Ever had that craving for a real New York slice, the kind that transports you to the bustling streets of Manhattan with every bite? For Arlington residents, finding pizza that truly captures the essence of the Big Apple can feel like a never-ending quest. Countless establishments promise the authentic experience, but many fall short, leaving you with a disappointing imitation.
What exactly is New York pizza? It’s more than just a slice; it’s a culinary icon. At its heart, New York pizza is defined by its thin, hand-tossed crust, a crisp yet slightly chewy texture, and that characteristic slight char on the bottom. Simple, high-quality ingredients are paramount: a vibrant tomato sauce, generously applied but not overwhelming, and creamy, perfectly melted mozzarella cheese. It’s often sold by the slice, a testament to its grab-and-go origins. And, of course, the ultimate test: the ability to effortlessly fold the slice in half, a technique that keeps the toppings in place and delivers a perfect bite every time.
Fortunately, Arlington has a few hidden gems that truly understand and respect the art of New York-style pizza. This guide will take you on a delicious journey, revealing the best places in Arlington to find your perfect taste of New York. Prepare to say goodbye to mediocre pizza and hello to authentic flavor.
Where to Find a Slice of NYC Heaven in Arlington
This section will spotlight establishments that deliver what the pizza lover wants in Arlington.
Angelo’s Pizzeria
Nestled in a cozy corner of Arlington, Angelo’s Pizzeria has been serving up slices of New York since its opening years ago. This family-owned establishment prides itself on using time-honored recipes and the freshest ingredients to create a truly authentic experience.
What sets Angelo’s apart is their dedication to the details. Their crust is expertly crafted, achieving that perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness. The sauce is made from scratch, using a blend of Italian tomatoes and a secret combination of herbs and spices. The mozzarella is always fresh and generously applied. They pride themselves on the simple basics and that is what makes them a great place to get a New York pizza slice.
For a classic New York experience, be sure to try their simple cheese pizza. The pepperoni is also a popular choice, with perfectly crisped edges that add a burst of flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try their white pizza, topped with ricotta cheese, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil. And no visit to Angelo’s is complete without an order of their famous garlic knots, soft, pillowy, and bursting with garlicky goodness.
The atmosphere at Angelo’s is warm and inviting, with a casual, family-friendly vibe. It’s the perfect place to grab a quick slice for lunch or enjoy a leisurely dinner with friends and family. Pricing is moderate, making it an affordable option for pizza lovers of all budgets.
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“Angelo’s pizza is the real deal! It reminds me of the pizza I used to get back in New York.” – A local customer.
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Tony’s Italian Kitchen
Tony’s Italian Kitchen is another contender in the Arlington New York-style pizza scene, offering a more modern and upscale take on the classic dish. Tony’s boasts an open kitchen, allowing customers to watch as their pizzas are expertly crafted.
Tony’s prides itself on using only the highest quality ingredients, sourced both locally and from Italy. Their dough is made fresh daily and allowed to proof for an extended period, resulting in a light and airy crust. They are well known for their use of fresh and unique toppings.
While they offer a wide variety of specialty pizzas, the classic New York slice is a must-try. The sauce is bright and flavorful, the mozzarella is creamy and decadent, and the crust has that perfect char and snap. They also offer a variety of other Italian specialties, including calzones, stromboli, and pasta dishes.
The atmosphere at Tony’s is more refined than Angelo’s, making it a great option for a date night or a special occasion. Prices are slightly higher, reflecting the use of premium ingredients and the upscale ambiance.
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“Tony’s is my go-to spot for pizza. The crust is amazing, and the toppings are always fresh and flavorful.” – Another Arlington resident.
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Benny’s Brick Oven Pizza
Benny’s Brick Oven Pizza brings a unique twist to the New York pizza experience in Arlington. Their pizzas are cooked in a wood-fired brick oven, imparting a smoky flavor and a perfectly blistered crust.
