NYC: How to eat a pizza slice like a real New Yorker

How to eat a pizza slice like a true New Yorker

When Steve and I had just started dating, we went out for pizza in New York City. I grabbed a slice, moved it over to my plate, and reached for my knife and fork. But before I could even cut into it, I heard a loud “Nooo!” from across the table. Rule number one: You do not eat pizza with a knife and fork in New York City. You use your hands. Always.

It took me a while to get the technique down, but I’ve mastered it now. And yes, there’s a proper way to do it. New York slices are big, thin, and often a little floppy in the middle. If you just grab one and lift it flat, you risk losing half the cheese on the way to your mouth.

Here’s the move: Gently fold the slice lengthwise by pressing down right at the crust. Just enough to form a soft V-shape. This helps hold everything in place, makes it easier to bite into, and keeps your hands relatively clean. That way, you can eat your slice while standing on the sidewalk or walking down the street, like a real New Yorker.

My guide to pizza in New York City

My guide to food and restaurants in New York City

Let's keep in touch

Want to know what’s going on beyond the blog? My newsletter is where I share a more personal side of my life, the trips I’m planning, the recipes I’m cooking, and the everyday moments that don’t always make it to the blog. If you’d like to stay in the loop and get a first look at what’s happening at Mitzie Mee, I’d love for you to join.

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors
Search in posts
Search in pages

New York City Blog

Advertisement