Finding a decent slice in the heart of Midtown Manhattan can feel like navigating a minefield of overpriced tourist traps. If you want genuine New York style pizza near the neon glow of Broadway without settling for stale cardboard, you need to know exactly where to look.
Times Square isn't just about flashing billboards and crowded theaters; a handful of exceptional pizzerias hold their ground amidst the chaos. Whether you need a quick foldable plain slice between shows or a sit-down pie after a long day of walking, here is how to find the best pizza in Times Square.
Joe's Pizza Broadway
No guide to Midtown slices is complete without mentioning Joe's Pizza, located right in the thick of the theater district. Founded by Joe Pozzuoli, this institution represents the gold standard of the classic New York triangle slice.
The crust strikes a rare balance: thin and crisp on the bottom, yet pliable enough to fold without snapping in half. The sauce relies on bright, crushed California tomatoes with minimal seasoning, letting the fresh mozzarella and crisp oil sheen shine through. To read more about the context of this, Travel + Leisure provides an in-depth breakdown.
- What to order: A plain cheese slice or fresh mozzarella slice.
- Pro tip: The line moves at lightning speed. Don't panic when you see thirty people waiting; you will usually have a hot plate in your hands within five minutes.
John's Pizzeria of Times Square
If you want a sit-down meal rather than a quick counter-service paper plate, head over to John's of Bleecker Street or its spacious Midtown sibling, John's Pizzeria on West 44th Street. Housed inside a converted 19th-century Gospel Tabernacle church, the dining room features stained glass ceilings and wooden booths that make the atmosphere alone worth the visit.
John's operates on a strict whole-pie basis—you won't find individual slices here. Every pie gets blasted in a coal-fired brick oven, yielding a charred, blistered crust that carries a distinct smoky flavor.
- What to order: The traditional margherita or a custom pie loaded with homemade sausage and roasted peppers.
- Pro tip: Expect a wait during peak pre-theater hours (6:00 PM to 8:00 PM). Arrive early or late to skip the rush.
Emmy Squared Pizza (Hell's Kitchen)
Just a short walk west of the main square into Hell's Kitchen sits Emmy Squared, specializing in Detroit-style square pizzas. While purists might argue that Detroit style isn't traditional New York pizza, this spot offers a welcome texture break from standard thin-crust grease.
These pies feature a thick, focaccia-like crust with a crispy, caramelized cheese frico crust baked right into the edges of the pan. The toppings are layered creatively, starting with sauce stripes on top of the cheese rather than underneath.
- What to order: The "Colony" pie, topped with pepperoni, pickled jalapeños, and honey.
- Pro tip: They offer an extensive happy hour menu, making it a budget-friendly option if you want to sit down for drinks and heavy appetizers before a Broadway show.
Artichoke Basille's Pizza
When hunger strikes late at night and you need something heavy to soak up an evening out, Artichoke Basille's delivers maximum caloric density. Their slices are massive, thick, and drowning in rich sauces.
The signature artichoke slice features a creamy spinach and artichoke dip base baked directly onto a thick crust. It's decadent, messy, and entirely polarizing—you will either love its rich comfort-food nature or find it too heavy for a standard slice.
- What to order: The signature artichoke slice or the vodka slice.
- Pro tip: Grab extra napkins. One slice is easily equivalent to two normal meals anywhere else.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying Pizza in Times Square
- Falling for the Dollar Sign Trap: Pizzerias advertising "$1.50 slices" right on the main drag usually cut corners on dairy and ingredients, resulting in soggy crust and artificial sauce. Stick to reputable names with high turnover.
- Ignoring the Line Speed: A busy line at a place like Joe's means fresh pies are constantly coming out of the oven. A completely empty shop in Midtown is often a red flag.
- Ordering Too Much: New York slices are deceptively large. Start with two slices maximum before committing to a whole pie.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I find good gluten-free pizza in Times Square?
Yes. Several spots near the theater district, including local independent operators and expanded slice shops, offer gluten-free crust options alongside vegan cheese alternatives so everyone in your group can eat.
How much should a standard plain slice cost in Manhattan?
A basic cheese slice at a reputable independent shop typically ranges from $3.50 to $5.00. Anything significantly cheaper often compromises heavily on ingredient quality.
Should I fold my New York slice?
Folding a traditional thin-crust slice down the middle is the local convention. It keeps the oil and sauce from dripping onto your clothes while creating structural integrity as you walk.
Are reservations necessary for Times Square pizzerias?
Most classic slice shops operate on a walk-in, counter-service basis where reservations aren't possible. Sit-down coal-oven restaurants like John's take walk-ins but require patience during peak evening dining windows.