What makes Benny’s special is their commitment to using all-natural ingredients. Their dough is made from organic flour, their sauce is made from vine-ripened tomatoes, and their mozzarella is sourced from local farms. The heat from the brick oven delivers that perfect amount of heat to get the pizza just right in a few minutes.
Their classic New York pizza is a simple masterpiece, featuring a thin crust, a tangy sauce, and a generous layer of mozzarella. The brick oven gives the crust a slightly charred flavor that is simply irresistible. They also offer a variety of gourmet toppings, including roasted vegetables, artisanal cheeses, and cured meats.
Benny’s has a laid-back and rustic atmosphere, with exposed brick walls and communal tables. It’s a great place to gather with friends and enjoy a delicious pizza. Pricing is moderate, making it a popular choice among students and young professionals.
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“The brick oven makes all the difference! Benny’s pizza is the best in Arlington.” – A local pizza enthusiast.
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Mama’s Pizza Kitchen
Mama’s Pizza Kitchen has been serving up New York style pizza since opening its doors in Arlington decades ago. This family-owned establishment prides itself on quality and the love they put into each pizza.
What sets Mama’s apart is their dedication to the details of the family recipe. Their crust is expertly crafted, achieving that perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness. The sauce is made from scratch, using a blend of Italian tomatoes and a secret combination of herbs and spices. The mozzarella is always fresh and generously applied.
For a classic New York experience, be sure to try their simple cheese pizza. The pepperoni is also a popular choice, with perfectly crisped edges that add a burst of flavor. They also offer a variety of other Italian specialties, including calzones, stromboli, and pasta dishes.
The atmosphere at Mama’s is very family friendly, with a casual vibe. It’s the perfect place to go out with the kids and get a good meal at an affordable price. Pricing is low to moderate, making it an affordable option for pizza lovers of all budgets.
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“Mama’s is where our family goes for pizza night, it is the best!” – A local parent.
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Honorable Mentions
While the restaurants above truly capture the essence of New York pizza, there are a few other places in Arlington that offer a respectable alternative. [Restaurant Name] is known for their creative toppings and unique flavor combinations, but their crust is slightly thicker than a traditional New York slice. [Another Restaurant Name] offers a decent pizza at a very affordable price, but the quality of the ingredients isn’t quite up to par. These restaurants are worth considering if you’re looking for a quick and easy pizza fix, but they may not satisfy a true craving for authentic New York flavor.
What to Look For in a True New York Slice (Your Checklist)
Not all pizza is created equal. Here’s a guide to help you identify a true New York slice:
Crust: Thin, crispy on the bottom, slightly chewy throughout. It should have a slight char, indicating it was cooked at a high temperature.
Sauce: Simple, flavorful tomato sauce. Not too sweet, not too acidic. It should complement the other ingredients, not overpower them.
Cheese: Good quality mozzarella, evenly melted and slightly browned.
Foldability: The ultimate test. A New York slice should be easily foldable without falling apart or losing its toppings.
Grease: A slight sheen of grease is normal and adds to the flavor, but it shouldn’t be excessive or dripping.
Red Flags
Avoid these telltale signs of a subpar pizza:
Thick, doughy crust.
Overly sweet sauce.
Low-quality cheese.
Soggy or undercooked crust.
An excessive amount of grease.
Conclusion
Arlington, Texas might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of New York pizza, but as this guide proves, there are a few hidden gems that are worth seeking out. Angelo’s Pizzeria, Tony’s Italian Kitchen, Benny’s Brick Oven Pizza, and Mama’s Pizza Kitchen offer distinct interpretations of the classic dish, each with its own unique charm.
So, the next time you’re craving a taste of the Big Apple, head to one of these Arlington spots. Don’t settle for anything less than authentic flavor, and remember to use the checklist above to guide your pizza judging.
Let us know in the comments which pizza is your favorite! Share your own experiences and recommendations, and help us continue to uncover the best New York pizza in Arlington, Texas. Who knows, maybe one day Arlington will be known as a mini pizza mecca in the heart of Texas.
