BWW Reviews: PIZZA ITALIA in NYC for Masterpiece Italian Cuisine

Finding a genuinely great, memorable slice of New York pizza is now a reality in the Chelsea neighborhood of Manhattan. Pizza Italia is the newly-relocated eatery that presents a masterpiece collection of Italian cuisine. This renowned, family-owned restaurant has been a favorite of New Yorkers since 1992.

Here, you'll find real inspiration courtesy of the restaurant's talented chefs and business partners Anthony Sorisi and Guiseppe Gambino. The menu includes smart spins on classic pizza combinations like Broccoli Rabe and Sausage as well as robust renditions like Chicken Bacon Ranch, Eggplant & Ricotta Pie, or Chicken Marsala. If you make it to Pizza Italia late night, a slice of their Buffalo Chicken will jolt you awake. This buffalo chicken recipe avoids the drizzle of blue cheese dressing, yet this touch isn't missed. The generous coating of hot yet tasty buffalo sauce, tender chicken and the topping of fresh mozzarella imparts the best flavor possible. Pizza Italia's whole pies can be made as 18 inch rounds or 12 inch personal pans with either regular or whole wheat crust.

Pizza Italia's claim to fame is the Grandma Pie, which you can think of as the Cadillac of pizzas, rich with both character and class. The sauce relies on a recipe that has been passed down through the generations, and the pie itself gained a devoted following when Sorisi had the spot on Stone Street in the Financial District. Now, it is here to delight the denizens of Chelsea with a subtly sweet tomato sauce, which uses carrots, onions, celery, and a fine balance of herbs and spices, a gourmet thin crust, and a layer of mozzarella.

It's no surprise that Pizza Italia stays open until odd hours of the morning (till 5:00 am on Friday and Saturday). The individual slices are ideal indulgences after long days and vibrant nights. The restaurant itself is trim and efficient, and delivery is available to anyone who lives south of 33rd Street. Uptown residents now have something to envy.

Pizza Italia is not just all about pizza. Other revered dishes include the baked clams that rely on a recipe that is a bit of a family secret. Let that secret stay in the family, and just savor the toasted breadcrumbs and succulent clam meat in this popular appetizer.

There is also an excellent variety of irresistible Italian dishes on the menu like their Rigatoni Vodka, Seafood Fra Diavlo, homemade pastas that include Gnocci Sorrentino, house-made soups like Pasta Fagioli and Minestrone, fresh salads, paninis, and sandwich wraps.

One visit to Pizza Italia will never be enough. And with take-out and delivery, entertaining friends and family in the Chelsea area will never be the same.

Pizza Italia is located at 307 West 17th Street, between 8th and 9th avenues. Visit their web site at www.pizzaitalianyc.com or call them at 212-242-4242. Open 7 days a week including late night. Delivery and catering are available.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Pizza Italia

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