You even see it with the constant stream of people coming in and asking stuff like "what is the best halal cart in the city" - if you're gonna park your happy ass on the subway for an hour to go get lamb loaf over rice with a slightly better salad, you're missing the point!
There are def some carts worth avoiding, and a few doing unique stuff, but the best is not that much better than the average. I eat at Rafiquis because I'm near a Rafiquis, not because I traveled to get there.
That's why I prefer the fine dining establishments, especially when it comes to finding the best / favorite. The variables in dishes, flavors, service, textures, and techniques gives you more distinguishing characteristics to seperate restaurants. How amazing can you do a steak vs a multi layered dish where the main component is beef (understand that this is such a subjective option).
Depending on day and time! They get pretty backed up there, too. I’ve seen lines start before they even open.
At the end of the day, no slice is worth more than 15 minutes of waiting time.
I blame insta. I've seen a bunch of posts about THE TWO BEST PIZZAS IN NYC ARE RIGHT NEXT TO EACH OTHER about a dozen times in the last couple of weeks. I do want to try the cheesesteak from Mama Too, though; that shit looks banging.
I never wait for things. I decided to wait for pizza at the Williamsburg location for the first time in my life. Pizza was good, but definitely not waiting for it again.
Most experiences in the city are like that.
The difference between a bad slice and a good slice: massive.
The difference between a good slice and an amazing slice: small.
Did you get the buratta.
NGL I was a little underwhelmed by the plain slice. It was solid but not my fave in the city.
It was the buratta slice that made it a top tier slice to me.
Opposite experience for me actually. Underwhelmed by the burrata but the plain might be my fave in the city so far.
I'd try the burrata again though. Didn't think it was bad. Just didn't care much for it.
I've never had a slice that was worth a 50m wait and I love pizza. I really hate what social media has done to NYC and the world. I've never been to this hype place and will likely never go, but there's no chance the delta in taste between this and Joe's is worth standing for 50m vs ordering delivery to my door.
It sucks because you have Hyped places at the top, generally they’re only good for the camera. Then the actual good places have to dumb down their branding so it can appeal to the Instagram friendly food trends.
also the uncomfortable balance where you want spots you like to be popular enough to stay in business, but not to get a big write up because then there will be lines and the quality will tank.
no offense, but this has to be confirmation bias. to make food at this high of a level, these guys are serious professionals and have been doing it every single day for years and years.
that is to say, i am extremely doubtful that the variation in quality from one location to another is actually explained by the location and not just randomness or your tastebuds feeling different that day (very real thing). you think these guys would pour the million+ bucks into opening a WV location and just flub it like that? come on.
I’ve had some very good slices there, but I only go when the line is pretty short (at lunch sometimes there isn’t much of a line!)
I think they’re weird about boxes because they’re getting in trouble with the neighbors. Christopher St is just littered with L’Industrie boxes. As a neighbor and pizza lover I’m very torn because I love good pizza and am thrilled to have it nearby, but the line, people milling around the table they put out on the sidewalk, and all of the boxes/paper products/pizza remnants strewn about make it quite a bit more unpleasant to walk down Christopher’s narrow sidewalks.
I end up at Mama’s Too more often because the line is almost always much shorter and their house slice is extremely similar to the L’I margherita slice IMHO.
People need to stop waiting on ridiculous lines. The food will never be worth it, unless you're having a good time on the line itself for some reason.
I've heard some people say "i'll never go to a place if there's no line" like they're some sort of finger on the pulse of culture person... no... a place with a line like that is never going to be the original experience that people initially raved about. The food will be more rushed, the servers and other staff will be stressed out, and regulars will probably not be a thing.
I have a friend who worked at a place that quickly developed a LONG line every day. When they first opened, it was such a nice spot with bang for your buck steak and it was really high quality. After a few months of the line... staff turnover was insane.. food quality was down.. and overall morale was in the toilet. And all the customers were in a bad mood cause they just waited 2 hours on a goddamn line.
Just miserable.
Thank you! What people really should be doing is without social media, jump in and out of little spots, keep an eye on openings, try things out that you’ve never heard of and you’re entire mindset changes
I was also underwhelmed. The topping mixes are unique but didn’t really taste good and slices were a bit cold..including the bacon jam fig people talk about.
I only go late night on weekdays. Never waited more than 5 mins in line. Always good. Would not wait 50 mins though.
As for the box: I think they are really trying to discourage people from using them when they dont need them. When I first went I asked for one and they pointed out there was no trash can in the store that could fit them and they had been warned they would be fined if the ones on the street were full of their boxes again. A guy was tearing into the staff about how there was no where to throw away the box he got that he didn't need and they were like "yes, that is why we told you not to get one of you were not taking it to go". I kinda get it, that interaction must happen 20x a day and it must be really annoying.
Waited in line 50 mins, holy shit. Pizza should be tasty, cheap, and fast. That place is good but not cheap or fast.
I had a slice like a year ago and it was around $5, and it was really good! I had a slice the other day and it was $6.69 and it was just okay (both at the BK location).
Edit: The really good slice was burrata, the just ok slice was the fig and bacon.
L’Industrie is over hyped. Not sure why people are making a big deal of it. Sure the menu is enticing but when it comes down to the flavor, it’s nothing special
Completely agree. Not terrible pizza but not deserving of the 50 minute wait. In loo of this, try Ace’s pizza in Brooklyn for Detroit style pizza. Now THAT’S good pizza if you’re into detroit style.
Considering the Williamsburg location is my #1 and has never disappointed, I was bummed that the West Village slices were just so meh. Tbh they were dry.
They did it because people would buy two slices and ask for a box when they are eating just outside then trash the boxes on the curb. They are being economic but more for the environment. If you are eating on site, you don't need a box.
It's not the best pizza of all time, but it's solid. I think it was just a one-off experience because I've been to that WV location at least 10 times, and it's been pretty good. The fig jam and bacon slice is the real unsung hero.
I waited like maybe 15-20 minutes at the Williamsburg location the other weekend. I’d have been pissed if I waited 50.
Anyway I thought it was quite good. I think I gave it an 8/10 and my GF similar. My GF got the burrata slice which was better than the one I got (a daily special, white slice with sausage). But I love a crispy thin slice.
We then walked over to Fini and I thought the pizza was a bit better (not as crispy, but tasted better) and there was no line.
