When asking yourself about something to do near me in Los Angeles with a group of friends or family, consider
Joe's Pizza
Why Joe's Pizza is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Joe's Pizza, established in 1975 by Italian immigrant Pino "Joe" Pozzuoli, is a celebrated pizzeria located in the heart of Greenwich Village, Manhattan, New York City. Renowned for its classic New York street-style pizza, Joe's serves authentic thin-crust slices and whole pies that have delighted locals and tourists alike for decades. Its original Carmine Street location, near Bleecker Street, is considered a Greenwich Village institution, embodying the quintessential New York pizza experience. Beyond its flagship shop, Joe's Pizza has expanded to multiple locations within New York City, including Manhattan and Brooklyn, as well as other U.S. cities such as Ann Arbor, Michigan and Cambridge, Massachusetts. Internationally, it also operates in Shanghai, China, reflecting its wide appeal. The pizzeria's dedication to quality and tradition is evident in its simple menu focused solely on pizza, made with classic ingredients that honor old-school slice shops. This focus has earned praise from culinary critics, including The New York Times and food writer Ed Levine, who regards Joe's as a "slice purist". Joe's Pizza's atmosphere encourages casual meetups, making it a reliable and beloved spot for friends wanting to enjoy iconic New York-style pizza together in a relaxed setting.
Here's what people think of Joe's Pizza
As of recent, Joe's Pizza holds a 4.1-star rating based on 576 reviews.
Customer reviews of Joe's Pizza consistently acknowledge its status as a must-visit pizza landmark in New York City, with an overall rating around 4.1 based on over 570 reviews. Positive feedback highlights Joe's adherence to classic New York-style pizza fundamentals — thin, foldable slices with a balanced sauce-to-cheese ratio and a flavorful crust that tastes both crispy and chewy. Many patrons appreciate the authentic experience and simple, quality ingredients that embody the traditional street-slice culture. The original Greenwich Village location is especially praised for its nostalgic charm and consistent quality. However, some reviews offer critical perspectives, noting that Joe's Pizza can be overrated or overhyped due to its iconic reputation. A few customers feel the pizza is standard rather than extraordinary, comparable to many other NYC slice shops, and suggest that the hype may overshadow the reality of the product. Others mention wait times or crowding, particularly at flagship locations, which may impact the dining experience. Despite mixed opinions, the consensus portrays Joe's Pizza as a reputable and historic New York institution with a solid fan base appreciative of its dedication to traditional pizza making. Overall, Joe's Pizza remains a reliable choice for those seeking authentic New York slices in a casual, friend-friendly setting.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Todd Owens
Went for a slice last night. Went back today for a whole pie. Great pizza! Customer service was fantastic both times, I would highly recommend both the cheese and pepperoni. I love the crust perfectly thin with just enough crunch.
Jade Stone
Great pizza but once I finished my second slice, the rest of my pizza loses its crunch sitting on the solid metal pizza pan. I wish they had dine in equipment that sat our pizza on a lifted aerated platform so the crust remains crunchy.
Aarushi G
Quick staff, clean seating area, lots of pizza varieties late into the night Thinner crust and not a very thick sauce Great late night spot in dtLA
Rodrigo “funning”
One of best pizza spots I’ve been on in DTLA. I highly recommend this spot and the selection was pretty good. We tried pretty much most of the pizzas and the crust was on point along with the flavors. My favorite was the white pizza and it’s probably the best white pizza I’ve ever had. I’d definitely come back again or do pick up orders in the future.
Jenae Lien
Some of the best pizza you can find in the heart of DTLA. Open late. You can grab a whole pie or pick slices. Each slice of pizza is taken from the pies behind the counter, and warmed in an oven to pizza perfection before being served. Definitely reminds me of NY style pizza with the large, thin slices. Their garlic knots are pretty fire too. My favorite pizzas they have are their classic cheese pizza, the white pizza, and the pepperoni. It’s a relaxed vibe inside with table seating, bar-like seating along a wall, and a small outdoor area where you can lean and eat pizza on a counter.
How to reach Joe's Pizza
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Why Joe's Pizza may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Joe's Pizza with your friends? Joe's Pizza, with a solid 4.1 rating from over 570 reviews, offers a welcoming and lively atmosphere perfect for gathering with friends or family. When you want a casual, fun place for a meetup, Joe's Pizza brings more than just great food; it provides a shared experience that makes every visit memorable. The warmth of the Italian recipes, combined with over four decades of tradition, creates a sense of community that resonates in every slice and bowl served. This familiarity and authentic flavor profile make Joe's a go-to spot when looking to catch up or celebrate informal occasions. The variety on the menu means everyone in your group can find something they love — from classic thin crust to stuffed crust, gluten-free options, and crowd-pleasing pastas. These diverse choices ensure that dietary preferences or cravings don’t get in the way of a great time together. When you come with friends, you’re not just ordering food; you’re crafting moments over shared plates and conversations that linger. Joe's Pizza’s reputation for quality and friendly service combined with its broad appeal makes it easy to gather a group and feel right at home.
