Francesco's Pizza: An Upper West Side Gem for Authentic Italian Food

Francesco's Pizza Introduce

In a city known globally for its pizza, finding a spot that truly stands out is a remarkable experience. For New Yorkers and visitors alike, the search for that perfect slice of authentic, delicious pizza is a constant quest. Located in the heart of the Upper West Side, there's a place that has been serving up more than just pizza; it offers a true taste of Italian tradition and comfort. It's the kind of neighborhood spot that feels both familiar and special, a place where you can grab a quick lunch or settle in for a relaxed dinner.

This isn't your average tourist trap. It’s a genuine New York institution that prides itself on quality ingredients, traditional recipes, and a commitment to serving its community. While pizza is certainly the star of the show, the menu extends far beyond the classic pie, offering a full range of Italian dishes that will transport you to a cozy trattoria in Italy. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, making it an ideal destination for a variety of occasions, whether you're dining solo, with family, or on a break from exploring the nearby museums and parks.

A great pizza restaurant in New York is defined by its ability to deliver consistent quality with a friendly touch, and this establishment lives up to that standard. The aroma of freshly baked dough and simmering tomato sauce is a hallmark of the experience. It’s a place where locals bring their families, and where new customers quickly become regulars, drawn in by the delicious food, excellent service, and authentic vibe.

Location and Accessibility

Francesco's Pizza is situated at a prime Upper West Side location: 186 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA. This address places it in a vibrant, easily accessible neighborhood, just a short walk from both Central Park and the American Museum of Natural History. Its proximity to these major attractions makes it a convenient and perfect stop for a meal after a day of sightseeing.

The restaurant’s location on Columbus Avenue is also highly accessible via public transportation, with numerous subway lines and bus routes serving the area. This ensures that whether you're coming from another part of Manhattan or the outer boroughs, getting to Francesco's is a breeze. The surrounding area is bustling with activity, but the restaurant provides a cozy, welcoming retreat from the city's fast pace.

Furthermore, the restaurant is committed to ensuring a welcoming experience for all guests. The entrance is wheelchair accessible, a thoughtful feature that makes it easy for everyone to enjoy a meal without any hassle. This attention to accessibility and its convenient location solidifies its status as a true neighborhood favorite.

Services Offered

Dine-in: Enjoy a comfortable and casual meal in the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant. Seating is available for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it a great spot for any time of day.
Takeout and Delivery: For those who prefer to eat at home or in the office, Francesco's Pizza offers both takeout and convenient delivery services, including a no-contact option for added safety and peace of mind.
Catering: The restaurant provides catering services, allowing you to bring the delicious taste of Francesco's to your next event or gathering. Whether it's a corporate lunch or a family party, the catering menu offers a variety of options.
Beverages and Bar: A full range of beverages is available, including bottled and canned sodas, and Poland Spring water. For adults, the restaurant offers a selection of beer and wine to complement your meal.
Full Italian Menu: Beyond pizza, the menu is extensive, featuring classic Italian dishes such as baked pastas, hero sandwiches, soups, appetizers, salads, and specialty entrees including chicken, veal, and seafood dishes.

Features and Highlights

Fast and Friendly Service: The staff is known for their efficiency and welcoming demeanor. Service is quick, which is ideal for a lunch break or a speedy bite before a show or museum visit. The staff is consistently described as "very nice" in customer reviews.
High-Quality Pizza Slices: The pizza is a key highlight, with a "crisp bottom crust" and generous, "HUGE" New York-style slices. The menu includes both traditional options like Regular and Sicilian slices, and more unique offerings like the "Eggplant Pizza" which customers rave about.
Diverse Menu: The menu goes far beyond just pizza, offering a full range of comfort food and Italian specialties. From appetizers like Fried Calamari and Mozzarella Sticks to a variety of hero sandwiches, baked pasta dishes like Lasagna and Baked Ziti, and specialty entrees like Chicken Parmigiana and Veal Marsala.
Cozy Atmosphere: The ambiance is described as casual and cozy, making it a perfect, no-frills spot for a delicious meal. It’s a genuine "not a tourist spot" feel, providing an authentic local experience.
Good for All Occasions: Whether you're dining alone, grabbing a quick bite, or having a family meal, the restaurant is a great fit. It is particularly popular for lunch and dinner and is known to be good for kids, with high chairs available.
Flexible Payment Options: The restaurant accepts credit cards, debit cards, and NFC mobile payments, providing convenience for a quick transaction.