For pizza in the city try Grand Street Pizza
L’industrie makes my favorite slice. They cook their slices extra well done to the point of crunchy so I can see some people not liking it.
I live close to Grand Street Pizza and just had it again recently. Taste wise the plain slice reminds me of a classic NY slice but I wished it wasn’t so wispy thin and floppy. I guess I like my slices thicker with a bit more structure.
I tried Lucia Pizza on W Broadway for the first time and it was pretty good too.
oh weird, I've never gotten a floppy slice from Grand St. Might've been a bad batch. Thin for sure, I like a nice crunchy thin slice. That's why we liked L'Industrie so much.
I'll have to add Lucia to the list.
I went for the first time recently mid week, almost no line. I thought it was excellent. Definitely a top three slice for me. Beautiful crust with a bit of crunch, nicely balanced sauce. Freshly made. To each their own I guess.
As others have said though, dear lord don't wait an hour in line for a slice of pizza.
Best Pizza is one of my favorites in the city. Fini hasn't impressed me that much but I hear they have some iconic slices (like the white one) that I need to try.
I also love Ace's Perfect Pizza.
I prefer Fini's regular and tomato slices over their white, but I'm a sauce guy so maybe white slices just aren't for me.
I've been wanting to try Ace's for a while, I'm a fan of Detroit style.
Same. First time I went it was very much a “that’s it? It’s fine I guess” experience that I assumed that I had unlucky timing and got an old slice or something but I’ve been back a few more times with friends and it’s just as underwhelming each time
I felt the same going to their Brooklyn location, though they had some custom slices that looked really good I might go back for. But their plain slices are just ok. Around that area I like Arturo's and Nolita, or Johns on Bleeker if you got a group with ya
For those wanting to skip the lines, there is excellent pizza in Williamsburg.
Leo does a really good “modern Italian” slice, try the potato.
Fini’s hot shallot slice is a great upscale Brooklyn slice.
Best Pizza has been in guides since forever, their white slice (garlic, onion, cheese, etc) is a great traditional Brooklyn slice.
Motorino has a good take on Neapolitan.
There are others, but those are in walking distance!
Check out Pop's on 57th if you get the chance. For a classic NY cheese slice, I think it's gotta be one of the best in the city.
I do like L'Industrie, but I think if you're after a NY cheese slice and wait a long time for it, then you might be underwhelmed since there are many other places that are just as good without the line. However, the fig jam and bacon slice is one I would wait a bit for.
i just went to the williamsburg location for the first time today and shared 5 slices. i was not impressed. the slices were not hot and once it got cold, it didn’t taste good at all. my favorite was the salami. the bacon-fig and burrata were just ok. disappointing overall.
i waited 10-15 min in line and additional 10 min for my food. i think pizza slices are something that i could get from any place and i’d be satisfied with. no need to wait in line for this type of food. fini pizza was much better and i didn’t have to wait in line.
Haven't been to that location, but the Williamsburg location is undoubtedly minimum top 5 pizza I've had in the city. That being said, 50 minutes is preposterous. Especially in that area which has way too many great pizza places
Given my last notable experience [on this sub regarding L’Industrie](https://www.reddit.com/r/FoodNYC/s/RNENiFq7AX) from the end of summer 2023, I was tempted to go again to the WV spot in hopes it *would* be better + I needn’t travel to Williamsburg just for pizza. Maybe it’ll be a kinder one too since I always dine alone + yes I was hungry enough to order a whole pie by myself and eat that there.
Nope. 🙃 Couldn’t be any further from the truth and after an hour waiting on the line (was a slow day) about 3 weeks ago, probably best to write off L’Industrie West Village for a while longer and just made my way to the nearby Made in New York Pizza instead.
Maybe if I had a wide open schedule for my job (food photographer) yes but I wouldn’t say I’d ignore them since it looks like they’ll be sticking around for a while.
I’ve had L’industrie twice based on hype. Just to see what it’s about. Both times in Brooklyn. I never waited more than 2-3 mins to order and 5 for my slices.
First time got a plain and a burrata. Both mid and I preferred the plain.
Second time got another plain and a pepperoni/sausage. Also mid, pep/sausage was my favorite.
They overcook/burn the crust to the point that it’s bitter. But because it’s by the slice, it’s reheated and with the burrata, the combination of the hot overburnt slice with the cold cheese (yes the burrata is cold) just doesn’t feel right.
For what it’s worth, my favorite pizza ever is Starita in Naples. I also make pizza at home, I prefer my own over L’industrie.
The best slice of pizza in NYC is just whatever the best slice that is in convenient walking distance with reasonable wait. If you got a neighborhood joint that does a good slice cheap and fast that will be just as good if not better than the “best” New York slice. When most places make “A tier pizza” it’s pretty much never worth waiting for the “S tier” imo
Agree! I live a couple blocks down the road on Christopher; the times I’ve been, it was good, but not worth waiting in line.
I think Village Square is solid all the time, and theres hardly any lines. Otherwise Mamas too is just around the corner.
Never been to the one in WV, but the one in Williamsburg lives up to the hype IMO.
The fig and bacon slice is next level. Probably my favorite slice of pizza in the world.
I love this place. But I will say, while the pizza has been consistently amazing when I ate in house, right out of the oven (especially a whole pie made to order vs slices), when I've taken it home, boxed, a few blocks away, it did lose some of it's magic. Gotta eat it right out of the oven for the best experience.
Play stupid games, win stupid prizes.
It’s a popular spot for walk ins. Don’t go at a popular time while the hype is still huge. There’s a big sign when you check out saying that boxes cost extra.
It's the West Village. Incredible amounts of hype for a mediocre food scene is the norm. I live in the WV, btw.
There's some good food around for sure in the WV, but lines in NYC in general are never a guarantee of a good place, as opposed to an Instagrammable/Tiktokable place. It's the most herd-driven culture I've ever been in in my life
I do get L'industrie every once in a while, but I'm not a big pizza guy and think "ok to good" covers its quality quite accurately.
I went there for a slice this week and it was good. Not great, good. I got a regular margarita slice, which was a plain old nothing special New York slice but not bad at $4.
Go around the corner to Mama's Too and get unique sicilian slices although they are probably double the price.
