Famous Ben's Pizza

- 177 Spring St, New York, NY 10012

For more than four decades, Famous Ben's Pizza has stood as a beloved institution in the heart of SoHo, offering a taste of authentic New York pizza that has become a legend in its own right. Since its founding in 1979, this iconic pizzeria has been a go-to spot for locals, college students, and tourists alike, all seeking a genuine slice of the city. Known for its classic, no-frills approach to pizza, Famous Ben's captures the essence of a traditional New York slice joint. The atmosphere is casual and bustling, with a history that is as rich as its sauce. The pizzeria has even earned a place in pop culture, with mentions in movies like "Men in Black" and the series "Sex in the City," solidifying its status as a quintessential New York landmark. Beyond its cinematic fame, the true star is the pizza itself. The menu is a comprehensive tour of Italian-American classics, but it’s the pizza that keeps people coming back for more. Whether you’re grabbing a quick lunch, settling in for a cozy dinner, or looking for a late-night bite, Famous Ben's offers an experience that is both authentic and deeply satisfying. It's a place where the simple joy of a perfect slice takes center stage, and where the background music of Frank Sinatra and Elvis adds to the nostalgic, diner-like vibe. This commitment to tradition and quality has made Famous Ben's a staple in a city full of pizza options, and a place that truly represents the best of New York’s food scene.

The menu at Famous Ben's Pizza is a celebration of Italian comfort food, with a special emphasis on its legendary pies and slices. The star of the show is, without a doubt, their Our Original Pizza. You can choose from a classic Round Slice or a Sicilian Slice, both of which are celebrated for their quality and flavor. A reviewer praised the "upside down slice," highlighting its "crusty" texture and "tasty" sauce. The Sicilian Style Specialties menu is particularly notable, featuring the Famous Ben's Focaccia Sicilian Pizza and the Grandma Sicilian Slice. One reviewer even called the Sicilian "spectacular." Beyond the slices, Famous Ben's also offers a variety of specialty pies that showcase their culinary creativity, such as the Artichoke Round Pizza, the Vodka Round Pizza, and the hearty Stuffed Meat Lovers Round Pizza. The offerings extend well beyond just pizza. The Appetizers menu includes classics like Garlic Knots and Homemade Mozzarella Sticks, while the Rolls and Calzones provide a different way to enjoy classic flavors, from a Pepperoni & Cheese Roll to a Ham & Cheese Calzone. The Pasta Dishes are also a popular choice, with options ranging from Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce to Baked Ziti and Ziti Alla Vodka. This extensive menu ensures that whether you're craving a single slice, a full pie, or a comforting pasta dish, you’ll find something to love at Famous Ben's. The fact that they also offer a variety of salads and hot subs means there's a delicious option for every palate, making it a great destination for groups with diverse tastes.

Famous Ben’s Pizza has built its reputation on more than just great food; it’s also known for its efficient and welcoming service. A highlight for many is the "fast service," making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or a grab-and-go dinner in a busy neighborhood. The restaurant is well-suited for a variety of patrons, from busy locals on their lunch break to tourists taking a moment to sit down and enjoy a true New York meal. The atmosphere is casual and inviting, making it a great place to bring the family. In fact, it's considered "Good for kids." The availability of outdoor seating provides a great option for guests who want to enjoy their pizza al fresco, taking in the sights and sounds of Spring Street. For those who prefer to eat at home, Famous Ben's offers a variety of service options including curbside pickup, delivery, and no-contact delivery, making it easy to enjoy their food no matter where you are. The restaurant's popularity for "solo dining" also makes it a comfortable and easy place to visit for a quick bite alone. The restaurant accepts a range of payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, adding to the overall convenience. For those looking for a place to host an event, Famous Ben's also offers catering services, ensuring that you can bring their famous pizza to your next gathering. It’s this combination of quality food, fast service, and flexible options that makes Famous Ben's Pizza a true SoHo gem.

