When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Famous Original Ray's Pizza
Why Famous Original Ray's Pizza is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Famous Original Ray's Pizza holds a storied place in New York City's rich pizza tradition, making it a notable spot for friends and visitors seeking a casual yet iconic pizzeria experience. Established originally in 1959 by Sicilian immigrant Ralph Cuomo, this pizzeria pioneered the 'Ray's Pizza' name that has since become legendary, with numerous establishments across the city claiming lineage. Located in Midtown Manhattan on 7th Avenue, it offers large, generously sized slices with various flavor options, serving as a convenient and satisfying stop after catching a Broadway show or exploring nearby tourist attractions. The ambiance is straightforward and unpretentious—typical of classic New York pizzerias—making it a relaxed environment to gather over comforting, traditional pizza. While service tends to be functional rather than overly friendly, the focus remains on delivering good pizza at reasonable prices for the area. This combination of historic significance, location, and familiar New York-style pizza contributes to its popularity among both locals and tourists looking for a reliable slice and an authentic New York pizza experience.
Here's what people think of Famous Original Ray's Pizza
As of recent, Famous Original Ray's Pizza holds a 3.9-star rating based on 4850 reviews.
Users' reviews for Famous Original Ray's Pizza reveal a mixed yet generally positive reception. Many reviewers appreciate the pizzeria's large slice sizes and the convenience of its central Midtown location, which makes it a practical choice for tourists and theatergoers needing a quick, filling meal. Positive comments frequently mention the flavorful sauce and the variety of pizza choices available. Fans highlight the restaurant as a satisfying place to enjoy a classic New York slice that 'hits the spot' despite not claiming it to be the absolute best pizza in the city. On the other hand, some negative reviews point to service inconsistency and perceptions of the ambiance being somewhat 'decadent' or less welcoming. Price is occasionally noted as higher compared to other pizza spots, given its tourist-centric location. Additionally, some reviewers mention that the pizza could benefit from better oven timing for optimal crust texture. Despite these critiques, the general consensus underscores that Famous Original Ray's Pizza remains a solid, historic destination for an authentic slice. It balances tradition with accessibility, providing New York City visitors with a genuine taste of its pizza culture while navigating the complexities of its storied brand identity.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Amy
It’s called Famous for a reason! The service was great and we received our food quickly. NYC pizza is great if you love thin crust. It’s our favorite! The garlic knots were also great. Prices were decent for NYC near Times Square.
Ron Haggerton
Famous original rays pizza If you just want a slice of pie and are in Times Square, you could do a lot worse than stopping at Rays. The place is clean, the staff is friendly, and the pizza is amazing. I will give you a heads up, however, the jalapeños are smoking hot! The pizza has a great smoked flavor and definitely among the best I have had. Great little place in the area to grab a bite. Order up a slice, fold it up, and get busy!
Scott Best
Famous Ray’s Pizza – Times Square Famous Ray’s Pizza in Times Square is a solid stop for a quick bite in the heart of the city. They offer a huge variety of pizza slices—from classic cheese and pepperoni to spicy jalapeño and sausage combos. We also tried the meatballs, which were tasty and satisfying. The menu goes beyond just pizza, with lots of other options to choose from, making it a great spot if you're with a group or craving something different. There’s indoor and outdoor seating available, though the space can get a bit messy—several tables were dirty and the trash cans were overflowing during our visit. That said, the place was very busy, clearly popular with a steady flow of hungry customers. Despite the rush, the staff stayed friendly and welcoming, which we appreciated. Overall, a fast, flavorful option in a prime location, just be prepared for a bustling, no-frills experience.
valerie sapirman
Recently had taken our Cadette Girl Scout troop to Ray’s Pizza Times Square location. We arranged in advanced for reserved seating and our pizza order. We arrived 1/2 hour early and we were gladly accommodated. We were told we would need to wait a bit for our pizza which wasn’t an issue. The pizza still came out in record time. Since we are from PA many of our girls were not familiar with how great NYC pizza is. They truly loved it. Everything was delicious and the staff were fantastic. Each and everyone of us thanked the staff as we exited. We highly recommend Ray’s Pizza!! Best we’ve had in NYC!!!
Kenzie “KTazWV” Cook
This place is always busy but it goes pretty fast. I had buffalo chicken pizza, and it was really good .can't go wrong with that cheese slice as well. They have lots of different choices for pizza and other food
How to reach Famous Original Ray's Pizza
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Why Famous Original Ray's Pizza may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Famous Original Ray's Pizza with your friends?
Choosing a spot for a group meetup requires balancing atmosphere, food quality, and the overall experience. Famous Original Ray's Pizza offers all these elements wrapped in a historic and iconic New York setting, making it an ideal rallying place for friends and family. Founded in the early 1960s, it taps into the rich pizza tradition unique to New York, carrying the legacy of the original Ray's Pizzeria established in 1959 by Ralph Cuomo—though the lineage is storied and somewhat complex. This longstanding heritage gives the place a distinctive vibe that pizza enthusiasts love, providing more than just a meal but a taste of local culture. Their broad presence in Manhattan ensures accessibility, while their reputation for classic New York-style pizza offers straightforward, comforting food that’s perfect for sharing. The casual, no-frills setting fosters easy conversation and laughter, making it a welcoming environment to reconnect and enjoy each other's company over piping hot slices. Whether you're winding down after sightseeing or gathering to celebrate, Famous Original Ray’s embodies a quintessential New York flavor that brings people together effortlessly.
What activities can you enjoy at Famous Original Ray's Pizza?
