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Amore Pizzeria
Master Critic Reviews (10 Lists)
Amore Pizzeria
8.2
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Quick Bites Champions
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Tucked into a plaza just off the Whitestone Expressway, Amore Pizzeria is a cash-only slice shop locals treat like a weekly ritual. The pies lean ultra-thin and shatteringly crisp, with a slightly sweet sauce and cheese that stretches without feeling heavy. Despite the bare-bones room and limited seating, the steady stream of regulars and high-volume turnover keep slices hot and consistent.
Must-Try Dishes:
Plain cheese slice, Square Sicilian pie, Garlic knots
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: A no-frills, cash-only shop where super-thin, crisp pies have earned devoted neighborhood status.
Who should go: Pizza lifers who care more about crust than decor
When to visit: Late afternoon or early evening when whole pies cycle nonstop
What to order: Regular cheese slice, Sicilian square, side of garlic knots
Insider tip: Specify extra well-done if you like a darker, cracklier crust.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small plaza lot with limited spaces; easiest earlier in the day. Street parking on nearby residential blocks is doable but competitive during dinner hours.
Dress code: Completely casual — this is a grab-and-go slice shop where hoodies and jeans are the norm.
Noise level: Low to moderate; the room is bare-bones with steady foot traffic, but you can comfortably hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on turnover; slices move fast so waits are usually for seating rather than food.
Weekday lunch: Generally no wait beyond a minute or two; high turnover keeps things moving.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — classic cheese slices, Sicilian, and a few basic meatless options.
Vegan options: Limited — no dedicated vegan cheese; only possible options are plain items like garlic knots without butter.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free dough or separate prep area.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your idea of a first date is ultra-casual, cheap, and centered on great slices rather than ambiance. It's more about quick bites than lingering conversation.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they don’t take reservations. Seating is limited, so expect to stand or take your slice to go during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple menu, fast service, and plenty of families stopping in. No high chairs or amenities, but very accommodating for quick meals with kids.
Best For
Better for: Ultra-thin, crackly slices at budget-friendly prices with rapid turnover that keeps pies consistently fresh.
Skip if: You want a dine-in Italian experience, specialty pies, or a comfortable sit-down meal. This is strictly a slice-shop stop.
Amore Pizzeria
9.0
Amore Pizzeria is a cash-only strip mall classic that has been serving Flushing since the 1970s, drawing pizza fans for its thin, crisp cheese slices and hefty Sicilian squares. Locals and destination seekers alike come for old-school New York slices in a no-frills room that feels frozen in time, especially before or after games at Citi Field.
Must-Try Dishes:
Plain cheese slice, Sicilian square slice, Pepperoni slice
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.6
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9.2
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.5
What makes it special: Long-running, cash-only slice shop known for classic NYC cheese slices.
Who should go: Slice purists chasing old-school New York pizza.
When to visit: Afternoons or early evenings before the dinner rush.
What to order: Plain cheese slice, Sicilian square, pepperoni slice.
Insider tip: Bring cash and eat your slice at the counter while it’s piping hot.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small strip-mall lot with limited spaces; usually manageable during off-peak hours but can fill quickly on weekends. Nearby street parking is available but may require a short walk.
Dress code: Completely casual; come as you are — jeans, hoodies, and game-day attire all common.
Noise level: Low to moderate; counter chatter and pizza-oven noise, but you can comfortably hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes for slices; seating is limited but turnover is fast.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, especially for grab-and-go slices.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — cheese and plain Sicilian slices are reliable choices.
Vegan options: Very limited — no dedicated vegan cheese; plain crust may be an option but not positioned as vegan-friendly.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free crust options; not suitable for gluten-sensitive diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates old-school, no-frills NYC slice culture. It’s casual, nostalgic, and low-pressure, but not a romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — they don’t take reservations. Seating is limited, so expect to stand or grab a quick table during busier times; most people eat at the counter.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple menu, quick service, and low cost make it easy for families. Best for kids who are fine with counter seating and a casual environment.
Best For
Better for: Classic NYC cheese slices, ultra-consistent execution, and unbeatable value — especially if you want a true neighborhood-style pizzeria untouched by trends.
