The Upper West Side boasts a surprisingly diverse pizza scene, ranging from classic New York slices to innovative, gourmet pies. Finding the best pizza is subjective, of course, but this comprehensive guide highlights 20 top contenders, catering to various tastes and budgets. We've considered factors like crust quality, sauce flavor, cheese selection, overall value, and customer reviews to bring you this definitive list. Whether you crave a quick slice or a sit-down meal, this guide will help you navigate the UWS pizza landscape and find your perfect pie.
Classic New York Style
This category features pizzerias embodying the quintessential New York slice: thin crust, foldable, and often served by the slice.
Joe's Pizza
- Why it's great: A UWS institution, Joe's Pizza is known for its consistently delicious, classic New York slices. The simple, yet perfectly executed pie is a testament to the power of tradition. Their large, foldable slices are perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch.
- What to order: A classic cheese slice, or try their pepperoni for a spicy kick.
Sal & Carmine's Pizzeria
- Why it's great: This family-owned spot offers a no-frills approach to pizza perfection. Their thin crust is crispy, the sauce is tangy, and the cheese is perfectly melted. A true neighborhood gem.
- What to order: The Sicilian slice is a must-try for a heartier option.
Emily
- Why it's great: While technically more of a gourmet pizza place, Emily's still captures the essence of a great New York slice with a refined touch. Their exceptional ingredients elevate the classic style.
- What to order: The classic Margherita is a beautiful example of simplicity done right.
Gourmet & Creative Pizzas
This section features pizzerias pushing the boundaries of pizza creativity, using unique ingredients and techniques.
Pizzeria Lola
- Why it's great: Pizzeria Lola offers unique, wood-fired pizzas with creative topping combinations. They source high-quality ingredients, resulting in a flavor explosion in every bite.
- What to order: Their seasonal pizzas are always a great option, but the sausage and mushroom is a solid choice.
Lilia
- Why it's great: Lilia is a more upscale option known for its Neapolitan-style pizzas. Expect perfectly charred crusts and fresh, seasonal ingredients. Reservations are highly recommended.
- What to order: Their clam pizza is a highly-lauded favorite.
Paulie Gee's
- Why it's great: This popular spot serves up delicious, creative pizzas in a fun, lively atmosphere. Their pizzas are known for their unique flavor combinations.
- What to order: The Hellboy is a spicy favorite, but their rotating seasonal menu always has surprises.
Beyond the Slice: Unique Pizza Experiences
This section focuses on pizza places offering unique experiences, atmospheres, or styles beyond the traditional slice.
Via Emilia
- Why it's great: This Italian restaurant offers excellent pizzas in a refined, romantic setting. They're known for their excellent service and authentic Italian cuisine.
- What to order: Any of their classic Italian-style pizzas will be a treat.
Zabar's (Pizza Counter)
- Why it's great: A UWS landmark, Zabar's offers a surprisingly good pizza counter alongside their other offerings. Perfect for a quick, casual bite while shopping.
- What to order: Their classic cheese is a reliable option.
(Continue this format for the remaining 13 pizzerias. Remember to include a "Why it's great" section and a "What to order" suggestion for each.)
Finding Your Perfect Pizza Slice on the Upper West Side
This guide offers a starting point for exploring the vibrant pizza scene on the Upper West Side. Remember that taste is subjective, so explore, experiment, and discover your personal favorite pizza place. Don't hesitate to try different styles and toppings – you might just find your new go-to spot!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What's the best pizza for a quick lunch?
A: Joe's Pizza and Zabar's are great for grabbing a slice on the go.
Q: Where can I find a gourmet pizza experience?
A: Pizzeria Lola, Lilia, and Paulie Gee's offer creative, high-quality pizzas.
Q: What are some good options for families?
A: Sal & Carmine's and Via Emilia offer a more family-friendly atmosphere.
This expanded outline provides a more comprehensive structure for your blog post. Remember to include high-quality images and optimized alt text for each pizzeria to enhance the user experience and improve SEO. You can also expand on the "Why it's great" sections with more detail, customer reviews, or pricing information.
