Hey pizza lovers! If you're wandering around Midtown Manhattan with a craving for that perfect slice of New York pizza, you're in luck. Midtown is packed with fantastic pizzerias, from classic joints serving up traditional Neapolitan pies to modern spots putting a unique spin on this beloved dish. I'm here to guide you through the maze of options and help you find the absolute best pizza in Midtown Manhattan. Get ready to treat your taste buds!

What Makes New York Pizza Special?

Before diving into specific recommendations, let's chat about what makes New York pizza so special. What is that "je ne sais quoi"? It's not just the ingredients but also the centuries of tradition that have been honed to perfection! Many would argue that it's all about the water. New York City's water supply is naturally soft, which many believe contributes to the perfect dough. The dough is usually made with high-gluten flour, giving it that characteristic chewiness and crispness. The sauce is typically simple, made with ripe tomatoes, a touch of garlic, and herbs. Of course, the cheese is a crucial component, and most pizzerias use a blend of mozzarella and sometimes provolone for that perfect melt and stretch. But beyond the ingredients, it’s the oven, the technique, and the passion that truly make a New York slice stand out. A proper New York pizza is cooked in a high-temperature oven, often coal-fired, which imparts a slightly smoky flavor and creates those coveted charred spots on the crust. The pizza is then expertly sliced into large, foldable pieces, perfect for eating on the go. Eating a slice of New York pizza is more than just a meal; it’s a cultural experience, a taste of history, and a true New York moment. Each bite encapsulates the energy and vibrancy of the city itself. So, when you’re searching for the best pizza in Midtown, remember you're not just looking for food but an authentic New York experience.

Top Pizza Spots in Midtown Manhattan

Okay, let's get down to the real reason you're here: finding the best pizza in Midtown. I've scoured the area, sampled countless slices, and compiled a list of my absolute favorite spots. Each of these pizzerias brings something unique to the table, but they all share a commitment to quality and a passion for making great pizza. Get ready to explore the culinary landscape of Midtown, one delicious slice at a time.

1. Joe's Pizza

Joe's Pizza is a Greenwich Village institution that has expanded to Midtown, bringing its classic, no-frills New York slices to a wider audience. When you talk about iconic New York pizza, Joe's is always part of the conversation. The Midtown location maintains the same commitment to quality and tradition that has made the original so beloved. The pizza here is simple, focusing on the essentials: a thin, crispy crust, a tangy tomato sauce, and perfectly melted mozzarella. There are no fancy toppings or gourmet ingredients, just pure, unadulterated pizza perfection. What sets Joe's apart is the consistency and the quality of their ingredients. Each slice is made with care and attention to detail, ensuring that every bite is as good as the last. The crust has that perfect balance of crispness and chewiness, providing a sturdy base for the flavorful toppings. The sauce is bright and acidic, complementing the richness of the cheese. And the mozzarella is always fresh and creamy, creating that signature New York pizza pull. Joe's is the perfect spot for a quick lunch, a late-night snack, or any time you're craving a classic New York slice. It's a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of Midtown and enjoy a simple, satisfying meal. Don't expect anything fancy here; the focus is on the pizza, and that's exactly how it should be. It's a must-visit for any pizza lover in Midtown.

2. NY Pizza Suprema

NY Pizza Suprema is another contender for the title of best pizza in Midtown. Located near Penn Station, this spot is a favorite among commuters and locals alike. They're known for their Sicilian slices. This pizzeria has been serving up delicious pizza for decades, and they've perfected the art of the New York slice. What makes NY Pizza Suprema stand out is their dedication to using high-quality ingredients and their commitment to traditional pizza-making techniques. Their crust is made fresh daily, using a blend of high-gluten flour and a secret ingredient that gives it a unique flavor and texture. The sauce is made from vine-ripened tomatoes, and the cheese is a blend of mozzarella and provolone, creating a rich and flavorful topping. But the real star of the show at NY Pizza Suprema is their Sicilian slice. This thick, square slice is baked in a pan and topped with a generous amount of sauce and cheese. The crust is crispy on the outside and soft and doughy on the inside, creating a delightful contrast of textures. The sauce is rich and flavorful, and the cheese is perfectly melted and browned. The Sicilian slice at NY Pizza Suprema is a meal in itself, and it's a must-try for anyone who loves pizza. In addition to their Sicilian slice, NY Pizza Suprema also offers a variety of other pizzas, including classic New York slices, white pizza, and specialty pies. No matter what you order, you can be sure that it will be made with the same care and attention to detail that has made NY Pizza Suprema a Midtown favorite. This pizza is definitely worth the wait.

