ZipPicks Awards
Best Pizza in Upper West Side
Master Critic Review
Celeste
8.7
Celeste’s classic New York–style pies are complemented by a broad Italian menu, drawing neighborhood crowds for both pizza and pasta. With over 3,000 reviews and a consistently high rating, it’s a reliable choice for a casual dinner on the Upper West Side.
Must-Try Dishes:
Margherita Pizza, White Truffle Mushroom Pizza, Sicilian Square Slice
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.5
Consistency: 8.8
Food Quality: 9
Atmosphere: 8.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.4
What makes it special: Broad Italian‑and‑pizza menu with standout pies.
Who should go: Families, pizza lovers, casual groups.
When to visit: Evenings and weekend dinners.
What to order: Margherita, White Truffle, Sicilian slice.
Insider tip: Go early on weekends to avoid wait.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking available, but can be difficult after 6pm. Valet service is not offered.
Dress code: Casual – jeans and comfortable attire are fine, but it's best to avoid overly casual clothing.
Noise level: Moderate – conversation is possible, but the restaurant can get lively during peak hours.
Weekend wait: 45-60 min without reservation, especially on busy weekend nights.
Weekday lunch: No wait typically, especially during the day.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes – several vegetarian-friendly pizza and pasta options.
Vegan options: Limited – a couple of vegan-friendly pizza options and pasta alternatives.
Gluten-free options: Yes – gluten-free crust options available, prepared in a separate area to minimize cross-contamination.
Best For
Better for: Celeste offers a broader Italian menu than many pizza places, making it a better choice for those who want more than just pizza. It also excels with its consistently high ratings and great atmosphere for casual groups and families.
Consider Alternatives If: If you're only in the mood for an exclusively pizza-focused experience or a quick bite, there are quicker, smaller pizza spots in the area.