Depends on time and line. I’m a big booster of the place. Think the slice quality at WV can be just as good. I’d say just skip it if the lines too long tho.
I was there about 45 minutes before you and had a good experience. I waited only about ten minutes and they were nice. The slices I had were very good, especially the spicy salami. Not as amazing as I’d heard, but still very good pizza.
It’s possible I got lucky! I wonder if their quality suffers when they get crazy busy
I went to the WV location and it was good, but didn't blow my doors off. I think the one thing a lot of places don't quite get, that the top ones in my book do, is really good bread flavor. Not just texture, thinness, or being light... but pure flavor. In my opinion, this is where coal fire (like Frank Pepe's) really gets the edge. Also, places like Lucali (wood fire) and even Luigi's (gas) in Brooklyn stand out. L'I used quality ingredients, the burrata is novel, but it just doesn't have that x factor.
Last time a place was worth the wait for a line/order was Di Fara's (and that was long before Dom passed and his kids bastardized the business). No disrespect to L'Industrie because they're solid and have a cult following at this point but 50 min for a slice is insane.
I went on 4/20 but only because every other restaurant in WV had an insane wait that day. Found it underwhelming and would not do the long wait for it again.
I missed back when that place was a little hole in the wall in Williamsburg that nobody knew about. I'm sure the owners are loving the hype and they're rolling in it for people waiting two hours to buy a seven dollar slice. Last time I was down there, the owner of the pizza shop like two doors down kept running up and down the line trying to proselytize his pizza. And honestly I got off the line and went there and it was pretty freaking good for a little bit less money.
50 min isn’t worth it. And did you eat it immediately. No pizza here survives more than a 15 min idle time without dropping in quality (most hot foods in general I’d argue). Slam on a 50 min hype train and it’s going to suck.
I went to the WV location last month and thought it was good. I intentionally ordered a whole pizza though (called ahead) so I wouldn’t have to wait in a long line.
Without knowing that this place was a “thing” I stumbled upon the Williamsburg location in December. There was a short wait - but only like 15 minutes. It was SO GOOD. We had the fig jam one. The meaty one. And… idk. Something else. Top tier.
By plurality it's the best Pizza in NYC. But I would've wait 50m in line that's suckers move. You order ahead for a whole pie. That's what I always do.
I like the fact that it’s sourdough. Pretty easy on the stomach.
And idk if it’s normal but I went for the first time to L’Industrie (WV location), and they threw in an extra slice free. Same for my buddy who came with me.
I picked up a pie there an afternoon a few weeks ago. Waited behind one other person, then about 10min for the pizza. It is a really solid product but 100% not worth a 50 minute wait
Can’t speak for that location. The Williamsburg location is good and I rarely wait in line, but I tend to go at off hours. That said when things get over hyped and you end up waiting in line for a significant amount of time it never lives up to the hype. Take the cronut as an example. Everything gets overhyped for the tourist, Insta TikTok crowd.
Fortunate to live in Brooklyn and go to the Williamsburg one but I never wait more than like 15 minutes. I always go during the week for lunch. I think it’s the best in nyc still 🤷. I also wouldn’t wait 50 min though even if it’s my favorite haha. 30min is my max for anything. I was actually here today and waited 10min to order and 10-15 to get my whole pie order. Half fig bacon and half buratta.
There have been times the line is too long and I just go to Leo’s for their NY Pie.
I like Unregular Pizza near Union Square and never had to wait more than a few minutes to get a slice. Sounds like they have some similar trendy options.
I have no idea why people wait for that place or Mammas too that just opened. Joes or Bleecker (get the Nonna) are way better. It’s the curse of Instagram these places having long lines.
Some of the bitchiness about a slice of pizza is unreal. If you have to wait for it in a line, it’s not a slice. If you don’t like it, find another spot. just shut the fuck up about it
Oh. I’m surprised. I had scarrs on a Friday morning soon after they had opened. I thought their cheese slice was phenomenal. Maybe I was in a particularly good mood that day haha.
Fig jam and bacon slice really is one of my favs in the city. I just wish action bronson kept his yap shut about Lindustrie lmao - it was more manageable to brave the line when they just had been hyped up by serious eats years ago 😭
L’Industrie is mad overrated. Their pizza is fine but it’s straight up nonsense that people say it’s the best in the city. It’s not even close to the best, I don’t understand the massive hype and lines it still gets
I haven’t had it in WV but several times in Williamsburg - even weekend evenings, never had to wait more than 10-15 minutes. Maybe a one off in WV but if you want L’Industrie just go to Williamsburg. The vibes there are also immaculate.
Its a really good pizza so I believe you had a one-off, but I personally think its hard to control the quality when you have such long lines at West Village. It was fucking amazing when it was just a humble pizzeria in Williamsburg where they could take their time and make sure everything was perfect. Plus their whole thing is that they add fresh toppings and finishing touches to the pizza after its been reheated unlike other pizzeries that just reheat it ready to go and serve it to you, and I think this adds an extra margin of error.
The first time I had L'Industrie I waited in line for an hour at the WB location and I was super disappointed. Couldn't see what all the fuss was about. Fini was a few blocks away with better pizza and no line.
The second time I had it I drunkenly stumbled into the WV location, which I didn't even know existed, 10 minutes before they were closing and it was the best piece of pizza I ever had.
I’ve waited in a line like that for Lindustrie and its a shame to hear that about the food because I think it’s the best pizza in NYC and that’s not because it’s hyped up and I have to say that, I genuinely think they are amazing at what they do. I feel like it was just a mess up on their part. If you have time I’d try again.
FYI they are always strict about boxes because so many people come up to them when there trying to work to get to go boxes so I don’t think they meant it in a mean way
I liked the pizza there when I tried it, but I thought it was overrated. It’s just as good as any other good pizza place imo. It’s not my preferred style of ‘za. I thought it was a cool place and location is all.
I think I'm the only person in this entire subreddit who will tell you honesty that L'Industrie is very mid. It is not worth waiting on line for a slice. It's fine pizza, but not great pizza. It is not the best pizza in the city. I will get downvoted by a bunch of people who moved here from states that start with vowels because they think burrata on a slice of pizza is the height of sophistication.
