New York City, a pizza mecca, boasts countless pizzerias, each vying for the title of the best slice. Amidst this fierce competition, Bleecker Street Pizza stands out, particularly renowned for its Nonna Maria slice. This isn’t just pizza; it’s an experience, a taste of authentic New York flavor that keeps locals and tourists coming back for more. Is the Nonna Maria at Bleecker Street Pizza truly the best specialty slice in the city? Let’s dive into what makes this pizza a contender for the crown.
Defining Pizza Excellence: What Makes a Slice the “Best”?
Before declaring any slice the “best,” it’s crucial to establish the criteria. For a truly exceptional pizza, several factors come into play:
1. Taste Harmony: The ultimate test is the overall taste. This involves a balance of high-quality ingredients working in perfect unison, starting with a flavorful crust as the foundation.
2. Crust Perfection: The crust is paramount. It should be light and airy yet possess a satisfying chewiness on the inside, with a crisp exterior that provides a delightful textural contrast. Crucially, it must be sturdy enough to hold its toppings without collapsing under the weight.
3. Sauce Sophistication: The sauce should be made from superior ingredients, avoiding excessive sweetness or bitterness. Its role is to complement, sometimes subtly and sometimes boldly, the other components of the pizza, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
While a plain cheese slice often serves as the benchmark for a pizzeria’s quality, at Bleecker Street Pizza, the Nonna Maria transcends the ordinary, establishing itself as a specialty slice in a league of its own.
The Nonna Maria: A Symphony of Flavors at Bleecker Street Pizza
What elevates the Nonna Maria slice to such acclaim? It’s the meticulous selection of ingredients and the harmonious blend of flavors. Bleecker Street Pizza distinguishes itself by using freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese on every pie. This premium cheese, costing upwards of $15 per pound and sourced in large wheels, ensures that each pizza is generously sprinkled with at least $8 worth of this flavorful ingredient. The use of high-quality Parmigiano-Reggiano extends to their sauces, including the marinara, a cherished family recipe from the owner’s grandmother – the very Nonna Maria who inspired the slice’s name. Unlike many pizzerias that opt for generic grated Parmesan, Bleecker Street Pizza prioritizes fresh, top-tier ingredients even at the foundational level. The taste of this Parmigiano-Reggiano is a testament to their commitment; slightly firm with a subtle sharpness that melts exquisitely in your mouth.
The crust at Bleecker Street Pizza is notably crunchy, designed to play a supporting role rather than steal the show. It’s engineered for structural integrity, allowing you to confidently hold the Nonna Maria slice by its end crust without any fear of it buckling under its abundant toppings.
A Greenwich Village Institution: More Than Just Pizza
My personal journey to discovering Bleecker Street Pizza began years ago, drawn in by the irresistible aroma of garlic and baking dough. The sight of a fresh Nonna Maria pie being placed in the display case was instantly captivating. Two slices later, it was clear – this was a pizza destination of exceptional quality. Approaching its anniversary, Bleecker Street Pizza remains unchanged: consistently satisfying, undeniably delicious, and a no-frills establishment run by seasoned pizza professionals.
(From left to right) Dennis, Tony, and Benni, the faces behind Bleecker Street Pizza, readily recommend their favorites: the Nonna Maria, the Grandma slice, and the Nonna Maria, respectively.
Beyond the Nonna Maria: Exploring the Grandma Slice
While the Nonna Maria is the star, Bleecker Street Pizza also excels with its Grandma Slice. This slice offers a different textural experience – thinner, fluffier, and less crispy than the Nonna Maria. It features a delicate layer of olive oil and garlic beneath a blanket of mozzarella and a generous dollop of marinara sauce. The Grandma Slice at Bleecker Street Pizza stands out as one of the finest renditions of this style in the city.
Location and Late-Night Cravings
Located conveniently on the corner of 7th Ave. & Bleecker St., Bleecker Street Pizza is in the heart of Greenwich Village. Its extended hours, open until 5 AM on weekends and 2 AM during the week, make it a perfect spot for late-night cravings. While Joe’s Pizza on Carmine & Bleecker is another popular late-night option, Bleecker Street Pizza offers a superior alternative.
Instead of waiting in line at Joe’s for a potentially small, overcooked slice with standard mozzarella, venture a bit further up Bleecker to 7th Avenue. For the same price, you can indulge in a Nonna Maria at Bleecker Street Pizza, letting the intoxicating scents of garlic, tomato, and Parmigiano-Reggiano elevate your pizza experience.
Bleecker Street Pizza: A Must-Visit for Pizza Aficionados
Bleecker Street Pizza isn’t just another pizzeria; it’s a Greenwich Village gem that has mastered the art of pizza making. The Nonna Maria slice, with its premium ingredients and perfect balance of flavors and textures, truly makes a compelling case for being the best specialty slice in New York City. Whether you’re a local pizza enthusiast or a visitor seeking an authentic New York slice, Bleecker Street Pizza is a destination that should be at the top of your list.
