I’ve tried pizzas from all around the world and have sampled slices in Chicago, New York, Europe, and more. Now I’m here in Northern NJ to find the best pizza this area has to offer. I decided to try twelve different places so I could get a good overview of what’s available.
In this article, I’ll tell you all about my pizza adventures as I seek out the tastiest pies this region has to offer. So pull up a chair and get ready for some funny stories (and deliciousness) as we explore the best pizzas of Northern NJ!
If you don’t find the best pizza here, check out the best pizza in the whole state of New Jersey
#1 John’s Boy Pizzeria
- Has some vegetarian options
- Offers dessert
Let me start off with the most important aspect – the pizza! John’s Boy Pizzeria serves up some of the freshest, most flavorful pies I have ever had. The crust is perfectly crisp and golden on the outside, with a soft and chewy texture on the inside. The sauce is made from fresh tomatoes, delivering a robust flavor that is anything but boring. And their selection of toppings is unbeatable! From classic favorites like pepperoni to more unique choices like roasted eggplant, this place has it all.
But pizza isn’t the only thing they offer. They also serve an amazing selection of side dishes – my favorite being their garlic knots and mozzarella sticks. These delicious snacks are perfect for when you’re feeling extra hungry!
The staff at John’s Boy Pizzeria is another highlight. Everyone is friendly and welcoming, always making sure you have a great experience while visiting. It’s easy to see why this place continues to be so popular with locals and travelers alike!
With its delicious food, warm atmosphere, and top-notch service, John’s Boy Pizzeria definitely deserves its title as one of the best pizzerias in Northern NJ – if not THE best! If you’re ever in town looking for authentic Italian-style pizza, be sure to check them out!
If you’re willing to go an extra 1 miles, you can get to 22 more pizza places in Ridgewood!
#2 Aquila Pizza Al Forno
- Offers dessert
- Has some vegetarian options
- No delivery
I’ve heard a lot of good things about this place, so I decided to give it a try. It didn’t disappoint! From the moment I walked in, I knew I was going to enjoy myself. The atmosphere was inviting and cozy and the staff were extremely helpful and friendly.
The pizza was delicious – it had a perfect balance of sweet and savory toppings that left me wanting more. For those looking for some vegetarian options, this place does offer some great alternatives.
I also tried their dessert selection – the sweetness put a great finishing touch on my meal. Unfortunately, this restaurant doesn’t offer delivery; however, eating in the restaurant is worth the experience in itself.
Overall, Aquila Pizza Al Forno definitely earns its designation as having some of the best pizza in northern NJ! If you’re ever in town, make sure to check out this gem of a restaurant.
#3 Napoli Wood Fired Pizza & Bakery
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Offers dessert
My first impression was that the atmosphere was warm and inviting, with a delicious smell of dough baking. The menu features a wide variety of wood fired pizzas to choose from, including some unique combinations like banana peppers and salami or roasted eggplant and feta. I ultimately decided on the classic margherita pizza with fresh mozzarella and basil – it was absolutely incredible!
The crust had a crispy char on the edges while still being chewy in the center. The sauce had just the right amount of tanginess to balance out all of the flavors. And the combination of fresh mozzarella and basil really made this one stand out.
To top it off, they have an impressive selection of Italian wines and craft beers to pair with your meal which really set Napoli apart from other places. Everyone working at the restaurant was extremely friendly and helpful as well, making my experience even more enjoyable!
Simply put:Napoli Wood Fired Pizza & Bakery is an absolute must if you’re looking for some truly amazing pizza in Northern NJ!
#4 Arturo’s
- Has some vegetarian options
- Offers dessert
- Nice tourist spot
- No delivery
I was pleasantly surprised to find out that Arturo’s not only offers delicious pizza, but a few vegetarian options as well. After of course trying one of their signature pies, I decided to try something off the beaten path and opted for a veggie option – and it did not disappoint!
For dessert, Arturo’s had some really delicious options. They offer a variety of Italian-style treats like cannoli and cheesecake that pair perfectly with the pizza. It really rounded out the experience.
However, please note that Arturo’s does not deliver so you’ll have to go there in person if you want to enjoy their delectable fare. That being said, it’s also located in a great area for tourists so even if you’re just visiting Northern NJ for a weekend you must make sure to stop by!
If you’re looking for world-class pizza in Northern NJ, look no further than Arturo’s!
#5 Tony D’s
The atmosphere at Tony D’s is inviting, with its old-school Italian décor. I felt right at home as soon as I walked through the door. The staff were welcoming and friendly, which only added to the great experience.
As for the pizza, it was simply fantastic! The crust was perfectly crisp and chewy and had just enough char from the wood-fired ovens. The sauce had a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity that complemented the array of topping ingredients. There are plenty of topping options to choose from – sausage, pepperoni, mushroom, onion – you name it!