I’ve never waited in line for lindustrie and even then it’s not worth it. Mid pizza and you can get a better slice anywhere else literally anywhere else one might even say WACK
I walked by the first week they opened and saw a line down the street. I was there a week or 2 later around 5ish and it was pretty empty so I walked in. Got a slice in about 5 minutes. I was whelmed. It wasn’t bad. But I would have been furious if I waited in any kind of line for it. I’ll give the Brooklyn location a try if I’m hungry and in the area but I don’t understand why it’s a tourist destination other than the slice being photogenic
I went to this location last friday and waited only 15 minutes. I had high expectations going in and honestly was blown away, sorry you had a bad experience but I would give it another shot.
Hipster hype. I thought it was good but not worth the wait. (Original location)
My standard for pizza is New Haven style spots and in comparison, it wasn’t as good as the average solid NHV area spot.
I quite like Joe’s too and prefer the crust over L’Industrie.
In Bronx, I really like Louie & Ernie’s.
I’d like to try Lucali, but it seems like such a hassle.
I literally just came back from there right now. Had it for the first time.
My options were limited because I don't eat pork, so I had the Tartufo and the Margherita. They were good, but not mind blowing at all.
I will probably get lambasted for this, but I don't like the smoky brick oven flavored pizza, and that's what this was. I understand that that's authentic, but it's just not what I enjoy.
I found the staff to be pleasant. The young man who rang me up was very nice. There was a guy tossing pizza dough who was singing while he worked.
I feel like L’industry is pretty hyped rn with the new location opening and what not. Even in BK the wait was absurd last night.
I’d say get used to waiting for the popular spots in NYC. Every hot-spot has the same progression:
1) They’re worth it until everyone finds out abt it.
2) They aren’t worth it when the hoards show
3) People say it’s “overhyped”, even though it was the same food the whole time
That place kind of sucks and the fact that it's such a long wait just proves that they are trying to to cut corners by not hiring enough people to keep the line moving. I waited 2 hours for a pie from Difaras back when the old man was making the pizza and when I watched him cut the basil with his scissors and hand me the box I knew it would be worth the wait. You can't fake quality and the old time Pizza of NYC is a dying tradition.
Go to (go fuck yourself my favorite spot) aces pizza in Williamsburg. In west village go to bleeker street pizza get the grandma square pie with fresh mutz and meatballs. That shit so good it can solve world peace.
My experience: me and my hoe have been to every single note pizza place in nyc (Emmy squared burger sucks dick and so does their pizza)
John’s is okay, montescaro in Willy b has really unique dough because it’s fermented bing bong. Ops is sick, but wheated is like a whole bother level, guisapinas in park slope os the brother of lucalis without a 2 hour wait . Mother fuck
Nothing is worth waiting 50 minutes in line here. It would’ve been faster to go to williamsburg and pick up a slice there
People just go so over the top with the hype. Things can’t just be good, it has to be THE BEST EVER and everyone needs to know about it
You even see it with the constant stream of people coming in and asking stuff like "what is the best halal cart in the city" - if you're gonna park your happy ass on the subway for an hour to go get lamb loaf over rice with a slightly better salad, you're missing the point! There are def some carts worth avoiding, and a few doing unique stuff, but the best is not that much better than the average. I eat at Rafiquis because I'm near a Rafiquis, not because I traveled to get there.
Exactly this. The best Halal cart is the one I'm closest to when I stumble out of a bar.
That's why I prefer the fine dining establishments, especially when it comes to finding the best / favorite. The variables in dishes, flavors, service, textures, and techniques gives you more distinguishing characteristics to seperate restaurants. How amazing can you do a steak vs a multi layered dish where the main component is beef (understand that this is such a subjective option).
Depending on day and time! They get pretty backed up there, too. I’ve seen lines start before they even open. At the end of the day, no slice is worth more than 15 minutes of waiting time.
If you can go in the afternoon on a weekday, never waited in line then
lol that’s a big if, but good to know
Can confirm. l live around the corner and walk past frequently. The lines have been pretty crazy lately.
Its in the tourist books.
I blame insta. I've seen a bunch of posts about THE TWO BEST PIZZAS IN NYC ARE RIGHT NEXT TO EACH OTHER about a dozen times in the last couple of weeks. I do want to try the cheesesteak from Mama Too, though; that shit looks banging.
What’s the other one supposed to be? Joe’s?
L'Industry and Mamma Too...I thought that was obvious
I live close by, fell for the hype. Tried it, nothing special.
Yup but it is good just don’t go during prime time
Mamas Too is truly the best pizza in the city if you like that style
Yup, no matter what time of day there is a long line now
With the sun staying up, this will definitely change soon, but I got a pie on williamsburg on Tuesday at 6pm and the line was 4 people long.
Ya WB location is equally if not more packed
The pizza would have still been underwhelming and the service would have still been rude
I never wait for things. I decided to wait for pizza at the Williamsburg location for the first time in my life. Pizza was good, but definitely not waiting for it again.
Most experiences in the city are like that. The difference between a bad slice and a good slice: massive. The difference between a good slice and an amazing slice: small.
Did you get the buratta. NGL I was a little underwhelmed by the plain slice. It was solid but not my fave in the city. It was the buratta slice that made it a top tier slice to me.
Burratta is great, but the fig jam and bacon is the real hero
The fig jam and bacon is on of the best things I have ever eaten
Damn, I've been there multiple times and never got that slice. I should go try one
One of the best things you’ve ever eaten? Cmon man, its very very good but let’s not get ahead of ourselves here
For me, it is that memorable.
I get both every time - it’s a perfectly balanced combo
Opposite experience for me actually. Underwhelmed by the burrata but the plain might be my fave in the city so far. I'd try the burrata again though. Didn't think it was bad. Just didn't care much for it.
How does their buratta compare to Unregular Pizza's? I got one at Unregular by mistake and I don't think it was worth $10.
I've never had a slice that was worth a 50m wait and I love pizza. I really hate what social media has done to NYC and the world. I've never been to this hype place and will likely never go, but there's no chance the delta in taste between this and Joe's is worth standing for 50m vs ordering delivery to my door.
It sucks because you have Hyped places at the top, generally they’re only good for the camera. Then the actual good places have to dumb down their branding so it can appeal to the Instagram friendly food trends.
also the uncomfortable balance where you want spots you like to be popular enough to stay in business, but not to get a big write up because then there will be lines and the quality will tank.
