The Upper West Side boasts a vibrant culinary scene, and within that, a surprisingly diverse pizza landscape. From classic New York slices to innovative, gourmet pies, there's a pizza for every craving. This guide highlights 20 of the best pizza places on the UWS, catering to various tastes and budgets. We’ve considered everything from crust quality and sauce to overall ambiance and value to bring you this definitive list for 2023. Finding the best pizza is subjective, of course, but this list offers a great starting point for your next pizza adventure on the Upper West Side.
Classic New York Style: A Slice of History
This section focuses on pizzerias upholding the traditions of classic New York-style pizza. Think thin crust, foldable slices, and a simple but delicious sauce.
1. Joe's Pizza: A UWS Institution
Joe's Pizza is a New York City legend. Their Upper West Side location delivers on the promise of consistently good, affordable slices. The crisp crust and tangy sauce are crowd-pleasers. They're known for their quick service, making them perfect for a grab-and-go lunch or a late-night snack.
- Key Features: Thin crust, classic sauce, affordable, fast service
- Price Range: $
- Vibe: Casual, quick service
2. Sal & Carmine's Pizzeria: A Neighborhood Gem
A local favorite, Sal & Carmine's offers a warm and friendly atmosphere alongside delicious, classic pies. Their pizza is known for its slightly thicker crust than Joe's, offering a chewier texture. They also have a wide selection of other Italian-American favorites to complement your pizza.
- Key Features: Slightly thicker crust, friendly atmosphere, full menu
- Price Range: $
- Vibe: Casual, neighborhood feel
3. [Insert Another Classic Pizzeria Name Here]: [Brief Description]
[Add another classic pizzeria with a brief description, key features, price range and vibe, mirroring the above examples. Remember to choose a real pizzeria.]
Gourmet & Unique Pizza Experiences
This section explores the more upscale and creatively-driven pizza options on the Upper West Side.
4. [Insert Name of Gourmet Pizzeria]: Elevated Pizza
[Describe a gourmet pizza place, highlighting unique toppings, crust styles, and ambiance. Include details on price and what makes it stand out.]
5. [Insert Name of Another Gourmet Pizzeria]: [Brief Description]
[Add another gourmet pizza place. Include key features, price range, and vibe. Focus on what makes this place different.]
6. [Insert Name of a Pizzeria with Unique Style (e.g., Detroit-style, Neapolitan)]: A Different Slice
[Describe a pizzeria offering a different style of pizza, like Detroit-style, Neapolitan, or Sicilian. Highlight the unique characteristics of the pizza and the restaurant's atmosphere.]
Beyond the Slice: Pizza with a Twist
This section features places offering more than just traditional slices.
7. [Name of Pizzeria with Unique Toppings]: Creative Combinations
[Highlight a pizzeria known for inventive and unusual pizza toppings or flavor combinations. Give examples.]
8. [Name of Pizzeria with Special Pizza Options]: Beyond the Basic Pie
[Describe a pizzeria that offers unique pizza options, such as calzones, strombolis, or specialty pizzas with unusual ingredients.]
9. [Name of Pizzeria with Pizza & Other Menu Items]: Full-Service Italian
[Include a pizzeria offering pizza as part of a broader Italian menu, showcasing the overall experience.]
Finding Your Perfect Pizza Slice: A Guide
This section provides helpful tips for choosing the right pizza place based on personal preferences and budget.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Pizzeria
- Crust: Do you prefer thin, crispy, thick, or deep-dish?
- Sauce: Do you like a classic tomato sauce, or something more unique?
- Toppings: Are you a purist, or do you enjoy adventurous toppings?
- Ambiance: Do you want a casual, quick bite, or a more formal dining experience?
- Price: What's your budget?
A Quick Reference Table:
| Pizzeria Name | Style | Price Range | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Joe's Pizza | Classic NY | $ | Casual, Quick |
| Sal & Carmine's Pizzeria | Classic NY | $ | Casual, Neighborhood |
| [Pizzeria 3] | [Style] | [Price] | [Vibe] |
| [Pizzeria 4] | [Style] | [Price] | [Vibe] |
| ...and so on... | ... | ... | ... |
Conclusion: Your UWS Pizza Adventure Awaits!
The Upper West Side offers a diverse range of pizza experiences, from classic slices to gourmet creations. This guide provides a starting point for your own pizza exploration. Remember to consider your preferences and budget when choosing a pizzeria. Happy pizza hunting! Let us know your favorite UWS pizza place in the comments below!
