The Absolute Best New York Style Pizza in Charlotte [Updated 2025]

After sampling a variety of slices across the city, I’ve compiled my top picks for those craving that iconic New York flavor.

From the perfect thin crust to the generous cheese and rich tomato sauce, each restaurant brings its own twist while maintaining the essence of what makes New York pizza so special.

Having reviewed 12 standout pizzerias, I can’t wait to share my favorites with you.

Whether you're a die-hard fan or a curious newbie, there’s something in this guide for everyone ready to savor a slice of the Big Apple in the Queen City!

Benny Pennello's

Highlights
Giant pizza slices available
Open late until 3am
High quality, great price
No-frills seating options
Consistently excellent pepperoni

Benny Pennello's in Charlotte delivers a slice of New York right to the heart of the Queen City. As I walked in, the inviting aroma of baking dough and melting cheese immediately drew me in. The first thing that struck me was the gigantic pizza slices—these aren't your average portions; each slice is almost a meal in itself!

I decided to try their pepperoni pizza, a classic choice, and let me tell you, it was superb. The pepperoni was consistently excellent, blending perfectly with the perfectly charred crust. I was pleased to find that the prices were more than reasonable, allowing me to indulge without breaking the bank.

Benny Pennello's also boasts the convenience of late-night hours, staying open until 3 AM, which is fantastic for those spontaneous cravings after a night out. While the seating options are a bit no-frills, the focus here is clear—delicious pizza served with a touch of authenticity.

In the ever-growing pizza scene of Charlotte, Benny Pennello's stands out as a must-visit for anyone craving true New York style. Don't forget to grab a slice—it's a slice of heaven!

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Pizzeria Sapienza CLT

Highlights
Authentic homemade pizza
Fantastic bartender experience
Kind and polite staff
Great lunch combo
Impeccable food and service

When I stepped into Pizzeria Sapienza CLT, I was immediately greeted by the intoxicating aroma of authentic homemade pizza wafting through the air. The atmosphere was welcoming, and the kind and polite staff made me feel right at home. I decided to indulge in their signature pizza, and I was delighted by the experience.

The crust was perfectly crispy, boasting a delightful chew that you can only find in the heart of NYC. Each slice held up beautifully under the weight of abundant toppings, and the flavor was nothing short of spectacular. It brought me back to my favorite pizza joints in New York City.

What really set this place apart was the fantastic bartender experience. I enjoyed a refreshing drink that perfectly complemented my meal. They truly know how to make you feel special while you dine, turning an ordinary lunch combo into an exceptional culinary outing.

If you’re hunting for the best New York style pizza in Charlotte, look no further than Pizzeria Sapienza CLT. Their impeccable food and service will undoubtedly make your taste buds dance!

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Benny Ferrovia’s Pizza

Highlights
Delicious pizza offerings
Exceptional customer service
Welcoming and friendly vibe
Great beer selection
Large, foldable slices

Benny Ferrovia's Pizza: A Slice of New York in Charlotte

Stepping into Benny Ferrovia’s Pizza is like being transported to a bustling New York pizzeria. The aroma of freshly baked dough and flavorful sauce wraps around you like a warm hug. Their pizza offerings are truly exceptional, boasting a selection that caters to both traditionalists and those seeking a twist on classic flavors.

As someone who appreciates the importance of slice quality, I was particularly impressed by the large, foldable slices that practically begged me to dive right in. The crust strikes a perfect balance—crispy yet chewy, providing that quintessential New York experience right here in Charlotte.

Beyond the pizza, the atmosphere felt incredibly welcoming, with exceptional customer service that made me feel right at home. The staff is genuinely passionate about their craft, and it shows. And let’s not forget the great beer selection, which pairs wonderfully with their delectable slices—a must-try for any pizza lover.

Overall, if you're in the Queen City and craving a taste of New York, Benny Ferrovia’s is where you need to be!