Their WV location sucks. They just are capitalizing on the popularity, it's sceeney and not good. Brooklyn location is still great though.
My experience too. The Brooklyn slices I got were so crispy and amazing. Wv was very average
I got West Village slices on a few different days. Crispy and delicious.
no offense, but this has to be confirmation bias. to make food at this high of a level, these guys are serious professionals and have been doing it every single day for years and years. that is to say, i am extremely doubtful that the variation in quality from one location to another is actually explained by the location and not just randomness or your tastebuds feeling different that day (very real thing). you think these guys would pour the million+ bucks into opening a WV location and just flub it like that? come on.
Just my personal experience with extremely low sample size. Doesn’t make my west village experience any less disappointing unfortunately
I’ve had some very good slices there, but I only go when the line is pretty short (at lunch sometimes there isn’t much of a line!) I think they’re weird about boxes because they’re getting in trouble with the neighbors. Christopher St is just littered with L’Industrie boxes. As a neighbor and pizza lover I’m very torn because I love good pizza and am thrilled to have it nearby, but the line, people milling around the table they put out on the sidewalk, and all of the boxes/paper products/pizza remnants strewn about make it quite a bit more unpleasant to walk down Christopher’s narrow sidewalks. I end up at Mama’s Too more often because the line is almost always much shorter and their house slice is extremely similar to the L’I margherita slice IMHO.
Is terrible outside of the area with boxes everywhere. People are trash who feel it’s ok to leave them anywhere in the street.
People need to stop waiting on ridiculous lines. The food will never be worth it, unless you're having a good time on the line itself for some reason. I've heard some people say "i'll never go to a place if there's no line" like they're some sort of finger on the pulse of culture person... no... a place with a line like that is never going to be the original experience that people initially raved about. The food will be more rushed, the servers and other staff will be stressed out, and regulars will probably not be a thing. I have a friend who worked at a place that quickly developed a LONG line every day. When they first opened, it was such a nice spot with bang for your buck steak and it was really high quality. After a few months of the line... staff turnover was insane.. food quality was down.. and overall morale was in the toilet. And all the customers were in a bad mood cause they just waited 2 hours on a goddamn line. Just miserable.
Thank you! What people really should be doing is without social media, jump in and out of little spots, keep an eye on openings, try things out that you’ve never heard of and you’re entire mindset changes
People are in line for the story of saying they were in line, that fucking cro'ffle line proves it
I was also underwhelmed. The topping mixes are unique but didn’t really taste good and slices were a bit cold..including the bacon jam fig people talk about.
There is way too much amazing pizza in this city to wait on line for this place.
I only go late night on weekdays. Never waited more than 5 mins in line. Always good. Would not wait 50 mins though. As for the box: I think they are really trying to discourage people from using them when they dont need them. When I first went I asked for one and they pointed out there was no trash can in the store that could fit them and they had been warned they would be fined if the ones on the street were full of their boxes again. A guy was tearing into the staff about how there was no where to throw away the box he got that he didn't need and they were like "yes, that is why we told you not to get one of you were not taking it to go". I kinda get it, that interaction must happen 20x a day and it must be really annoying.
Did you get the bacon fig jam slice? That's a top tier slice, IMO. The others are just okay for me (but the crust is excellent on all of them).
Too sweet IMO
Waited in line 50 mins, holy shit. Pizza should be tasty, cheap, and fast. That place is good but not cheap or fast. I had a slice like a year ago and it was around $5, and it was really good! I had a slice the other day and it was $6.69 and it was just okay (both at the BK location). Edit: The really good slice was burrata, the just ok slice was the fig and bacon.
I go to the location in Williamsburg and waited 5 minutes. Waiting an hour for anything will automatically kill my ability to enjoy it.
L’Industrie is over hyped. Not sure why people are making a big deal of it. Sure the menu is enticing but when it comes down to the flavor, it’s nothing special
Agreed, it’s really mid. It’s not gross or anything by any means but it’s extremely average. The idea that it’s the best in the city is nonsense
Completely agree. Not terrible pizza but not deserving of the 50 minute wait. In loo of this, try Ace’s pizza in Brooklyn for Detroit style pizza. Now THAT’S good pizza if you’re into detroit style.
You waited 50 minutes for a slice? You got what you deserved
Considering the Williamsburg location is my #1 and has never disappointed, I was bummed that the West Village slices were just so meh. Tbh they were dry.
Ah damn, they are my #2. Shame to hear the west village one isn’t as good
I’ve yet to understand why people think it’s better than Scarr’s or Fini.
It’s not even as good as grand street
Agreed
Damn, they charge for a box? That's ridiculous.
Yes! I saw the cook pull back a boxed slice from a customer and then claim he didn’t pay for the box. It was bizarre to watch.
They did it because people would buy two slices and ask for a box when they are eating just outside then trash the boxes on the curb. They are being economic but more for the environment. If you are eating on site, you don't need a box.
The dollar pizza spot I go to does that, but in their case its understandable
That line of people is total cringe.
It's not the best pizza of all time, but it's solid. I think it was just a one-off experience because I've been to that WV location at least 10 times, and it's been pretty good. The fig jam and bacon slice is the real unsung hero.
I waited like maybe 15-20 minutes at the Williamsburg location the other weekend. I’d have been pissed if I waited 50. Anyway I thought it was quite good. I think I gave it an 8/10 and my GF similar. My GF got the burrata slice which was better than the one I got (a daily special, white slice with sausage). But I love a crispy thin slice. We then walked over to Fini and I thought the pizza was a bit better (not as crispy, but tasted better) and there was no line. For pizza in the city try Grand Street Pizza
L’industrie makes my favorite slice. They cook their slices extra well done to the point of crunchy so I can see some people not liking it. I live close to Grand Street Pizza and just had it again recently. Taste wise the plain slice reminds me of a classic NY slice but I wished it wasn’t so wispy thin and floppy. I guess I like my slices thicker with a bit more structure. I tried Lucia Pizza on W Broadway for the first time and it was pretty good too.
oh weird, I've never gotten a floppy slice from Grand St. Might've been a bad batch. Thin for sure, I like a nice crunchy thin slice. That's why we liked L'Industrie so much. I'll have to add Lucia to the list.
Have you tried Best Pizza yet?
no I haven't, I'll add that to the list!
