Don’t forget to finish off with the exquisite homemade tiramisu.
Big John’s Pizza in Bridgeton only needs a quiet look at their Facebook page to see that this place is raved about. People move back to the area simply for the pizza from Big John’s. Whatever your favorite toppings are, Big John’s are happy to cater for you. Taste it and see for yourself.
With its roots in an old family recipe, and still family-run in the heart of Nolita, Rubirosa is a cozy and homey eatery which serves amazing pizza matched by the fabulous antipasti served at the bar. Our favorite is the Bianca, which is a subtle delicious blend of ricotta, mozzarella, garlic and oregano.
Describing itself as a “humble, downtown” restaurant, there’s nothing humble about the divine food here. Yes, there’s far more than our favorite tomato pies, but we urge you to give the pizzas a go. They focus on provenance and seasonality, and with fancy toppings such as goathorn peppers, soppressata, speck and truffle oil, you know you’re in for a treat. We particularly rate the ‘Bosco’, perfect for vegetarians with fresh mozzarella, cremini mushrooms, fontina and parmigiana. Find Arturo’s in Maplewood. It’s small, its cozy, but definitely worth a trip.
Keste, literally meaning ‘this is it’ has definitely got it perfected, with its impressive authentic Neapolitan pizzas at their Wall Street restaurant. There’s no shortage of choice with 50 different offerings, and you can even watch live streaming of your pizza being made. Takeout is an option, but do take the time to dine here, with its Amalfi coast ceramics and airy feel, you really will feel like you’re closer to Naples than New York. Even better, there are some gluten-free options here if you need them.
In Robbinsville, Papa’s Tomato Pies have been ranked Number 1 in New Jersey, and 18th overall in the States the CBS and NBC. They also claim to be the oldest continuously open family-run pizza joint in the country, dating back to 1912. There are all the usual favorites here, but if you want to step out of your comfort zone and try something unique, then try the Mustard Pie: a crazy yet sublime tomato pie with a good hint of mustard running through. It works!
Founded in 1929, this is a family-run pizza restaurant still using the original coal-fired brick ovens to cook the hundreds of pizzas they produce daily. Inside is an old-school feel, with wooden booths matched with some easy music. It’s a simple menu but they do it immeasurably well.
Federici’s Family Italian Restaurant
We’re particularly taken with the glorious outdoor seating at their sidewalk café. This relaxed and informal restaurant serves incredible pizza that you can eat in or take out. It very much feels like a neighborhood trattoria, and this family-run restaurant has been serving pizza for over 93 years! They get fantastic reviews and even the odd award or two.
Getting to the Best Pizza in New York and New Jersey
The good news is that getting to any one of these incredible pizza joints is easy. Whether it’s date night, an evening with friends, or food en route to the prom, Bergen Limos can get you there. Pizza makes the perfect limo-friendly food if you want to enjoy a feast on your way to somewhere else, and we’ll always be happy to stop off. So, book your limo or your party bus and have fun with pizza on board! The best pizza in New York and New Jersey is waiting for you: we’ll deliver you there.