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Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar 7th Street

Highlights
Authentic NY style pizza
Friendly and attentive service
Family-friendly atmosphere
Delicious buffalo chicken options
Great takeout service

Upon stepping into Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar 7th Street, I was immediately enveloped by a vibrant and family-friendly atmosphere. The friendly staff greeted me warmly, setting the tone for a delightful dining experience. As I perused the menu, my eyes landed on their authentic NY style pizza, which promised a taste of the Big Apple right in the heart of Charlotte.

I opted for the classic cheese pizza and was quite impressed. The crust had an excellent balance of chewiness and crispness, mimicking the traditional New York fold. Each bite revealed a symphony of flavors, with a zesty tomato sauce and melty cheese that seemed to dance together. I also couldn’t resist trying their buffalo chicken pizza, which was nothing short of a revelation. The bold, tangy flavors paired perfectly with a rich, creamy blue cheese drizzle.

What stood out in my visit was not just the delicious food, but also the great takeout service for those busy nights. Hawthorne's truly encapsulates the spirit of New York pizza, making it a must-visit for any pizza lover in Charlotte! 🍕✨

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Brooklyn Pizza Parlor (Colony road)

Highlights
Perfect crunch and sauce
Nostalgic pizza vibes
Delicious BBQ wings
Mozzarella garlic knots
Room for improvement

When I stepped into Brooklyn Pizza Parlor on Colony Road, I felt an instant wave of nostalgia wash over me. The ambiance echoed the classic pizza joints of New York City, setting the stage for a delicious adventure. I dove right into their signature slices, and let me tell you—every bite was a revelation! The crust had the perfect crunch, offering that delightful dance of texture that true New York pizza aficionados crave.

The sauce was a harmonious blend of tangy and sweet, complementing the gooey mozzarella splendidly. While the pizza shined, I must say the BBQ wings also caught my fancy; they were a crispy and saucy delight, leaving me wanting more. I couldn't resist trying the mozzarella garlic knots too, which were heavenly little pillows of cheesy goodness.

However, if I were to suggest an area of improvement, it might be the variety of toppings; a few more creative options would elevate the experience even further. Overall, I would recommend Brooklyn Pizza Parlor for anyone in search of an authentic New York slice right in the heart of Charlotte. It's a slice of Brooklyn that I wouldn't mind returning to again and again! 🍕

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Intermezzo

Highlights
Welcoming atmosphere
Excellent service
Delicious Sarma and Piroska
Creative menu options
Value varies by dish

Intermezzo is a delightful gem tucked away in Charlotte, and I have to say, walking in feels like a warm embrace from a classic New York pizzeria. The atmosphere is both welcoming and vibrant, setting the perfect stage for a pizza escapade.

The service here is exceptional—staff are attentive without being intrusive, making sure your glass is full and your pizza dreams are about to come true. Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the pizza! While their New York style pizza is a must-try, I was surprisingly entranced by their Sarma and Piroska. These creative menu options showcased an artistic flair that kept my palate intrigued.

As I savored each slice, the balance of a thin yet sturdy crust and a well-seasoned tomato sauce made me feel like I was sitting in a bustling NYC pizzeria. However, I must mention that value does vary; some dishes felt tailored for special occasions rather than an everyday lunch. Regardless, Intermezzo delivers a wonderful pizza experience that's bound to bring a smile to any pizza lover's face. Overall, it’s a slice of New York right here in Charlotte! 🍕

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Wolfman Pizza

Highlights
Outstanding service
Incredible gluten free crust
Delicious pizza and wings
Reasonable prices
Very underrated spot

Wolfman Pizza is a hidden gem that truly deserves your attention if you're on the hunt for New York style pizza in Charlotte. Upon entering, I was immediately struck by the outstanding service—the staff was welcoming and knowledgeable, ready to guide me through their tempting menu options.

I decided to try their signature slice and it did not disappoint. The crust was perfectly thin and crispy, embodying the classic NY style I'm always searching for. One of the highlights was the incredible gluten-free crust; it’s fantastic to find a place offering such a delicious alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.

I couldn’t resist pairing my pizza with some wings, and let me tell you, they were a match made in heaven—deliciously crispy with just the right kick. Another pleasant surprise was the reasonable prices, making it easy to indulge without breaking the bank.

