ZipPicks Awards
Best Pizza in Upper East Side
Master Critic Review
San Matteo Pizza & Espresso Bar
8.7
San Matteo Pizza & Espresso Bar is a narrow Yorkville spot specializing in wood-fired Neapolitan pies, panuozzo sandwiches, and an Italian-leaning wine and espresso program. Locals use it for serious pizza with charred, elastic crusts and rich toppings that feel closer to Salerno than a standard New York slice shop.
Must-Try Dishes:
Regina Margherita pizza, Diavola pizza, Panuozzo sandwich
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 7.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Wood-fired Neapolitan pies and panuozzo served in a compact Italian wine-and-espresso bar.
Who should go: Pizza obsessives who care about dough and imports
When to visit: Evenings before peak rush or late after 8:30
What to order: Regina Margherita, Diavola, one panuozzo to share
Insider tip: Sit near the oven counter to watch pies getting fired and ask for your pizza a touch well-done for extra char.