When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
Grand Street Pizza
Why Grand Street Pizza is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Grand Street Pizza in Knightdale is a highly rated pizzeria known for its authentic New York-style slices and welcoming atmosphere, making it a great spot for friends to gather. With a 4.5-star rating from 472 reviews, it offers a casual dining environment where patrons can enjoy classic thin crust pizza with perfectly balanced sauce and cheese, alongside a variety of toppings. Highlights include their Sicilian slices, praised for their crispiness and flavor, and specialty pizzas like sausage and pepperoni that receive consistent positive feedback. The restaurant is appreciated not only for its mouthwatering food but also for its friendly service and intimate setting, which keeps noise levels comfortable and allows for good conversations. The blend of quality ingredients, classic preparation, and an inviting vibe makes Grand Street Pizza a reliable choice for meet-ups and casual pizza nights.
Here's what people think of Grand Street Pizza
As of recent, Grand Street Pizza holds a 4.5-star rating based on 472 reviews.
Customer reviews overwhelmingly emphasize the quality and authenticity of the pizza at Grand Street Pizza. Many positive comments note the perfectly crispy yet chewy crust, flavorful sauce, and well-balanced cheese layers. The Sicilian slices and sausage toppings receive particular praise, described as "freaking good" and superior to typical options. The welcoming staff and cozy space add to the overall positive dining experience, with numerous reviewers expressing eagerness to return and try more menu items. On the other hand, some less favorable reviews mention the limited seating and occasional wait times due to the small venue size. A few customers noted that the noise level can vary, though most found it manageable. Despite some minor drawbacks, the majority of guests rate the food and service highly, reflecting consistent quality and satisfaction. In conclusion, the reviews paint Grand Street Pizza as a standout pizzeria in the Knightdale area, beloved for its authentic slices, attentive service, and casual, friendly atmosphere.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Scot Fishman
If I could give this spot 6 stars, I would. I eat a lot of pizza and have a lot of favorites in the City. This place is among them...but it's more than just the pizza itself that raises Grand Street Pizza among the rest. This place is a vibe. It is the kind of pizza spot where you could end up staying for a while chatting it up and enjoying good grub. The music, the staff, the drinks: everything is on point. Clay & Rico are class acts, New York natives and pizza experts. And Hannah will keep you refreshed at the bar. It's a tiny spot (note that if you're coming during peak hours), but that actually makes it feel even more special. But then there's the pizza - it's amazing. I went with the sopressatta and hot honey, and my only regret is having room for only one slice today. Can't wait for my next visit!
S K
we got 2 plain pizza slices, tasted amazing, very lightweight and cooked well (we got our slices cut in half). good flop (i like flop). small but cute hole in the wall, very sweet people. (ignore the purple ube ice cream in the picture)
Luke Adams
Walked here for a late night slice when I was in NY for quick work trip. Staff was extremely friendly/kind. Had a slice of OG cheese and Vodka. Both were great. Very affordable.
shimmeringpath
Probably the best slice in this area (and I'm including the East Village. ) Definitely worth a walk over. I got an OG slice and it was $3.80 . Good price. The slice was very light and really delicious. I could easily have eaten another. They have a bar you can sit at and order a cocktail or a Guinness but I didn't order a drink. Me and several other people ate our slices at the bar even without a drink. Recommended.
Cameron Morrisse
I cannot explain how amazing this establishment is. The vibe inside with the bar tender cooking up on aux is something they will teach in history classes 50 years from now. While I was dining at the establishment, the bartender noticed a stray dog running outside in the street. He leaped over the counter, ran into the street dodging traffic and saved the dogs life. Now the dog lives with the bartender happily ever after. Wow!
How to reach Grand Street Pizza
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Why Grand Street Pizza may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Grand Street Pizza with your friends?
Gathering friends or family at Grand Street Pizza is a guaranteed recipe for a memorable outing. This spot, celebrated with a strong 4.5-star rating from nearly 500 reviews, excels in delivering authentic New York-style pizza that food lovers crave, especially when shared with good company. The pizza here boasts a perfectly thin crust that is both delicate and crisp, topped with a light yet flavorful layer of sauce and an ample amount of high-quality cheese and toppings, including superior large-sliced sausage which elevates the flavor beyond typical pizza joints. Beyond the fantastic food, the atmosphere encourages casual socializing — it’s the kind of place where laughter fills the air as everyone digs into mouthwatering slices. Whether you want a quick bite, a casual dinner, or a lively meetup, Grand Street Pizza strikes the ideal balance between a welcoming ambiance and exceptional cuisine. Its reputation for prompt, friendly service adds to the ease of hosting a group outing, making it effortless to focus on the moments with your friends or family. Rallying here means you’re in for great food, good times, and an experience that everyone can enjoy and talk about long after the last slice is gone.
What activities and features make Grand Street Pizza perfect for group meetups?
Grand Street Pizza offers more than just excellent food; it caters perfectly to group activities and social gatherings, providing an ideal venue to catch up, celebrate, or just enjoy each other’s company. First, the ordering system is simple and efficient — you order at the counter and then have a seat, which means groups can arrive and order at their own pace without complicated reservations or waiting for service staff to take orders at the table. This makes organizing casual meetups stress-free, especially for groups of varying sizes. While the ambiance hikes up the noise level due to sparse furnishings, this lively energy works well for conversations and lively banter among friends. Many visitors appreciate the range of food options, including not only signature pizzas like the classic cheese and sausages but also sandwiches and pastas, ensuring that every palate is satisfied. The space is conducive to sharing plates, sampling different toppings, and enjoying hearty portions that encourage communal eating. The staff’s responsiveness and warmth contribute to a welcoming atmosphere that makes groups feel comfortable and taken care of from the moment they arrive.
