The Ultimate NYC Pizza Crawl: 10 Must-Try Spots

Published on April 11, 2025

Ready for the ultimate NYC pizza crawl? New York City is the pizza capital of the world, with a slice on nearly every corner—but only the best make it onto this list of the best pizza in NYC. From iconic classics to hidden gems, we’ve mapped out a pizza crawl featuring 10 must-try spots that will satisfy your cravings and make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this crawl is the perfect way to experience NYC’s pizza culture, one delicious slice at a time. Grab your stretchy pants, tag your pizza-loving friends, and let’s hit the streets for a day of cheesy goodness! Plus, check out our NYC Pizza Near Me Directory to find even more spots to fuel your pizza obsession.

Why NYC Is the Pizza Capital of the World

NYC’s pizza legacy dates back to 1905 with the opening of Lombardi’s in Little Italy, often credited as America’s first pizzeria. Since then, the city has perfected every style—New York’s thin, foldable slices, Neapolitan pies with charred crusts, and Sicilian squares with a thick, doughy base. With thousands of pizzerias across the five boroughs, NYC offers a pizza experience like no other. This crawl takes you through Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the Bronx, hitting up legendary spots that have stood the test of time. Let’s dive into the best pizza in NYC with a crawl you’ll want to share with everyone!

The Ultimate NYC Pizza Crawl: 10 Must-Try Spots

Here’s your step-by-step guide to the NYC pizza crawl, featuring 10 iconic pizzerias that define the city’s pizza scene. Start in Manhattan and work your way through Brooklyn and the Bronx for a full day of pizza perfection.

Stop 1: Joe’s Pizza – Greenwich Village

Location: 7 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014

Kick off your crawl at Joe’s Pizza, a Greenwich Village institution since 1975. Known for its quintessential New York-style slices, Joe’s offers a thin, foldable crust with a perfect sauce-to-cheese ratio. A plain cheese slice here costs around $3 and is the ultimate quick bite. After your slice, explore more Village eats with the NYC Diners Directory.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Classic NYC slice, tourist-friendly location, and unbeatable value.
• Pro Tip: Cash only, so have some bills ready!

Stop 2: John’s of Bleecker Street – Greenwich Village

Location: 278 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014

Just a short walk from Joe’s, John’s of Bleecker Street has been serving coal-oven-fired pies since 1929. They don’t sell slices—only whole pies—so bring a friend to share a classic Margherita with its perfectly charred crust. Pies start at $18. After your meal, catch a comedy show nearby with the NYC Comedy Clubs Near Me Directory.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Historic coal-oven pizza and old-school NYC vibes.
• Pro Tip: Expect a wait—this spot is a local favorite!

Stop 3: Rubirosa – Nolita

Location: 235 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012

Head to Nolita for Rubirosa, a cozy Italian spot known for its Staten Island-style, crackery crust pies. Their vodka-sauce pizza is a fan favorite, starting at $20 for a small pie. The tie-dye pizza, with swirls of vodka and pesto sauces, is a must-try for something unique. After dining, explore vegan options nearby with the NYC Vegan Restaurants Near Me Directory.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Unique vodka-sauce pies and a charming atmosphere.
• Pro Tip: Make a reservation—this spot fills up fast.

Stop 4: Prince Street Pizza – Nolita

Location: 27 Prince St, New York, NY 10012

A few blocks away, Prince Street Pizza is famous for its “SoHo Square” Sicilian slice, loaded with tiny, thick-cut pepperoni cups. Slices start at $5, and the spicy kick makes it worth the hype. Be prepared for a line—it’s a viral favorite! After your slice, grab a coffee with the NYC Coffee Shops & Cafes Directory.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Viral Sicilian squares with a perfect spicy-sweet balance.
• Pro Tip: Arrive early to beat the lunch rush.

Stop 5: Scarr’s Pizza – Lower East Side

Location: 35 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002

Head to the Lower East Side for Scarr’s Pizza, a modern classic known for its house-milled flour that creates a light, airy crust. Their New York-style slices, starting at $4, are topped with organic ingredients, and the retro decor adds to the vibe. After your pizza, explore free activities with the NYC Free & Cheap Events Directory.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: House-milled flour and high-quality ingredients.
• Pro Tip: Try the pepperoni slice for a classic NYC experience.

