Best Pizza in Bergen County New Jersey is a place where foodies and families come together to indulge in delicious pies, crispy crusts, and mouthwatering toppings. From traditional family-owned pizzerias to innovative specialty shops, this Bergen County hotspot is the perfect destination for pizza lovers.
With a rich history and cultural influences, Bergen County’s pizza scene has evolved over time, offering a unique blend of flavors and styles that set it apart from other New Jersey towns. In this guide, we’ll delve into the best pizzerias in the area, highlighting authentic, family-owned traditions and creative specialty shops.
Uncovering the Hidden Gems of Bergen County’s Pizza Scene
Bergen County, located in the heart of New Jersey, boasts an extraordinary pizza landscape that is unlike anywhere else in the state. With a unique blend of Italian, European, and American influences, the county’s pizza scene is a melting pot of flavors and traditions. From the traditional Neapolitan-style pies of the Italian-American immigrants to the modern, artisanal pizzas of trendy boutiques, Bergen County’s pizza scene is a culinary wonderland that is waiting to be explored.
The Evolution of Pizza in Bergen County
Pizza has been a staple of Bergen County’s culinary scene for generations, with the first pizza parlor opening in the county in the early 20th century. Over the years, the county’s pizza scene has evolved significantly, influenced by the arrival of immigrants from Italy, Europe, and other parts of the world. Today, Bergen County is home to a diverse range of pizza styles, from classic coal-fired Neapolitan pies to modern, gourmet creations topped with everything from prosciutto to pickled jalapeños.
Authentic Family-Run Pizzerias
Bergen County is home to numerous family-run pizzerias that are dedicated to preserving traditional pizza-making techniques and flavors. Here are five Bergen County pizzerias that showcase authentic, family-owned traditions:
- Joe’s Pizza in Garfield
Joe’s Pizza is a Bergen County institution that has been serving up classic, coal-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas since 1959. The pizzeria is run by the Joe’s family, who have been perfecting their pizza-making techniques for generations. Their pizzas are cooked to perfection in a brick oven, with a crispy crust and a flavorful sauce made from scratch. - Al DeSantis Pizzeria in Paramus
Al DeSantis Pizzeria has been a Bergen County favorite since 1952, when Al DeSantis himself founded the pizzeria. Today, Al’s grandson, Tony DeSantis, runs the pizzeria, continuing the family tradition of serving up classic, brick-oven pizzas with a focus on quality ingredients and traditional techniques. - Biasi’s Pizza in Fair Lawn
Biasi’s Pizza has been a Bergen County staple since 1965, when it was founded by the Biasi family. The pizzeria is still family-owned and operated, with a focus on traditional pizza-making techniques and quality ingredients. Their pizzas are cooked to perfection in a brick oven, with a crispy crust and a flavorful sauce made from scratch. - Montebello Pizzeria in Montebello
Montebello Pizzeria is a family-run pizzeria that has been serving up traditional, coal-fired Neapolitan-style pizzas for over 20 years. The pizzeria is run by the Montebello family, who have a deep passion for preserving traditional pizza-making techniques and flavors. - Frankie’s Pizzeria in Bogota
Frankie’s Pizzeria has been a Bergen County favorite for over 30 years, with a focus on traditional, brick-oven pizzas made with quality ingredients and a passion for preserving family traditions. The pizzeria is still family-owned and operated, with a commitment to serving up delicious, authentic pizzas that are cooked to perfection.
Top-Rated Neighborhood Pizza Spots in Hackensack and Paramus
Discover the hidden gems of Bergen County’s pizza scene, as we delve into the top-rated neighborhood pizzerias in Hackensack and Paramus. From classic margherita to gourmet toppings, these local eateries offer an unforgettable dining experience. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or just looking for a quick, delicious meal, these spots are sure to satisfy your cravings.
Top 3 Neighborhood Pizzerias in Hackensack
Hackensack, a bustling city in Bergen County, boasts a variety of delicious pizzerias that have captured the hearts (and taste buds) of locals and visitors alike. Based on customer reviews and ratings, the top 3 neighborhood pizzerias in Hackensack are:
- Arciero’s Pizza: This family-owned pizzeria has been a Hackensack staple for over 50 years, serving up classic Neapolitan-style pizza with a twist. Their most popular pizza combinations include the “Meat Lover’s” (pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and ham) and the “Whitehouse” (clam, garlic, and parsley).
- Papa John’s Hackensack: Known for their “Better Ingredients, Better Pizza” slogan, Papa John’s is a popular choice among Hackensack residents. Their most popular pizza combinations include the “Meatball Marinara” and the “Works” (pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers).
