3 Fantastic Pizza Restaurants in Newark, NJ

What Is It?

Nico's Halal Pizzeria & Fried Chicken in Newark, NJ, is a beloved local haunt known for its scrumptious halal offerings including pizza, fried chicken, and subs. The spot is especially popular for its mouthwatering fried chicken, large pizza slices, and extensive menu that caters to a variety of tastes, making it a go-to for many families and foodies alike in the area.

The Experience

Stepping into Nico's Pizzeria & Grill, you’re greeted by that familiar, cozy atmosphere that instantly brings back memories of family dinners and late-night cravings. The tantalizing aroma of garlic and spices fills the air as you scan the extensive menu, your mouth watering at the thought of their famous Italian cheesesteaks or a crispy slice of pizza. It’s clear why this has become a favorite spot for both locals and newcomers. You might find a big group of friends gathered around a towering pizza, with each person eager to dive into their oversized slices piled high with cheese and toppings.

As you place your order, the staff's warm demeanor puts you at ease. One friendly face behind the counter might even suggest trying the bacon pizza, which has been raved about for its unique flavor. The wait isn't long, and before you know it, you've got your delicious food in hand—perfectly crunchy crust, just the right amount of gooey cheese, and a satisfying bite that keeps you coming back for more. Patrons often get cozy in the ample seating area, making it easy to settle in and enjoy your meal at your own pace.

As you savor every bite, you might be surprised to see a table of kids being treated to free sweets, which adds a delightful touch to the family-friendly vibe of Nico's. It’s the little things, like warm service and oversized portions, that create an inviting experience that keeps people returning. When it's time to eat your leftovers at home, you can’t help but reminisce about how the fried chicken was so juicy and flavorful that you could easily eat it every day.

Even on busy evenings, guests seem to appreciate the fast service and quality of food. You overhear many lively conversations about the wonderful meals shared here over the years, and the mutual love for the Italian cheesesteak does not go unnoticed. Every visit to Nico's feels like catching up with an old friend, complete with familiar flavors that hit the spot every time.

When to Go

To avoid the hustle and bustle at Nico's, you might want to plan your visit during mid-morning or early afternoon, especially before the after-school rush hits. Lunch hours can also be busy, so arriving a little earlier or later can help you snag a spot without the crowds.

What Is It?

Pizza Village Cafe is a charming little spot in Newark, NJ, known for its unpretentious ambiance and delicious Italian offerings, including pizza, subs, salads, and pastas. The cafe is perfect for both quick bites and satisfying meals, boasting an extensive menu that appeals to a variety of tastes, along with a clean and friendly environment.

The Experience

Step into Pizza Village Cafe, and you're greeted by the comforting aroma of fresh pizza baking in the oven. You can easily see why so many locals enjoy coming here. The menu bursts with variety—everything from the classic margherita pizza to unique creations like the Chicken Caesar salad pizza, a hit with patrons who appreciate lighter fare mixed with their pizza delight. While perusing the menu, you might find a few tempting pasta dishes as well, giving you the perfect excuse to indulge in an appetizer of Buffalo wings while you wait for your order.

As you place your order, the staff’s friendliness shines through. Everyone here seems genuinely happy to help, which sets a nice tone for your meal. While you bask in the warm atmosphere, it's a great opportunity to chat with fellow diners, sharing a few laughs about the week's events. You might even overhear a family discussing how they’ve been coming here for years, reminiscing about their favorite dishes, which hints at a strong community connection and loyalty to this little gem in Ironbound.

When your pizza arrives, the excitement is palpable. You can hardly wait to taste the crispy crust topped with rich, flavorful sauce and gooey cheese. Each slice is just as good as you imagined, with a hometown vibe that makes you feel right at home. It’s clear that they've perfected their pizza recipe, and you'll likely find yourself planning your next visit before you even finish your meal.

And don’t forget the treats! Patrons rave about the variety, including sweet desserts and satisfying snacks. Overall, your experience at Pizza Village Cafe is delightfully fulfilling. Whether you’re dining in or getting takeout, you leave feeling appreciated and well-fed—exactly the way a good meal should feel.

When to Go

If you're looking to enjoy a less crowded experience, consider heading to Pizza Village Cafe in the late afternoon, just before dinner service kicks into high gear. You'll have the pleasure of a more relaxed atmosphere, allowing you to savor every bite without the hustle and bustle of the lunch or dinner rush.

What Is It?

Queen Pizza II, situated on Commerce Street in Newark, NJ, is touted as a must-visit pizzeria that’s been delighting locals with its delicious offerings since the 1980s. Known for its friendly service and classic New York-style pizza, this place is perfect for a quick lunch or a relaxing dinner with family and friends. Whether you’re looking for a cheesy classic or a specialty slice, Queen Pizza II has something to satisfy every craving.

The Experience

As you step into Queen Pizza II, you're immediately welcomed by the warm, inviting atmosphere and the mouth-watering aroma of freshly baked pizza. It's lunchtime, and the casual vibe makes it a great stop for a quick bite. You notice the menu is filled with tempting options, from classic cheese and pepperoni to more adventurous flavors like buffalo chicken. You decide to go for a large pepperoni pizza and a side of garlic knots, which many patrons rave about as a must-have. Within just a few minutes, your order is ready, and the pizza comes out piping hot. You take a moment to appreciate the perfectly baked crust, with just the right amount of crunch.

As you take your first bite, the flavors explode in your mouth—rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and just enough spice from the pepperoni. You can't help but smile, thinking about how this place is a hidden gem in Newark that exceeds expectations. The staff, always friendly and attentive, frequently check in to ensure everything is to your liking. As you enjoy your meal, you notice other guests around you deeply engaged in their conversations, a testament to the welcoming ambiance that keeps everyone coming back.

If you’re in a rush, the staff is super efficient, ensuring that even on busy days, you won't have to wait long for your food. Quick service is not just a bonus; it’s part of the Queen Pizza II experience. You glance around and see families and office workers enjoying their meals, and it’s clear that this place is a local favorite. You reflect on how the blend of excellent food and a friendly atmosphere makes it easy to see why so many people rave about this spot.

As you finish your meal, you can’t resist ordering a slice of their famous chicken vodka pizza to-go. After a short wait, you're handed a generous slice with a golden crust and creamy sauce that’s hard to resist. With a satisfied smile, you leave Queen Pizza II, eager to return and introduce your friends to this delightful slice of Newark’s pizza scene.

When to Go

If you want to avoid the lunch rush at Queen Pizza II, aim for the early hours, preferably just after they open or during mid-afternoon. This way, you can enjoy a relaxed meal without the crowd, allowing you to savor each bite of your pizza in peace. You'll find that the service is just as friendly, and the pizza is still piping hot and fresh.