In this article, we’ll share our favorite spots in Brooklyn where you can find the best pizza. From classic New York-style slices to unique toppings and flavors, we’ll explore the diverse pizza scene in this vibrant borough. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, join us as we embark on a delicious journey to discover the best pizza in Brooklyn. Brooklyn’s renowned pizza scene has long been a topic of conversation among food lovers. With its rich history and diverse range of pizza styles, Brooklyn is a haven for pizza enthusiasts seeking authentic and delicious slices. Join us as we embark on a quest to find the best pizza in Brooklyn.
Historical Background
Brooklyn has a deep-rooted connection to pizza, thanks to the influx of Italian immigrants in the early 20th century. These immigrants brought with them a rich pizza culture, which eventually transformed Brooklyn into a pizza lover’s paradise. Over the years, Brooklyn has witnessed the evolution of pizza styles, resulting in a diverse range of options for pizza enthusiasts.
Traditional Pizza Establishments
When it comes to traditional pizzerias in Brooklyn, few names stand out like Di Fara Pizza, Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano, Lucali, and Grimaldi’s Pizzeria. These establishments have been serving up mouthwatering pizzas for decades and continue to draw in crowds.
Di Fara Pizza, located in Midwood, is known for its legendary pizza made by Domenico DeMarco. Each pizza is meticulously prepared, with a perfect balance of flavors that keeps customers coming back for more.
Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano, located in Coney Island, is another iconic establishment. With its coal-fired brick oven, Totonno’s produces thin, crispy, and charred pies that are simply irresistible.
Lucali, nestled in the Carroll Gardens neighborhood, offers a more intimate dining experience. The no-frills pizzeria, with its handmade mozzarella and fresh toppings, has gained a cult following over the years.
Grimaldi’s Pizzeria, situated under the Brooklyn Bridge in DUMBO, is a must-visit for pizza aficionados. Known for its coal-fired brick oven and classic New York-style slices, Grimaldi’s delivers a quintessential Brooklyn pizza experience.
Neapolitan Pizza
For those craving authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, Brooklyn has plenty of options. Roberta’s, located in Bushwick, is a hip and trendy pizzeria that serves up delectable wood-fired pies. From their classic Margherita to their inventive seasonal offerings, Roberta’s never disappoints.
Paulie Gee’s, with locations in Greenpoint and Upper East Side, is another gem for Neapolitan pizza lovers. With an extensive menu of creative pizzas, made using only the finest ingredients, Paulie Gee’s pushes the boundaries of traditional Neapolitan pizza.
Motorino, situated in Williamsburg and East Village, is renowned for its chewy, charred crust and top-quality toppings. The simplicity of Motorino’s pies allows the flavors to shine through, creating a truly memorable dining experience.
New York-Style Pizza
No exploration of Brooklyn’s pizza scene would be complete without mentioning New York-style pizza. Joe’s Pizza, located in Williamsburg and West Village, is a legendary establishment that has been serving thin, foldable slices since 1975. The simplicity of their pizza, with its thin crust, tangy sauce, and melty cheese, is a testament to the enduring appeal of New York-style slices.
L&B Spumoni Gardens, situated in Gravesend, is a Brooklyn institution known for its square Sicilian slices. The unique blend of sauce, cheese, and toppings, combined with a thick, doughy crust, sets L&B Spumoni Gardens apart from other pizzerias in the city.
Best Pizza, located in Williamsburg, lives up to its name by consistently delivering top-notch slices. With its crispy yet chewy crust and perfectly balanced flavors, Best Pizza has become a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
NY Pizza Suprema, situated near Penn Station, is a go-to spot for a classic New York slice. With its combination of thin crust, generous toppings, and savory sauce, NY Pizza Suprema embodies the essence of New York-style pizza.
Unique Pizza Experiences
Brooklyn is not only home to traditional and Neapolitan-style pizzerias but also offers unique pizza experiences. Paulie Gee’s Slice Shop, located in Greenpoint, serves up square slices with a variety of rotating toppings. The limited menu ensures that each slice is made with the utmost care and attention to detail.
Roberta’s Pizza Truck is a mobile extension of the famous Roberta’s pizzeria in Bushwick. This food truck brings the same mouthwatering Neapolitan-style pizzas to different locations across Brooklyn, adding an element of surprise to your pizza adventures.
Scarr’s, situated in the Lower East Side, is a hidden gem known for its old-school slice joint vibes. Their thin, crispy slices are reminiscent of classic New York-style pizza, making it a favorite among locals in the know.
Emily, located in Clinton Hill, is known for its unique and creative pizza combinations. From their famous Emmy Burger pizza to their inventive seasonal pies, Emily offers an exciting and innovative take on pizza.
Innovation and Fusion
Brooklyn’s pizza scene is not just about tradition and authenticity. It also embraces innovation and fusion. Speedy Romeo, with locations in Clinton Hill and Lower East Side, combines wood-fired pizza with a touch of nostalgia. Their creative toppings and artisanal approach to pizza-making set them apart from the crowd.
Juliana’s, located under the Brooklyn Bridge in DUMBO, is a pizzeria that pays homage to the original Grimaldi’s. With its coal-fired oven and classic New York-style slices, Juliana’s captures the essence of Brooklyn’s pizza history while adding its own unique flair.
Brooklyn’s Hidden Gems
While Brooklyn is renowned for its well-established pizzerias, it also hides a few hidden gems worth exploring. Lucia Pizza, located in Bay Ridge, serves up classic square slices with a perfectly crispy crust and generous toppings. This neighborhood spot has been a local favorite for years, offering a taste of old-school Brooklyn.
Table 87, with locations in Gowanus and Industry City, is known for its coal-fired pizza by the slice. Each slice is made to order, ensuring a fresh and delicious experience. Table 87’s dedication to quality and flavor is evident in every bite.
Food Festivals and Events
For true pizza lovers, Brooklyn’s pizza festivals and events are not to be missed. The Brooklyn Pizza Crew organizes regular pizza pop-ups and events, bringing together some of the city’s best pizzaiolos under one roof. These events offer the perfect opportunity to sample a variety of pizza styles and flavors.
Slice Out Hunger, an annual event in Brooklyn, brings together pizzerias from across the city to raise money for hunger relief. With its all-you-can-eat pizza buffet, Slice Out Hunger allows attendees to sample slices from a wide range of pizzerias while supporting a great cause.
PizzaFest, held in various locations throughout Brooklyn, is a celebration of all things pizza. This multi-day event features pizza tastings, live music, and entertainment, making it a must-visit for pizza enthusiasts looking to indulge in a true pizza extravaganza.
Conclusion
Brooklyn’s diverse pizza landscape offers something for every pizza lover. Whether you’re a fan of traditional, Neapolitan, New York-style, or innovative pizzas, Brooklyn has it all. So, grab a slice and embark on your own pizza adventure through the neighborhoods of Brooklyn. Who knows, you might just discover your own favorite pizza spot along the way.