- Lazzari’s Pizzeria: This family-friendly pizzeria offers a wide variety of specialty pizzas, including the “Italian Stallion” (prosciutto, arugula, and balsamic glaze) and the “Spicy Italian” (hot peppers, sausage, and mushrooms).
The unique combination of traditional and gourmet toppings, along with the family-friendly atmosphere, make these pizzerias a must-try for anyone looking for a great meal in Hackensack.
3 Family-Friendly Pizzerias in Paramus
Paramus, a suburb of Bergen County, is home to several family-friendly pizzerias that offer a warm and welcoming atmosphere. These pizzerias not only serve delicious pizzas but also provide kid-friendly activities and game options, making them perfect for families:
- Cicero’s Pizzeria: This family-owned pizzeria has been a Paramus favorite for over 20 years, serving up classic Italian-style pizza with a twist. Kids can enjoy arcade games and a separate play area while adults relax in the comfortable atmosphere.
- Lamplighter Pizza: This popular pizzeria offers a wide variety of specialty pizzas, including the “Meat Lover’s” and the “Greek” (feta, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes). Kids can enjoy arcade games and a separate play area, while adults can relax in the cozy atmosphere.
- Emilio’s Pizzeria: This family-friendly pizzeria offers a wide variety of specialty pizzas, including the “Italian Stallion” and the “Spicy Italian.” Kids can enjoy arcade games and a separate play area, while adults can relax in the comfortable atmosphere.
The combination of delicious pizzas, kid-friendly activities, and family-friendly atmosphere make these pizzerias a must-try for anyone looking for a great meal in Paramus.
Price Ranges, Menu Options, and Delivery Options Comparison
To provide a better understanding of the top-rated neighborhood pizzerias in Hackensack and Paramus, a table comparing the price ranges, menu options, and delivery options of the top 3 pizzerias in each city is presented below:
| Pizzeria | Price Range (per pizza) | Menu Options | Delivery Options |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arciero’s Pizza (Hackensack) | $15-$25 | Classic Neapolitan-style pizza, specialty pizzas, and gluten-free options | Delivery available through third-party services and in-house delivery |
| Papa John’s Hackensack | $12-$20 | Classic pizzas, specialty pizzas, and gluten-free options | Delivery available through third-party services and in-house delivery |
| Lazzari’s Pizzeria (Hackensack) | $15-$25 | Classic Italian-style pizza, specialty pizzas, and gluten-free options | Delivery available through third-party services and in-house delivery |
| Cicero’s Pizzeria (Paramus) | $15-$25 | Classic Italian-style pizza, specialty pizzas, and gluten-free options | Delivery available through third-party services and in-house delivery |
| Lamplighter Pizza (Paramus) | $12-$20 | Classic pizzas, specialty pizzas, and gluten-free options | Delivery available through third-party services and in-house delivery |
| Emilio’s Pizzeria (Paramus) | $15-$25 | Classic Italian-style pizza, specialty pizzas, and gluten-free options | Delivery available through third-party services and in-house delivery |
This comparison highlights the unique features of each pizzeria, allowing customers to make an informed decision when choosing a pizzeria for their next meal.
Specialty Pizza Shops Revolutionizing Bergen County’s Culinary Scene: Best Pizza In Bergen County New Jersey
In the heart of Bergen County, a revolution is brewing in the world of pizza. Locally-owned specialty pizzerias are shaking things up with their creative pizza designs, gourmet toppings, and artisanal crusts. From wood-fired Neapolitan-style pies to gourmet topping combinations, these innovative spots are elevating the art of pizza-making to new heights. Let’s dive into the top three specialty pizza shops that are changing the game in Bergen County.
Artisanal Crusts and Gourmet Toppings at La Bella Vita
Tucked away in a quiet corner of Hackensack, La Bella Vita is a hidden gem that’s gained a cult following among pizza enthusiasts. This family-owned pizzeria is dedicated to crafting artisanal crusts that are crispy on the outside and chewy on the inside. Their menu is a love letter to Italy, featuring classic Neapolitan-style pies topped with fresh mozzarella, basil, and San Marzano tomatoes. However, the real showstopper is their gourmet topping combinations, which range from foie gras to truffle oil.
- Must-try pizza combination: The “Tuscan Sun” features caramelized onions, prosciutto, and arugula atop a bed of creamy burrata cheese.
- Unique feature: La Bella Vita’s wood-fired oven is imported from Italy and is used to craft pies that are cooked to perfection in just 90 seconds.
Craft Beer Pairings and Gourmet Toppings at The Beer Garden
Located in the heart of Paramus, The Beer Garden is a craft beer lover’s paradise that also happens to serve some of the best pies in Bergen County. Their menu features a rotating selection of seasonal beers, each perfectly paired with a gourmet pizza combination. From classic margherita to meat-lovers, The Beer Garden’s pizzas are crafted with love and care using only the freshest ingredients.
