You ever walk into a place and just know? Not because it’s got fancy marble or a neon sign for your Instagram feed, but because it smells like actual yeast and old-school red sauce. That’s the deal with Famous Calabria Pizza New York NY. Tucked away at 27 St. James Place, right on the edge of the Financial District and Two Bridges, it’s one of those "if you know, you know" corners.
It’s small. Honestly, if you blink while walking toward the Brooklyn Bridge, you might miss it. But for the people who live in the neighborhood or work the court shifts nearby, this is the holy grail of no-nonsense New York slices.
The Vibe at Famous Calabria Pizza New York NY
First off, let’s be real about the decor. It’s got these wooden crates and spoons stuck to the ceiling. It sounds weird when you describe it, but in person, it just feels like home. There are maybe seven tables and a little counter by the window where you can watch the city go by. It’s unpretentious. It’s the kind of place where the person behind the counter actually remembers your name if you show up more than twice.
New York has a million pizza spots. You've got the dollar slices (which aren't even a dollar anymore) and the $40 artisanal pies topped with stuff you can’t pronounce. Famous Calabria Pizza New York NY sits in that perfect middle ground. It’s affordable, it’s consistent, and the portions are kind of huge.
What You’re Actually Ordering
Most people come in for a quick slice, and you can't go wrong with the NY Style Cheese. The crust has that specific crunch—not like a cracker, but with enough structural integrity to hold up under the weight of the cheese.
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But if you’re hungry—like actually hungry—you go for the specialties.
- The Signature Calabria Special: This thing is loaded. We’re talking pepperoni, Italian sausage, chicken cutlet, mushrooms, and bell peppers. It’s a meal.
- Penne Alla Vodka Pizza: I know, I know. Some pizza purists think putting pasta on a pie is a crime. But here? The vodka sauce is creamy, slightly tangy, and the penne stays al dente. It’s a carb-on-carb masterpiece.
- Grandma Style: They do a thin-crust crispy square that’s heavy on the garlic and fresh basil. It’s one of their best-sellers for a reason.
If you aren't in the mood for a pie, their pasta dishes are surprisingly deep. The Baked Ziti and the Chicken Francese are the heavy hitters. You get these massive containers that usually end up being lunch the next day too.
Why Everyone Is Obsessed With the Prices
Look, New York is expensive. Getting two slices and a soda for under twenty bucks feels like a win these days. At Famous Calabria Pizza New York NY, the prices range mostly between $8 and $15 for heroes and rolls, which is basically a steal for the area.
One thing to keep in mind: they charge a small fee if you use a credit card. It’s a very "old school New York" move. Basically, just bring cash if you want to save a couple of quarters. It’s a small price to pay for a slice that hasn't changed its recipe in years.
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Comparing the "Calabria" Names
Here is where people get confused. If you search for "Famous Calabria Pizza," you might see results for a spot in Livingston, NJ, or even the Calabria Pork Store in the Bronx.
The Livingston spot is the one Dave Portnoy gave an 8.9 to—the "crunchy thin" place. And the Pork Store on Arthur Avenue is famous for its "sausage chandelier." Both are legendary. But the Famous Calabria Pizza New York NY on St. James Place is its own beast. It serves the downtown crowd. It’s the spot for the jury duty lunch or the late-night walk home from a bar in the Seaport.
A Note on the Menu Nuances
The menu is bigger than the storefront suggests. They’ve got:
- Heros: The Meatball Parm is a standout. The meatballs are handmade and don't taste like those frozen rubber balls some places use.
- Calzones: Gooey, golden, and served with a side of marinara that actually has some soul to it.
- Salads: Surprisingly, they do a great Grilled Chicken Salad. The greens are actually crispy, not that wilted stuff you find in most pizzerias.
Honestly, the Lasagna is a bit of a polarizing topic. Some people swear by it; others find it a bit salty. It’s one of those things you have to try for yourself. But the pizza? That’s the undisputed king of the menu.
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How to Get There and Tips
If you're heading to Famous Calabria Pizza New York NY, it’s a short walk from the Chambers Street or Brooklyn Bridge-City Hall subway stations. It’s a perfect pitstop before or after walking the bridge.
- Best Time to Go: Mid-afternoon. The lunch rush can get a little hectic with the local office workers.
- Ordering Delivery: They’re on Grubhub and Seamless, and they’re known for being pretty fast. If you’re staying in a hotel nearby, it’s a solid choice for a night in.
- The "Pro" Move: Ask for a side of their homemade marinara for dipping. It’s better than whatever you’re thinking.
Final Word on the Calabria Experience
At the end of the day, Famous Calabria Pizza New York NY isn't trying to be the next big food trend. It’s just a solid, reliable, family-run feeling spot that serves great food. In a city that’s constantly changing, there’s something really comforting about a place that just wants to make a good pizza.
Whether you're grabbing a slice of the Triple Threat Pepperoni or sitting down for a massive plate of Penne Alla Vodka, you're getting a real taste of the neighborhood. It’s cozy, it’s vibrant, and it’s one of the few places left that feels like the "real" New York.
Actionable Insights for Your Visit:
- Cash is King: Skip the card fee by bringing a twenty.
- The Square Cut: If they have a fresh Grandma pie coming out, grab a corner slice. The crunch is superior.
- Check the Specials: They often have "Special #1" or "#2" deals that include a pizza, pasta, and knots—perfect if you're feeding a group.