Skip if: You want gourmet toppings, specialty pies, craft ingredients, gluten-free options, or a sit-down restaurant experience.
Amore Pizzeria
8.6
Amore Pizzeria is a longstanding slice shop where the same thin-crust pies that draw pizza obsessives also anchor hearty red-sauce plates like baked lasagna. The lasagna here leans classic New York Italian-American: saucy, cheesy, and built for a filling, no-frills meal before or after wandering Downtown Flushing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Baked Lasagna, Cheese Pizza Slice, Sicilian Square Slice
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 7.3
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Classic cash-only slice shop where the baked lasagna feels as iconic as the pies.
Who should go: Lasagna lovers who appreciate old-school New York slice culture.
When to visit: Evenings before peak rush or late-night post-game cravings.
What to order: Baked lasagna, regular cheese slice, Sicilian square slice.
Insider tip: Bring cash and pair a lasagna order with a fresh-out-of-the-oven slice for the full experience.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; metered spots on 40th Road and surrounding blocks can be tough during dinner hours but usually easier late night.
Dress code: Casual and unfussy; anything from jeans to workout clothes fits right in.
Noise level: Moderate during peak slice-rush times; generally easy enough to hold a conversation at off-peak hours.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes for hot items; slices move fast but lasagna orders may require a brief warm-up.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait besides the standard counter line.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — cheese slices, plain pasta dishes, and baked lasagna versions without meat are available depending on the day.
Vegan options: Limited — most items rely on cheese; vegan diners may need to stick to plain dough or simple sides if available.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free dough or pasta; cross-contact is unavoidable.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates casual, old-school slice-shop energy. It’s more about comfort and character than romance.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service with limited seating. Tables turn quickly, but expect to hover briefly during peak hours.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple menu, quick service, and plenty of slices kids enjoy. Best for older kids who can manage casual seating.
Best For
Better for: Classic New York–style red-sauce comfort at wallet-friendly prices, plus consistent late-night availability.
Skip if: You want plated, chef-driven Italian or a quieter sit-down environment — this is a slice shop first and foremost.
Amore Pizzeria
8.5
Amore Pizza is a low-key slice shop off the Van Wyck where ultra-thin cheese slices and hefty Sicilian squares draw a loyal neighborhood following. It’s the spot locals point to when you ask where to find an old-school New York slice in Flushing.
Must-Try Dishes:
Extra-Thin Cheese Slice, Sicilian Square Slice, House Special Pie
Scores:
Value: 9.3
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 6.7
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Classic New York slices in a strip-mall pizzeria locals swear by.
Who should go: Slice purists chasing old-school New York-style pizza.
When to visit: Afternoons and early evenings for the freshest pies.
What to order: Plain cheese slice, Sicilian square, House Special pie.
Insider tip: Ask which pies just came out; timing matters for peak slices.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is available along the side streets off Main and the Van Wyck service road; it’s generally manageable midday but tighter during the dinner rush.
Dress code: Totally casual — come as you are; this is a classic slice shop with zero formality.
Noise level: Low to moderate; it’s a quick-serve counter spot where conversation is easy, but expect steady foot traffic.
Weekend wait: Usually no formal wait, but expect a short line at the counter during peak hours.
Weekday lunch: Rarely any wait; slices turn over quickly so service is fast.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — plain cheese and Sicilian slices are solid options.
Vegan options: Very limited — no dedicated vegan cheese or toppings.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free crusts or alternatives are offered.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date loves no-frills, old-school slice shops. It’s more about grabbing a quick, great slice than setting a romantic mood.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — there are no reservations here. Seating is limited, but turnover is fast and most people grab slices to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple menu, quick service, and low prices make it easy for families; just note limited seating during busy hours.
Best For
Better for: Classic thin slices and hefty Sicilian squares with high turnover, ensuring fresh pies throughout the day.
Skip if: You want specialty pies, gourmet toppings, or dietary accommodations like gluten-free or vegan options.
Amore Pizzeria
8.8
Amore is a fluorescent-lit Stratton Street standby from the 1970s where thin, well-done New York slices come out hot until 11pm and later on weekends. Regulars swing by after flights, Mets games, and late shifts for pies that balance crisp crust, tangy sauce, and just enough cheese.
