Whether you’re craving a classic New York-style fold or a gourmet Neapolitan masterpiece, Santa Maria 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, Santa Maria’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.
Zia Maria Chelsea
8.8/10 (862 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-524-9200
New York style pizzaOutdoor seatingStunning view
Zia Maria Chelsea is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious meal in the heart of Manhattan. The New York style pizza is a must-try, especially when topped with chicken and paired with a Brooklyn lager. The outdoor seating offers a stunning view of the Empire State Building, making it a wonderful dining experience.
Cibo e Vino
9/10 (818 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-362-0096
Perfectly balanced dishesCozy and beautiful decorImpeccable service
Cibo e Vino is a hidden gem on the Upper West Side with a cozy and beautiful decor that sets the perfect mood for a delightful dining experience. The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes that are not only delicious but also generously portioned. The tuna tartare paired with the crispy cauliflower is a standout, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The vodka pasta is a must-try, with a sauce that is sheer perfection. The cocktails are expertly crafted and complement the meal beautifully. The impeccable service and attention to detail from the staff add to the overall charm of Cibo e Vino, making it a top-notch Italian dining destination.
Arno
8.8/10 (746 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-944-7420
Impeccable serviceFlavorful pasta dishesDelectable desserts
Arno is a standout in Times Square, offering top-notch service and delectable pasta dishes that will leave you craving more long after your meal. From the warm welcome at the door to the incredibly fresh and flavorful calamari and pasta specials, every aspect of the dining experience is impeccable. The attention to detail in both the texture and flavors of the pasta dishes is truly remarkable, making Arno a must-visit for anyone looking for an authentic Italian meal that exceeds expectations.
Bacaro
8.8/10 (344 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-941-5060
Cozy basement spaceAll-Italian wine listStandout broccoli preparation
Nestled in a cozy basement space, Bacaro’s unique and intimate atmosphere sets the stage for a delightful dining experience. The all-Italian wine list complements dishes like crispy chicken and perfectly cooked mussels, with standout broccoli preparation stealing the show. Desserts like lemon sorbet and panna cotta showcase excellence. While the eclectic music may be a tad loud, Bacaro shines with its delicious food and warm ambiance.
Azalea
8.8/10 (480 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-262-0105
Excellent Italian foodAttentive serviceConvenient pre-theater location
Azalea offers excellent food and service in a convenient location for pre-theater dining. The Italian dishes are outstanding, with options like burrata, lasagna, and meatball appetizers that leave a lasting impression. The wait staff is attentive and prompt, ensuring a pleasant dining experience. Despite limited seating, the cozy atmosphere adds to the charm of this delightful restaurant in the heart of the theater district. The menu features fresh, delicious options like calamari, asparagus and lobster soup, and a variety of salads to choose from, making Azalea a must-visit for a memorable meal before catching a show.
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer – 35th St
8.6/10 (1118 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 646-943-5135
Tennessee BurgerCrispy Chicken SandwichOreo Shake
Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer – 35th St is a must-visit spot if you’re craving a delicious meal in a lively atmosphere. The Tennessee Burger and crispy chicken sandwich are standout items, with the mozzarella sticks and fried pickles adding a unique twist to classic favorites. Don’t miss out on the Oreo shake for a truly indulgent experience. The service is efficient and friendly, making every visit a memorable one. The variety of options for add-ons to the burgers allows for a customized dining experience, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Sami & Susu
9.4/10 (183 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 646-559-2856
Extraordinary flavorsCharming ambianceThoughtfully curated wines
Hidden within the vibrant East Village neighborhood of New York City lies Sami & Susu, a charming Mediterranean gem that has captured the hearts and palates of its patrons. The menu may appear simple, but do not be fooled – the flavors that emerge from the kitchen are nothing short of extraordinary. The lamb kofta is a standout, with its tender and juicy meat that leaves a lasting impression. The muhammara, a sweet and savory spread, is the perfect accompaniment to the freshly baked pita bread. The natural wines on offer are curated thoughtfully, enhancing the dining experience. Sami & Susu exudes warmth and coziness, making it the ideal spot for a delightful meal.
