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ZipPicks Awards
Best Family Friendly Pizza in Long Beach
Best Pizza in Long Beach
Master Critic Review
Milana's New York Pizzeria
8.4
Vibes:
Quick Bites Champions
Family Friendly Favorites
Hidden Gems Heaven
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Authentic New York-style pizzeria serving thin-crust pies and Sicilian squares since opening downtown. The Brooklyn Square pizza with vodka sauce and mascarpone draws transplants and locals alike to this subway-themed spot where you can watch pizzas being hand-tossed.
Must-Try Dishes:
Brooklyn Square Pizza, Pepperoni Slice, Grandma Pizza
Scores:
Value: 8.8
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.6
Atmosphere: 7.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Real NYC-style pizza from Brooklyn native owner with authentic thin crust
Who should go: New Yorkers missing home, families wanting quality by-the-slice
When to visit: Lunch for quick slices, dinner for fresh whole pies
What to order: Brooklyn Square with vodka sauce, classic pepperoni, white pizza
Insider tip: Street parking has 15-minute free grace period for quick pickups
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street metered parking on Pine Ave and nearby streets, free after 6pm weekdays and all day Sunday. Paid lots within 2 blocks ($8-12). 15-minute grace period good for quick slice pickup.
Dress code: Ultra casual - jeans, t-shirts, whatever. This is a grab-and-go pizza spot, not a dress-up destination.
Noise level: Moderate to loud during peak times - subway theme with tile and hard surfaces bounces sound. Fine for casual conversation, not ideal for intimate talks.
Weekend wait: 10-15 min for slices at counter, 20-30 min for whole pies. Small dining area fills up but turnover is quick.
Weekday lunch: 5-10 min for slices, minimal wait. Busiest 12-1pm but moves fast.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple options including white pizza, margherita, veggie supreme, and build-your-own. Most popular pies available cheese-only.
Vegan options: Limited - can do pizza with no cheese and veggie toppings, but not a focus. No vegan cheese option currently.
Gluten-free options: No - traditional NYC-style pizzeria focused on authentic dough. Cross-contamination would be unavoidable in this kitchen setup.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you're both laid-back pizza lovers. The casual counter-service vibe and potential noise level make it better for early-stage casual dates or post-activity meetups rather than getting-to-know-you dinner dates. Great for second or third date when you're more comfortable.
Can I get a table without a reservation? They don't take reservations - it's first-come, first-served counter service with limited seating. During off-peak hours (2-5pm, after 8pm) you'll likely snag a table. Weekend dinner rush (6-8pm) expect to stand or take it to go. Slices are always quick regardless.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely - one of the best family pizza spots downtown. Kids love watching the pizza being made, the subway decor keeps them entertained, and slices come out fast so minimal wait time. High chairs available, space is tight with strollers during busy times.
How does it compare to other Long Beach pizza spots? This is the most authentic NYC-style in the area - thinner, crispier crust than most California pizza chains. More casual and affordable than sit-down Italian restaurants, but notably better quality than delivery chains. If you want NY pizza, this is your spot.
Can I just grab a quick slice? That's what they're built for. Counter service with ready-made slices under heat lamps during busy hours (lunch and dinner). In and out in 5 minutes. Perfect downtown lunch spot for office workers.
Best For
Better for: Authentic NYC-style thin crust when you want the real deal, quick casual meals, feeding families without breaking the bank, grabbing slices on the go. The Brooklyn Square with vodka sauce is legitimately unique in the area.
Consider Alternatives If: You want thick deep-dish or gourmet artisanal pizza, need a quiet romantic atmosphere, require gluten-free options, or want full table service with a server. Also skip if you're looking for California-style sourdough crust or wood-fired Neapolitan - this is a different animal.
Hours
Monday11am - 9pm
Tuesday11am - 9pm
Wednesday11am - 9pm
Thursday11am - 9pm
Friday11am - 10pm
Saturday11am - 10pm
Sunday11am - 9pm