Must-Try Dishes:
Regular cheese slice, Sicilian square slice, Pepperoni slice
Scores:
Value: 8.6
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.9
Food Quality: 9.3
Atmosphere: 6.9
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Long-running Stratton Street slice shop turning out thin, blistered pies late.
Who should go: Travelers and locals wanting classic Queens slices near LaGuardia.
When to visit: Evenings after 8pm, especially weekends before or after flights.
What to order: Regular cheese slice, Sicilian square, pepperoni slice well-done.
Insider tip: Ask for your slice extra well-done for maximum crunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Stratton Street and surrounding blocks; generally manageable before 9pm but can tighten on weekends and after events. No lot or valet.
Dress code: Completely casual — neighborhood slice-shop attire; anything from sweats to jeans is normal.
Noise level: Moderate, with steady counter traffic and kitchen noise, but still easy to hold a quick conversation.
Weekend wait: Slices move quickly; expect 5–10 minutes at most, though a short line is common after 10pm.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait beyond a couple minutes for fresh pies to rotate.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — cheese and Sicilian slices are reliable vegetarian-friendly options.
Vegan options: Limited — no dedicated vegan cheese; plain crust-and-sauce slice may work for some, but not a true vegan menu.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free crust or accommodations; classic NY-slice-only setup.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if your date appreciates old-school slice shops. It’s bright, casual, and fast — better for a quick bite than a romantic vibe.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — it’s counter-service with limited seating, and everything is first-come. Most people grab slices and stand or take them to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — simple menu, quick service, and low-commitment dining make it easy for families, though seating is limited and not ideal for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Classic New York slices served hot and fast, with a crisp, well-done style that regulars prefer over newer, trendier pizza spots.
Skip if: You want specialty pies, artisanal toppings, vegan options, or a sit-down atmosphere — this is a no-frills slice institution.
Amore Pizzeria
8.4
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Amore is a narrow counter-service slice shop that has been turning out classic New York pies to locals, airport workers, and late-night regulars for decades. Foldable, well-done slices and fair prices make it one of Queens’ most reliable old-school pizza moves.
Must-Try Dishes:
Regular cheese slice, Sicilian square slice, Pepperoni slice well-done
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 8.4
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.2
What makes it special: Long-running neighborhood slice shop where a couple of dollars still buys a serious New York slice.
Who should go: Pizza traditionalists who care more about crust than decor.
When to visit: Afternoons and early evenings when pies are constantly coming out of the oven.
What to order: Regular cheese slice, Sicilian square, pepperoni slice cooked well-done.
Insider tip: Ask for your slice extra well-done if you like a darker, crispier crust without extra toppings.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking only; spots along Stratton Street and nearby avenues open up more easily in the late afternoon but can be tight during weekend evenings.
Dress code: Completely casual — come as you are, from work clothes to sweats. This is a true counter-service slice spot.
Noise level: Low to moderate; it’s a small room with steady foot traffic but generally quiet enough for quick conversation.
Weekend wait: Usually no formal wait, but expect a short line at the counter during peak early evening hours.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait, with pies coming out regularly and fast-moving service.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — cheese slices, Sicilian squares, and occasional veggie-topped pies.
Vegan options: Limited — no dedicated vegan cheese, but plain sauce-only slices can be ordered if available.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free crust; best to avoid if gluten-intolerant.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if the vibe you want is low-pressure and ultra-casual. It’s more of a grab-a-slice-and-go spot than a sit-down date environment.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no reservations or full tables — just counter seating and standing room. You’ll almost always find a spot to perch.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick meals — kids who love classic slices will be happy, though space is tight and there are no high chairs or stroller-friendly layouts.
Best For
Better for: Classic New York slices served hot, fast, and affordably without frills — ideal for purists who prioritize crust and sauce over toppings and ambiance.
Skip if: You want a sit-down pizzeria, specialty pies, or dietary accommodations like vegan cheese or gluten-free crust.
