My search for the best pizza in New York continues….
The students at Fordham University in the Bronx are luckier than most college kids. Not only are they steps away from the most densely populated authentic Italian food mecca in NYC (Arthur Avenue), but they also get to have Pugsley as their local pizza joint.
I stopped by one day on my way back to the Metro North train from Arthur Avenue (where I often give food tours). I had heard about Pugsley and felt like I needed to find the best pizza in the area (look for other reviews to come soon) so that means it was my duty to check it out.
It’s set back a bit from the street and really looks like a secret hangout that I’m sure all the college kids like to keep to themselves. Nobody was inside when I came at an off-hour except for two thirds of the owners.
I had a quick but engaging conversation with the son and wife of original founder Salvatore Natale (who was not in at the moment). Even though I was just getting a slice of pizza to go, they were warm and hospitable. I can imagine how much fun it would be to spend a late night here.
The slice was big and a bit greasy – as I expected. And I didn’t have huge expectations for it. But it was really good. I’d say better than most of this style. The cheese was flavorful with bits of oregano and the slice had a consistent crunch.
Where other fast gas oven-cooked slices are often soggy and overly greasy, this one had a touch more refinement. I can only imagine it has something to do with the old-school traditional Italian neighborhood nearby. Oh, those lucky students!!
Is Pugsley Pizza the best pizza in NY? For this style, it’s quite good and gets an 8 out of 10 for walking a pleasant line between fast food and high-quality.
| PUGSLEY PIZZA |
| 590 East 191st Street (between Hughes Avenue and Hoffman Street), Fordham Manor, Bronx (718) 365-0327 |