The pizza also came out swiftly after ordering – within minutes we were devouring our slices! That’s one thing that really impressed me about Tony D’s – they take pride in providing quality pizza quickly.
All in all, my experience at Tony D’s was outstanding! If you’re ever looking for some of the best pizza in Northern NJ , make sure to pay this place a visit – you won’t be disappointed!
#6 Massa Roman Square Pizza & Italian Specialties
- Nice tourist spot
- Has some vegetarian options
- Offers dessert
The atmosphere of the restaurant is great – I love the way they decorated their dining room with Roman statues and art. The servers and waitstaff were very friendly and knowledgeable about their menu.
The pizza itself was simply divine! Whether it was a classic margarita or something more adventurous like the parmigiana, every slice was cooked to perfection. The crusts were light and airy, yet still held together well when folded. The toppings were fresh and flavorful, adding just the right amount of zest to each mouthful.
I’m usually not a fan of New York-style pizza, but Massa Roman Square Pizza & Italian Specialties has converted me for good! They have definitely earned my seal of approval as having some of the best pizza in Northern NJ – and maybe even the world!
#7 Patsy’s Tavern & Restaurant
- Has a kid’s menu
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Offers dessert
- No delivery
The atmosphere is amazing – dim lights, cozy atmosphere, and a jukebox that’s been known to play some of the best tunes! They serve alcohol and even have hard liquor if you really want to get the party started. Not only that, but they also have a kid’s menu so your little ones can join in on all the fun.
I can confidently say that their pizza is unmatched. They use fresh ingredients and prepare their pizzas with love and care, ensuring each bite is über cheesy and unbelievably delicious. As if the pizza wasn’t enough, Patsy’s also offers an array of scrumptious desserts to top off your meal.
The only downside is that they don’t offer delivery service like most restaurants these days, but trust me when I say it’s worth it to visit Patsy’s Tavern & Restaurant… no matter how far away it might be!
If you’re willing to go an extra 5 miles, you can get to 30 more pizza places in Paterson!
#8 S.Egidio Pizze Salumi Espresso
- Offers dessert
- No delivery
Upon entering the restaurant I was pleased to find a warm, inviting atmosphere. The tables were thoughtfully placed throughout and the ambiance was perfect for a night out with friends.
The menu at S.Egidio Pizze Salumi Espresso offered a wide array of Italian delicacies ranging from traditional pizzas, freshly made salads and even desserts! The selection is abundant enough that every palate can find something to enjoy.
I personally ordered the pepperoni pizza, which ended up being some of the best I have ever tasted. The dough was made fresh daily and it had just the perfect amount of crunch, giving it an exceptional texture. Every ingredient on my pizza was fresh and flavorful!
Of course, despite all this delicious food, one thing I have to point out is that there is no delivery option available here; you have to visit the restaurant in order to enjoy its best pizza in Northern NJ.
That said, if you are looking for true quality food that perfectly captures Italian flavors and traditions, then S. Egidio Pizze Salumi Espresso is definitely worth visiting!
#9 Pete & Elda’s Bar / Carmen’s Pizzeria
- Offers dessert
- Nice tourist spot
- Has a kid’s menu
- Great place to watch sports
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
I was highly impressed with the variety of pies on offer here. The classic margherita was creamy and flavorful, while the pepperoni had a wonderful kick to it! The garlic chicken pizza was a personal favorite, with its blend of sharp Parmesan and succulent chicken.
The atmosphere at Pete & Elda’s Bar / Carmen’s Pizzeria is cozy yet lively, perfect for gathering up friends for a casual dinner out. Service staff were friendly and helpful in answering questions about the menu.
But what really pushed Pete & Elda’s Bar / Carmen’s Pizzeria above other pizza places in northern NJ? The quality of their pies, which are absolutely delicious. Their crust is crispy and golden, their toppings are generously applied, and their cheese is gooey and flavorful. If you’re looking for the best pizza in northern NJ then you need look no further than Pete & Elda’s Bar / Carmen’s Pizzeria!
#10 Kinchley’s Tavern
- Nice tourist spot
- Offers dessert
- Great place to watch sports
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Has a kid’s menu
- No delivery
I visited this popular pizza restaurant on a Tuesday night and was surprised at how busy it was. It’s definitely a popular spot! The atmosphere was inviting, with plenty of TVs to watch sports on while drinking an ice cold beer or hard liquor.
The menu had something for everyone and I noticed they even had a kids’ menu. I went with my favorite – pepperoni calzone – and it did not disappoint! It was served hot, fresh, and full of flavor. Delicious! The staff was friendly and attentive as well.
For dessert, they offered several tempting options such as chocolate cake, sundaes, and cheesecake. Everything looked delicious but I couldn’t eat another bite after the calzone!