Contact Information

Address: 186 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA

Phone: (212) 721-0066

What Is Worth Choosing

Francesco's Pizza is more than just a pizza joint; it’s a staple of the Upper West Side’s culinary scene. What makes it a standout choice is its commitment to authenticity and quality, combined with its prime location and excellent service. It provides a sanctuary for those looking for a delicious, hearty, and unpretentious meal in one of the city's most vibrant neighborhoods. The a la carte menu offers something for every palate, from the classic New York-style pizza slice that is a must-try to the extensive selection of pasta, chicken, and veal dishes.

For many customers, the highlight is the pizza itself. The "Huge New York style slices" with their "crisp bottom crust" are a testament to traditional pizza-making techniques. The variety of specialty pies, such as the Penne Vodka Pizza and the Drunken Grandma Pie, shows an innovative spirit while honoring classic Italian flavors. Beyond pizza, the menu is a deep dive into Italian comfort food, with dishes like Veal Parmigiana and Chicken Francese receiving high praise. The fact that the restaurant is also known for its "eggplant pizza" shows a dedication to unique and satisfying vegetarian options.

Ultimately, Francesco's Pizza is worth choosing because it provides a reliable, high-quality dining experience. It's a place where you can get a quick, delicious, and reasonably priced meal in a comfortable and welcoming environment. Whether you're a local who needs a go-to spot for an easy dinner or a tourist who wants a true taste of New York without the tourist-centric prices and crowds, this is the place to be. It encapsulates the spirit of a classic New York eatery: great food, fast service, and a friendly atmosphere.

Francesco's Pizza Food & drink

Core Menu - Beverages
Bottled Soda $2.50
20 oz.
Canned Soda $1.50
Snapple $2.50
Poland Spring Water $1.75

Core Menu - Premium Quality Original Pizza Italian
Large Pie $22.00
Fast delivery.
Pizza Slice & 2 Toppings $5.20
Fast delivery.
Small Pie $20.00
Fast delivery.
Sicilian Slice Pizza $3.80
Fast delivery.
Pizza Slice & 1 Topping $4.25
Fast delivery.
X-Large Pie $25.00
Fast delivery.
Personal Pie $16.00
Fast delivery.
Regular Slice Pizza $3.30
Fast delivery.

Core Menu - Vegetarian
Grilled Vegetables $28.00
Eggplant, zucchini, artichoke, roasted pepper, portobello mushrooms, tomato, and red onions topped with Gorgonzola cheese and balsamic reduction. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Eggplant Parmigiana $26.00
Breaded eggplant, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).

Core Menu - Salads
Arugula & Shrimp Salad $19.00
With tomato, onion and Romano cheese.
House Green Salad
Mixed greens, tomato, cucumber, carrots, and peppers.
Portobello & Mozzarella Salad $18.00
Mixed greens, tomato, onions and balsamic reduction.
Greek Salad $18.00
Caesar Salad $12.00
Chef Salad
Artichokes, olives, red bell peppers, onions, tomato, cucumber, carrots, fresh Mozzarella, over mixed greens.
Italian Antipasto Salad $19.00
Ham, Provolone, salami, roasted peppers, artichokes, olives, anchovies, onions, and mixed greens.
Pesto Chicken Salad $18.00
Sautéed chicken, onions, tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes and roasted peanuts over mixed field greens with lemon dressing.
Mozzarella Caprese Salad $18.00

