The Absolute Best NY Pizza in Charlotte [Updated 2025]

Having tasted and reviewed 12 of the top pizzerias in the area, I can confidently say that Charlotte has a burgeoning pizza scene that rivals even the most iconic spots in New York City.

From traditional pizza parlors to innovative eateries putting their own spin on classic slices, this city has something for every pizza lover.

Join me as I take you through my favorites, highlighting what makes each place unique, and providing you with all the delicious details you need to find your next slice of heaven.

Brooklyn Pizza Parlor (Colony road)

Highlights
Helpful counter service
Perfect cheese pizza
Delicious BBQ wings
Crunchy crust
Nostalgic pizza vibes

Walking into Brooklyn Pizza Parlor (Colony Road) felt like stepping back into a genuine slice of New York. The vibe immediately transported me—nostalgic and filled with the scent of freshly baked dough. The helpful counter service was a refreshing touch; the staff offered great recommendations and made me feel right at home.

I opted for the classic cheese pizza, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! The sauce had just the right amount of tang, perfectly balanced by a generous layer of gooey, melted cheese. Each bite was punctuated by the crunchy crust, which had the ideal char without being too hard or chewy—a real testament to their craftsmanship.

On a whim, I decided to try their BBQ wings as well. These little treasures were a delightful surprise—crispy, flavorful, and went perfectly with the pizza!

If you’re in search of genuine New York pizza in Charlotte, Brooklyn Pizza Parlor should be on your radar. It’s a place where deliciousness meets a hearty dose of nostalgia. I can't wait for my next visit to dive into another slice of pizza heaven!

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Wheelz Pizza of Midtown Charlotte

Highlights
Fresh Ingredients
Friendly Staff
High Sanitation Score
Delicious Buffalo Chicken
Great Food Truck Experience

Ah, Wheelz Pizza of Midtown Charlotte—a little slice of pizza paradise in the heart of Charlotte! From the moment I approached their vibrant food truck, the aroma of freshly baked dough wafted towards me like an irresistible invitation. The staff, known for their genuinely friendly demeanor, welcomed me with warm smiles and recommendations that sparked my curiosity.

Now, let’s talk about the pie. What truly stood out was their delicious Buffalo Chicken pizza—a heavenly creation that strikes the perfect balance between spicy and savory. The fresh ingredients played a starring role, with a crust that delivered that classic New York-style crisp and chew. Each bite was a celebration, and I was left longing for more.

But it wasn’t just the food that impressed me. Wheelz boasts a high sanitation score, reassuring pizza lovers like myself that quality and cleanliness go hand-in-hand. The overall food truck experience added a playful charm, making it a delightful stop.

In a city brimming with pizza options, Wheelz Pizza shines brightly, offering both a delicious meal and a warm atmosphere. If you’re hunting for the best ny pizza in Charlotte, this spot deserves a place at the top of your list!

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Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar 7th Street

Highlights
Authentic NY style pizza
Friendly and attentive staff
Family-friendly and affordable
Popular buffalo chicken pizza
Excellent to-go service

During my delightful visit to Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar 7th Street, I was immediately struck by the vibrant atmosphere and the warm welcome from the staff. Their authentic NY style pizza truly delivers on the promise of classic flavors. As I perused the menu, I was tempted by their popular buffalo chicken pizza, which turned out to be a scrumptious choice, balancing tangy buffalo sauce with a generous amount of cheese—a feast for both the eyes and the palate.

The staff, as friendly as they were attentive, made my experience even more enjoyable. In a city bustling with dining options, it's refreshing to find a family-friendly spot that doesn’t compromise on quality while being affordable. Whether you're dining in or opting for their efficient to-go service, the consistency in taste makes it a must-try.

With each flavorful bite, I could almost imagine myself in a bustling NYC pizzeria, and it was evident that Hawthorne's takes pride in their craft. For those seeking the best NY pizza in Charlotte, this place certainly stands out. Don't miss it during your pizza crawl!

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Benny Pennello's

Highlights
Giant slices available
Open late until 3am
High-quality ingredients
Affordable pricing
Perfect for late-night cravings

Stepping into Benny Pennello's feels like you’ve stumbled into a slice of New York right in the heart of Charlotte. Right off the bat, I was greeted by the irresistible aroma of freshly baked dough mingling with savory toppings. These aren't just any slices—we're talking giant slices that seem to defy the laws of physics. One bite, and you realize you may need a bigger plate!

Their commitment to quality is undeniable; high-quality ingredients shine through with every mouthful. The cheese is melty, the sauce has just the right kick, and the crust? A beautiful balance of crunch and chew that makes your taste buds dance. Plus, the best part? Prices are surprisingly affordable, ensuring your wallet won't take a hit while indulging in such heavenly flavors.