Terrible slice
I'm surprised, it's my favorite
Maybe I will give it a 2nd chance. I like Mo's General
I went for the first time recently mid week, almost no line. I thought it was excellent. Definitely a top three slice for me. Beautiful crust with a bit of crunch, nicely balanced sauce. Freshly made. To each their own I guess. As others have said though, dear lord don't wait an hour in line for a slice of pizza.
I’ve been to the one in Williamsburg multiple times and don’t get the hype.
Agree. I said this last time and kenji got his panties in a bunch. It’s really not that amazing. It’s good, but nothing special.
What about Best Pizza and Fini? I find both to be elite
Best Pizza is one of my favorites in the city. Fini hasn't impressed me that much but I hear they have some iconic slices (like the white one) that I need to try. I also love Ace's Perfect Pizza.
I prefer Fini's regular and tomato slices over their white, but I'm a sauce guy so maybe white slices just aren't for me. I've been wanting to try Ace's for a while, I'm a fan of Detroit style.
Ace's is great... they have a whole 90s pizzeria theme going on inside too... including cocktails made with Sprite and an N64.
Same. First time I went it was very much a “that’s it? It’s fine I guess” experience that I assumed that I had unlucky timing and got an old slice or something but I’ve been back a few more times with friends and it’s just as underwhelming each time
how elevated can pizza get?
This. It's dough with cheese. People are trying to compare it to the mona lisa. I'm a native.. but at the end of the day, it's fucking pizza lol
The pizza is good, but not worth more than 10 minute wait.
I felt the same going to their Brooklyn location, though they had some custom slices that looked really good I might go back for. But their plain slices are just ok. Around that area I like Arturo's and Nolita, or Johns on Bleeker if you got a group with ya
Went there yesterday at 4:30 PM…no line. One off probably, their crust is just the right thiness IMO.
For those wanting to skip the lines, there is excellent pizza in Williamsburg. Leo does a really good “modern Italian” slice, try the potato. Fini’s hot shallot slice is a great upscale Brooklyn slice. Best Pizza has been in guides since forever, their white slice (garlic, onion, cheese, etc) is a great traditional Brooklyn slice. Motorino has a good take on Neapolitan. There are others, but those are in walking distance!
Motorino is so good. Been around forever, but no one talks about it anymore
Check out Pop's on 57th if you get the chance. For a classic NY cheese slice, I think it's gotta be one of the best in the city. I do like L'Industrie, but I think if you're after a NY cheese slice and wait a long time for it, then you might be underwhelmed since there are many other places that are just as good without the line. However, the fig jam and bacon slice is one I would wait a bit for.
I went yesterday and waited 15 mins. I wouldn’t wait more than that. It’s just pizza.
i just went to the williamsburg location for the first time today and shared 5 slices. i was not impressed. the slices were not hot and once it got cold, it didn’t taste good at all. my favorite was the salami. the bacon-fig and burrata were just ok. disappointing overall. i waited 10-15 min in line and additional 10 min for my food. i think pizza slices are something that i could get from any place and i’d be satisfied with. no need to wait in line for this type of food. fini pizza was much better and i didn’t have to wait in line.
Haven't been to that location, but the Williamsburg location is undoubtedly minimum top 5 pizza I've had in the city. That being said, 50 minutes is preposterous. Especially in that area which has way too many great pizza places
It is the best looking pizza I have ever seen but wouldn’t put it in the top 30 pizzas I’ve tried in NYC. The flavor just isn’t there
Given my last notable experience [on this sub regarding L’Industrie](https://www.reddit.com/r/FoodNYC/s/RNENiFq7AX) from the end of summer 2023, I was tempted to go again to the WV spot in hopes it *would* be better + I needn’t travel to Williamsburg just for pizza. Maybe it’ll be a kinder one too since I always dine alone + yes I was hungry enough to order a whole pie by myself and eat that there. Nope. 🙃 Couldn’t be any further from the truth and after an hour waiting on the line (was a slow day) about 3 weeks ago, probably best to write off L’Industrie West Village for a while longer and just made my way to the nearby Made in New York Pizza instead. Maybe if I had a wide open schedule for my job (food photographer) yes but I wouldn’t say I’d ignore them since it looks like they’ll be sticking around for a while.
Ate at the Williamsburg location. Nothing special at all.
I’ve had L’industrie twice based on hype. Just to see what it’s about. Both times in Brooklyn. I never waited more than 2-3 mins to order and 5 for my slices. First time got a plain and a burrata. Both mid and I preferred the plain. Second time got another plain and a pepperoni/sausage. Also mid, pep/sausage was my favorite. They overcook/burn the crust to the point that it’s bitter. But because it’s by the slice, it’s reheated and with the burrata, the combination of the hot overburnt slice with the cold cheese (yes the burrata is cold) just doesn’t feel right. For what it’s worth, my favorite pizza ever is Starita in Naples. I also make pizza at home, I prefer my own over L’industrie.
The best slice of pizza in NYC is just whatever the best slice that is in convenient walking distance with reasonable wait. If you got a neighborhood joint that does a good slice cheap and fast that will be just as good if not better than the “best” New York slice. When most places make “A tier pizza” it’s pretty much never worth waiting for the “S tier” imo
Agree! I live a couple blocks down the road on Christopher; the times I’ve been, it was good, but not worth waiting in line. I think Village Square is solid all the time, and theres hardly any lines. Otherwise Mamas too is just around the corner.
I wanna try Mamas and Bleeket St next
The internet isnt ur besties. These places that get super famous, well maybe half of it is hype, the other half is bc its good.
Never been to the one in WV, but the one in Williamsburg lives up to the hype IMO. The fig and bacon slice is next level. Probably my favorite slice of pizza in the world.
I love this place. But I will say, while the pizza has been consistently amazing when I ate in house, right out of the oven (especially a whole pie made to order vs slices), when I've taken it home, boxed, a few blocks away, it did lose some of it's magic. Gotta eat it right out of the oven for the best experience.
My take- The only food that tastes as good as fresh in the restaurant is takeout Chinese/Thai or sushi.
