Pizza as the world knows it was invented, based on Italian models, in New York City around 1905 at Lombardi’s in Little Italy, though we had precursors that were closer to focaccia late in the previous century. And from that original burst of energy — which also propelled the openings of Patsy’s, Totonno’s, and John’s of Bleecker Street, all by baker-disciples of Gennaro Lombardi — the city’s pizzaioli continued to innovate, creating new varieties uniquely suited to the tastes and demands of customers. While there’s a never-ending debate on where to find the city’s best slices, there’s one issue with no dispute (despite the latest claim about a particular city out West): New York City and its vicinity have remained the world capital of pizzadom.
That said, only a certain number of those pizzerias have ascended to icon status. Here’s a collection of 30 restaurants spanning all five boroughs, which every pizza-loving New Yorker should visit at least once. New to this map are Oma Grassa, Camillo, Ops, Lucia Pizza of Avenue X, and 99 Cent Fresh Pizza. For the best neighborhood slice shops, see here.
Health experts consider dining out to be a high-risk activity for the unvaccinated; it may pose a risk for the vaccinated, especially in areas with substantial COVID transmission.
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