Lombardi's Pizzeria

Perhaps the two best New York pizzas are found Grimaldi's and Lombardi's. It sort of makes sense if you think about it. After all Patsy Grimaldi's uncle who taught him all he knew about pizza, learned it himself from Gennaro Lombardi years ago. It is only natural that these two pizzerias are rated among the best and have a history for long lines and good times.

Lombardi's wasn't always a pizzeria. It started off in the Little Italy section as a grocery store back in the early 1900s and it became the first American Pizzeria in 1905. Now it has been in business for almost a hundred and three years. Lombardi's was not that popular in New York until just after the Second World War When it was a grocery store its most popular item was tomato pies which men wrapped in papers and tied with a string to go to work with. From there it just grew.

The Lombardi you see today on 32 Spring Street is not the original Lombardi that was standing 100 years ago. Back in 1984 Lombardi closed its doors but reopened again ten years later in a new location and it has been there every since.

Just like with Grimaldi's you might find a line there depending on when you want to get in. Most often the wait can be an hour or more but if you go during an off time you should get in quicker. The pizza however is worth the wait. You have to trust me on this. Lombardi's has been one of my favorite pizzerias since I was in college and I keep wondering if they are every going to move Jersey. They opened a location in Philadelphia but closed it due to renovations

There are many reasons why this is hailed as home of the best pizza in New York. Not only do they make their dough in house, but they also have fresh mozzarella, homemade tomatoes sauce and top their pies with fresh basil and Romano cheese. Just like with Grimaldi's a brick oven is used to achieve the crispy blackened bottom of the pie.

Unlike Grimaldi's however is the choice of toppings that you have. You can choose to have criterion pancetta (Italian bacon), homemade meatballs, red onions, red peppers and anchovies to name a few. You can even have clams put on your pizza if you would like! Lombardi's also has an excellent and affordable non pizza menu also. You can order calzones, salads, clams and mushrooms to name a few.

Lombardi's is world famous and has seen its share of celebrities and has also developed a relationship with some of its regulars. Regardless if its your first time in there or you millionth time in there. Lombardi goes out of its way for everyone and anyone who steps food in their door. From the moment you step inside, you feel like family. If you are planning a trip to New York in the next few months. Make sure you stop by Lombardi's for the best pizza you probably ever have tasted.