College and pizza seem to go hand and hand. When I say college, you say pizza. College? Pizza. Thanks.
Here in the Bronx, we have the privilege—nay, the honor, to experience pizza at its finest. To all you Fordham-goers: the next time you crave pizza, do not settle for the meal-swipe mockery of cheesy goodness that is the caf. Have some standards. And no, that does not mean Cosi. Spend the extra few dollars on a slice worth the price and enjoy. Take notes, habitants of the Boogie Down. Arthur Avenue does it right…
Pugsley Pizza
Photo by Kellyn Simpkins
Pugsley Pizza is in our backyard, providing us with a slice that is daringly cheesy, moderately sweet and saucy, and conducive to all those who fancy grated Parmesan for the extra “oomph.” The restaurant is simple and quaint, and they rarely disappoint. It is no wonder the line is out the door at 2am on a weekend night.
With the interest of an undeniably good experience, stick to an original slice. Don’t complicate the process and try to get creative past midnight. Once Pugsley starts venturing out to Buffalo chicken pies and vodka sauce, the verdict is less agreed upon. Have some faith in the consensus that Pugsley has got their cheese pie figured out. A chicken roll is also a crowd favorite. Plus, they ring a gong when the pizza is done. “What could be more fun?” questions your not-so-sober self.
Address: 590 E 191st St, Bronx, NY 10458
Hours of Operation: Mon-Wed 11:00-3:00am; Thurs-Fri 11:00-5am; Sat 11-3am; Sun 2pm-3am
Full Moon Pizza
Located on 187th street, Full Moon is another crowd favorite. This slice is boldly large, yet deceptively thin, and as tasty, greasy, cheesy, and saucy as you can desire. It is a sufficiently average pizza experience, but renowned for its convenience, service, and filling slice. The atmosphere is not as intimate as Pusgley’s, but the staff is as familiar and affiliated with Fordham goers as are its neighbors on Arthur. It is rare that this place will ever disappoint you.
Address: 600 E 187th St, Bronx, NY 10458
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sat 11am-10pm; Sun 12-9pm
Michaelangelo’s Little Italy
Michaelangelo’s, on Arthur Ave, is perfect for any night out, romantic or casual. The charming atmosphere invites a crowd in search of a more refined pie. If you’re more of a thin-crust kinda guy, they are here to tend to your brick-oven desires.
Address: 2477 Arthur Ave, Bronx, NY 10458
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sun 11-2am
Tino’s Delicatessen
Tino’s, though famous for its specialty in sandwich making, is underrated for pizza. It is actually quite delicious. It is very thin, and a pie is enough for one person. I’ve downed one by myself and it made for a light after-noon “I haven’t eaten lunch yet but I’m not that hungry” meal.
I suggest their “Pizza Bianca”- it is a fresh mozz, pecorino romano, oregano, extra virgin olive oil and arugula. All of their pizzas are brick oven, and have a nice charcoal taste that is a good change from a standard cheesy and oily slice that doesn’t always leave you feeling so hot. This is a no regrets kind of meal. The hours are less flexible at night, but if you have a chance to get out there, it’s totally worth it.
Address: 2410 Arthur Ave, Bronx, NY 10458
Hours of Operation: Mon-Sun 6:30am-7:30pm
Nike Pizzeria
Finally, I suggest a slice from Nike pizza. Previously named Bellini’s with a recently changed name, Nike’s pizza is more expensive than Pugsley’s, but not to worry: there is no serious strain on your wallet for this more-than-worth it meal. No need to go to Trattoria Antonio’s down the block if you are in search of something to satisfy your hunger (though, if your family is in town, that’s my top suggestion to splurge…) Nike is yet another standard slice of consistent and dependable quality. Also, it is fair game to get creative at. They nail just about every pie.
Address: 625 E. 189th St Bronx, NY 10458