I’ve tried many pies in my travels all over the world, but there’s nothing quite like the pizza you can find in downtown Manhattan. With its abundant pizzerias, I just had to find out which was the best!
With my trusty map and burning hunger in search of good pizza, I set off on a mission to sample 11 of the downtown Manahttan’s finest artisan slices.
In this article, you’ll get a taste of what I sampled and learn my top picks for the best pizza places in downtown Manhattan. Here goes nothing!
If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of New York
#1 Pronto Pizza & Empanadas
I was immediately impressed with their menu. It had all of my favorite pies – from the classic Margherita to creative combinations such as garlic and bacon – plus a variety of empanadas.
The atmosphere was perfect for a relaxing lunch or dinner with friends. The decor was cozy and inviting, and the staff was friendly and attentive. Plus, they had some amazing background music playing – it really added to the experience!
But what really won me over were their pizzas. The crusts were perfectly cooked, with just the right thickness. And each topping combination was expertly crafted; no two tasted exactly alike! I may have tried too many different ones, but I’m sure you understand why it’s hard to resist when it’s all so delicious.
Overall, Pronto Pizza & Empanadas has definitely earned its spot as one of the best pizza spots in downtown Manhattan!
If you’re willing to go an extra 1 miles, you can get to 29 more pizza places in New York!
#2 Song’ E Napule
- Has some vegetarian options
- Offers dessert
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Nice tourist spot
It’s not just the excellent quality of their pizzas that make them stand out from the rest. What impressed me the most was the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. From the moment I stepped in, I felt like I was in a cozy home away from home.
The staff graciously served us with a smile and catered to our every need. They provided us with detailed information about their menu items and answered all our questions promptly. The wood-fired pizza oven added a unique flavor to our meals that can’t be replicated anywhere else!
To top everything off, Song’ E Napule offers some delicious sides like garlic bread and deep fried calzones. The house red also pairs perfectly with their classic Italian snacks.
Overall, Song’ E Napule is an amazing pizza place that stands out from other places in Downtown Manhattan. Their exceptional customer service and delicious food will have you coming back for more!
#3 Rubirosa
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Has insanely good dessert
My experience at the restaurant was a delight. The atmosphere was hip and modern, with just enough glitz to make it feel like a real special occasion. The staff were friendly, and the service was quick.
When it came to their pizza offerings, I was really impressed! They had a great selection of classic pies, as well as some more adventurous choices. The dough itself was flavourful, light and airy. The toppings were fresh and generous (with no skimping on the cheese!). Plus, they offered some unique topping combinations that left me wanting more.
In short: Rubirosa is an absolute must for anyone looking for the best pizza in Downtown Manhattan. It’s authentic Italian pizzeria style at its finest!
#4 Kesté Pizza & Vino
- Nice tourist spot
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
The atmosphere at Kesté is cozy and inviting. The waitstaff is attentive and friendly, making diners feel welcomed from the moment they walk in. As for the food, all I can say is wow! The hand-tossed Neapolitan pizzas are cooked to perfection in their wood-fired ovens. The crust is thin and crunchy on the outside and light and fluffy on the inside — perfect for those who enjoy a crispy yet airy slice of pizza.
The toppings really take this pizza over the top! My favorite pizza was the Arugula e Prosciutto; it was packed with flavor and had a nice balance of savory ingredients that really made it stand out. Not to mention, they use only top-quality ingredients like imported Italian San Marzano tomatoes and extra virgin olive oil, so you know you’re getting the best possible pizza experience.
Kesté Pizza & Vino is definitely one of the best pizzerias in downtown Manhattan, hands down. It’s worth every penny for a truly unforgettable meal!
#5 Champion Pizza – Soho
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
When I first walked in, the pleasant aroma of freshly baked pizza filled the air. The staff was friendly and helpful in explaining their menu, and the atmosphere was lively and inviting.
The cheese pizza I had was delicious. It was packed with flavor and the perfect combination of cheese, sauce, and crust. Additionally, they use only fresh ingredients which gave the pizza an extra special taste.
For topping it off they offered a great selection of craft beers that paired perfectly with my meal!
All in all, if you’re looking for a great slice of pizza in Downtown Manhattan then Champion Pizza – Soho is your best bet!
#6 Biga Bite
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
My first impression of Biga Bite was great. The cozy atmosphere, friendly staff, and lively Italian music provided a unique ambiance that was perfect for enjoying pizza. I quickly placed my order – one large margarita pizza with extra cheese – and eagerly awaited its arrival.
