When it comes to the best pizza in Manhattan, opinions are strong—and for good reason. Manhattan is home to some of the most iconic pizza spots in New York City, offering everything from classic foldable slices to coal-fired and artisanal pies.
To help you cut through the noise, we’ve ranked the top pizza spots in Manhattan, based on consistency, flavor, reputation, and neighborhood impact. Whether you’re searching for best pizza in NYC, top pizza places in Manhattan, or famous New York pizza, this list has you covered.
1. Joe’s Pizza (Greenwich Village)
Best for: Classic New York–Style Pizza
Joe’s Pizza is often considered the gold standard for New York–style pizza in Manhattan. Thin crust, perfectly balanced sauce, and just the right amount of cheese make this slice endlessly craveable.
Why it ranks #1:
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Iconic NYC slice with global recognition
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Perfect crust-to-cheese ratio
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Consistent quality every single time
2. Prince Street Pizza (SoHo)
Best for: Square Pepperoni Pizza
Famous for its spicy square slices, Prince Street Pizza has become one of the most talked-about pizza spots in Manhattan.
Why it ranks high:
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Thick, crispy-bottom crust
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Bold pepperoni flavor
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One of the most photographed pizzas in NYC
3. Lombardi’s Pizza (Little Italy)
Best for: Historic Coal-Fired Pizza
As America’s first pizzeria, Lombardi’s is a must-visit for pizza lovers exploring historic pizza in Manhattan.
What makes it special:
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Coal-fired oven
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Classic margherita-style pies
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Old-school New York atmosphere
4. John’s of Bleecker Street (Greenwich Village)
Best for: Sit-Down Coal-Fired Pizza
John’s of Bleecker Street is legendary for its coal-fired pies served whole—no slices here.
Why locals love it:
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Crisp, smoky crust
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Perfect for sharing
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Timeless Village institution
5. Rubirosa (Nolita)
Best for: Thin-Crust Artisanal Pizza
Rubirosa blends Italian-American tradition with downtown style, earning its place among the best pizza places in Manhattan.
Standout features:
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Ultra-thin crust
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High-quality ingredients
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Cozy, stylish atmosphere
6. Patsy’s Pizzeria (Harlem)
Best for: Classic Harlem Pizza
A cornerstone of Harlem’s food scene, Patsy’s is known for its coal-fired pies and neighborhood roots.
Why it’s iconic:
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Long-standing Harlem institution
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Balanced, traditional flavors
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Loyal local following
7. Emmy Squared (Multiple Manhattan Locations)
Best for: Detroit-Style Pizza
If you’re craving something different, Emmy Squared delivers some of the best Detroit-style pizza in Manhattan.
Why it stands out:
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Thick, airy crust
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Crispy cheese edges
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Creative topping combinations
8. Motorino (Upper East Side & Downtown)
Best for: Neapolitan-Style Pizza
Motorino is a go-to for wood-fired, Neapolitan-style pies with a refined touch.
What to expect:
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Soft, blistered crust
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Fresh ingredients
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Reliable quality across locations
9. Scarr’s Pizza (Lower East Side)
Best for: Old-School NYC Vibes
Scarr’s brings back the feel of classic New York pizza shops with house-milled flour and retro charm.
Why it makes the list:
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Nostalgic flavor profile
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Strong neighborhood following
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Authentic Lower East Side energy
10. Made in New York Pizza (Midtown & UWS)
Best for: Reliable Everyday Slice
Perfect for a quick, satisfying bite, this spot consistently delivers solid New York–style slices.
Why it works:
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Convenient locations
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Great for lunch or late night
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Classic Manhattan slice experience
How We Ranked the Best Pizza in Manhattan
Our rankings are based on:
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Pizza quality and consistency
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Local reputation and longevity
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Neighborhood influence
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Overall NYC pizza experience
This list balances legendary institutions with modern favorites—because Manhattan pizza culture thrives on both.
Final Thoughts: Where to Find the Best Pizza in Manhattan
There’s no single answer to the question “Where is the best pizza in Manhattan?”—because the city offers something exceptional in every neighborhood. Whether you’re after a quick slice, a historic coal-fired pie, or a trendy square pizza, Manhattan delivers at every level.
One thing is certain: great pizza is everywhere in Manhattan—you just need to know where to look.