Kinchley’s Tavern is definitely a great place for tourists or for anyone looking for some good pizza in Northern NJ. Unfortunately, they don’t have delivery service so you’ll need to visit the restaurant in person to sample their culinary delights!
#11 Federici’s Family Restaurant
- Has a kid’s menu
- Has some vegetarian options
- Nice tourist spot
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Has insanely good dessert
- No delivery
I was disappointed when I found out they did not offer delivery, but the upside is that they do serve alcohol (even hard liquor!) which made the wait for our pizza more bearable.
The menu was diversified enough to please pretty much everyone; there were vegetarian options, a kid’s menu and even an insanely good dessert selection. It was also a great tourist spot as not only could you find wonderful pizza, but all the other tasty treats Federici’s had to offer.
My favorite part about my visit to Federici’s, however, had to be their pizza. It was cheesy, flavorful and cooked perfectly on a thick crust, making it one of my top choices when it comes to grabbing some delicious Italian food in Northern NJ!
#12 Vic’s Italian Restaurant
- Has some vegetarian options
- Has a kid’s menu
- Offers dessert
- Serves alcohol (and hard liquor!)
- Nice tourist spot
I was blown away by the presentation of the pizzas when it arrived at my table. The fresh ingredients shone through with beauty and the pizza dough was light and crispy. From the first bite, I could tell that this was not your run-of-the-mill pizza joint; this was something special!
The marinara sauce was perfectly seasoned with a hint of sweetness that perfectly complimented the savory, succulent toppings. Every bite was a delight! The cheese was delicately melted to perfection and the crust had a unique flavor unlike any pizza I’ve ever had before.
I also enjoyed Vic’s Italian Restaurant’s selection of unique appetizers and desserts. Their stuffed mushrooms were mouthwateringly tasty and their homemade Italian gelato transported me to Italy instantly!
All in all, I can’t say enough great things about Vic’s Italian Restaurant—it truly is one of the best pizza restaurants in Northern NJ! Highly recommended for dining in or taking out!
Best Deep Dish Pizza – Two Boots Pizza
- Serves alcohol
- Has some vegetarian options
- Nice tourist spot
- Does not accept reservations
Two Boots Pizza not only satisfied my pizza cravings, but it also quenched my thirst with its selection of alcoholic beverages. As a food critic, pairing a great slice with a cold brew is essential, and Two Boots makes that happen. Cheers to that!
Now, let’s talk about the pizza itself. Oh boy, it’s a vegetarian’s paradise! They have a decent variety of vegetarian options that even meat lovers would drool over. From their V for Vegan pie loaded with veggies to the Earth Mother topped with spinach, mushrooms, and onions, they know how to please every palate in the Garden of Eden.
But here’s the funny bone tickler, folks: Two Boots doesn’t accept reservations! So, you might find yourself waiting outside, drooling like a dog, while some lucky souls are devouring their mouthwatering slices inside. But hey, it’s a tourist spot, and they make up for it with their funky and lively atmosphere, giving you a chance to people-watch and make up stories about their origins based on their pizza preferences.
All in all, Two Boots Pizza lives up to its reputation. The deep dish pizza is a playground of flavors, the drinks flow like the Chicago River, and the atmosphere is as vibrant as Times Square on New Year’s Eve. Just make sure to pack your patience and be prepared to wait for a slice of heaven. Bon appétit!
Best Thin Crust Pizza – Two Boots Pizza
- Has some vegetarian options
- Serves alcohol
- Nice tourist spot
- Does not accept reservations
Let’s start with the benefits, shall we? First off, this place serves alcohol. Need I say more? There’s nothing like a cold beer to wash down a delicious slice of pizza. And speaking of delicious, Two Boots has a variety of vegetarian options for all you herbivores out there. Finally, it’s a great spot for tourists. It’s got that cozy, rustic vibe that screams, Welcome to New Jersey, where the pizza is da best!
Now, onto the downsides. Brace yourselves folks, because this one’s a real punch in the gut: they don’t accept reservations. I know, it’s like taking a bite of a slice and finding out there’s pineapple on it – a complete disappointment. So, if you’re in the mood for a spontaneous pizza party with your friends, just cross your fingers and hope there’s a table available. Otherwise, you might find yourself wandering the streets like a lost pizza lover.
But let’s not dwell on the negatives, because the pizza at Two Boots truly steals the show. The thin crust is like a work of art: crispy, yet somehow still chewy, and perfectly balanced with just the right amount of toppings. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, each slice a masterpiece on a plate. It’s so good, I could eat two boots full of this pizza!
In conclusion, if you’re in New Jersey and on the hunt for the best thin crust pizza, Two Boots should be at the top of your list. Just be prepared to wait, because the word is out about this gem. And let’s be real, waiting for pizza is like waiting for Christmas morning – worth every second.