ZipPicks Awards
Best Pizza in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Best Late Night Pizza in Brooklyn Heights & Downtown Brooklyn
Master Critic Review
Grimaldi's Pizzeria
8.6
Vibes:
Comfort Food Classics
Group Dining Gatherings
Family Friendly Favorites
Birthday & Celebration Central
Grimaldi's flagship under the bridge remains a classic New York stop for coal-fired pies with a crackling crust and tangy sauce. Tourists and longtime regulars pack the multi-level space for big family-style pizzas and old-school New York ambiance.
Must-Try Dishes:
Traditional coal-fired Margherita pizza, Pepperoni pizza, Calzone with ricotta and mozzarella
Scores:
Value: 7.9
Service: 6.8
Consistency: 9
Food Quality: 8.7
Atmosphere: 8.4
Cultural Relevance: 8.7
What makes it special: Long-running coal-oven institution that helped put DUMBO pizza on the map.
Who should go: First-time visitors wanting a classic New York coal-oven stop.
When to visit: Midafternoon or early evening before peak bridge-walk crowds.
What to order: Traditional Margherita, pepperoni pie, shared salad for the table.
Insider tip: Split a couple of large pies for variety; the crust holds up best eaten on-site.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking is limited in DUMBO, especially near the bridge; expect metered spots to be scarce on weekends. Paid garages on Front St. and Pearl St. are the most reliable option.
Dress code: Casual and comfortable; families, tourists, and locals all dress informally.
Noise level: Lively and often loud, especially during peak hours; conversations are possible but expect a bustling, old-school pizzeria vibe.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes depending on bridge foot traffic and weather; lines form early.
Weekday lunch: Typically 5–15 minutes, with occasional small lines during tourism spikes.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—Margherita pies, white pies, and various veggie-topped pizzas are available.
Vegan options: Limited—no vegan cheese, but you can order a cheeseless tomato pie with vegetable toppings.
Gluten-free options: No dedicated gluten-free pizza crust; not recommended for strict gluten-free diners.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Great if you want a classic New York experience and don’t mind a lively, crowded setting. Not ideal for intimate conversation, but fun for a shared, iconic pizza moment.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes—Grimaldi’s is first-come, first-served. Arrive off-peak (midafternoon or early dinner) to avoid long lines, especially on weekends.
Is it kid-friendly? Very—large tables, fast-moving service, and simple, familiar pizzas make it easy for families. No dedicated kids’ menu, but portions work well for sharing.
Best For
Better for: Classic coal-fired pies, big-group dining, and giving visitors an iconic under-the-bridge New York pizza experience.
Skip if: You want quieter, more modern pizza service, gluten-free options, or a spot with shorter lines during peak tourism hours.