Core Menu - Meat
Veal Sorrentino $31.00
Veal topped with grilled eggplant, melted Mozzarella in a roasted garlic or marinara sauce. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Veal Parmigiana $30.00
Breaded veal, tomato sauce, and melted cheese. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Veal Cacciatore $30.00
Veal with onion, plum tomato, and hot peppers. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Veal Fantasia $31.00
Veal with artichoke, fresh mushrooms, and plum tomato in a white wine sauce. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Veal Marsala $30.00
Veal with fresh mushrooms, onion and Marsala wine sauce. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).

Core Menu - Appetizers
Baked Clams Oreganato $18.00
French Fries $6.00
Fried Calamari $18.00
Garlic Bread $5.00
Mozzarella Sticks $10.00
Buffalo Wings $15.00
Mussels $18.00
In hot marinara or white wine sauce.
Eggplant Rollatini $14.00
Grilled Calamari $18.00
Over salad.

Core Menu - Heros
Chicken Parmigiana Hero $16.00
Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Sausage Parmigiana Hero $15.00
Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Sausage & Peppers Hero $16.00
Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Grilled Chicken Hero $16.00
With lettuce, tomato, mayo, onions, olive oil, and vinegar. Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Veal Parmigiana Hero $18.00
Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Pepper & Egg Hero $16.00
Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Francesco Burger $18.00
8 oz. ground beef, crispy bacon, cheese, onions, tomato, and greens. Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Meatball Parmigiana Hero $16.00
Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Prosciutto, Arugula, & Mozzarella Hero $18.00
Roasted peppers, red onions, lemon juice, and olive oil. Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Turkey & Provolone Hero $16.00
With lettuce, tomato, mayo, onions, olive oil, and vinegar. Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Cheesesteak $18.00
All 3-bellow served w/ lettuce, tomato, mayo, onions, olive oil & vinegar. All served with French fries.
Ham, Provolone, & Salami Hero $16.00
With lettuce, tomato, mayo, onions, olive oil, and vinegar. Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Shrimp Parmigiana Hero $17.00
Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Veal & Peppers Hero $18.00
Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.
Eggplant Parmigiana Hero $16.00
Served on fresh Italian bread and with French fries.

Core Menu - Soups
Pasta Fagioli & Spinach Soup $11.00
Chicken Soup $11.00
Tortellini Soup $11.00
Minestrone Soup $11.00
Lentil Soup $11.00

Core Menu - Poultry
Chicken Mirabella $29.00
Sautéed chicken breast, artichoke, asparagus, onion and roasted pepper in a light marinara sauce. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Chicken Cacciatore $28.00
Chicken with onion, plum tomatoes and hot peppers. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Chicken Marsala $28.00
Sautéed chicken breasts with onions, mushrooms and Marsala wine sauce. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Chicken Francese $27.50
Egg-battered chicken breast with onions, lemon and white wine sauce. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Chicken All'Andrea $29.00
Sautéed chicken breast, roasted pepper, melted cheese, fresh tomato and black olives in a roasted garlic sauce. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Chicken Parmigiana $26.50
Breaded chicken, tomato sauce and melted cheese. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Chicken Via Veneto $30.00
Sautéed chicken breast topped with prosciutto, eggplant and melted Mozzarella in a light marinara sauce. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).

