Di Fara Pizza

- 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230

For New Yorkers and visitors alike, the quest for the quintessential New York pizza slice often leads to one legendary, unassuming storefront in Brooklyn: Di Fara Pizza. Located on Avenue J, this historic establishment is widely regarded as one of the country's most iconic pizzerias, celebrated for its authentic, meticulously crafted pies that represent the "holy grail" of classic New York-style pizza. Since opening its doors in 1965 by founder Domenico "Dom" DeMarco, an Italian immigrant from Caserta near Naples, Di Fara has built a global reputation on a foundation of quality, tradition, and an unwavering commitment to flavor.

The mystique of Di Fara is rooted in its dedication to premium, imported ingredients, including a three-cheese blend of fresh buffalo mozzarella, fior di latte, and Parmigiano-Reggiano, high-quality San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce, and a generous finish of hand-snipped fresh basil. This combination results in a slice that is simultaneously complex and simple—a perfect balance of tangy sauce, rich cheese, and a crust that is crispy yet foldable. The restaurant proudly continues this legacy, offering both the classic thin-crust Regular Pie ($32.00) and the thicker, rich Sicilian-hybrid Square Pie ($36.00). Specialty options like the Difara Special Pie ($36.00) and the Chaos Pie ($42.00) cater to those looking for a unique taste experience.

Though the atmosphere is casual and reflects the pizzeria’s decades of history, the experience is often described as a culinary pilgrimage. Visitors often note the unique taste and quality that justifies the trip to this long-standing Brooklyn institution, securing its status as a local specialty and a New York City treasure.

Location and Accessibility

Di Fara Pizza is located at 1424 Avenue J in the Midwood neighborhood of Brooklyn, NY 11230, USA. This location is situated on a busy commercial street, making it a true neighborhood hub that attracts customers from across the five boroughs and beyond. The pizzeria’s long-standing presence on Avenue J has made it a landmark in the community.

While the establishment is easily accessible by public transit in Brooklyn, prospective diners should be prepared for the realities of city life, as the legendary status of Di Fara means a dedicated following. Customers should note that there is usually a wait, reflecting its popularity, but this is part of the "historic" and "trendy" atmosphere that draws crowds including college students and tourists. For those driving, the area offers both free and paid street parking, though a short walk might be necessary, as is typical in this dense part of Brooklyn. The restaurant is popular for both lunch and dinner, and its casual setting ensures it is a good spot for kids and solo diners looking for a quick, exceptional bite.

Services Offered

Despite its historic, no-frills appearance, Di Fara Pizza offers a range of modern and accommodating services, focusing primarily on their world-famous pizza and slices.

• Takeout: Efficient service is provided for ordering and picking up pies and slices, a staple for those on the go.
• Delivery and No-Contact Delivery: Full delivery services are available, including a no-contact option for convenience and safety across the delivery radius.
• Dine-in and Onsite Services: Limited seating is available for customers who wish to eat their meal immediately and experience the casual, historic atmosphere.
• Slice Sales: Both the Regular Slice ($6.00) and the Square Slice ($8.00) are sold, offering the perfect quick bite option.
• Beverage Options: A selection of drinks is available to complement the pizza, including Beer and Wine, catering to adult diners, alongside soft drinks like Boylan Soda, San Pellegrino, and various iced teas.
• Accepts Various Payments: Payment is simple and flexible, accepting Credit cards, Debit cards, and NFC mobile payments.

Features / Highlights

Di Fara Pizza’s reputation is built on specific features that have elevated its offerings from simple pizzeria food to a celebrated local specialty in the New York food scene.

• The Iconic Slice: The restaurant serves what many critics and food enthusiasts deem one of the best pizza slices in the world. The slices are renowned for their quality ingredients, exceptional sauce, and the perfect textural balance of a crispy base and a slight chew.
• Hand-Cut Fresh Basil: A signature touch that defines the Di Fara experience is the fresh basil, often clipped with scissors directly over the finished pie, lending a distinctive, bright aroma and flavor that sets it apart.
• Premium Italian Ingredients: A commitment to sourcing high-quality, imported ingredients, including superior flours, real buffalo mozzarella, and San Marzano tomatoes, is the core of the pizza’s unique and highly praised flavor profile.
• Serving Local Specialty: Di Fara is listed as serving a local specialty, solidifying its role as an institution that defines New York pizza culture and tradition.
• Unique Menu Offerings: Beyond the classic pies, the menu includes distinct items like the Five Brothers Pie and the large Family Size Calzone, providing options for different appetites and group sizes.
• Historic and Casual Atmosphere: The atmosphere is described as "Historic" and "Casual," offering a no-frills, authentic slice shop experience that contrasts with the world-class quality of the food.
• Vegetarian Options: All classic cheese and tomato pies, as well as several specialty pies like the Cherry Tomatoes & Garlic Square Pie and the White Pie, are available as delicious vegetarian options.

Contact Information

To place an order or for any inquiries, customers can reach Di Fara Pizza using the information below:

• Address: 1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230, USA
• Phone: (718) 258-1367
• Mobile Phone: +1 718-258-1367

What is Worth Choosing

Choosing Di Fara Pizza is choosing to partake in a piece of New York City culinary history. For those living in or visiting the New York region, the restaurant represents the pinnacle of classic New York-style pizza, perfected over decades of dedication by its founder. What is truly worth choosing here is the experience of tasting a pie made with an unmatched level of care and superior ingredients, which has earned it countless awards and the praise of renowned food critics and chefs.

Specifically, we recommend opting for a combination of both the Regular Slice and the Square Slice to fully appreciate the textural and flavor differences. The regular slice embodies the perfect balance of crunchy crust, tangy sauce, and creamy cheese, while the square slice offers a richer, breadier experience. While the wait can be a deterrent, the quality of the final product—from the flavorful sauce to the perfect crunch of the crust and the aromatic finish of fresh basil—is what makes the journey to Avenue J an essential pilgrimage for any serious pizza lover. The fact that this small, family-run operation has maintained its legendary status for over 50 years, often with a simple system and small seating area, is a testament to the fact that here, the food speaks for itself, loud and clear.

Di Fara Pizza

1424 Avenue J, Brooklyn, NY 11230, USA