3. Lombardi's Pizza

Okay, so technically, Lombardi's isn't directly in Midtown, but it's worth the short trip to Little Italy. It is considered America's first pizzeria, and it’s still serving up some of the best coal-fired pizza in the city. Founded in 1905, Lombardi's has a long and storied history, and they've been perfecting their pizza-making techniques for over a century. What makes Lombardi's so special is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients and their traditional coal-fired oven. The oven gives the pizza a unique smoky flavor and creates a crispy, charred crust that is unlike anything else you'll find in the city. The sauce is made from San Marzano tomatoes, and the cheese is fresh mozzarella, creating a simple but flavorful topping. The pizzas at Lombardi's are cooked to perfection, with a crispy crust, a slightly charred exterior, and a gooey, melted cheese topping. They're served whole, so you can share them with friends or family. If you decide to go with friends, that means more pizza for you! In addition to their classic pizzas, Lombardi's also offers a variety of specialty pies, including their clam pizza, which is a local favorite. The pizza is topped with fresh clams, garlic, oregano, and a drizzle of olive oil. The clams are cooked to perfection, and the garlic adds a pungent flavor that complements the sweetness of the clams. Lombardi's is a must-visit for any pizza lover in New York City. It's a place where you can experience the history of pizza and enjoy some of the best coal-fired pizza in the world. Be prepared for a wait, as Lombardi's is a popular spot, but trust me, it's worth it.

4. Don Antonio

For a modern take on Neapolitan pizza, Don Antonio is the place to go. This Midtown spot is known for its creative toppings and its commitment to using high-quality ingredients. Don Antonio is owned and operated by world-renowned pizza chef Antonio Starita, who comes from a long line of pizza makers in Naples, Italy. Starita has brought his family's traditional pizza-making techniques to New York City, and he's created a menu of pizzas that are both authentic and innovative. What sets Don Antonio apart is their commitment to using high-quality ingredients, including San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and locally sourced produce. The pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired oven, which gives them a crispy crust and a slightly smoky flavor. The toppings are creative and flavorful, ranging from classic combinations like margherita and marinara to more unique options like the Montanara Starita, which is fried before being topped with sauce and cheese. The atmosphere at Don Antonio is modern and stylish, making it a great spot for a date night or a special occasion. The service is attentive and friendly, and the staff is always happy to recommend a pizza or a wine pairing. If you're looking for a unique and delicious pizza experience in Midtown, Don Antonio is the place to go.

Honorable Mentions

While the above spots are my top picks, Midtown has plenty of other great pizzerias worth checking out. Here are a few honorable mentions:

• Pizza by Certe: Known for its Roman-style pizza al taglio, offering a variety of toppings and flavors.
• Patzeria Perfect Pizza: This pizzeria is known for its high-quality ingredients and perfectly cooked pizzas.
• Rosa's Pizza: A classic spot serving up reliable and tasty New York slices.

Final Thoughts

Finding the best pizza in Midtown Manhattan can feel like a daunting task, but with this guide, you're well-equipped to embark on your own pizza adventure. Whether you're in the mood for a classic New York slice, a traditional Neapolitan pie, or something a little more adventurous, Midtown has something to offer every pizza lover. So go ahead, explore the neighborhood, try a few different spots, and discover your own favorite slice. And remember, the best pizza is the one that makes you happy! Happy eating, pizza fans!