What kinds of activities can your group enjoy at Joe's Pizza? While Joe's Pizza primarily focuses on its food and welcoming dining experience, the ambiance naturally lends itself to lively social interaction. Visitors often come to enjoy delicious meals but also engage in rich conversations across the table, making it a relaxed environment for both casual hangouts and special celebrations. Whether you want to watch a big game on screen with friends, enjoy a quiet family night out, or celebrate a birthday or small party, Joe's Pizza accommodates your social needs. The spacious seating arrangements are designed to handle groups comfortably, so you don’t feel cramped or rushed. Additionally, with the option to order large pizzas and shareable pasta dishes, your group gets to bond over communal dining—a classic way to deepen friendships and family ties. The staff’s welcoming attitude enhances the experience, ensuring everyone feels attended to, while the reasonable pricing keeps things friendly to group budgets. For those who want to bring the gathering elsewhere, Joe’s reliable takeout and delivery services make it simple to continue the celebration at home or picnic spots, extending the joy beyond the restaurant walls.
Why is Joe's Pizza perfect for group meetups? One standout feature of Joe's Pizza is its menu variety and consistency, which suits groups with differing tastes and dietary needs perfectly. You can select from a range of pizza types, including thin crust, stuffed crust, Chicago-style, and even gluten-free options, which means no one in your party has to compromise on what they want to eat. Beyond pizza, the authentic Italian pasta dishes provide alternatives for those craving comfort food, making it a delightful dining destination for all. The use of the original secret Trupiano family recipes adds an exclusive touch—something unique that your group can bond over experience-wise. The restaurant has been perfecting its recipes for 47 years, which speaks to its commitment to quality and consistency. The location's charm, combined with friendly service, contributes to a relaxed vibe in which meaningful conversations and laughter flow freely. Many visitors highlight Joe’s as a place where you can indulge in hearty, satisfying meals while enjoying a laid-back setting that invites you to stay longer and make memories.
How accessible and convenient is Joe's Pizza for groups? Joe's Pizza has expanded to over twenty-three locations across Illinois, making it widely accessible no matter where your group is based in the state. This broad presence means you’re likely to find a Joe’s nearby, which makes coordinating meetups with friends or family easier and reduces travel time. Each location maintains the same core menu and quality standards, so dining at any one of them promises the same delicious experience. Besides dine-in, the restaurant also boasts an efficient online ordering system that supports takeout and delivery, ideal if the group wants to gather somewhere more private like a home or park. Joe's Pizza understands group dynamics, offering options to cater to larger orders smoothly—whether it's for an informal gathering or an organized event. This flexibility means that whether you want a casual sit-down meal or need to share pizza at an outdoor meetup, Joe's can accommodate. It also helps that the restaurant’s pricing remains reasonable, which is essential when feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.
What makes Joe's Pizza's food special for group dining? The Trupiano family recipes used in Joe’s Pizza and Pasta guarantee flavors that stand out from the typical pizza experience. Crafted over 47 years, these recipes combine traditional Italian expertise with quality ingredients for authentic tastes. Groups appreciate this because it transforms a simple meal into a culinary event. Shared platters of pizza and pasta mean more of these great flavors get passed around the table, sparking conversations and shared enjoyment. The diversity of the offerings—from meat-laden options to vegetarian and gluten-free pizzas—ensures no guest feels excluded, which is crucial for group harmony. Portion sizes are generous enough to fuel long gatherings, but not so large that leftovers go to waste. Various reviewers have noted that Joe's delivers satisfying, consistently tasty food that keeps diners coming back, which reinforces its suitability as a group-friendly eatery. When hosting a meetup at Joe’s, you’re not only providing food but an experience that appeals to diverse palates and creates an inviting atmosphere for everybody around the table.
How does Joe's Pizza support different group occasions? Joe's Pizza caters well to a wide variety of group events, from casual friend catch-ups to family reunions, birthday parties, or even post-game celebrations. Its friendly and accommodating staff are experienced in handling groups that require prompt service without feeling hurried. The restaurant’s layout generally supports both small and larger parties comfortably, with tables that can be configured to suit your group’s size. Because the focus is on quality food and a relaxed setting, it creates an ideal environment for both energetic celebrations and more chilled gatherings. Furthermore, Joe’s also offers catering for group events, which means you can host your meetup at an alternate venue yet enjoy the same beloved pizza and pasta. This versatility allows groups to meet wherever they choose but still count on the dependable taste and service Joe's is known for. For birthdays or special occasions, the staff are often willing to help with little extras, making your group’s event feel personalized and special.
What about the atmosphere and service at Joe's Pizza? The atmosphere at Joe’s Pizza is inviting and casual, making it a natural choice for groups who value comfort and familiarity in their dining experience. The decor tends to be relaxed and family-friendly, appealing to participants of all ages. The noise level is typically comfortable for conversation but lively enough to feel energetic, which suits get-togethers and celebrations. Staff members receive praise for being personable, attentive, and efficient, contributing to stress-free meetups where the focus remains on the company and the food. This customer-centered approach ensures that groups feel well looked after, which enhances overall enjoyment. Combined with the authentic recipes and the spacious, accommodating seating, the experience becomes more than just a meal—it’s a place where friendships deepen over shared flavor and warm hospitality. This welcoming vibe explains why Joe's Pizza has remained a beloved local staple for decades, constantly drawing groups seeking a dependable spot to convene.
In summary, Joe’s Pizza is an excellent place for group meetups because it blends authentic, time-tested Italian dishes with a comfortable atmosphere and accommodating service. Its menu variety meets diverse tastes, and multiple locations mean accessibility is rarely an issue. Whether gathering with friends or family, the experience at Joe’s encourages sharing, enjoying quality food, and creating lasting memories in a relaxed environment. For anyone planning a casual party, family dinner, or just a friendly end-of-week rally, Joe’s Pizza stands out as a dependable and beloved choice.