Rubirosa

"For over a decade, Rubirosa has been slinging delicious pies and pastas that have earned it fans like Meghan Markle, who referred to it as the “holy grail” of pizza, and Michelin reviewers, who deemed it worthy of a Bib Gourmand in 2012. If you miss the chance to visit the cozy Nolita space, buy its pasta sampler, or a box of its sauces and olive oil, to make at home."

"Rubirosa, also technically in Nolita, is known for its thin-crust pies and bustling dining room that’s about the width of a subway car. If you need a place for a casual birthday or an impressive group dinner—whether in Little Italy, or any part of town—this restaurant should be near the top of your list. Reservations are scarce, but walk-ins are accepted, and that’s usually how we eat here. Just be aware that the host will probably tell you to come back in two hours (which is better than Torrisi, but still). Once you get seated, order both a vodka and a tie dye pie." - molly fitzpatrick, willa moore, bryan kim

"Rubirosa’s vodka sauce could make overcooked angel hair a can’t-miss dish. When it’s on top of perfectly crispy Staten Island-style crust and covered in melted mozzarella, the result is one of our favorite pies anywhere. If you want to mix things up, go for a Tie-Dye pie with pesto in addition to vodka sauce." - team infatuation

"Don’t miss the steamed artichoke or the sweet creamy vodka pizza at this Joe & Pat’s Staten Island descendant that opened in 2010. Gluten-free diners and large groups are especially taken care of." - Robert Sietsema, Eater Staff

"Rubirosa is one of Manhattan’s top Italian restaurants, and they've earned this distinction almost purely due to the quality of their pizza. In addition to serving perfect Staten Island-style, crackery crust pies, they also have gluten-free pizza that's somehow just as good. Whichever route you go, prioritize the vodka-sauce and tie-dye varieties. Reservations at this dark, bustling Nolita restaurant are inevitably tough to get, but you can always stop by and put your name in for a table. You'll probably have to wait for an hour or two before you're seated, but consider that time an investment into your happiness and wellbeing." - bryan kim, willa moore, kenny yang, carlo mantuano, molly fitzpatrick