On the corner of Bleecker and MacDougal Street in Greenwich Village, a Staten Island landmark pizzeria has doubled down on its fantastic food, cozy atmosphere, and attentive service since opening two years ago. Considering the Staten Island location of Denino’s has been open since 1937, it’s no surprise that the Greenwich Village location is thriving, even in the competitive space pizza holds in the hearts of New Yorkers.
Here’s what we ate:
Mozzerella Sticks
Gooey, pull apart hunks of cheese are lightly battered and fried, making anyone who is a serious dairy-phile swoon. This is a must.
Mama’s Meatballs
Though I generally prefer my balls fried instead of baked, these pack a serious punch of flavor for a 100% beef ball. If you’re pork or veal-adverse, this is for you.
Margherita
This classic pie is technically thin crust, but it’s a far cry from the papery crust of a Neopolitan style pizza. Fresh mozzarella and basil are always a pleasant touch on a pizza, and this one really brought it home.
Vodka Pie
I’ll come right out and say it: I’m on the fence about vodka sauce. The ream to vodka to tomato ratio is a delicate balance, and not one that always nets out in the positive. My husband, however, is obsessed, so the vodka pie was a definite order. I’m happy to report that it was an excellent pie, and I wished I had more of it. Not too vodka-y, not to creamy, this pizza hit all the right notes.
A’Salute
I was most excited to eat this pizza, and it did not disappoint. The pile of fresh arugula, dressed in a lemony vinaigrette, was bright and crisp, and the dollops of ricotta were creamy and decadent. This was by far my favorite thing at Denino’s.
