With dollar slice joints increasingly abundant throughout Manhattan, finding great quality pizza can be quite a challenge. At Motorino, students and other East Village residents can find a variety of great pizzas without the fanfare of better known spots like Grimaldi’s and Lombardi’s.
Photo by Dylan Stilin
Motorino was voted Best Neapolitan Pizza in the East Village by Serious Eats, and it certainly lives up to it name. While not as exciting as other options like the Brussels sprout– mozzarella and pecorino topped with smoked pancetta and Brussels sprout leaves, the pizza margherita gives the quality cheese and incredible crust a chance to shine. The cheese is nicely melted and blends well with the thin layer of tomato sauce on top of a crust that is both crisp and soft.
Photo by Dylan Stilin
While the menu at Motorino boasts a selection of antipasti that includes marinated beet salad and a highly recommended meatball dish, the mixed greens salad is a great choice and included in the $12 weekday lunch special. Seasoned with salt and freshly ground pepper, the salad is served in a plain glass bowl with a side of olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Simple and delicious, this salad is the starter to go with your choice of any of the four pizzas on the lunch prix fixe– margherita, Brussels sprout, soppressata picante, or simple marinara.
With a simple yet classic decor and one of the best pizzas in the area, Motorino is a great choice for anyone looking to sit down and enjoy a great Italian meal. The restaurant also caters to those whose schedules prevent them from dining out by offering delivery in the East Village and surrounding areas.
Address: 349 E 12th St (between 1st and 2nd)
Hours of Operation: Sun-Thurs 11am-midnight; Fri, Sat 11am-1am