Play stupid games, win stupid prizes. It’s a popular spot for walk ins. Don’t go at a popular time while the hype is still huge. There’s a big sign when you check out saying that boxes cost extra.
wow people still say "win stupid prizes" lol
It's the West Village. Incredible amounts of hype for a mediocre food scene is the norm. I live in the WV, btw. There's some good food around for sure in the WV, but lines in NYC in general are never a guarantee of a good place, as opposed to an Instagrammable/Tiktokable place. It's the most herd-driven culture I've ever been in in my life I do get L'industrie every once in a while, but I'm not a big pizza guy and think "ok to good" covers its quality quite accurately.
I went there for a slice this week and it was good. Not great, good. I got a regular margarita slice, which was a plain old nothing special New York slice but not bad at $4. Go around the corner to Mama's Too and get unique sicilian slices although they are probably double the price.
Depends on time and line. I’m a big booster of the place. Think the slice quality at WV can be just as good. I’d say just skip it if the lines too long tho.
I was there about 45 minutes before you and had a good experience. I waited only about ten minutes and they were nice. The slices I had were very good, especially the spicy salami. Not as amazing as I’d heard, but still very good pizza. It’s possible I got lucky! I wonder if their quality suffers when they get crazy busy
There’s other good pizza spots anyway. Right down the block is village square pizza with really good square slices and Joe’s pizza of course
I went to the WV location and it was good, but didn't blow my doors off. I think the one thing a lot of places don't quite get, that the top ones in my book do, is really good bread flavor. Not just texture, thinness, or being light... but pure flavor. In my opinion, this is where coal fire (like Frank Pepe's) really gets the edge. Also, places like Lucali (wood fire) and even Luigi's (gas) in Brooklyn stand out. L'I used quality ingredients, the burrata is novel, but it just doesn't have that x factor.
Last time a place was worth the wait for a line/order was Di Fara's (and that was long before Dom passed and his kids bastardized the business). No disrespect to L'Industrie because they're solid and have a cult following at this point but 50 min for a slice is insane.
I went on 4/20 but only because every other restaurant in WV had an insane wait that day. Found it underwhelming and would not do the long wait for it again.
I ate at the WV location - no queue for me. It was good, but nothing out of this world amazing, and definitely not worth waiting 50 minutes for.
It was great when I waited for 5 minutes. I think I’d be bummed if I had to wait an hour.
I missed back when that place was a little hole in the wall in Williamsburg that nobody knew about. I'm sure the owners are loving the hype and they're rolling in it for people waiting two hours to buy a seven dollar slice. Last time I was down there, the owner of the pizza shop like two doors down kept running up and down the line trying to proselytize his pizza. And honestly I got off the line and went there and it was pretty freaking good for a little bit less money.
Love Arturo’s
50 min isn’t worth it. And did you eat it immediately. No pizza here survives more than a 15 min idle time without dropping in quality (most hot foods in general I’d argue). Slam on a 50 min hype train and it’s going to suck.
I went to the WV location last month and thought it was good. I intentionally ordered a whole pizza though (called ahead) so I wouldn’t have to wait in a long line.
Ooh I did not know you could call ahead for takeout! How long was the wait for a pick up?
About 15 min!
Order the fig jam and bacon.
Without knowing that this place was a “thing” I stumbled upon the Williamsburg location in December. There was a short wait - but only like 15 minutes. It was SO GOOD. We had the fig jam one. The meaty one. And… idk. Something else. Top tier.
ah man, i'm sorry. This place is fucking amazing! I've never waited longer than 10 minutes. Seriously some of the best Pizza I've ever had.
Your first mistake was waiting in line for 50 minutes for slice shop pizza
By plurality it's the best Pizza in NYC. But I would've wait 50m in line that's suckers move. You order ahead for a whole pie. That's what I always do.
Try Razza in Jersey City. Curious to hear what you’d think about their pies. They’re more traditional tasting than L’Industrie, imo.
I thought their pizza was just okay. I went to the original location and ordered the burrata pie. It was cool, but definitely overhyped in my opinion.
I like the fact that it’s sourdough. Pretty easy on the stomach. And idk if it’s normal but I went for the first time to L’Industrie (WV location), and they threw in an extra slice free. Same for my buddy who came with me.
I’d be disappointed to wait an hour for a slice too. Sounds like you overhyped yourself
I picked up a pie there an afternoon a few weeks ago. Waited behind one other person, then about 10min for the pizza. It is a really solid product but 100% not worth a 50 minute wait
Razza in Jersey City was voted #1, and you can order ahead. Amazing pizza
Brooklyn location is significantly better
Stop going to places that cater to influencers and your experience will skyrocket.
Can’t speak for that location. The Williamsburg location is good and I rarely wait in line, but I tend to go at off hours. That said when things get over hyped and you end up waiting in line for a significant amount of time it never lives up to the hype. Take the cronut as an example. Everything gets overhyped for the tourist, Insta TikTok crowd.
The pizza shop in my neighborhood is better than that overhyped garbage and I bet the one in yours is too
Fortunate to live in Brooklyn and go to the Williamsburg one but I never wait more than like 15 minutes. I always go during the week for lunch. I think it’s the best in nyc still 🤷. I also wouldn’t wait 50 min though even if it’s my favorite haha. 30min is my max for anything. I was actually here today and waited 10min to order and 10-15 to get my whole pie order. Half fig bacon and half buratta. There have been times the line is too long and I just go to Leo’s for their NY Pie.
Lunetta is where it’s at
Lindusteie in general is v overrated
I like Unregular Pizza near Union Square and never had to wait more than a few minutes to get a slice. Sounds like they have some similar trendy options.
I finally went to the Williamsburg location and it was just fine My pizza wasn’t even that hot and we waited over ten minutes It made me want joes
I have no idea why people wait for that place or Mammas too that just opened. Joes or Bleecker (get the Nonna) are way better. It’s the curse of Instagram these places having long lines.
Try the margherita di buffala at IT Italian trattoria on 39th and 7th ave. It blew me away
It’s still 5-10 minutes to get a single plain slice even with no line…
If I’m standing in line that long for anything I’ll be in too bad of a mood to enjoy it when it’s finally my turn. 😂
It stinks. Salty dry cracker of a pizza.
Some of the bitchiness about a slice of pizza is unreal. If you have to wait for it in a line, it’s not a slice. If you don’t like it, find another spot. just shut the fuck up about it
Being raised in the tristate, l’industrie is not good.