Considering all the elements—flavor, service, and atmosphere—Wolfman Pizza stands out as a very underrated spot in Charlotte. If you’re craving authentic New York style pizza, I highly recommend giving this delightful establishment a visit. You won’t be disappointed!

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Sal's Pizza Factory

Highlights
Best specialty pizza
Consistent quality
Highly rated toppings
Disappointing recent visit
Reasonable pizza options

At Sal's Pizza Factory, I was eager to sink my teeth into their highly-rated pies and discover what the buzz was about. Known for their best specialty pizza—which boasts an irresistible combination of fresh toppings—the excitement was palpable. Upon my arrival, I immediately noticed the consistent quality of their offerings, a hallmark of a true pizza haven.

To start, I indulged in their guaranteed crowd-pleaser, topped with savory pepperoni and a blend of cheeses that melted so perfectly, it was like a symphony of flavors in my mouth. However, during my most recent visit, I was a tinge let down; perhaps it was an off day, or maybe the pizza gods were in a quirky mood. The slice lacked the usual zing I had previously savored.

Nonetheless, the selection of reasonable pizza options ensures there’s something for everyone. If you’re a toppings enthusiast, you won't be left wanting with the variety they provide. While my expectations were not entirely met this time, I remain curious about their other offerings. Sal's Pizza Factory still holds a spot in my heart—or rather, my stomach—among Charlotte's best new york style pizza venues.

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Wheelz Pizza of Midtown Charlotte

Highlights
Fresh, high-quality ingredients
Friendly and attentive staff
Impressive sanitation score
Excellent margherita and buffalo
Great food truck experience

Wheelz Pizza of Midtown Charlotte is an absolute gem that had me grinning from ear to ear! From the moment I arrived, the friendly and attentive staff welcomed me like I was part of their pizza-loving family. Their commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients really shines through, especially in their classic margherita and buffalo pies. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that instantly transports you to a bustling New York pizzeria.

What truly sets Wheelz apart is the impressive sanitation score—a testament to their dedication to cleanliness, which I greatly appreciate as a food lover. The food truck experience adds a unique charm, making it an enjoyable stop just about anytime you're craving a slice.

As I reveled in my meal, I couldn't help but admire the atmosphere that embraces both community and fun. Whether you're grabbing a quick slice on the go or settling in with friends, Wheelz delivers a playful yet professional pizza experience. If you're on the hunt for the best new york style pizza in Charlotte, look no further—Wheelz Pizza is a must-visit!

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Due Amici Pizza

During my recent visit to Due Amici Pizza, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of fresh dough and simmering sauce. The New York-style slices were perfection—thin yet sturdy, with a delightful char on the crust. Each bite revealed a harmonious blend of tangy tomato, savory cheese, and just the right sprinkle of basil. I could almost hear the bustling streets of Brooklyn! The atmosphere was inviting, making it a great spot for pizza lovers. If you’re on a quest for authentic New York-style pizza in Charlotte, Due Amici is a slice of heaven that you shouldn't miss!

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500 Degrees New York Style Pizzeria - South Blvd.

The moment I stepped into 500 Degrees, the aroma of fresh dough and bubbling cheese embraced me like an old friend. Their pizza truly captures the essence of New York, with a perfect balance of crispy crust and generous toppings. I savored a slice of their classic Margherita, where the fresh basil danced harmoniously with the tangy sauce. Each bite was a nostalgic trip to the bustling streets of NYC. Plus, the laid-back vibe makes it a great spot for both pizza aficionados and casual diners. If you're on a quest for authentic pizza, this is your go-to destination in Charlotte!

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Tony's Pizza Ballantyne

During my visit to Tony's Pizza Ballantyne, I was instantly captivated by the aroma of freshly baked dough and rich tomato sauce. Their New York-style pizza is a delightful homage to its origins, showcasing a perfect balance of crispy crust and gooey cheese. Each slice felt like a warm hug, and the generous toppings were vibrant and flavorful. The atmosphere is equally inviting, echoing the hustle and bustle of NYC with a playful twist. If you're craving an authentic slice that transports you to the streets of New York, Tony's is a must-visit spot in Charlotte! 🍕✨

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