Core Menu - Calzone & Rolls
Sausage Roll $10.00
Rice Ball $6.00
Chicken Roll $10.00
Cheese Calzone $9.00
Garlic Knots (5) $3.00
Spinach Roll $10.00

Core Menu - Side Orders
Sausage In Tomato Sauce $11.00
Sauteed Broccoli Rabe $16.00
With garlic oil and hot pepper.
Sauteed Broccoli $14.00
With garlic oil and hot pepper.
Sauteed Spinach $14.00
With garlic oil and hot pepper.
Meatball In Tomato Sauce $11.00

Core Menu - Pasta
Garlic & Oil Pasta $16.00
Classic pasta. Served with choice of pasta.
Mushroom Sauce Pasta $21.00
Classic pasta. Tomato sauce or garlic and oil. Served with choice of pasta.
Pesto Sauce Pasta $22.00
Classic pasta. Served with choice of pasta.
Spinach Pasta $21.00
Classic pasta. Tomato sauce or garlic and oil. Served with choice of pasta.
Tomato Sauce Pasta $16.00
Classic pasta. Served with choice of pasta.
Meat Sauce Pasta $20.00
Classic pasta. Served with choice of pasta.
Alfredo Sauce Pasta $21.00
Classic pasta. Served with choice of pasta.
Marinara Sauce Pasta $16.00
Classic pasta. Served with choice of pasta.
Bolognese Sauce Pasta $23.00
Classic pasta. Served with choice of pasta.
Primavera Sauce Pasta $23.00
Classic pasta. Tomato sauce or garlic oil. Served with choice of pasta.
Vodka Sauce Pasta $21.00
Classic pasta. Served with choice of pasta.
Broccoli Pasta $21.00
Classic pasta. Tomato sauce or garlic and oil. Served with choice of pasta.

Core Menu - Specialty Pizza Pies
Penne Vodka Pizza
Drunken Grandma Pie $36.00
Fresh Mozzarella, basil, fresh tomato in vodka sauce.
Hawaiian Pizza
Ham and pineapple.
Francesco Primavera Pie
Chicken, fresh tomato and onion.
I Love Lucy Pie
Goat cheese, fresh Mozzarella and al pesto sauce.
Pizza Margherita
Fresh Mozzarella, basil and fresh tomato.
Vegetable Pie
Sicilian Pie $30.00
Grandma Pie $32.00
Buffalo Chicken Pizza
White Pie
Mozzarella, Ricotta cheese, no sauce.
Lasagna Pie
BBQ Chicken Pie
Red onions and peppers.
Special Pie
Mushroom, pepperoni, sausage, onion and bell pepper.
Baked Ziti Pie

Core Menu - Baked Pasta Dishes
Lasagna $23.00
Ravioli $21.00
Baked Ziti $21.00
Tortellini $21.00
Stuffed Shells $21.00

Core Menu - Francesco's Specialties
Rigatoni Ripieni $26.00
Stuffed with Ricotta cheese, grilled eggplant.
Capellini Alla Gamberi $28.00
Shrimp, fresh tomato, asparagus, garlic and olive oil.
Fusilli Alla Rosario $26.00
Artichoke, fresh basil, asparagus, sun-dried tomato, and garlic in a plum tomato sauce.
Wild Mushroom Risotto $26.00
Onion, garlic, white wine, Parmesan cheese and light cream.
Steak Alla Francesco $28.00
16 oz. skirt steak grilled with French fries and sauteed broccoli.
Spaghetti Mare Monte $28.00
Mushroom, shrimp, calamari and garlic in a plum tomato sauce.
Farfalle Alla Salmone $29.00
Green peas, scallions, Parmesan cheese and lemon white wine sauce.
Risotto Pollo Primavera $27.00
Chicken, zucchini, onion, squash, garlic, Parmesan cheese, white wine and a touch of cream.
Linguine Alla Ciccio $28.00
Shrimp, pancetta, garlic, fresh tomato, white wine sauce, hot pepper and Parmesan cheese.
Rigatoni Margherita $25.00
Grilled eggplant, zucchini, and onion in marinara sauce with a touch of cream.
Penne Con Pollo E Broccoli $25.00
Chicken, broccoli, hot pepper, garlic and olive oil.
Gnocchi Alla Serafino $25.00
Potato dumplings with melted cheese, roasted pepper and plum tomato.
Spaghetti Alla Puttanesca $25.00
Anchovies, garlic, black olives, capers, and hot peppers in a plum tomato sauce.
Frutti Di Mare Fra Diavolo $32.00
Combination of sautéed shrimp, calamari, clams and mussels in choice of sauce over pasta.
Linguine Alla Vongole $29.00
Fresh clams in red or white sauce.
Lemon Fettuccine $25.00
Grilled chicken breast, artichokes, Parmesan and a light lemon cream sauce.
Cavatelli Con Salsiccia E Broccoli Rabe $26.00
Sausage, broccoli rabe, hot pepper, garlic, and olive oil.
Spaghetti Alla Napolitana $26.00
Fresh tomato, basil and Mozzarella topping.
Fettuccine Pesto Chicken $25.00
Grilled chicken breast, plum tomatoes, pesto, and a touch of cream.
Spaghetti Alla Carbonara $25.00
Italian bacon, garlic, onion, egg, and Parmesan cheese.