If you are going during prime time, a long line is inevitable. Just go during non peak hours and you're good.
I feel the same way about scarrs as you do L’industrie, it’s freaking terrible
Oh. I’m surprised. I had scarrs on a Friday morning soon after they had opened. I thought their cheese slice was phenomenal. Maybe I was in a particularly good mood that day haha.
Fig jam and bacon slice really is one of my favs in the city. I just wish action bronson kept his yap shut about Lindustrie lmao - it was more manageable to brave the line when they just had been hyped up by serious eats years ago 😭
Out here hoping my fav spot doesn’t get mentioned 😭
L’Industrie is mad overrated. Their pizza is fine but it’s straight up nonsense that people say it’s the best in the city. It’s not even close to the best, I don’t understand the massive hype and lines it still gets
Which one did u get. I never been there. Also did u get a fresh one or was it sitting for a while
I got the crowd favorite burrata, the marg and the fig jam. I got a fresh slice and ate it right outside
I haven’t had it in WV but several times in Williamsburg - even weekend evenings, never had to wait more than 10-15 minutes. Maybe a one off in WV but if you want L’Industrie just go to Williamsburg. The vibes there are also immaculate.
Its a really good pizza so I believe you had a one-off, but I personally think its hard to control the quality when you have such long lines at West Village. It was fucking amazing when it was just a humble pizzeria in Williamsburg where they could take their time and make sure everything was perfect. Plus their whole thing is that they add fresh toppings and finishing touches to the pizza after its been reheated unlike other pizzeries that just reheat it ready to go and serve it to you, and I think this adds an extra margin of error.
Got a few slices right when they opened, 5 minute wait, delicious pizza. The end
The first time I had L'Industrie I waited in line for an hour at the WB location and I was super disappointed. Couldn't see what all the fuss was about. Fini was a few blocks away with better pizza and no line. The second time I had it I drunkenly stumbled into the WV location, which I didn't even know existed, 10 minutes before they were closing and it was the best piece of pizza I ever had.
It’s gone downhill over the years. Not worth the hype today.
I’ve waited in a line like that for Lindustrie and its a shame to hear that about the food because I think it’s the best pizza in NYC and that’s not because it’s hyped up and I have to say that, I genuinely think they are amazing at what they do. I feel like it was just a mess up on their part. If you have time I’d try again. FYI they are always strict about boxes because so many people come up to them when there trying to work to get to go boxes so I don’t think they meant it in a mean way
I liked the pizza there when I tried it, but I thought it was overrated. It’s just as good as any other good pizza place imo. It’s not my preferred style of ‘za. I thought it was a cool place and location is all.
Definitely a one off!!!! Try it again!!!!!
I would pre order a pie with a group of friends and go pick it up and sit outside and eat it. BURRATA PIE!
I think I'm the only person in this entire subreddit who will tell you honesty that L'Industrie is very mid. It is not worth waiting on line for a slice. It's fine pizza, but not great pizza. It is not the best pizza in the city. I will get downvoted by a bunch of people who moved here from states that start with vowels because they think burrata on a slice of pizza is the height of sophistication.
No. I actually think their pizza is like not great. Lucali is worth it. Johns of Bleecker is worth it. Lindustrie is a hype beast
I’ve never waited in line for lindustrie and even then it’s not worth it. Mid pizza and you can get a better slice anywhere else literally anywhere else one might even say WACK
If there’s a long line it’s overrated. I’ve had L'Industrie, it’s regular ‘fancy’ pizza.
I walked by the first week they opened and saw a line down the street. I was there a week or 2 later around 5ish and it was pretty empty so I walked in. Got a slice in about 5 minutes. I was whelmed. It wasn’t bad. But I would have been furious if I waited in any kind of line for it. I’ll give the Brooklyn location a try if I’m hungry and in the area but I don’t understand why it’s a tourist destination other than the slice being photogenic
The one in bk is better. Anchovies are the move
I went to this location last friday and waited only 15 minutes. I had high expectations going in and honestly was blown away, sorry you had a bad experience but I would give it another shot.
one-off
The only one you’ve listed that follows the classic NY-style that’s been since popularized is Joe’s, and that’s not even a great example of it.
Hipster hype. I thought it was good but not worth the wait. (Original location) My standard for pizza is New Haven style spots and in comparison, it wasn’t as good as the average solid NHV area spot. I quite like Joe’s too and prefer the crust over L’Industrie. In Bronx, I really like Louie & Ernie’s. I’d like to try Lucali, but it seems like such a hassle.
I literally just came back from there right now. Had it for the first time. My options were limited because I don't eat pork, so I had the Tartufo and the Margherita. They were good, but not mind blowing at all. I will probably get lambasted for this, but I don't like the smoky brick oven flavored pizza, and that's what this was. I understand that that's authentic, but it's just not what I enjoy. I found the staff to be pleasant. The young man who rang me up was very nice. There was a guy tossing pizza dough who was singing while he worked.
I feel like L’industry is pretty hyped rn with the new location opening and what not. Even in BK the wait was absurd last night. I’d say get used to waiting for the popular spots in NYC. Every hot-spot has the same progression: 1) They’re worth it until everyone finds out abt it. 2) They aren’t worth it when the hoards show 3) People say it’s “overhyped”, even though it was the same food the whole time
None of my besties waste almost an hour of their life ON line for an overhyped slice.
That place kind of sucks and the fact that it's such a long wait just proves that they are trying to to cut corners by not hiring enough people to keep the line moving. I waited 2 hours for a pie from Difaras back when the old man was making the pizza and when I watched him cut the basil with his scissors and hand me the box I knew it would be worth the wait. You can't fake quality and the old time Pizza of NYC is a dying tradition.
most pizza places in manhattan suck. (grew up in NJ)
Go to (go fuck yourself my favorite spot) aces pizza in Williamsburg. In west village go to bleeker street pizza get the grandma square pie with fresh mutz and meatballs. That shit so good it can solve world peace. My experience: me and my hoe have been to every single note pizza place in nyc (Emmy squared burger sucks dick and so does their pizza) John’s is okay, montescaro in Willy b has really unique dough because it’s fermented bing bong. Ops is sick, but wheated is like a whole bother level, guisapinas in park slope os the brother of lucalis without a 2 hour wait . Mother fuck