13 Classic New York Pizza Chains Keeping Tradition On The Menu

I love how New York pizza has shaped food culture in ways few dishes ever could.

This city built its reputation on coal-fired ovens, hand-tossed dough, and recipes passed down through generations.

Classic pizza chains continue honoring these traditions while serving millions of hungry customers every year.

Let me walk you through the legendary spots keeping authentic New York pizza alive today.

1. Lombardi’s

Opening its doors in 1905 makes this spot America’s very first pizzeria, and that history shows in every bite.

You’ll find it at 32 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, right in the heart of Little Italy.

Coal-fired ovens create a crispy crust with those signature charred bubbles that modern gas ovens just can’t replicate.

Each pie comes out with fresh mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and toppings arranged the old-fashioned way.

Families have been coming here for over a century, creating memories around checkered tablecloths.

The recipes haven’t changed much since the early 1900s, which is exactly how regulars like it.

I recommend arriving early on weekends because lines can stretch around the block.

2. Patsy’s Pizzeria

Founded back in 1933, this East Harlem legend helped define what New York pizza should taste like.

The original location sits at 2287 1st Ave, New York, NY 10035, still using the same coal-fired methods.

Thin crust is the star here, crispy enough to hold a fold but never too brittle.

Patsy’s introduced coal-oven cooking to countless imitators, but few match the original’s quality.

Regulars swear by the simple cheese slice, which lets the crust and sauce shine without distraction.

Decades of neighborhood loyalty prove that consistency matters more than trendy toppings.

I suggest trying a whole pie rather than slices to experience the full coal-fired effect.

3. Joe’s Pizza

Since 1975, this Greenwich Village icon has been serving slices to locals, tourists, and even celebrities passing through.

Located at 1435 Broadway, New York, NY 10018, it’s become a must-visit for anyone craving authentic street pizza.

Each slice arrives perfectly foldable, with just enough grease to leave that telltale spot on your paper plate.

Joe’s keeps things simple with classic toppings and a no-frills approach that focuses on quality ingredients.

The counter service moves fast, making it perfect for grabbing a quick lunch during busy workdays.

Many consider this the gold standard for New York-style pizza by the slice.

I always grab extra napkins because that first bite tends to drip deliciously.

4. Grimaldi’s Pizzeria

Nestled under the Brooklyn Bridge since 1990, this spot draws pizza lovers from around the world to its famous location.

You’ll find the original at 1 Front St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, with stunning waterfront views adding to the experience.

Coal-fired brick ovens produce pies with a distinctive char and smoky flavor that gas ovens simply can’t achieve.

The no-slice policy means you order whole pies, encouraging groups to share and savor together.

Fresh mozzarella and homemade sauce top every pizza, maintaining standards that built the restaurant’s reputation.

Lines form early and stay long, especially on weekends when tourists flock to the Brooklyn Bridge area.

I recommend visiting during off-peak hours to avoid the longest waits.

5. Juliana’s

Patsy Grimaldi returned to pizza-making in 2012, opening this gem right next door to his former establishment.

The address is 19 Old Fulton St, Brooklyn, NY 11201, just steps from the Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Neapolitan-style pies feature fresh mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes, cooked to perfection in coal-fired ovens.

Critics often debate whether this spot surpasses its famous neighbor, creating a friendly rivalry that benefits pizza lovers.

The atmosphere feels more intimate and refined compared to larger chain locations.

Each pie showcases careful attention to ingredient quality and proper cooking technique.

I find the margherita pizza here demonstrates exactly why simple combinations work best when executed properly.

6. Sal & Carmine’s Pizza

Operating continuously since 1959 gives this Upper West Side favorite serious street credibility among longtime New Yorkers.

The location at 2671 Broadway, New York, NY 10025 has been serving the neighborhood for over six decades.

Giant slices are the signature here, often requiring two hands to manage without folding.

Traditional recipes haven’t changed much through the years, which keeps regulars coming back generation after generation.

The casual atmosphere welcomes everyone from students to families looking for reliable, delicious pizza.

Prices remain reasonable despite the prime location and generous portion sizes.

I always order at least one slice more than I think I need because they’re that good.

