John's Pizzeria Eastside (Pizza, Upper East Side)

NY Sidewalk Review

Location:
408 E. 64th St.
north side of street, between 1st and York Aves.

Cuisine:
Pizza

I was first introduced to John's Pizzeria years ago, when it was on the Upper West Side and sanctioned by the Neapolitan herself, Stronza. That pie was also the first time I tried Pizza Romana, which is a traditional Margherita (tomato sauce, mozzarella di bufala, and anchovies). It's hard to get a stamp of approval from a Neapolitan for New York pizza, but this one seemed to pass the grade.

It was marvelous. Not as marvelous as pizza is in Italy, but it's comparable to finding a decent New York-style bagel in another city. Doesn't happen very often, because not only are the ingredients tantamount, but also there's something about the indigenous water that gives local food that local flavor.

John's Pizzeria on the West Side closed down. I was sad. I'd never tried their downtown location, but it was too far for me. Much to my surprise, I happened upon the East Side location. Woo hoo!

So the first time I tried the place the pizza was perfect! Sausage and olives. The second time, not so good. The traditional Margherita was a bit on the salty side. So, I'll give this place an "eh." I guess third time's a charm?

Bonus factors for the location are a garden out back and dessert catered by some bakery which I can't remember the name. But definitely try the sour cream apple and walnut pie. To die.