The Upper East Side, known for its elegance and upscale living, also boasts a surprisingly diverse pizza scene. Forget the tired stereotypes; this isn't just about thin crusts and fancy toppings. From classic New York slices to creative gourmet pies, the neighborhood offers something for every pizza lover. This guide dives deep into 14 of the best pizza places, ensuring your next Upper East Side pizza adventure is a delicious one. We'll cover everything from the quintessential NY slice to innovative takes on the beloved dish.
Finding Your Perfect Upper East Side Pizza Slice: A Guide to 14 Exceptional Spots
Choosing the right pizza place can be overwhelming. To help you navigate the Upper East Side's pizza landscape, we've categorized our picks to suit different tastes and preferences. This will make finding your next pizza craving simple and enjoyable.
Classic New York Style Pizza
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Joe's Pizza: A New York institution, Joe's Pizza is a must-try for those seeking a taste of authentic NYC pizza. Their large, foldable slices are legendary, characterized by their crisp crust and generous toppings. Expect a queue, but it's worth the wait.
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Paulie Gee's: While technically in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Paulie Gee's deserves a mention for its exceptional pizza. They offer a creative take on classic Neapolitan-style pies with unique and high-quality ingredients. It's a bit further afield but worth the trip for the experience.
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Sotto: Sotto offers a refined Neapolitan pizza experience. Their pizzas, cooked in a wood-fired oven, have a beautifully charred crust and fresh, high-quality toppings. Be prepared to spend a bit more for this higher-end option.
Gourmet and Creative Pizza
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Pizzeria Bianco: Although famous for their Arizona locations, their NYC outpost offers excellent, unique pizzas. They feature creative toppings and a focus on high quality ingredients that elevates the pizza experience.
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Lilia: Lilia, a celebrated Italian restaurant, also offers stunning pizzas. Their thin-crust pies feature simple, high-quality ingredients and are cooked to perfection in a wood-fired oven. While their pizzas are pricey, they are a luxurious treat.
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Emily: This Brooklyn-based pizzeria has expanded to the Upper East Side, offering delicious, creative pizzas with unique flavor combinations. Their pizzas are known for their intriguing toppings and beautifully blistered crusts.
Casual and Convenient Pizza Options
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Artichoke Basille's Pizza: Famous for its artichoke pizza, this casual spot offers a quick and satisfying pizza experience. If you're looking for something different and delicious, this is a must-try.
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2 Bros Pizza: Known for its generous slices and late-night hours, 2 Bros Pizza is a popular choice for a late-night snack or a casual meal. This is perfect if you want a cheap and cheerful pizza option.
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Via Emilia: This charming restaurant offers thin-crust pizzas with Italian ingredients. Expect excellent flavor combinations and fresh, high-quality toppings at a mid-range price point.
Unique Pizza Experiences
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Prince Street Pizza: Another Brooklyn transplant, Prince Street Pizza is known for its thick, Sicilian-style slices. A substantial and satisfying experience for those who appreciate hearty pizza.
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Grimaldi's Pizzeria: Famous for its coal-fired pizzas, Grimaldi's offers a distinct taste and texture to their pies. Be prepared to wait in line, but the experience is worth it.
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Lucali: Though requiring a trek across the borough, Lucali's reputation precedes it. Their traditional coal-fired pizzas are simple yet extraordinary. It's a pizza pilgrimage many consider well worth the effort.
Beyond the Slice: Upscale Pizza Options
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The Smith: This popular restaurant serves up delicious pizzas in a lively atmosphere. They offer a variety of topping options and the overall experience is far more upscale than your average pizzeria.
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J.G. Melon: A long-standing Upper East Side institution, J.G. Melon is more renowned for its burgers but their pizza is also a worthwhile experience.
Choosing Your Perfect Pizza Experience on the Upper East Side
The Upper East Side offers a surprising array of pizza options, catering to various tastes and budgets. Whether you're craving a classic New York slice, a gourmet creation, or a casual bite, this guide should help you find your perfect pizza match. Remember to factor in price point, atmosphere, and your preferred pizza style when making your selection. Your Upper East Side pizza adventure awaits!
Table 1: Upper East Side Pizza Comparison
| Pizza Place | Style | Price Range | Atmosphere | Signature Dish |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joe's Pizza | Classic NY | $ | Casual | Classic Cheese Slice |
| Paulie Gee's | Neapolitan | $$ | Upscale Casual | Regina Pizza |
| Sotto | Neapolitan | $$ | Upscale | Margherita |
| Pizzeria Bianco | Creative | $$ | Upscale | Rosa Pizza |
| Lilia | Neapolitan | $$ | Upscale | Roasted Garlic Pizza |
| Emily | Creative | $$ | Casual | Classic Margherita |
| Artichoke Basille's | Artichoke | $ | Casual | Artichoke Pizza |
| 2 Bros Pizza | Classic NY | $ | Casual | Pepperoni Slice |
| Via Emilia | Thin Crust Italian | $ | Casual | Prosciutto e Funghi Pizza |
| Prince Street Pizza | Sicilian | $ | Casual | Sicilian Slice |
| Grimaldi's Pizzeria | Coal-Fired | $$ | Casual | Cheese Pizza |
| Lucali | Coal-Fired | $$ | Casual | Classic Cheese Pizza |
| The Smith | Gourmet | $$ | Upscale Casual | Roasted Vegetable Pizza |
| J.G. Melon | Casual/Upscale | $$ | Upscale Casual | Their pizza is a hidden gem |
($ = Inexpensive, $ = Moderate, $$ = Expensive, $$ = Very Expensive)
This comprehensive guide provides a starting point for your pizza journey on the Upper East Side. Happy eating!
