Prince Street Pizza has become a New York City institution, renowned for its delicious pizza and often-packed dining room. But does the hype live up to the reality? This in-depth review explores the menu, the atmosphere, and the overall experience to help you decide if Prince Street Pizza deserves a spot on your NYC culinary itinerary. We'll delve into what makes this pizzeria so popular, examining customer reviews and exploring what sets it apart in the fiercely competitive New York pizza scene.
The Prince Street Pizza Menu: More Than Just a Slice
The menu at Prince Street Pizza is deceptively simple, focusing on what they do best: pizza. However, within that simplicity lies a world of delicious choices. Forget elaborate gourmet toppings; Prince Street's strength lies in its classic approach.
Classic Pies: The Heart of the Menu
-
The Original: This is the benchmark, the pizza that built their reputation. A perfectly balanced blend of tangy tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and their signature crust. Many reviews highlight the unique charring on the crust, giving it a delightful smoky flavor.
-
Sicilian: For those who prefer a thicker, heartier crust, the Sicilian is a must-try. It's known for its airy, slightly crispy base and generous topping distribution.
-
White Pizza: A simple yet elegant alternative, the white pizza features garlic, olive oil, and mozzarella cheese, showcasing the quality of their ingredients. Many consider this a testament to their skill in letting the simple ingredients shine.
Beyond the Pie: Sides and Drinks
While pizza is the star, Prince Street Pizza offers a small selection of sides and drinks to complement your meal. These are generally straightforward—garlic knots, salads, and a range of soft drinks—allowing the pizza to remain the central focus.
Prince Street Pizza Reviews: What Customers Are Saying
Online reviews for Prince Street Pizza are overwhelmingly positive, though some criticisms exist. Let's analyze the common themes:
Rave Reviews:
-
The Crust: The overwhelming majority of reviews praise the crust. Words like "crispy," "perfectly charred," "airy," and "delicious" frequently appear. Many describe it as the best crust they've ever had in NYC.
-
The Sauce: The sauce is another consistent point of praise, described as "tangy," "fresh," and "perfectly balanced." It's not overly sweet or acidic, striking a harmonious note with the cheese and crust.
-
The Cheese: The mozzarella is consistently lauded for its quality and freshness. It's described as creamy and flavorful, complementing the other ingredients without overpowering them.
Areas for Improvement:
-
Long Lines: A common complaint is the often-long lines, especially during peak hours. Be prepared to wait, but most reviewers feel it's worth it.
-
Limited Seating: The dining area is relatively small, so securing a table can be challenging, especially during busy periods.
-
No Delivery: Prince Street Pizza currently doesn't offer delivery, requiring customers to visit the location in person. This can be a significant drawback for those who prefer the convenience of home delivery.
Prince Street Pizza: The Verdict
Prince Street Pizza delivers on its reputation. The pizza is consistently excellent, with a focus on high-quality ingredients and classic preparation. The enthusiastic reviews, focusing on the crust, sauce, and cheese, speak for themselves. While the long lines and limited seating can be drawbacks, the overall experience is generally considered worthwhile by the vast majority of customers. If you're a pizza aficionado in New York City, Prince Street Pizza is definitely worth a visit—just be prepared to queue!
FAQ: Addressing Common Questions about Prince Street Pizza
Q: What are Prince Street Pizza's hours of operation?
A: Their hours vary, so it's best to check their website or social media for the most up-to-date information.
Q: How much does a pizza cost?
A: Prices vary depending on the size and type of pizza you order, but expect to pay a typical price for a NYC pizza.
Q: Is Prince Street Pizza suitable for families?
A: While there's limited seating, families are welcome. However, the atmosphere can be quite busy, so it might not be ideal for young children.
Q: Can I order ahead?
A: Prince Street Pizza does not generally take pre-orders.
Q: Are there vegetarian options?
A: Yes, they offer the white pizza and other vegetarian options upon request.
This comprehensive review of Prince Street Pizza should provide a clear picture of what to expect. While the long lines might be a deterrent for some, the consistently high quality of their pizza makes it a compelling destination for any pizza lover visiting New York City.