Stop 6: L’Industrie Pizzeria – Williamsburg

Location: 254 S 2nd St, Brooklyn, NY 11211

Cross the bridge to Williamsburg for L’Industrie Pizzeria, a local favorite since 2015. Their thin-crust slices, starting at $4, are made with imported Italian ingredients like burrata and giant basil leaves. The Margherita with burrata is a crowd-pleaser. After your slice, explore Korean BBQ options with the NYC Best Korean BBQ Restaurants Near Me Directory.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Fresh ingredients and a perfect crust.
• Pro Tip: They have a West Village location if you’re staying in Manhattan.

Stop 7: L&B Spumoni Gardens – Bensonhurst

Location: 2725 86th St, Brooklyn, NY 11223

Head deeper into Brooklyn to L&B Spumoni Gardens, a Bensonhurst staple since 1939. Their signature Sicilian-style square pies—dough, mozzarella, then sauce—start at $3.50 per slice. The outdoor seating is perfect for groups. After your pizza, relax at a nearby spa with the NYC Spa Clubs Near Me Directory.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Iconic Sicilian squares and a nostalgic vibe.
• Pro Tip: Don’t skip the spumoni dessert!

Stop 8: Di Fara Pizza – Midwood

Location: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230

Continue in Brooklyn to Di Fara Pizza in Midwood, a pilgrimage spot for pizza lovers since 1965. The family continues to craft New York-style slices with a crisp crust and fresh basil, starting at $5. It’s a bit of a trek, but the quality is worth it. After your visit, enjoy a classic diner meal with the NYC Diners Directory.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: A NYC pizza legend with a storied history.
• Pro Tip: Be prepared for a wait—it’s a popular spot.

Stop 9: Zero Otto Nove – The Bronx

Location: 2357 Arthur Ave, Bronx, NY 10458

Head to the Bronx’s Little Italy for Zero Otto Nove, known for its Neapolitan-style pies with decadent, crispy crusts. Pies start at $15, and the cozy outdoor courtyard makes it a perfect stop. After your meal, explore outdoor dining options with the NYC Outdoor Dining Directory.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Authentic Neapolitan pizza in the heart of the Bronx.
• Pro Tip: No reservations, so arrive early to avoid a wait.

Stop 10: Sal & Carmine’s Pizza – Upper West Side

Location: 2671 Broadway, New York, NY 10025

End your crawl back in Manhattan at Sal & Carmine’s Pizza on the Upper West Side, a classic spot since 1959. Their New York-style slices, starting at $3.50, offer a perfect balance of crust, sauce, and cheese. It’s the ideal way to wrap up your pizza adventure. After your slice, unwind at a rooftop bar with the NYC Rooftop Bars and Happy Hours Directory.

• Why It’s a Must-Try: Classic NYC slices with a neighborhood feel.
• Pro Tip: Try the pepperoni for a little extra kick.

Explore More Pizza with Our Directory

Can’t get enough of the best pizza in NYC? Our NYC Pizza Near Me Directory is your go-to resource for finding more iconic pizzerias and hidden gems across the city. Whether you’re craving a quick slice or a sit-down pie, this directory has you covered.

Tips for the Ultimate NYC Pizza Crawl

Here’s how to make your NYC pizza crawl a success:

• Start Early: Begin in the morning to hit all 10 spots without rushing—pizza waits for no one!
• Share Slices: Bring friends to split slices or pies so you can try more without getting too full.
• Stay Prepared: Use the NYC Emergency Services & Healthcare Directory to ensure you’re ready for a full day of exploring.
• Play Pickleball Between Stops: Burn off some calories with a quick game using the NYC Pickleball Courts Near Me Directory.

Final Thoughts: Share Your NYC Pizza Crawl Adventure

The ultimate NYC pizza crawl is more than just a food tour—it’s a journey through NYC’s culinary history, from Joe’s classic slices to L’Industrie’s burrata-topped pies. These 10 must-try spots showcase the best pizza in NYC, and we can’t wait for you to experience them. Share your pizza crawl adventure on social media, tag your friends, and let us know your favorite stop! Use our directories to plan your day—whether it’s more pizza, a rooftop drink, or a relaxing spa visit, NYC has it all.

Which spot on this crawl is your favorite? Drop your thoughts in the comments below, and follow us on Twitter/X for more NYC foodie guides!