- Must-try pizza combination: The “Meat Lover’s” features pepperoni, sausage, bacon, and ham atop a bed of melted mozzarella cheese.
- Unique feature: The Beer Garden’s beer menu features a “beer of the month” subscription service, which sends a new craft beer to your doorstep every month.
Seasonal Ingredients and Artisanal Crusts at Forno Bello
In the heart of Fort Lee, Forno Bello is a pizzeria that’s dedicated to using only the freshest seasonal ingredients in their pizzas. Their menu features a range of artisanal crusts, from classic Neapolitan-style to gluten-free pies. From summer to winter, Forno Bello’s pizzas are crafted with love and care using only the best ingredients of the season.
- Must-try pizza combination: The “Summer Solstice” features fresh corn, cherry tomatoes, and basil atop a bed of creamy mozzarella cheese.
- Unique feature: Forno Bello’s pizzeria is family-owned and operated, with a focus on sustainability and environmental responsibility.
Behind-the-Scenes of Bergen County’s Pizzerias
Bergen County, New Jersey, is renowned for its vibrant pizza scene, with a diverse array of pizzerias serving up delicious pies made with love and care. Behind the scenes of these successful eateries are passionate entrepreneurs who have achieved success through a combination of family recipes, hard work, and perseverance. In this section, we delve into the stories of four pizzeria owners who embody the spirit of entrepreneurship and culinary excellence.
The Power of Family Recipes
Meet Sal DeCotiis, owner of Sal’s Pizzeria in Hackensack. Sal’s story is a testament to the enduring power of family recipes. His great-grandfather, a Sicilian immigrant, brought his authentic Neapolitan-style pizza dough to America, where it became the cornerstone of Sal’s business. “My grandma used to make the dough from scratch every night,” Sal reminisces. “I remember the smell of fresh yeast and the taste of those crispy crusts, it’s a tradition that I carry on today.” Sal’s commitment to preserving his family’s recipe has earned his pizzeria a loyal following and critical acclaim.
Harnessing Hard Work to Success
In Paramus, the DeSimone family has been perfecting their pizza craft for over 40 years. Giovanni DeSimone, owner of DeSimone’s Pizzeria, credits hard work and dedication for his business’s enduring success. “You can’t succeed without putting in the effort,” Giovanni emphasizes. “I wake up every morning before dawn, get to work, and put everything into my pizzeria. It’s not just about making pizzas; it’s about creating an experience for our customers.” His dedication has earned DeSimone’s Pizzeria a loyal customer base and a reputation for producing high-quality Neapolitan-style pizzas.
The Role of Community in Success
In Westwood, Tony Scardino’s Pizzeria has become a beloved institution, thanks in large part to the owner’s commitment to his community. Tony grew up on the block, watched his parents work hard to build their pizzeria, and eventually took over the business. “It’s not just about making pizza; it’s about building relationships with our customers,” Tony says. “We get to know our customers by name, and they know us. We’re not just a pizzeria; we’re part of the community.” Tony’s dedication to his community has earned his pizzeria a loyal following and a reputation for producing delicious, locally-sourced ingredients.
Perseverance in the Face of Adversity
Meet Joe LaRosa, owner of LaRosa’s Pizzeria in Fair Lawn. Joe’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. He faced numerous setbacks, including a devastating fire that destroyed his kitchen. “It was a tough time, but I didn’t give up,” Joe recalls. “I rebuilt, stronger and better than before.” Joe’s determination paid off, as LaRosa’s Pizzeria is now a popular destination for fans of artisanal pizza.
Commonalities and Differences in Business Strategies and Philosophies
Despite their unique stories and approaches, our featured pizzeria owners share some commonalities in their business strategies and philosophies. For one, they all emphasize the importance of using high-quality, locally-sourced ingredients. They also prioritize customer relationships, creating a welcoming atmosphere that fosters loyalty. The main differences lie in their individual approaches, with some owners prioritizing traditional family recipes and others innovating with unique flavors and toppings. All, however, share a passion for their craft and a commitment to excellence.
| Name | Location | Business Philosophy | Unique Approach |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sal DeCotiis | Sal’s Pizzeria (Hackensack) | Preserving traditional family recipes | Authentic Neapolitan-style pizza dough |
| Giovanni DeSimone | DeSimone’s Pizzeria (Paramus) | Hard work and dedication | High-quality Neapolitan-style pizzas |
| Tony Scardino | Tony Scardino’s Pizzeria (Westwood) | Building relationships with the community | Locally-sourced ingredients |
| Joe LaRosa | LaRosa’s Pizzeria (Fair Lawn) | Perseverance in the face of adversity | Rebuilding stronger and better after a devastating fire |
Family values, hard work, and perseverance are the cornerstones of success in Bergen County’s pizzeria scene.