Amore Pizzeria
8.3
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Comfort Food Classics
Late Night Legends
Solo Dining Sanctuaries
Amore Pizzeria is a strip-mall slice shop near the Whitestone Expressway that has been turning out extra-thin New York slices since the mid-1970s. Locals treat it as a neighborhood standby for grab-and-go pies before games, errands, or the ride home.
Must-Try Dishes:
Regular cheese slice, Sicilian slice, Baked ziti slice
Scores:
Value: 8.7
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 8.8
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 8.6
What makes it special: Long-running neighborhood slice counter known for extra-thin, foldable pies.
Who should go: New York slice fans who like low-key spots.
When to visit: Evenings or late night after games and errands.
What to order: Regular slice, Sicilian slice, baked ziti slice.
Insider tip: Grab a slice to stay at the counter while it’s hottest.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small shared lot in the strip mall plus nearby street parking on side blocks; usually easy except weekend evenings.
Dress code: Completely casual — hoodies, jeans, game-day gear all blend in at the counter.
Noise level: Low to moderate — it’s a grab-and-go slice shop, so brief chatter and kitchen sounds but still easy to hold a quick conversation.
Weekend wait: 5–15 minutes depending on pie rotation; slices move fast so waits are usually for fresh trays.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait beyond ordering at the counter.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — classic cheese slices, Sicilian, and occasional veggie-topped pies.
Vegan options: Limited — no dedicated vegan cheese; plain marinara slice may be the only option.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free crusts or accommodations.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal for a formal first date — it’s a counter-style slice shop with quick turnover. Better for a low-pressure meetup or casual pre-event bite.
Can I get a table without a reservation? There are no reservations and very limited seating; expect to stand at the counter or take your slice to go.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick, simple meals — kids who like classic cheese slices will be happy. No high chairs, table service, or space for strollers.
Best For
Better for: Crisp, extra-thin classic New York slices served fast at true budget prices; great for quick, nostalgic pizza fixes.
Skip if: You want gourmet toppings, sit-down dining, or specialty pies — consider a full-service pizzeria instead.
Amore Pizzeria
8.4
Amore Pizzeria is a cash-only neighborhood staple at the northern edge of Flushing, known for its thin-crust pies and steady slice crowd. Parents bring kids for after-school slices or low-key weekend dinners at the counter and few tables.
Must-Try Dishes:
Regular cheese slice, Sicilian slice, Whole cheese pie
Scores:
Value: 8.4
Service: 7.9
Consistency: 8.7
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 7
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Old-school, cash-only slice shop locals champion for classic pies.
Who should go: Families craving no-frills New York slices and pies.
When to visit: After school or early evening before peak crowds.
What to order: Regular slice, Sicilian slice, whole cheese pie.
Insider tip: Bring cash and eat your slice hot at the counter.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Francis Lewis Boulevard and side streets is usually manageable, especially earlier in the evening. No valet or lot; peak dinner times can require a short walk.
Dress code: Casual. Families and locals come in everyday wear — jeans, hoodies, and kids’ attire are completely normal.
Noise level: Moderate. It’s a bustling slice shop environment where conversation is possible but not quiet-dinner calm.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for a table; slice counter generally moves quickly even during peak times.
Weekday lunch: No wait — steady but fast-moving traffic, especially for slices.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — cheese slices, Sicilian slices, and standard veggie toppings are available.
Vegan options: Limited — no dedicated vegan cheese; a plain sauce-only pie is the primary option.
Gluten-free options: No gluten-free crust or alternative dough; not recommended for gluten-sensitive diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you want a very low-key, casual vibe. It’s more a neighborhood slice shop than a conversation-forward or romantic setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes. There are no reservations — tables are first-come, first-served, and turnover is fast. Arrive earlier to secure a spot for families.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. Kids of all ages are common after school and on weekends. Seating is simple but works well for quick meals with children.
Best For
Better for: Classic New York-style slices at budget-friendly prices, with a loyal local following and quick service ideal for families and groups.
Skip if: You want gluten-free options, vegan cheese, craft pizza, or a sit-down Italian dinner experience with ambiance.
Amore Pizzeria
8.3
Amore Pizzeria is a cash-only neighborhood standby in a small strip center where families crowd the counter for ultra-thin, well-done pies. Generations of locals stop in after shopping or school for nostalgic slices eaten at the few tables or taken home in big boxes.