Core Menu - Desserts
Chocolate Cake $8.00
Carrot Cake $8.00
Tartufo $8.00
Homemade Tiramisu $9.00
Made To Order Cannoli $7.50
Cannoli shells and cream imported from Italy.
Cheesecake $8.00

Core Menu - Seafood
Gamberi Parmigiana $31.00
Breaded shrimp topped with tomato sauce and melted Mozzarella. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Fillet Of Sole Picata $31.00
Egg-battered filet of tilapia with capers, onions and lemon in a white wine sauce. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).
Salmone Alla Francesco $31.00
Grilled salmon served over sautéed spinach and capers with fresh tomato sauce. Served with choice of salad or pasta (tomato sauce or marinara or garlic oil).

Francesco's Pizza Details

Service options
No-contact delivery
Delivery
Takeout
Dine-in

Highlights
Fast service

Popular for
Lunch
Dinner
Solo dining

Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance
Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Offerings
Alcohol
Beer
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Small plates
Wine

Dining options
Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner
Catering
Dessert
Seating

Amenities
Restroom

Atmosphere
Casual
Cozy

Planning
Accepts reservations

Payments
Credit cards
Debit cards
NFC mobile payments
Credit cards

Children
Good for kids
High chairs

Francesco's Pizza Photos

Francesco's Pizza Location

Francesco's Pizza

New York New York County New York Columbus Avenue

186 Columbus Ave, New York, NY 10023, USA

Francesco's Pizza Reviews

An average rating of ★4.2 from 682 user reviews.

areanyc pizzasliceslincoln centerdougheggplantsoupgarlic knotschicken parmmovie

★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1

Quick service. Good pizza and prices. Staff was very nice!! We got Lasagna, Pepperoni, sausage and Margherita. HUGE New York style slices. Crisp bottom crust.6 slices, 1 water, 2 sodas... under $40Not a tourist spot= A++++++Close to Central Park and Natural History Museum
April 10 · Tiffany Williams
Their eggplant pizza is perfection! I can’t find it anywhere else and it’s my go to spot every time I’m in NYC! Cozy atmosphere and lovely staff. A great lunch spot for museum breaks.
August 11 · J S
Lots of seating. Came here with Bae to snack on something before our movie. Love this part of town. And I love that they have fountain soda. I was craving something like Hawaiian Punch. Pizza was really good. Love the dough. I wish I could've gotten 2 slices to be honest but wanted to leave room for move theater munchies hehe. We'll be back!
November 04 · Tee
This has been my favorite pizza in the city since college! (18 years ago lol) when I am in the neighborhood I make a point to grab a slice. The dough, sauce and toppings are top tier. The customer service was and is still so warm and kind. Just go!
September 04 · Lindsay Rose
I just want to say that the cheese pizza was simply superb I really liked it and thank you very much for letting me take a picture of those Dean Martin puppets i uploaded a picture of them hopw you like it.
February 03 · Ariel Peretz