Whether you’re craving a classic New York-style fold or a gourmet Neapolitan masterpiece, Riverside offers a selection of pizza spots that promise to satisfy every palate.
From crispy thin crusts adorned with local produce to hearty deep-dish wonders that ooze with molten cheese, Riverside’s pizza scene offers something to satiate every palate. This guide curates the city’s standout pizzerias, each offering a unique slice of culinary heaven.
Ellington in the Park
8.6/10 (780 reviews)
Sunset viewsDog-friendlyTurkey burger
Ellington in the Park offers a unique dining experience with beautiful sunset views over the Hudson, two levels of seating with separate bars, and a dog-friendly atmosphere. The restaurant has a great selection of German beers, spiked teas, and liquors, making it a perfect spot for a casual hangout with friends, family, or your furry companions. While the food may be inconsistent at times, the Turkey burger stands out as a must-try item on the menu. The ambiance, friendly staff, and overall vibe of Ellington in the Park are what keep patrons coming back for more.
Rasco’s
8.8/10 (191 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 201-917-5115
Fresh ingredientsAttentive staffSpeciality pizza slices
Nestled in the heart of NYC, Rasco’s is a local gem that continues to impress patrons with its delicious offerings. The pizza is a standout, with the perfect balance of crispy and soft dough, sweet sauce, and fresh toppings. The attentive and friendly staff, led by the charming Tony, make every visit a memorable one. From the usual suspect hero to the speciality pizza slices, every bite is a culinary delight. And let’s not forget about their cannoli – a true chef’s kiss that rounds out a perfect meal at Rasco’s.
River View Diner
8.8/10 (1404 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 201-868-5400
Cuban paniniZucchini friesAttentive staff
Nestled along the riverbank, River View Diner offers a delightful dining experience for all who enter. The Cuban panini is a popular choice among patrons, showcasing the perfect combination of flavors. The zucchini fries paired with the chicken croissant sandwich add a unique twist to a classic meal, leaving customers satisfied. The attentive and patient staff go above and beyond to ensure a pleasant visit, making each guest feel welcome and appreciated. With ample off-street parking, this charming diner is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered.
Giando on the Water
9/10 (1275 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 718-387-7000
Stunning skyline viewsImpeccable serviceClassy and elegant ambiance
Giando on the Water offers a picturesque backdrop with breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, making it a perfect spot for special occasions. The ambiance is classy and elegant, creating a fairy tale-like setting for weddings and celebrations. The service is impeccable, with staff that goes above and beyond to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience. While some customers have noted the food to be below average, others have raved about the generous portions and well-seasoned dishes. Overall, Giando on the Water stands out for its stunning location and exceptional service, making it a memorable place for milestone events.
Bella Luna Restaurant
8.8/10 (701 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-877-2267
Linguine in white clam sauceBrick oven pizzaTiramisu
Bella Luna Restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and friendly staff in the heart of the Upper West Side. The menu boasts a wide variety of Italian dishes, from brick oven pizza to Eggplant Parmagian. Standout items include the Linguine in white clam sauce with real and large clams, the shrimp pesto, and the Brick oven pizza. The Tiramisu dessert is a must-try, and the service is top-notch. The restaurant is a great spot for a date night or a family outing, with good food choices for kids and clean bathrooms. Belle Luna is a gem in the neighborhood, offering delicious Italian fare in a welcoming setting.
Smorgasbar
8.6/10 (749 reviews)
Unique self-service conceptStunning city skyline viewsVariety of seating options
Nestled in Lower Manhattan, Smorgasbar offers a unique experience with its self-service concept and stunning views of the city skyline. While the food and beer options may not be exceptional, the ambiance and setting make up for it. The open-air space provides a perfect backdrop for a fun time with friends, complete with games like cornhole and a variety of seating options. The view truly cannot be beat, making it an ideal spot to relax and enjoy a drink while taking in the beauty of the city. Despite the crowded atmosphere, the friendly bar staff and overall chill vibe make this spot worth a visit.
Rumba Cubana
9.2/10 (2048 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 201-878-4400
Attentive serviceFlavorful Cuban cuisineModern decor
Nestled among the bustling streets, Rumba Cubana stands out as a gem in the pizza restaurant scene. The attentive service and delectable array of Cuban cuisine make it a top choice for both locals and visitors. From the perfectly seasoned pernil to the juicy pork fritters and flavorful ceviche, each dish is a delightful surprise for the taste buds. The modern decor adds a trendy touch to the welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal with friends or a family outing. Whether you’re sipping on a Mango Margarita or enjoying the outside seating, Rumba Cubana offers a memorable dining experience that will leave you craving more.
Marlow Bistro
8.8/10 (669 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-662-9020
Cozy atmosphereExceptional serviceDelicious food
Marlow Bistro offers a cozy dining experience with beautiful flower decorations on each table, creating a charming atmosphere. The food, while not groundbreaking, is delicious with perfectly cooked eggs and flavorful dishes like gnocchi and steak. The staff is friendly, with exceptional service from servers like Alex and Gamze. The outside dining option is delightful, allowing guests to people-watch while enjoying well-balanced cocktails during happy hour. Prices may be on the higher side, but the quality of the food justifies it, making Marlow Bistro a must-try spot for a relaxed meal.