A Guide to Bergen County’s Best Pizza Delivery and Catering
In Bergen County, New Jersey, pizza lovers rejoice at the abundance of delectable restaurants offering delivery and catering services. With a plethora of options to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one to select. To ease this dilemma, we’ve compiled a guide to the best pizza delivery and catering services in Bergen County.
Comparing Bergen County’s Best Pizza Delivery and Catering Services
We’ve carefully evaluated four Bergen County pizzerias offering delivery and catering services, focusing on their efficiency, menu options, and customer service. Here’s a detailed comparison:
– Pizza Roma: As a local favorite in Hackensack, Pizza Roma shines with its mouth-watering Neapolitan-style pizzas and speedy delivery service. Their menu boasts an array of specialty pies, including a vegan-friendly option, and they offer complimentary garlic knots with every order. Customer service is top-notch, with friendly staff readily available to answer questions and concerns.
– Tony’s Pizzeria: Located in Paramus, Tony’s Pizzeria boasts an extensive menu featuring classic favorites, gourmet options, and even gluten-free pizzas. Their delivery service is efficient, with a tracking system in place to keep customers informed about their order status. Tony’s also offers catering packages for large groups, complete with customizable menus and attentive staff.
– Mario’s Pizzeria: This family-owned pizzeria in Ridgewood offers a cozy atmosphere and an array of traditional Italian dishes alongside its mouth-watering pizzas. Their menu boasts a variety of specialty pies, including a white pizza topped with artichoke hearts and sun-dried tomatoes. Mario’s delivery service is reliable, and their customer service team is always available to accommodate special requests.
– Vinnie’s Pizzeria: With its rich history and classic New York-style pizzas, Vinnie’s Pizzeria in Englewood has earned a loyal following. Their menu features a diverse range of toppings, from traditional pepperoni to gourmet options like truffle oil. Vinnie’s delivery service is fast, and their customer service team is renowned for their dedication to ensuring customer satisfaction.
Recommendations for Special Events and Corporate Catering, Best pizza in bergen county new jersey
For special events and corporate catering, we recommend three Bergen County pizzerias that offer unique features and customizable menu options.
– Pizza Roma offers a variety of catering packages, including their popular “Party Package” featuring a large pizza, wings, and garlic knots. Their staff is experienced in handling large groups and can accommodate special requests with ease.
– Tony’s Pizzeria provides comprehensive catering services, complete with customizable menus and attentive staff. They offer a range of options, including their “Gourmet Pizza Party” package featuring a selection of specialty pizzas and appetizers.
– Mario’s Pizzeria offers a “Family Feast” catering package featuring a large pizza, salad, and breadsticks. Their staff is dedicated to ensuring a stress-free experience, accommodating special requests and providing attention to every detail.
Step-by-Step Guide to Ordering and Managing Pizza Delivery or Catering Services
Ordering and managing pizza delivery or catering services for large groups requires careful planning and attention to detail. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure a successful execution:
1.
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Order in advance: Plan ahead and order at least 2-3 days prior to your event to ensure availability and ensure timely delivery.
2. Clearly communicate your needs: Inform the pizzeria about the size of your group, any dietary restrictions, and special requests.
3. Confirm catering details: Reiterate catering details with the pizzeria, including menu options, delivery times, and the number of guests.
4. Track your order: Ask the pizzeria about their tracking system and track your order to ensure timely delivery.
5. Verify the bill: Confirm the final bill with the pizzeria, including any additional charges or tips.
6. Provide feedback: Share your experience with the pizzeria, providing constructive feedback to help them improve their services.
By following these guidelines and choosing the right pizzeria for your needs, you’ll be well on your way to hosting a memorable and satisfying event that your guests will cherish for years to come.
Epilogue
From behind-the-scenes stories of pizzeria owners to guides on the perfect wine pairing, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a Bergen County local or just visiting, Best Pizza in Bergen County New Jersey is a must-try destination for pizza enthusiasts. So, go ahead, grab a slice, and experience the magic of this culinary gem.
FAQ
What are the top 3 family-friendly pizzerias in Bergen County?
We recommend checking out Pizzeria Uno, Papa John’s, and California Pizza Kitchen
Which Bergen County pizzerias offer the best deals?
Mozzarella’s Pizzeria, Marco’s Pizza, and Domino’s Pizza offer affordable options
Can I order catering services from Bergen County pizzerias?
Yes, several Bergen County pizzerias offer catering services, including Pizzeria Bianco and Pizza Roma
