Hey pizza lovers! Craving that authentic New York slice right here in South Austin? You're in luck! We've scoured the area to bring you the absolute best New York-style pizza joints. Get ready to fold, dip, and devour some seriously delicious pies.

What Makes New York-Style Pizza Special?

Before we dive into the best spots, let's talk about what exactly makes New York-style pizza so iconic. It's not just a pizza; it's an experience. The characteristics of New York-style pizza is a culmination of specific ingredients, techniques, and a whole lot of tradition.

First and foremost, it starts with the dough. The dough is typically a high-gluten flour, water, salt, and yeast mixture. Some recipes include a touch of sugar or oil. The high-gluten flour is key because it gives the crust its signature chewiness and strength, allowing it to be foldable without cracking. Speaking of foldable, that's a huge part of the experience! A true New York slice should be easily foldable, making it perfect for eating on the go.

Next up is the sauce, which is usually a simple but flavorful blend of crushed tomatoes, garlic, oregano, salt, and sometimes a pinch of red pepper flakes. The sauce isn't overly sweet or heavily processed; it needs to complement the other ingredients without overpowering them. The cheese is also crucial. Most pizzerias use a low-moisture, part-skim mozzarella that melts beautifully and creates that classic cheese pull. This type of mozzarella doesn't release too much water, preventing the crust from getting soggy.

But the real magic happens in the oven. New York-style pizza is traditionally baked in a deck oven at high temperatures (around 700-800°F). This intense heat is what gives the crust its crispy bottom and slightly charred edges while cooking the toppings quickly and evenly. Some places even use coal-fired ovens, which impart a unique smoky flavor that's hard to replicate. The size and shape also matter. New York-style pizzas are typically large, around 18-20 inches in diameter, and cut into wide, triangular slices. This generous size makes them perfect for sharing (or not, we won't judge!).

Top New York Pizza Spots in South Austin

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Here are some of the best places in South Austin to grab a slice of authentic New York-style pizza. Be sure to check them out and let us know what you think!

1. Conan's Pizza Plus

Conan's Pizza Plus is a long-standing Austin institution and while they offer a variety of pizzas, their New York-style is definitely worth trying. Conan’s started in 1976 and has been serving up a unique style of pizza that has made them an Austin icon. Conan's has two locations in Austin, but neither of them are in South Austin. Their crust is hand-tossed and they have a variety of toppings to choose from. Some of the must-try options in Conan's Pizza Plus are: The Savage, The Medusa, and The Conan's Colossus.

Conan's has been an Austin favorite for over four decades, and their pizza has a dedicated following. Conan's is known for its thick, almost casserole-like pizzas loaded with toppings. While it's not a traditional New York slice in terms of thinness and crispness, the sheer volume of ingredients and the unique flavor combinations make it a standout. If you're looking for a pizza that's different from the rest, Conan's is definitely worth a try.

They are very generous with the toppings, creating a hearty and satisfying meal. The restaurant has a quirky, inviting atmosphere that adds to the overall experience. It's a popular spot for families and groups, and the friendly service makes it a great place to unwind. Many customers have praised the quality of the ingredients and the flavorful sauce. The staff is known to be accommodating and attentive, ensuring that every visit is a pleasant one. Conan's is not just a pizza place; it's a place where memories are made.

2. Via 313

While Via 313 is famous for its Detroit-style pizza, don't sleep on their New York-style offerings! Their crust is perfectly crisp, their sauce is tangy and delicious, and they use high-quality mozzarella.

Via 313 started as a food truck and quickly gained a cult following for its authentic Detroit-style pizza. They have since expanded to multiple brick-and-mortar locations, but their commitment to quality remains the same. The founders, Brandon and Zane Hunt, are passionate about pizza and dedicated to using the best ingredients. Via 313 has a relaxed and casual atmosphere, making it a great place to hang out with friends and family. The walls are adorned with murals and artwork, creating a vibrant and energetic vibe.

Their New York-style pizza features a hand-tossed crust, a simple yet flavorful tomato sauce, and a generous topping of mozzarella cheese. You can customize your pizza with a variety of toppings, including pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, and onions. In addition to pizza, Via 313 also offers a selection of appetizers, salads, and desserts. Their appetizers include mozzarella sticks, garlic knots, and bruschetta. For dessert, you can choose from cannoli, tiramisu, or a slice of cheesecake. Via 313 is a must-visit for anyone who loves pizza. Whether you're in the mood for Detroit-style or New York-style, you're sure to find something you'll love. The combination of quality ingredients, friendly service, and a fun atmosphere makes Via 313 a standout in the Austin pizza scene.

3. Homeslice Pizza

No list of Austin pizza is complete without Homeslice Pizza. Although they're not specifically known for New York-style, their classic cheese and pepperoni slices definitely hit the spot. This South Congress institution usually has a line out the door, but trust us, it's worth the wait!

Homeslice Pizza has been serving up delicious New York-style pizza in Austin since 2005. What started as a small pizza joint has grown into a beloved local favorite, known for its authentic recipes and lively atmosphere. The restaurant is located on South Congress Avenue, a vibrant and eclectic street known for its unique shops, restaurants, and live music venues. Homeslice has two locations in Austin; the other is on North Loop. The lively atmosphere and quality slices make it a quintessential Austin experience.

The restaurant has a casual and inviting ambiance, with indoor and outdoor seating available. The walls are adorned with vintage posters and quirky artwork, creating a fun and energetic vibe. The open kitchen allows you to watch the pizza makers in action, tossing dough and assembling pies with precision. One of the unique features of Homeslice is their late-night hours, making it a popular spot for those seeking a late-night bite after a concert or night out. The menu features a variety of classic and specialty pizzas, all made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. The crust is thin and crispy, the sauce is tangy and flavorful, and the toppings are plentiful. Whether you're in the mood for a classic pepperoni pizza or something more adventurous, Homeslice has something for everyone.

4. Little Deli & Pizzeria

Little Deli & Pizzeria is a hidden gem that's definitely worth checking out. This spot offers a fantastic New York-style pizza with a crispy crust and flavorful toppings. The restaurant has a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a casual meal.

Little Deli & Pizzeria takes pride in using high-quality ingredients and preparing everything from scratch. They have a dedicated following for their delicious sandwiches, salads, and desserts. The friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere make it a favorite among locals. Little Deli & Pizzeria is also committed to supporting the local community. They source their ingredients from local farmers and suppliers whenever possible, and they participate in various community events and initiatives. By supporting local businesses, Little Deli & Pizzeria helps to strengthen the local economy and create a more vibrant community.

They offer a wide variety of toppings, including classic options like pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms, as well as more unique choices like roasted red peppers, artichoke hearts, and Kalamata olives. The pizzas are available in different sizes, making them perfect for sharing or for enjoying on your own. In addition to pizza, Little Deli & Pizzeria also offers a selection of appetizers, salads, and desserts. Their appetizers include garlic knots, mozzarella sticks, and bruschetta. For dessert, you can choose from cannoli, tiramisu, or a slice of cheesecake. Little Deli & Pizzeria is a must-visit for anyone who loves Italian food.

Final Thoughts

So, there you have it! The best places to get your New York-style pizza fix in South Austin. Whether you're craving a classic cheese slice or something a little more adventurous, these spots are sure to satisfy. Grab your friends, grab a pie, and enjoy! Don't forget to let us know which place is your favorite!