Must-Try Dishes:
Regular cheese slice, Sicilian pie, Baked clams
Scores:
Value: 8.5
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.3
Food Quality: 8.9
Atmosphere: 6.5
Cultural Relevance: 8.3
What makes it special: Old-school slice shop locals treat as their weekly pizza ritual.
Who should go: Families craving classic, thin-crust New York slices.
When to visit: Late afternoon or early evening before it gets packed.
What to order: Regular slice, Sicilian pie, baked clams when available.
Insider tip: Bring cash and ask for your pie extra well-done for maximum crunch.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Small strip-center lot with limited spaces; usually manageable on weeknights but can be tight during after-school and early-evening rush. Nearby street parking along 150th Street is typically the backup.
Dress code: Very casual. Hoodies, school uniforms, sweats, and everyday clothes all fit right in.
Noise level: Moderate-to-busy; counter activity and takeout orders mean steady noise, but you can still hold a family conversation at the tables.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for slices, slightly longer for whole pies during peak family hours.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait for slices; whole pies may take 10–15 minutes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — regular cheese slices, Sicilian, and veggie-topped pies are common.
Vegan options: Limited — no dedicated vegan cheese; plain pies are traditional dairy-based.
Gluten-free options: No — this is a classic old-school pizzeria without gluten-free dough.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not ideal unless your date specifically loves no-frills slice shops. The focus here is fast, classic New York pizza, not atmosphere or lingering conversations.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — no reservations are taken. Seating is limited, but turnover is quick since most guests grab slices and go.
Is it kid-friendly? Very. Families with young children are common, and counter service makes it easy for quick meals. No dedicated kids’ menu, but slices and simple pies work well for most ages.
Best For
Better for: Classic, ultra-thin, well-done New York slices served fast at budget pricing. Ideal for families wanting dependable neighborhood pizza without ceremony.
Skip if: You want gluten-free options, vegan cheese, upscale ambience, or a long sit-down meal with varied Italian dishes.
Amore Pizzeria
8.2
Amore Pizzeria is a narrow, counter-service shop just off the Whitestone Expressway where ultra-thin New York slices and whole pies draw a steady neighborhood crowd. It’s more old-school than polished, but couples who love classic pizza dates use it for quick, no-frills nights over crisp slices and fountain sodas.
Must-Try Dishes:
Plain cheese slice, Sicilian slice, Whole cheese pie
Scores:
Value: 8.9
Service: 7.2
Consistency: 8.1
Food Quality: 8.5
Atmosphere: 6
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Cash-friendly slice shop where crisp, thin pies are the main event.
Who should go: Pizza-obsessed couples who prefer casual counter-service dates.
When to visit: Early evening before the late-night rush builds.
What to order: Plain cheese slice, Sicilian slice, whole cheese pie.
Insider tip: Order a whole pie well-done if you like extra-crisp crust.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along the service roads near the Whitestone Expressway is usually available, though it can tighten after 7pm.
Dress code: Casual and low-key; couples often come in jeans, hoodies, or everyday date-night outfits.
Noise level: Moderate during peak slice hours, but still easy enough to hold a conversation at the counter or a small table.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes for a fresh pie; slices are typically ready with minimal wait.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait, with steady counter traffic but quick turnover.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes — cheese slices, Sicilian slices, and build-your-own pies are reliable options.
Vegan options: Limited — no dedicated vegan cheese, but plain dough and sauce can work for strict minimalists.
Gluten-free options: No — gluten-free dough or prep isn't available.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Only if you’re both pizza purists who enjoy unfussy, nostalgic slice-shop energy. It’s more casual than romantic.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — seating is first-come, first-served, and turnover is quick. Most couples grab slices at the counter or share a pie at one of the few tables.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes for quick meals — no high chairs or kids’ amenities, but families often stop in for slices before heading home.
Best For
Better for: Classic New York thin-crust slices served piping hot, plus quick, inexpensive dates where the food—not the decor—is the focus.
Skip if: You want a slower, candlelit Italian dinner with wine service or a more polished ambiance.