Chama Mama UWS
9.2/10 (601 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 917-261-7430
Generous portionsUnique Georgian dishesExceptional service
Chama Mama UWS offers an unforgettable dining experience with carefully designed plates and exceptional service. The portion sizes are generous, with dishes like the pumpkin soup and meat patties standing out for their flavors and lack of grease. The unique Georgian dishes, such as the soup dumplings and cheeseboat, showcase a different culinary approach that is both juicy and tasty. Overall, it’s an impeccable restaurant for casual or formal dining, providing a unique and outstanding taste of Georgian cuisine in a fantastic atmosphere.
Antonio Pizza
9.4/10 (642 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 951-776-1888
Delicious pizzasQuality ingredientsReasonable prices
Antonio Pizza is a beloved establishment, with a loyal following that spans years. Antonio himself is a charismatic figure, known to greet customers by name. The pizzas are described as outrageously delicious, with quality ingredients that shine through. The reasonable prices and friendly service round out the experience, making Antonio Pizza a must-visit spot for pizza lovers in the area. Fresh, delicious, reasonable.#
University Pizza Company (UPC)
8.6/10 (75 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 951-823-0630
Flavorful Extreme Pepperoni PizzaCrispy thin crustDelightful homemade fudge
University Pizza Company is a competitive local spot that excels in ingredient quality and pizza assembly. Their Extreme Pepperoni Pizza is a standout choice with flavorful and plentiful pepperoni in every bite. While the Sausage Bombs fall short in seasoning, their dough and ratio of bread to meat and cheese are almost perfect. The crispy, thin crust stands out, as does their unique tomato sauce. The fudge they offer is also a delightful surprise. Their generous slices and friendly staff make this a must-try spot in the area.
Antone’s Italian Eatery
9/10 (292 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 951-534-0721
Delicious SandwichesGenerous portionsFriendly staff
Antone’s Italian Eatery is a warm and inviting spot in Riverside that offers a cozy atmosphere resembling a welcoming home. The staff embodies kindness and helpfulness, making the dining experience a pleasant one. The menu is simple yet offers a diverse range of delicious options, including The Mafia sandwich that is a true highlight. The sandwiches are truly mouthwatering, especially when served with a side of Italian dressing. The portions are generous, and the pasta salads are a must-try. Antone’s Italian Eatery is a true gem in the Riverside dining scene, bringing back a small town vibe and excellent customer service.
RiverCrust Deli
9.6/10 (177 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 951-656-8145
Flavorful Philly cheesesteakQuality pizza and sandwichesAttentive and friendly staff
Nestled within an office complex, RiverCrust Deli may lack in ambiance, but it more than makes up for it with its exquisite food offerings. From the mouthwatering Philly cheesesteak to the delectable pizza and sandwiches, every bite is a burst of flavor that leaves a lasting impression. The attention to detail and quality shines through in each dish, making it a must-visit for any food enthusiast seeking a delightful culinary experience. While the service may have its hiccups, the exceptional food quality and friendly staff make RiverCrust Deli a hidden gem worth discovering and revisiting.
Chick Chick
9.2/10 (315 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-799-1026
Korean-style chickenChick chicken sandwichTruffle fries
Located on the Upper West Side, Chick Chick is a casual spot serving up excellent Korean-style fried chicken and chicken sandwiches. The menu also features mouthwatering dishes like sweet potato fries, Kim chee fried rice, and truffle fries that are worth every penny. The open kitchen adds to the inviting vibe as you watch the cooks work their magic at an impressive speed. While the prices may be on the higher side, the quality and flavor of the food at Chick Chick are truly unforgettable.
Getaway Cafe
8.8/10 (257 reviews)
| Directions | +1 951-786-3606
Comfortable atmosphereUnique pizza combinationsFriendly and engaging owner
As I entered Getaway Cafe, I was immediately struck by the comfortable atmosphere. The variety of seating options, including couches and comfortable chairs, made it easy to relax and enjoy the experience. The menu was extensive, offering delicious pizza and a great selection of drinks. What stood out to me was the unique combination of toppings on the Irma’s Pizza – jalapeno pineapple, pepperoni, cheese, white sauce, and garlic. The flavors melded together perfectly, creating a truly unforgettable dining experience. The owner was not only friendly but also engaging, making sure that every guest felt welcomed and taken care of. The ability to accommodate large groups added to the already vibrant and lively atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for any gathering.
Mario’s Place
9.2/10 (1108 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 951-684-7755
Luxurious dining experienceDelicious and carefully prepared foodAttentive and friendly staff
Mario’s Place is a gem of a restaurant located in downtown Riverside, offering a luxurious dining experience with delicious food prepared with love and care. The cozy atmosphere and delicious dishes make it a perfect spot for a date night or family outing. The menu features tasty options like Margherita pizza, pumpkin soup, Linguini Checca, Beef Tenderloin, and a creamy cheesecake with blueberry compote. The attentive staff adds to the overall excellent service, making every visit a memorable one.