Trattoria Trecolori
8.8/10 (2481 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-997-4540
Perfectly cooked squidImpeccable serviceMouthwatering fettucini
Trattoria Trecolori has become a go-to spot for many diners in the Times Square area. The restaurant offers a variety of Italian dishes, from perfectly cooked squid in linguine nere to mouthwatering fettucini alfredo and gnocchi with homemade sauce. The service is impeccable, with friendly and attentive staff ensuring a pleasant dining experience. For those looking for a pre-show meal, this restaurant is a great choice, offering delicious food at reasonable prices.
Quality Italian
8.8/10 (2342 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-390-1111
Delicious pastaTruffle butter steakGorgeous setting
Quality Italian is a standout pizza restaurant in the heart of the city, offering a range of delicious dishes perfect for sharing. The pasta dishes and homemade sauces are a real highlight, with the Caesar salad standing out for its lovely preserved lemons. The wine selection is top-notch, complementing the flavors of every meal. The truffle butter on the recommended sirloin steak adds a burst of flavor that is sure to satisfy any diner. The restaurant’s setting is absolutely gorgeous, whether you’re dining inside, outside, or upstairs. And the sticky toffee pudding is a must-try dessert, offering a perfect end to a fantastic meal.
Leo
8.8/10 (438 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 718-384-6531
Carefully curated wineDelicious sourdough pizzaHomemade soft serve
Leo is a vibrant spot in Williamsburg that offers a carefully curated wine selection and delicious food. The sourdough pizza crust is a standout, perfectly crispy on the edges and chewy in the middle. The caesar salad is rich and creamy, and the marinated olives add a burst of flavor to the meal. Don’t miss out on their homemade soft serve ice cream, with unique flavors like coconut blood orange that are sure to impress. The atmosphere at Leo is welcoming and the staff provides top-notch service, making it a must-visit destination in the neighborhood.
Felice on Hudson
9.2/10 (126 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-767-9210
Authentic flavorsAttentive serviceWelcoming ambiance
At Felice on Hudson, you’ll experience exceptional Italian dining with top-notch service and delicious dishes bursting with authentic flavors. The pasta is fresh and delicious, the fried chicken is light and crispy, and the sirloin is cooked to perfection. The staff is attentive, kind, and knowledgeable about the menu, making sure you have a wonderful dining experience. The warm and welcoming ambiance, along with the accommodating service, sets Felice apart from other Italian restaurants in the neighborhood.
Omonia Cafe
8.6/10 (1869 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 718-274-6650
Extensive menuTop-notch serviceImpressive desserts
Nestled in Brooklyn, Omonia Cafe stands out in the sea of Greek cafes in NYC. The menu is extensive, offering a variety of options that cater to every craving. While the staff may appear a bit overwhelmed during busy times, the service is top-notch, making you feel right at home. The food is the star here – from the creamy strawberry cheesecake to the impressive baklava cheesecake, every bite is a delight. The Ferrero dessert may be a tad sweet for some palates, but the overall experience makes up for it. If you’re in the mood for a traditional Greek cafe experience, look no further than Omonia Cafe.
Roberta’s
9/10 (1678 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 718-417-1118
Culinary masterpiece pizzasNeapolitan-style crustCool, welcoming atmosphere
Roberta’s offers a unique experience with its wood-fired oven pizzas, such as the Super Bowl pepperoni pizza which is a culinary masterpiece. The savory pepperoni, sweet red onions, subtle honey, and kick of chili oil blend harmoniously to create an explosion of flavors on the palate. The Neapolitan-style pizzas are light with a delicious crust that complements any topping chosen. Despite some items being a bit pricey, the quality of the ingredients makes it worth it. The atmosphere is cool and welcoming, making it a must-visit spot in Bushwick.
