For five years, I have traversed the Boston area in search of pizzerias that replicate the magic of a New York slice.
Who am I to question our institutions? Well, I’m a fatty from New Jersey with nearly three decades of pizza-eating under my belt.
- I’ve identified a collection of pizzerias I would defend — at least as the best in the region.
What I did: Ate dozens of slices of pepperoni and the occasional Sicilian to compare the sauces and textures. I wrote it all down to tell you how they stack up.
- Today, we start with three solid choices: Armando’s Pizza & Subs, Florina Pizzeria & Paninoteca and Galleria Umberto.
Armando’s Pizza & Subs
The first time I visited Armando’s in Cambridge, the owner was juggling back-to-back phone calls with to-go orders from regulars stopping in five minutes after opening.
- I quickly learned why.
What I ordered: A slice of pepperoni and a Sicilian slice.
- What I got: The closest thing to a New York slice in the Boston area — a slightly greasy thin crust that held together a proper ratio of well-seasoned sauce, cheese and pepperoni.
- Also, a solid Sicilian slice — a crunchy, but airy crust with more sauce and a generous heap of cheese.
Price: $3.75 for the pepperoni slice; $4.50 for Sicilian. Cash only.
The bottom line: The best of the best.
Florina Pizzeria & Paninoteca
Depending on the day, the time and the way the wind blows, Florina on Beacon Hill serves either the best pizza in Boston or a greasy, flimsy mess.
What I ordered: A massive pepperoni slice and a Sicilian.
- What I got: A thin crust that held its own, but the pepperoni could have used some extra sauce.
- Also, a margherita pizza Sicilian slice (they didn’t have regular cheese). No sauce, which was disappointing, but the crust was A+.
Price: $4.25 for the pepperoni; $4.75 for the Sicilian.
The bottom line: I’ve had excellent pizza from Florina on other visits, but you can’t be the best around Boston when your pies are inconsistent.
Galleria Umberto
Galleria Umberto doesn’t fall into the New York-style pizza category, but the North End pizzeria’s taste and price make it worth trying.
What I ordered: A Sicilian slice (that’s the only pizza they sell).
- What I got: A thin crust for Sicilian, but it held a generous helping of charred cheese and tomato sauce.
Price: $2.25. Cash only.
The bottom line: Galleria Umberto’s slices are not only one of the best in the city, but the best (and perhaps only) ones at this price point.
- My only gripe is the hours are limited: 10:45am-2:30pm Monday through Saturday.
Editor’s note: This guide will be updated with new entries.
