Lucia Pizza Of Avenue X

- 2201 Avenue X, Brooklyn, NY 11235

Introduction / Overview

Lucia Pizza Of Avenue X is not just another neighborhood pizza joint in Brooklyn; it's a new chapter in a storied family lineage that stretches back over four decades in New York's pizza culture. Located in the heart of the Sheepshead Bay area, this pizzeria brings an elevated New York style to the community, blending time-honored Sicilian and Italian-American recipes with a fresh, modern approach.

The history of Lucia Pizza is deeply rooted in Brooklyn tradition. The owner and head chef, Salvatore Carlino, comes from a family whose roots in pizza-making extend to Sicily and include the ownership of the beloved Papa Leone Pizzeria, which operated in Sheepshead Bay for 43 years before closing upon the retirement of Carlino’s parents. Following a period working abroad, Carlino reignited his passion for pizza, initially using a brick oven in his Long Island backyard to develop the unique style that would become Lucia Pizza. The name 'Lucia' itself, a Latin word for 'Light,' signifies the restaurant's commitment to a more wholesome, 'lighter' New York-style product.

The brick-and-mortar location at 2201 Avenue X opened during the challenging times of the pandemic, offering a beacon of familiar comfort food to the community. It quickly gained recognition for its commitment to quality ingredients, including a tomato sauce described as fresh and bright, and for signature touches like fresh basil and Pecorino tossed on pies as they exit the oven. Lucia Pizza of Avenue X offers a casual and cozy atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for locals and visitors alike to enjoy lunch, dinner, or a quick, quality bite.

Location and Accessibility

Lucia Pizza Of Avenue X is conveniently situated at 2201 Avenue X in Brooklyn, NY 11235, placing it in a well-established area of Sheepshead Bay. The location is easily accessible for those in the southern Brooklyn neighborhoods, beckoning both loyal patrons from the area’s rich pizza history and new customers seeking an authentic New York slice experience.

For patrons arriving by car, the venue offers a measure of convenience with both free and paid street parking options nearby. The restaurant is committed to accessibility, offering wheelchair accessible seating to ensure a welcoming experience for all guests. The general atmosphere is characterized as casual, cozy, and trendy, making it a comfortable spot for various occasions, from a solo dining excursion to a casual meal with friends or family. For those bringing along their pets, dogs are allowed outside in the outdoor seating area.

Services Offered

The dining experience at Lucia Pizza Of Avenue X is versatile, catering to the diverse needs of the busy New Yorker. They provide a range of service options, ensuring you can enjoy their acclaimed pizza and Italian-American classics exactly how you prefer.

• Dine-in: Enjoy the cozy and casual atmosphere for lunch or dinner, with comfortable seating available.
• Takeout: Perfect for grabbing a quick slice or a whole pie to enjoy at home.
• Delivery: The full menu is available for delivery, including a no-contact delivery option for safety and convenience.
• Outdoor Seating: A nice option for dining outside when the weather permits, and for guests with dogs.
• Catering: While not explicitly detailed, the availability of whole pies and a robust menu suggests suitability for group orders and casual event needs.

Features / Highlights

Lucia Pizza Of Avenue X has quickly become a notable spot in Brooklyn's dense pizza landscape, distinguished by its quality, unique offerings, and commitment to an inherited craft. Here are some of the defining features and highlights that set this pizzeria apart:

• Deep Family Lineage: The restaurant is an extension of a pizza legacy that began four decades ago with owner Salvatore Carlino's family, the operators of the long-running Papa Leone Pizzeria in Sheepshead Bay.
• Signature Vodka Pie: A local specialty that is a must-try, the Vodka Pie is a centerpiece of the menu. It reportedly uses the same famous vodka sauce recipe from the original Papa Leone's, dating back to 1974, infusing a rich, creamy flavor into the melted mozzarella pie.
• The 'Lucia' Style: Embracing the Latin meaning of 'Light,' Lucia Pizza aims for an 'elevated New York style pizza' that is 'lighter and healthier,' appealing to those who appreciate a quality, manageable slice.
• Caramelle Piccanti Pie: A popular and distinct offering, this pie provides a delicious fusion of sweet and spicy flavors, featuring cherry peppers and topped with Mike's Hot Honey for a tantalizing culinary experience.
• Quality Ingredients and Craft: The establishment is noted for its thin, crispy, and foldable crust, fresh and bright-tasting tomato sauce, and the finishing touches of fresh basil and grated Pecorino.
• Atmosphere and Service: Patrons frequently highlight the friendly staff and fast service within a casual, cozy, and nostalgic New York slice-shop setting.
• Diverse Menu Offerings: Beyond the classic pies, the menu includes specialty options like the Cream of Spinach Pie, Poblano Pie, Grandma Pie, Sicilian Pie, and comfort food staples like Chicken Parmigiana and the famous PASTA Ala Vodka Papa Leoni.
• Beverage and Dessert Selection: The menu is complemented by a selection of wines and beers (Alcohol and Wine offerings), classic sodas including Mexican Glass Coke made with real cane sugar, and desserts like Rainbow Cookies.

Contact Information

To place an order, inquire about the menu, or simply find your way to this celebrated Brooklyn slice shop, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 2201 Avenue X, Brooklyn, NY 11235, USA

Phone: (718) 313-0999

What is worth choosing

For New Yorkers eager to taste the next generation of Brooklyn pizza, Lucia Pizza Of Avenue X offers a culinary experience that honors the past while presenting an improved, lighter interpretation of the New York classic. The dedication to a multi-decade family legacy is evident in the quality and flavor of their signature items. A few items are consistently cited as standout choices, making them essential for a first-time visit or for regular rotation.

The unanimous choice for a specialty pie is the Vodka Pie ($27.99). This is the continuation of the family's original recipe from Papa Leone, and its creamy, savory flavor profile is a cornerstone of the restaurant’s history. It is highly praised for its comforting, authentic taste. For those who crave heat and a complex flavor, the Caramelle Piccanti Pie ($32.49), with its combination of cherry peppers and a drizzle of Mike’s Hot Honey, is a proven crowd-favorite that delivers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy.

However, it's also worth noting that the commitment to craft elevates even the simplest offerings. The NY Plain slice or pie is lauded by customers for its perfectly crispy, thin, and foldable crust, homemade-tasting sauce, and the fresh basil garnish, making it a strong contender for one of the best basic slices in the city. The Margherita Pie, with its delicate balance of sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil, is another excellent measure of their fundamental quality.

Beyond the pizza, the PASTA Ala Vodka Papa Leoni ($23.99) is a nod to the family's past and an excellent choice for a rich, comforting, non-pizza dish. And, as a popular appetizer, the homemade Mozzarella Sticks ($12.99) are heralded by many customers as being some of the best around, offering that perfect textural contrast of a golden crust and melty, fresh interior. Lucia Pizza Of Avenue X truly offers a taste of family history and an exciting evolution of New York pizza.

Lucia Pizza Of Avenue X

2201 Avenue X, Brooklyn, NY 11235, USA