How does the food quality support a memorable group dining experience?
The heart and soul of any great meetup spot is the food, and Grand Street Pizza delivers in spades. Their New York-style pizza features a thin, wafer-like crust that strikes the perfect balance between crispiness and chewiness without overwhelming the toppings. The house-made sauce offers a harmony of herbs and spices, finely tuned to complement the cheeses and meats perfectly without overpowering the palate. Notably, the sausage topping stands out because it uses large slices rather than pulverized bits, adding a satisfying texture and a gourmet touch that’s often missing in many pizza joints. Such attention to detail in the ingredients translates to pizzas that are simultaneously classic and elevated, appealing to pizza connoisseurs and casual eaters alike. Besides pizza, the availability of garlic knots, sandwiches, and pasta dishes adds variety and ensures repeat visits don’t feel repetitive. This culinary reliability and excellence create a shared food experience that acts as a catalyst for great conversation and group interactions, as everyone bonds over the pleasure of good flavors.
What is the vibe and service style like for groups visiting Grand Street Pizza?
The vibe at Grand Street Pizza perfectly suits informal gatherings with friends or family who want a relaxed, unpretentious, and lively atmosphere. While the décor is intentionally minimalistic, focusing more on functionality than cozy aesthetics, the bustling energy of the place fills in the gaps, creating an active community feel. The lack of elaborate furnishings results in a lively sound environment where the clatter of plates and chatter contribute to a dynamic experience rather than a quiet, subdued one. Such a setting encourages openness and interaction — perfect for playful teasing, sharing stories, and engaging in group games or conversations that might feel stilted in more formal venues. The quick and friendly counter service means groups don’t wait long, allowing them to focus on socializing and eating rather than logistical frustrations. This efficient service style is especially appreciated by groups that may want to start eating as soon as they arrive or have a quick turnaround but still enjoy quality food and company.
Are there special menu highlights and ordering tips for groups at Grand Street Pizza?
For groups looking to maximize their experience, certain menu highlights and ordering strategies can enhance the visit to Grand Street Pizza. The Soppressata thick slice is a crowd favorite, but it’s important to note that it requires a 24-hour advance order, so planning ahead ensures you can try this exceptional pie which has been described as “absolute crack” by loyal fans. The classic cheese slice is a reliable and universally loved choice that pairs well with various toppings like sausage and peppers for those who enjoy more robust flavors. Sharing a variety of pizzas allows everyone to sample different tastes while creating a dynamic table spread that invites conversations about preferences and favorites. Besides pizza, the garlic knots are particularly popular, offering a delicious side or starter for groups who appreciate something to nibble on while waiting. Groups should consider ordering several smaller pies instead of one large pizza to sample more flavors and keep the experience engaging. Additionally, calling ahead to pre-order or checking on pizza availability can help avoid any wait times, especially for larger gatherings.
How accessible and convenient is Grand Street Pizza for hosting social meetups?
Grand Street Pizza’s location and layout make it an accessible and convenient choice for hosting social meetups. The fast-casual service style supports flexibility in timing, so groups can come as they please without strict reservations. This casual walk-in model allows friends or family with differing schedules to join in and leave without disrupting the group's flow. The seating arrangement supports easy mingling and moving around, which is ideal for groups that may want to rearrange seats to accommodate conversations or group dynamics. In urban settings like Manhattan or Knightdale, depending on the location, the restaurant benefits from being situated near transit options, simplifying meeting logistics for friends coming from different parts of the city. Also, the option for takeout or delivery means that even if gathering at the restaurant isn’t feasible for the entire group, everyone can still enjoy Grand Street Pizza’s offerings together in a nearby park or home, turning it into a flexible social destination.
What makes Grand Street Pizza stand out compared to other pizza places for group gatherings?
Grand Street Pizza distinguishes itself from many other pizzerias by combining authentic New York-style pizza craftsmanship with a welcoming and efficient environment designed for group enjoyment. The emphasis on quality ingredients, such as large sliced sausage and a balanced sauce-to-cheese ratio, delivers exceptional flavors that are comparable to some of the top pizza places in the tri-state area. Unlike overly elaborate or expensive venues, it strikes a balance by offering gourmet-level pizza in a casual setting, making it accessible and appealing to a broad audience. The attentive and friendly staff add a personal touch that helps groups feel attended to without intrusive service. Moreover, the pizza’s thin, crispy crust satisfies those who appreciate the classics, while the possibility to custom order specialty pies provides variety and excitement. This combination of taste, atmosphere, and service efficiency makes Grand Street Pizza a top choice to rally friends or family for any occasion, from casual hangouts to mini celebrations or team meetups.
In summary, Grand Street Pizza serves as an ideal venue for group meetups thanks to its superb New York-style pizzas, friendly and quick service, casual energetic ambiance, and flexible ordering options. Whether enjoying the signature sausage pizzas, garlic knots, or specialty thick-sliced pies, groups will find plenty to talk and celebrate over. The environment supports joviality and memorable moments, making it an outstanding pick for gathering friends or family in a lively yet informal setting.