Artichoke Basille’s Pizza – New York City’s pizza scene is a battlefield of dough, sauce, and cheese—a delicious war where only the boldest survive. Among the giants, Artichoke Basille’s Pizza stands tall, serving slices so iconic they’ve earned a cult following. From their creamy artichoke masterpiece to the decadent crab-topped creation, this pizzeria doesn’t just feed hunger—it delivers an unforgettable experience. Let’s dive into what makes this NYC staple a must-visit.
Artichoke Basille’s Pizza
The Artichoke Pizza: A Creamy, Nutty Masterpiece
The Slice That Started a Revolution
Artichoke Basille’s Pizza built its reputation on one dish: the legendary Artichoke Pizza. This isn’t your average slice. Picture two pizza doughs stacked, coated in flour, and stretched into a colossal base. The team slaps, tosses, and shapes the dough until it’s ready for their signature spinach and cream sauce—a rich, velvety blend that’s lavishly spread edge-to-edge.
Next comes a mountain of fresh mozzarella, tender artichoke hearts, and a snowfall of Parmesan. The “monster,” as regulars call it, bakes until golden, emerging as a slice so thick it could double as a meal. Weighing in at roughly 3 pounds, this slab is as big as your head and twice as satisfying. The first bite? Creamy, savory, and slightly nutty, with artichoke hearts adding a tender crunch. It’s a flavor bomb that keeps fans coming back for decades.
Crab Pizza: Buttery, Crispy, and Packed with Surimi
Seafood Meets Street Food
If you’re craving surf and turf in pizza form, the Crab Pizza delivers. The process starts with a lobster-infused cream sauce slathered over every inch of dough. Then comes a generous layer of surimi crab (imitation crab meat), which bakes alongside fresh mozzarella until the crust crackles and the cheese bubbles.
Finished with a sprinkle of parsley, this slice is a textural triumph: buttery, crunchy, and luxuriously creamy. The surimi adds a sweet, briny kick that pairs perfectly with the rich sauce. Pro tip: Fold it like a true New Yorker and let the flavors collide.
The Cheese Calzone: A Pocket of Melty Heaven
Where More Cheese Is Always Better
Artichoke Basille’s takes calzones to sinful heights. Their Cheese Calzone stuffs ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan into a golden pocket of dough. After a quick pierce for ventilation, it bakes until the exterior crisps and the interior becomes a molten cheese lava flow. A final drizzle of olive oil and a dusting of pecorino elevate it to gourmet status.
Dip this beast into their tangy marinara sauce, and you’ll understand why locals argue it’s the best calzone in NYC. It’s cheesy without being greasy, indulgent without feeling heavy—a rare balance that only masters of the craft achieve.
Vodka Sauce Pizza: A Spicy, Creamy Triumph
New York’s Top 5 Vodka Sauce? Believe It.
For sauce aficionados, the Vodka Sauce Pizza is a revelation. The base starts with baked Sicilian dough, topped with a generous pour of their housemade vodka sauce—a spicy, tomato-cream blend that’s simmered to perfection. Fresh mozzarella, Parmesan, and pepperoni join the party before the pie hits the oven.
Post-bake, it’s crowned with fresh basil and pecorino. The result? A slice that’s tangy, creamy, and subtly fiery. Regulars swear it’s among the top five vodka sauces in the city, rivaling even Italian fine-dining staples.
Staten Island Pizza: Meat Lovers’ Paradise
Where Bold Flavors Collide
Don’t sleep on the Staten Island Pizza, a hearty ode to carnivores. Tomato sauce forms the base, layered with homemade meatballs, red onions, ricotta, and mozzarella. The meatballs—juicy, garlicky, and tender—steal the show, while the onions add a sharp contrast. A post-bake sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley ties it all together.
This isn’t just pizza; it’s a full-flavored Italian feast on a crust. Pair it with a cold soda or an IPA to cut through the richness.
Pizza Box Salad: A Guilt-Free Companion
Because Even Cheesaholics Need Greens
Ironically, Artichoke Basille’s even nails salads. The Pizza Box Salad is a refreshing mix of crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and a zesty vinaigrette, served—you guessed it—in a pizza box. It’s the perfect palate cleanser between slices or a “healthy” excuse to order another round.
Why Artichoke Basille’s Pizza Stands Out in NYC
The Secret Sauce? No Compromises.
- Generosity Is Policy: From triple cheese to heaping artichokes, toppings are never skimped.
- Innovative Flavors: Crab, vodka sauce, and artichoke aren’t gimmicks—they’re perfected recipes.
- NYC Vibes, No Pretension: Grab a slice, snag a wobbly stool, and soak in the chaos.
Is Artichoke Basille’s Worth the Hype?
In a city overflowing with pizza options, Artichoke Basille’s earns its stripes by daring to be different. Each slice is a labor of love, crafted with techniques and portions that lesser pizzerias wouldn’t attempt. Whether you’re a tourist or a local, this spot is a non-negotiable NYC experience. Just come hungry—and maybe bring a friend to share the 3-pound artichoke slab.
Location: Multiple NYC spots, but the original East Village joint is a classic. Open late, because pizza emergencies wait for no one.
🍕 Pro Tip: Arrive early to beat the lunch rush—your taste buds (and stomach) will thank you.