What truly sets Benny’s apart is the vibe. Open late until 3 AM, it’s a haven for those sudden late-night cravings. Whether you're a Charlotte local or just visiting, Benny Pennello's is where you'll want to savor every cheesy bite. It's more than just pizza; it’s a late-night adventure that keeps you coming back for more!

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Luigi's Pizza

Highlights
Soggy pizza crust
Inconsistent food quality
Terrible takeout experience
Burnt and greasy items
Only redeeming cannoli

Review of Luigi's Pizza

Stepping into Luigi's Pizza, I was met with the aroma of what I hoped would be a slice of heaven. Unfortunately, what arrived at my table felt more like a pizza nightmare. The crust was oddly soggy—I'm not sure if it was the underside of a ship or a pizza! I savored every bite, yet the quality was wildly inconsistent; some slices were practically swimming in grease while others resembled cardboard.

To make matters worse, my takeout experience was nothing short of a disaster. The order was delayed, and upon unpacking, I was greeted with burnt edges and toppings that seemed hesitant about their placement. Amidst this pizza chaos, the only shining star was the cannoli—a sweet oasis in a desert of disappointment.

Though my expectations were high for a respectable slice of New York-style pizza, Luigi's unfortunately missed the mark, leaving me feeling more like a forlorn pizza pilgrim than a satisfied customer. In the grand landscape of Charlotte's pizza offerings, there must be better options to explore. Until my next pizza quest, this one’s a hard pass!

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Pizzeria Sapienza CLT

Highlights
Authentic homemade pizza
Fantastic bartender experience
Excellent customer service
Convenient Uptown location
Impeccable food quality

As I strolled into Pizzeria Sapienza CLT, the aroma of authentic homemade pizza wafted through the air like a warm embrace. Nestled in the heart of Uptown, this charming spot instantly felt like a slice of New York transported to Charlotte. With my enthusiasm in tow, I eagerly placed my order, and let me tell you, the anticipation was palpable!

From the first bite, it was clear that the craftsmanship behind the pizza was impeccable. The thin, crispy crust perfectly cradled vibrant sauce and a melty layer of cheese that danced upon my taste buds, making me feel like I was enjoying a slice straight from Brooklyn. The fantastic bartender even suggested a pair of drinks that complemented my meal beautifully, enhancing an already delightful experience.

What truly sets Pizzeria Sapienza apart, however, is their excellent customer service. Each staff member was warm and welcoming, ensuring that my visit was nothing short of memorable. If you're seeking a genuine taste of New York pizza—along with a side of charm—you absolutely must visit Pizzeria Sapienza CLT! You'll leave with a full belly and a smile, eager to return for another delectable slice.

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Why Not Pizza

Highlights
Quick and convenient service
Large, delicious pizza slices
Friendly and awesome staff
Great dessert options available
Affordable prices

Why Not Pizza was a delightful find in the bustling pizza scene of Charlotte! I was instantly charmed by the friendly staff who welcomed me like an old friend, setting the stage for a memorable meal. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, perfect for grabbing a slice on the go or settling in for a leisurely bite.

As I sat down to savor my large pizza slice, I was struck by the perfectly baked crust, which boasted a delightful crunch that gave way to a soft, chewy interior. The generous toppings sang with flavor, each component harmonizing together. I was pleasantly surprised by how affordable the menu was, making this a great spot for pizza lovers on any budget.

What truly elevated my visit, however, were the dessert options available. I couldn’t resist finishing my meal with a sweet treat, which was the icing on the cake—quite literally! All in all, my experience at Why Not Pizza was a joyous celebration of taste and community. If you're in Charlotte and craving authentic New York-style pizza, this spot should definitely be on your radar! 🍕

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Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar Meridian Place

Highlights
Personable and welcoming staff
Delicious garlic knots
Quick food service
Flavorful Capellini Supreme
Good music atmosphere

Walking into Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar Meridian Place felt like stepping into a slice of New York itself. The atmosphere was vibrantly alive, with upbeat music filling the air and a personable staff eager to make my visit unforgettable. I kicked off my meal with their delicious garlic knots, which were the perfect blend of fluffy and garlicky goodness.

The real star of the show, though, was the Capellini Supreme. This dish was an explosion of flavors that transported me straight to Little Italy. The crispy edges on the pizza reminded me of the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple, while the tomatoes and cheese melded beautifully into a comforting harmony of taste. It was impressive how quickly the food arrived; they’ve got the art of speedy service down to a science!

Whether you're a local or just passing through Charlotte, I would highly recommend a stop at Hawthorne's. It’s not just about the pizza; it's an experience that celebrates friendly vibes and incredible flavors. For an authentic taste of New York in North Carolina, this gem is a must-visit!

