Move over, NYC. New Jersey pizza tops them ALL. Here’s where we get our pies…
Ask any New Jersey resident for their favorite slice, and you’ll no doubt get a very passionate response. So we’ve tapped our Strategists and rounded up their faves — the slices, we’re told, you must try as you’re touring the New Jersey suburbs. And who knows? You might love the pizza scene so much, you opt to call that town “home…”
Montclair
We could write an entire blog post on the top-notch pizza spots in Montclair. But there are a few stand-outs that locals especially adore — like Ruthie’s in downtown Montclair. This spot always wins “Best of New Jersey” awards and with a menu of slow-smoked BBQ, wings and crispy pizzas — plus a full calendar of live music — there’s something for everyone here.
But Ruthie’s really is just the beginning. Teglia is the place for a walkable slice downtown. Order a made-from-scratch slice at this cozy pizzeria and continue wandering around Montclair (although you might feel like you’ve been transported straight to Brooklyn). Porta is relatively new in town, but locals know this trendy spot from Jersey City and Asbury Park. With great food, live music and a full bar, it’s great for a night out with friends or a boozy weekend brunch.
Brick + Dough is the go-to when locals are in the mood for wood-fired pizzas (which are baked to crispy perfection in less than 2 minutes). And, of course, we have to mention Mr. Dino’s. This is the longest-standing pizza shop in town. It’s been in the heart of Watchung Plaza for 40 years and is a favorite for commuters hopping off the train. Locals love to bring their kids here after a soccer game and it’s hard to beat Mr. Dino’s takeout for a cozy Friday night in.
Montclair is just one New Jersey pizza hub. You’ll also find great pies in…
Bloomfield
In the neighboring town of Bloomfield, Blue Steel Pizza is the local standout. This dimly-lit lounge-style eatery serves some of the best Detroit-style pizza around. Craveable creations, like littleneck clam, eggplant and stuffed mushroom pies are baked in a namesake blue steel pan. After, head to the secret upstairs bar for an elevated cocktail to round out your night.
Caldwell
In Caldwell, you’ll find tons of old-school pizzerias. Tony D’s, an unassuming tiny storefront in the center of town, makes an incredible Old Fashioned Style pie. Tony D’s only offers delivery or takeout but if you’re looking for a dine-in option, there’s Angeloni’s. This local institution is known for its “thinny thin pizza” and is a favorite for local birthday parties and family gatherings.
Maplewood, Millburn & South Orange
Arturo’s is a farm-to-table spot in Maplewood that always draws a line around the block. Trust us — their seasonal, artisanal pies really are worth it.
But, if you don’t have time to wait, or are in the mood for a more classic pizzeria, head over to Sabatino’s. They serve Italian pan pizza and traditional slices, plus a few specialty options like the Sunday Dinner pizza, which is topped with spaghetti and meatballs.
Over in Millburn, locals will point you to Vinnie’s Pan Pizza, which proudly says, “our cheese goes all the way to the edge!” And in nearby South Orange, there’s Fiamma for hand-crafted pies baked in an authentic Italian Acunto wood-fired brick oven and Reservoir, a classic dive where families can share huge, thin-crust pizzas.
Westfield, Fanwood & Scotch Plains
Westfield is home to another outpost of the local chain, Fiamma. There’s also Casa de Pizza for old-school, rustic pies and pasta plates.
Houdini Pizza Laboratory is a favorite with Fanwood and Scotch Plains residents. Take a bite and decide if the 96-hour crust fermentation process makes a difference. (Spoiler — we think it does.)
Livingston & Summit
Livingston locals have access to some of the best pizza in all of Jersey at Calabria. They ship their “crunchy thin” crusts nationwide (that’s how popular they are) but you can visit in person for a fresh pie made-to-order.
Just over in Summit, you’ll want to visit Village Trattoria for a taste of their specialty pies. The chicken fingers pizza is always a big hit with the kids.
Metuchen & Cranford
In Metuchen, there’s hometown favorite La Rosa, which has been part of the community for over 40 years. A few towns away in Cranford, Pizzeria Bel Giardino serves up some excellent pies. Insider tip — their Artichoke Pizza is top-notch.
Ridgewood & Glen Rock
Renato’s has been serving the Ridgewood neighborhood since 1962 and their grandma slice is unmatched. Glen Rock is also home to a traditional pizzeria, Turvino’s. This shop uses family recipes like it has for more than three decades.
Rumson, Red Bank, Ashbury Park, Sea Bright & Fair Haven
If you are checking out Monmouth County, don’t miss these exceptional pizza spots. Try the Lobster Pie at Val’s Tavern in Rumson, a Jersey Shore landmark since 1942. In Red Bank, residents love Zoni’s Brooklyn Brick for coal-fired pies. Tavolo Pronto is a charming Fair Haven bistro for pizza, sandwiches, baked goods and more (this is a great spot if you have picky eaters in your crew).
Tommy’s Tavern in Sea Bright is a popular local hangout. Stop by while you’re exploring for a taste of the community alongside your coal-fired pie. In Ashbury Park, The Galley Pizza offers a seemingly never-ending menu of delicious pan and traditional pies.
Princeton
Conte’s is an old favorite that first served pizza to Princeton locals in 1950. You won’t find anything gourmet here, but their traditional pies are beloved — and regularly featured in publications like the New York Times and Thrillist — for a reason.
Nomad Pizza Company is Princeton’s go-to for wood-fired pies. They use locally sourced ingredients and even have a pizza truck that locals can hire for events.
Wayne
With all this talk about pizza, we can’t forget dessert. Brother Bruno in Wayne has you covered. This longtime pizzeria serves over-the-top dessert pizzas (which they also ship everywhere). If you want something amazing and different, order one of their tasty treats. No matter what you are craving with options like apple crumb, birthday cake, cannoli and s’mores, they have something for everyone’s sweet tooth.
With so many great towns to explore, how do you know where to start? That’s where Suburban Jungle comes in. Contact us today and we’ll set you up with a list of suburbs that match your priorities. We’ll even map out the pizza spots to check out along the way.