Fatte’s Pizza of Santa Maria
8.8/10 (371 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 805-925-5999
Generously portioned dishesUnique and loaded toppingsMemorable pizza experience
Nestled in Santa Maria, Fatte’s Pizza is a hidden gem that offers delicious, generously portioned dishes perfect for sharing. The sticky fingers, meatball sub, and garlic cheese bread are standout items on the menu, leaving customers satisfied with leftovers for days. While the prices may be on the higher end, the quality of the pizza speaks for itself. The crust could use some improvement for those who prefer a crunchier bite, but the unique and loaded toppings make each slice a memorable experience at Fatte’s Pizza.
Tarallucci e Vino NoMad
8.8/10 (289 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-779-1100
Charming atmosphereFlavorful dishesExtensive wine selection
Nestled in the heart of NYC, Tarallucci e Vino NoMad is a charming Italian eatery that offers a delightful dining experience. The burrata and roasted cauliflower are standout dishes, with the balsamic adding the perfect touch of flavor. The diverse wine menu complements the tasty offerings, making it a great spot for a relaxed meal. The attentive staff and inviting ambiance add to the overall appeal of this hidden gem.
Playa Betty’s
8.6/10 (2377 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-712-0777
Inventive chicken and wafflesRefreshing cactus mimosasStellar taco selection
Playa Betty’s is a vibrant spot on the Upper West Side that offers a California-style dining experience with a cozy and inviting atmosphere. The menu boasts a variety of options, from classic guacamole and chips to hearty brunch dishes like breakfast burrito bowls and sinful French toast. The restaurant’s innovative twist on chicken and waffles and refreshing cactus mimosas are a must-try. Playa Betty’s attention to detail shines through with its customizable guacamole, allowing guests to tailor their experience to their liking. The bright colors, reggae music, and ample seating both indoors and outdoors create a social and inviting ambiance perfect for a weekend brunch or a casual dinner.
Great Scotts Pizza
8.8/10 (167 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 805-922-0366
Flavorful wingsFriendly ownerDelicious pizza
Great Scotts Pizza offers a friendly atmosphere and delicious pizza that keeps customers coming back for more. The cheese on the pizza is perfectly blended with the tomato sauce and the wings are full of flavor, making them a fan favorite. The owner’s warm hospitality adds a personal touch to the dining experience, making customers feel like family. While there may be some areas for improvement, such as the lack of sauce on the pizza and the slightly overcooked bottom, Great Scotts Pizza remains a top spot for enjoying a tasty meal in a cozy setting.
Klondike Pizza
9/10 (451 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 805-348-3667
Generous portionsFun atmosphereFriendly service
Klondike Pizza in Santa Maria stands out for its generous portions and fresh ingredients, making the pizzas perfect for sharing with friends and family. The fun atmosphere, complete with arcade games and quirky decor, adds to the dining experience. Service is friendly and efficient, though some minor hiccups have been reported. With a wide variety of toppings and a welcoming atmosphere, Klondike Pizza is a must-visit spot for pizza lovers in the area.
Straw Hat Pizza
8.6/10 (365 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 805-347-1942
Spotless dishesUnique pepperoniReal cheese pizzas
Straw Hat Pizza is a place where the dishwashers shine, ensuring spotless plates and a welcoming atmosphere. From the unique taste of the pepperoni to the delicious California veggie pizza with a side of pesto sauce, the food here is top-notch. Despite some minor hiccups, like slow service at times, this is a great spot for families and pizza lovers alike.
Nougatine by Jean-Georges
8.6/10 (635 reviews)
Website | Directions | +1 212-299-3900
Unique dishesExceptional serviceCozy ambiance
Nougatine by Jean-Georges is a hidden gem in the realm of pizza restaurants. The menu offers a unique twist on traditional favorites, with standout dishes like the tuna tartare and burrata showcasing the culinary expertise of the chefs. The staff goes above and beyond to provide exceptional service, offering helpful recommendations and ensuring a perfectly paced meal without feeling rushed. The cozy ambiance creates a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for indulging in delicious food and enjoying a memorable dining experience.