Without a doubt there is a ton to do in New York City – the question is usually where to begin? For me, one of the greatest joys of traveling is the food. I LOVE local, interesting cuisine and restaurants. That doesn’t necessarily mean pricey though – especially in a big city like New York. Eating like a local in New York doesn’t have to break the bank, especially if you’re interesting in something as ubiquitous and typically NYC as a slice of pizza.

The moment you walk out of most of the hotels in NYC you’ll probably be inundated with shop windows advertising a quick bite. Pizza joints abound in New York, and while most places are decent there are some real stars out there that are worth the walk (or ride!) and may show you a different side to New York at the same time. A word to the wise: while credit cards are taken almost everywhere, have cash on hand, many small pizzerias operate on a cash-only basis.

Here are some of our favorites:

Lombardi’s: America’s First Pizzeria

As you would expect, the FIRST pizzeria in the United States was in the Little Italy neighborhood of New York City. Gennaro Lombardi is credited with bringing this Neopolitan street food to our shores. His pizzeria still stands today, down the street from the original location, an homage to the original treat that started the craze. Address: 32 Spring St, New York, NY 10012.

Grimmaldi’s

This place holds a special spot in our hearts as one of our regular haunts when we go to NYC to see friends. A constant contender for the best pizza in New York (ranked by The Food Network and Zagat as #1!), this place feels more like a hole in the wall neighborhood pizzeria than a #1 pick. The pizza however will change your mind – every single time it is delicious.   The original location, underneath the Brooklyn Bridge is a bit of a mission – there’s almost always a long line and a no reservations, no slices rule – but it’s worth it just for the pizza. Address: 1 Front St, New York, NY 11201.

Margot’s Pizza

Your timing has to be right for this one. A pop-up spot inside EMILY, Margot’s Pizza requires tickets for its once a month offerings.  Lauded as one of the best bar – style pizzas in New York, the thin crust hot supreme is the thing to order. Tastings sell out quickly, as the pop-up only happens about once a month. Tickets go on sale the week before the pop-up. Check out the next date, and book your ticket here: http://margotspizza.com/ Address: 919 Fulton St , New York, NY 11238

Patsy’s Pizza

Heading uptown to East Harlem, Patsy’s is another original on the pizza tour list. First opened in 1933, you may be surprised by the small size of these yummy thin crust slices. Have no fear, no one will judge if you eat more than one! Address: 2287 First Ave, New York, NY 10035.

Our NYC favorites aren’t the only places to go for a slice in New York – there are plenty of delicious neighborhood places throughout the city so if you find yourself across town and looking for a quick bite don’t hesitate to stop someone on the street and ask where you can grab a slice!

We’ve had some pretty crazy pizza’s over the years – so if you got here looking for interesting pizzas, don’t miss this post on Everglades Pizza! Heading to NYC in the Spring or for a weekend?  Don’t miss our Springtime in NYC post and our Weekenders Guide to NYC.