Another defining feature of Famous Ben's Pizza is its rich history and the loyal customer base it has built over the years. The pizzeria's long-standing presence at the corner of Spring and Thompson has made it a familiar and beloved part of the neighborhood. The classic, old-time background music and the overall "diner-like" feel, as noted by a reviewer, contribute to a sense of timelessness. It's the kind of place that feels like it has been there forever and will continue to be for years to come. The clientele is a mix of college students, locals, and tourists, a testament to its universal appeal. The pizza is often praised for having the perfect amount of crispness and a great cheese-to-sauce ratio. While some reviewers have noted minor inconsistencies with delivery or specific food items, the overall consensus is that when you want a classic, no-nonsense New York slice, Famous Ben's is the place to go. The enduring legacy of this establishment, from its feature in major films to its consistent ranking among the city's top pizzerias, speaks for itself. It's a place where you're not just getting food, you're getting a piece of New York City history. The wide variety of offerings, from a simple cheese slice to more complex specialty pies, ensures that every visit can be a new culinary adventure. The inclusion of vegetarian options and late-night food also makes it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Famous Ben's Pizza is located at 177 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA. Situated in the vibrant and bustling SoHo neighborhood, it is easily accessible by public transportation, with numerous subway and bus lines within walking distance. For those traveling by car, there are paid parking lots and paid street parking available in the vicinity, although finding a spot can be challenging given the busy nature of the area. The restaurant also features wheelchair accessible seating, ensuring that it can accommodate guests with mobility needs. Its prime location in SoHo makes it an ideal stop for a meal after a day of shopping or exploring the area's many art galleries and boutiques. The availability of outdoor seating also provides a great option for enjoying a meal on a beautiful day while soaking in the lively street scene.

• Dine-in: Enjoy a casual and comfortable meal inside the restaurant, with a lively, diner-like atmosphere and plenty of seating.

• Takeout: Grab a slice or a full pie to go for a quick and convenient meal. Known for its fast service, it's perfect for a quick stop.

• Delivery: Famous Ben's Pizza offers delivery and no-contact delivery options, bringing their legendary pizza directly to your home or office.

• Curbside Pickup: For added convenience, you can order ahead and pick up your meal without having to leave your car.

• Catering: The restaurant provides catering services, making it a great choice for parties, office events, or any large gathering that calls for authentic New York pizza.

• Fast Service: The staff is known for their efficiency, making it a great spot for a quick bite during a busy day.

• Late-Night Food: The restaurant is a popular spot for late-night cravings, serving delicious food well into the evening.

• Variety of Pizza Styles: Famous Ben's offers both classic Round and Sicilian slices, as well as an impressive selection of specialty and stuffed pies.

• Vegetarian Options: The menu includes plenty of vegetarian-friendly choices, ensuring there is something for everyone to enjoy.

• Good for Kids: The casual atmosphere and familiar menu items make it a family-friendly restaurant.

• Iconic Status: The pizzeria has been featured in movies and television shows, adding to its legendary status as a true NYC institution.

Address: 177 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA

Phone: (212) 966-4494

Choosing to visit Famous Ben's Pizza is choosing to experience a true piece of New York City culinary history. It's a place worth choosing not just for its delicious food, but for the authentic and unpretentious atmosphere it provides. For locals, it's a reliable and beloved neighborhood spot, known for its consistent quality and friendly, fast service. For tourists, it offers a genuine taste of what makes New York pizza famous worldwide. The wide variety of options, from a classic cheese slice to a specialty pie like the Vodka Round Pizza, ensures that every visit can be a new and exciting experience. The legendary Sicilian slice, in particular, is a must-try, with a crusty texture and rich flavor that sets it apart. The fact that the restaurant has been serving the community since 1979 and has been featured in major films only adds to its charm and appeal. It's the kind of place where you can feel the history and the passion in every bite. Whether you’re stopping by for a quick lunch, meeting friends for a casual dinner, or satisfying a late-night craving, Famous Ben's Pizza delivers a satisfying and memorable experience that truly embodies the spirit of New York City.

Famous Ben's Pizza

177 Spring St, New York, NY 10012, USA