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Sal's Pizza Factory

Highlights
Best specialty pizza
Consistently good experience
Mixed recent reviews
Affordable garlic topping
#1 ranked in Charlotte

Sal's Pizza Factory in Charlotte has swiftly earned its place as a standout among the New York-style pizzerias in the area. Walking through the door, I was greeted by the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked pizza—a good sign, indeed! What I tried was their celebrated specialty pizza, expertly crafted with toppings that struck a perfect balance of flavors. The crust was thin and perfectly crisp, reminiscent of classic slices from the streets of NYC.

Despite some mixed recent reviews, my visit screamed consistency. Each bite confirmed their reputation as a pizza haven, with flavors hitting the right notes without being overwhelming. And let’s not forget the affordable garlic topping—a game changer that elevated my slice without breaking the bank.

While some may argue about its ranking, I found Sal's not just deserving of its place as a top contender, but also as a local favorite for pizza lovers. If you're in Charlotte and craving that perfect slice, make Sal’s your destination. You won’t regret it! The experience has solidified Sal’s Pizza Factory as my go-to spot for the best NY pizza in the city. 🍕✨

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Benny Ferrovia’s Pizza

Highlights
Delicious pizza every time
Welcoming, friendly staff
Perfect sauce and cheese ratio
Big slices, great to fold
Broad selection of beers

Benny Ferrovia’s Pizza is a delightful gem tucked away in our beloved Queen City, where every bite transports me back to the streets of New York. From the moment I walked in, the friendly staff welcomed me with genuine warmth, setting the stage for the flavorful adventure ahead. As I settled in, I marveled at their broad selection of beers, perfect for complementing any slice.

Now, let’s talk pizza. The first bite of their classic pepperoni had me grinning ear to ear. The sauce and cheese ratio was nothing short of perfection — just the right amount of that tangy tomato sauce paired with a gooey, cheesy finish. What's more, those big slices were exactly how I like them; perfect for folding, just like in the Big Apple!

Benny Ferrovia’s has truly mastered the art of creating delicious pizza every time. If you're on the hunt for New York-style pizza in Charlotte, this spot is a must-visit. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find yourself coming back for more! 🍕

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Angela's Pizza & Restaurant

Highlights
Gracious and inviting service
Fresh, authentic Italian dishes
Cozy, intimate dining atmosphere
Homemade desserts are a must
Beautiful restaurant decor

Angela's Pizza & Restaurant is a delightful find nestled in the heart of Charlotte, offering an authentic taste of New York right in our backyard. Upon entering, I was greeted with gracious and inviting service, setting a warm tone for the evening. The atmosphere exudes a cozy charm—a perfect backdrop for an intimate dining experience.

Now, let’s talk about the star of the show: the pizza! Thin and crispy, with a delightful crust that boasts just the right amount of crunch, every bite transported me back to the bustling streets of New York. The simplicity of the Margherita pie—fresh mozzarella, vibrant basil, and a perfectly balanced sauce—was heavenly. It’s clear that Angela’s takes pride in crafting fresh, authentic Italian dishes that highlight quality ingredients.

As if that weren’t enough to tempt your taste buds, be sure to save room for dessert! Their homemade offerings are a must-try, rounding out the meal on a sweet note. With its beautiful restaurant decor and an inviting vibe, Angela’s Pizza & Restaurant is not just about great food; it’s an experience. If you’re in search of the best NY pizza in Charlotte, make a beeline to Angela's. You won’t regret it!

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Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar Carmel Road

Highlights
Best Calzones Ever
Perfect NY Pizza Crust
Exceptional Service Experience
Delicious Cheese Toppings
Highly Recommended by Customers

At Hawthorne's New York Pizza and Bar on Carmel Road, I was genuinely impressed by the ambiance that felt both welcoming and vibrant. As I settled in, I couldn't resist ordering one of their signature pizzas, known for its perfect NY crust. The first bite was a revelation. It had that delightful balance of crispiness and chewiness, just as a true New York pizza should.

The delicious cheese toppings were generous and melted beautifully, creating a rich, gooey texture atop that phenomenal crust. And let me tell you about the calzones; they were, without a doubt, the best I’ve ever tasted! Each bite was filled with cheesy goodness, and their flavor left me yearning for more.

Adding to this delightful culinary experience was the exceptional service. The staff treated me like a VIP, and their recommendations were spot-on. It's no wonder that Hawthorne's comes highly recommended by both locals and visitors alike. Whether you're craving a slice or a whole pie, this place should absolutely be on your must-try list when hunting for the best NY pizza in Charlotte!

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