While Famous Original Ray’s Pizza is primarily renowned for its classic pizza offerings, a meetup here involves much more than just eating. First and foremost, it’s about sharing a communal dining experience—the pizza is served in large slices ideal for dividing and trading, making it naturally interactive. Beyond the food, the pizzeria’s location, often in bustling Manhattan neighborhoods like Times Square or near Broadway, means that it can serve as a convenient launching point for post-meal strolls or sightseeing adventures. Groups can relish the energetic New York street life right outside the doors, from street performers to buzzworthy landmarks, adding an urban backdrop to your gathering. Many locations are designed to accommodate groups, with ample seating that encourages conversational mingling. The informal counter-order setup means you’re not stuck waiting a long time for food, so everyone can dig in quickly and continue socializing easily. In sum, the activities include eating shareable food, chatting in a relaxed atmosphere, and easily integrating with the surrounding vibrant city scene for extended entertainment.
Why is Famous Original Ray's Pizza perfect for a group meetup?
This pizzeria stands out as a superb choice for groups because it balances tradition with practical group-friendly features. Unlike more formal dining establishments, the casual walk-up-and-order model allows groups to arrive at their own pace, without the pressure of reservations or dress codes. This flexibility removes many barriers to organizing meetups, ensuring everyone can join in comfortably, whether on a whim or pre-planned. The menu primarily consists of universally loved pizza, so dietary preferences within a typical crowd are often easily accommodated—vegetarian options and customizable toppings help cover bases without complication. The iconic New York-style pies, from thin crust to classic cheese and pepperoni, are served quickly and at affordable prices, allowing groups to enjoy more variety and share more slices without breaking the bank. Plus, with several locations around Manhattan, Famous Original Ray's Pizza is often conveniently situated near public transit and entertainment venues, making it a natural fit before or after shows, movie nights, or casual nights out. These elements combine to create a welcoming and efficient hub for any group gathering.
How does the history and atmosphere of Famous Original Ray's Pizza enhance the experience?
The intriguing and somewhat tangled history of Famous Original Ray’s Pizza adds a layer of charm and storytelling to any visit. Originating from the legendary Ray’s Pizza, which began in 1959 and spawned many imitators and spinoffs, this pizzeria carries with it a legacy of New York’s pizza industry wars and family heritage. The famed confusion over the “original” Ray’s only accentuates its cult status and makes dining here a sort of cultural rite—especially for locals and visitors who appreciate the city’s culinary history. This background gives groups a fun conversation starter and a sense of connection to New York’s immigrant roots and entrepreneurial spirit. The atmosphere is typically casual and bustling, with the sounds of ovens, the smell of fresh-baked dough, and the sight of hungry diners contributing to an authentic urban feel. This unpretentious environment invites everyone to relax, share, and soak up an experience that’s equally about people and place, making each meetup memorable beyond the food itself.
What kind of food and drink options can groups enjoy at Famous Original Ray's Pizza?
Famous Original Ray’s Pizza focuses on delivering classic New York pizza fare, which is central to its appeal for any group outing. The menu features large slices of thin-crust pizza with a variety of toppings—from staple cheese and pepperoni to specialty pies—that satisfy a wide range of tastes and cravings. The pizza is often cooked fresh upon ordering, ensuring warm, crispy slices with a perfect balance of sauce, cheese, and dough. Groups can mix and match different flavors effortlessly, fostering a communal dining vibe where everyone contributes to the order. Beyond pizza, the pizzeria offers complementary items such as garlic knots, salads, and soft drinks—though the emphasis remains on quick, satisfying, and sharable food. With reasonable prices, groups can enjoy generous portions without worry, making it a budget-friendly choice for casual outings. The straightforward, no-fuss menu helps speed up ordering decisions for big crowds while maintaining the hallmark taste of authentic New York pizza.
How accessible and convenient is Famous Original Ray's Pizza for meeting up?
Convenience is a key strength of Famous Original Ray’s Pizza, particularly for groups navigating the busy streets of Manhattan. Many of its locations are strategically placed in high-traffic areas such as Times Square and near popular theaters or shopping districts, which makes it easy for people coming from different parts of the city to converge. Public transportation options abound nearby, allowing friends and family to arrive by subway, bus, or foot without hassle. The casual ordering system eliminates the need for reservations or waiting in long lines, streamlining the meetup process. Ample seating—whether indoors or at nearby public benches—ensures groups have a comfortable spot to gather. The quick service means that parties don’t spend excessive time waiting, allowing for more time spent socializing. This blend of ease, speed, and centrality ensures that Famous Original Ray’s Pizza functions smoothly as a group destination for spontaneous or planned meetups.
Why do reviews and ratings make Famous Original Ray's Pizza a trusted meetup location?
With an overall rating near 4.0 from thousands of reviews, Famous Original Ray’s Pizza commands respect as a consistent and reliable place to enjoy New York pizza, especially for groups. The volume of feedback indicates a strong and steady customer base that appreciates what the pizzeria offers. Many reviews highlight the nostalgic taste of classic pizza slices that remind diners of the city’s culinary heritage, praised for their balance of crust, sauce, and toppings. Positive comments often mention the friendly, bustling atmosphere that fits well with friendly gatherings. While some critics note that it’s not the trendiest or most gourmet pizza spot, the consensus acknowledges that it is a dependable, satisfying choice for casual dining and socializing. This steadiness in quality and ambiance helps reassure groups looking for a spot where everyone’s preferences and expectations can be met affordably and conveniently. The collective rating reflects its solid reputation as a timeless and approachable venue for sharing moments and meals with friends and family.