7. John’s of Bleecker Street

Coal-fired ovens have been blazing at this Greenwich Village institution since 1929, creating perfectly charred crusts.

Located at 278 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014, it’s been a neighborhood anchor for nearly a century.

The whole-pie-only policy ensures every pizza comes out fresh from the oven at peak temperature.

Brick walls covered with decades of graffiti and signatures tell stories of countless satisfied customers.

Traditional toppings dominate the menu, though creative combinations occasionally make appearances as specials.

Cash-only payments keep things old-school and help maintain the authentic neighborhood vibe.

I suggest bringing friends because sharing a whole pie makes the experience even better.

8. Totonno’s

Brooklyn’s Coney Island has been home to this family-run treasure since 1924, making it one of the city’s oldest.

You’ll find it at 1524 Neptune Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224, still operated by descendants of the founder.

Limited hours and occasional closures make planning ahead essential, but the pizza rewards patient visitors.

Coal ovens produce pies with uneven charring that somehow tastes absolutely perfect every single time.

The small dining room fills quickly with devoted fans who’ve been coming here for decades.

No slices are available, only whole pies that encourage communal dining experiences.

I recommend calling ahead to confirm they’re open before making the trip to Coney Island.

9. Artichoke Basille’s Pizza

Starting as a tiny storefront in 2008, this chain revolutionized New York pizza with thick, creamy artichoke slices.

The original location at 328 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003 still draws massive crowds daily.

Their signature artichoke slice breaks traditional rules with its rich, almost dip-like topping covering thick crust.

Multiple locations now exist across the city, but the East Village original maintains special status among fans.

Late-night hours make this a favorite destination for hungry club-goers and night owls.

The unconventional approach proves that innovation can coexist with tradition in New York’s pizza scene.

I warn you that one slice is incredibly filling, so pace yourself accordingly.

10. Koronet Pizza

Columbia University students have fueled this Morningside Heights institution since 1981 with their appetite for enormous slices.

Located at 2848 Broadway, New York, NY 10025, it’s become legendary for size rather than subtlety.

Slices measure roughly the size of a personal pizza at most other establishments, requiring serious hunger.

The straightforward approach focuses on quantity and value, making it perfect for budget-conscious students.

Traditional toppings cover these massive triangles, though the sheer size is the real attraction.

Late-night crowds pack the small space, especially during exam periods when students need fuel.

I suggest sharing a slice with a friend unless you’re genuinely starving.

11. Prince Street Pizza

Square slices with crispy edges have made this Nolita spot famous since it opened in 2012.

The address is 27 Prince St, New York, NY 10012, right in the heart of downtown Manhattan.

Spicy spring pepperoni cups curl up while cooking, creating little grease pools that somehow taste amazing.

The Sicilian-style thick crust provides a hearty base that holds up to generous toppings.

Social media helped spread the word, turning this small shop into a destination for pizza tourists.

Lines snake out the door most days, but the wait moves relatively quickly.

I always order the pepperoni square because those crispy cups are absolutely worth the hype.

12. Scarr’s Pizza

Opened in 2016, this Lower East Side newcomer respects tradition while milling its own organic flour daily.

You’ll find it at 22 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, bringing fresh energy to a historic neighborhood.

The commitment to quality ingredients sets it apart, with organic tomatoes and house-made mozzarella on every pie.

Classic New York-style slices prove that modern attention to sourcing can enhance rather than change tradition.

The small space fills with locals who appreciate the careful balance between old and new approaches.

Reasonable prices make the organic ingredients even more impressive and accessible.

I appreciate how they honor tradition while pushing quality standards higher than many older establishments.

13. Two Boots Pizza East Village

Combining New York and Louisiana flavors since 1987 creates a unique twist on traditional pizza styles.

The original location at 37 Ave A, New York, NY 10009 started the creative fusion that now spans multiple locations.

Menu items carry clever names referencing pop culture, musicians, and local personalities.

Cajun spices and unconventional toppings like crawfish and andouille sausage challenge pizza purists while delighting adventurous eaters.

The fun atmosphere and creative approach attract younger crowds looking for something different.

Despite the innovations, the crust and basic techniques still honor New York pizza fundamentals.

I recommend trying both a traditional slice and a specialty pie to appreciate their range.