When it arrived, I could tell by looking at it that I had just come across something special. The thin crust was perfectly cooked with a light char and the tomato sauce had a rich flavor that complemented the mozzarella perfectly. The topping ratio also seemed spot on – each bite was loaded with flavor though not overly greasy or oily.
Since tasting that first slice of Biga Bite’s pizza, I have been back numerous times to experience more of their deliciousness. Honestly, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Downtown Manhattan (keyword!), you should definitely give Biga Bite a try!
#7 John’s of Bleecker Street
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol
I’ve been to plenty of pizza restaurants around the globe, but nothing can top the experience I had when I visited John’s. From the moment you walk in you get the scent of freshly made pies and it’s almost enough to make your mouth water.
The atmosphere is just what you’d expect from a traditional Italian pizzeria — red-checkered tablecloths, vintage posters lining the walls, and a well-stocked bar full of craft beer and homemade drinks.
But of course, it’s all about the food here! The thin crust pizzas are delicious – piping hot with just the right amount of crispness. They have something for everyone: classic pepperoni, vegetarian options, specialty pies loaded up with gourmet toppings (I personally recommend their signature Truffle Mushroom pizza) and so much more!
Overall, if you’re looking for some of the best pizza in Downtown Manhattan then John’s of Bleecker Street should be your go-to spot. You won’t be disappointed!
#8 Gruppo NYC Thin Crust Pizza
- Serves alcohol
- Has some vegetarian options
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
The atmosphere is great. It’s a cozy little place with attentive and friendly staff who are more than willing to answer any questions you may have. The menu is wide-ranging and includes options for both meat lovers and vegetarians alike.
The pizza itself was amazing! The thin crust was cooked just right, not too thick and not too thin. And the toppings were so fresh and flavorful – it was clear they used high quality ingredients in every bite.
The prices are also reasonable – especially considering the quality of pizza you get here.
Overall, if you’re looking for the best pizza in Downtown Manhattan then Gruppo NYC Thin Crust Pizza is definitely worth checking out!
If you’re willing to go an extra 1 miles, you can get to 28 more pizza places in New York!
#9 Scarr’s Pizza
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol
The atmosphere alone is enough to make me want to come back time and time again. From the vintage posters hanging on the walls, to the friendly staff, it’s hands down one of the best pizza places in New York.
I was particularly impressed with the food. Through years of practice, they have mastered perfecting flavors that keep customers coming back for more. I got a classic Margherita pizza and it was heavenly! The freshly made dough was nice and soft and the mozzarella cheese perfectly melted in my mouth. The fresh tomatoes were juicy and vibrant, giving it that extra boost of flavor!
But what really sets Scarr’s Pizza apart from other pizzerias are their toppings. They offer unique options such as truffle oil and jalapenos which add an interesting kick to each slice.
If you’re looking for some truly fantastic pizza in Downtown Manhattan, then look no further than Scarr’s Pizza!
#10 Joe’s Pizza
- Has some vegetarian options
- Nice tourist spot
The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting and I could tell the staff were passionate about their work. The energy of the restaurant as a whole was quite contagious – I was there for almost four hours!
When it comes to the food, Joe’s Pizza definitely lives up to its reputation. They have an extensive menu featuring all sorts of pizzas with unique toppings. My favorite was the Sicilian style pizza; it had such delicious flavors that it made my mouth water just thinking about it!
Speaking of toppings, let me just say that Joe’s toppings are out of this world in flavor. From fresh basil, juicy tomatoes, delicious cheeses, and flavorful meats, Joe’s toppings make their pizzas stand out in a crowd.
My experience at Joe’s Pizza won’t soon be forgotten. From the moment I stepped foot into the restaurant to when I left smiling with a full stomach, I knew that I had experienced some of the best pizza Downtown Manhattan has to offer!
#11 Joe & Pat’s NYC
- Serves alcohol
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
The first time I visited this place, I walked in and was immediately welcomed by the jovial atmosphere. The smell of fresh dough and marinara sauce mixed in with the sizzling of pepperoni and sausage made my mouth water.
I decided to try their standard pizza, and it didn’t disappoint! The crust had that perfect crunch, not too crispy but still chewy enough to make me want more. The toppings were generously applied and cooked to perfection – each bite had a great blend of flavors balanced just right.
I’m glad I finally made it to Joe & Pat’s NYC, as I can confidently say they have some of the best pizza in Downtown Manhattan. If you’re looking for a truly delicious slice of pizza, look no further! This is definitely a must-try spot.