ZipPicks Awards
Best Italian in Jackson Heights
Best Pizza in Jackson Heights
Best Lasagna in Jackson Heights
Best Late Night Pizza in Jackson Heights
Best Cheap Pizza in Jackson Heights
Best Date Night Italian in Jackson Heights
Master Critic Review
Pizza Sam
8.3
Vibes:
Cheap Eats Budget Brilliance
Family Friendly Favorites
Quick Bites Champions
Hidden Gems Heaven
A Jackson Heights landmark since 1967, this family-owned pizzeria has served the neighborhood for over 57 years with thin-crust New York slices, hearty Italian entrees, and a community-first philosophy. The recipe has remained consistent through recent ownership changes, maintaining its loyal multi-generational following.
Must-Try Dishes:
Classic Cheese Slice, Veal Cutlet Parmigiana, Grandma Pie
Scores:
Value: 9
Service: 8
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 8.2
Atmosphere: 6.8
Cultural Relevance: 9
What makes it special: 57 years of the same family recipe creating neighborhood nostalgia in every slice
Who should go: Families, late-night slice seekers, Queens natives craving authenticity
When to visit: Lunch for quick slices, dinner for full Italian entrees
What to order: Plain cheese slice, chicken francese, sausage and peppers hero
Insider tip: The kids special (2 slices + soda for $6) is the neighborhood's best deal
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking on Northern Blvd; typically available but busier during peak hours
Dress code: Come as you are - classic NYC pizzeria, no dress code whatsoever
Noise level: Casual pizzeria buzz - great for families, not intimate conversation
Weekend wait: 5-10 min for slices; counter service keeps things moving
Weekday lunch: No wait - grab and go or quick table seating
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - cheese pizza, veggie slices, pasta marinara, salads, lentil soup (noted as vegetarian)
Vegan options: Yes - vegan pizza options available per Yelp; ask staff for current selections
Gluten-free options: Not a specialty - no dedicated gluten-free menu; salads are your best bet
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Not really. As one reviewer put it: unless you bring your own tablecloth and candle, this is a no-frills pizzeria. Perfect for casual outings, but save the romance for Uncle Peter's down the street.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes, always. About 3 tables available for dine-in, but most customers grab slices to go. No reservation needed - this is walk-in counter service at its finest.
Is it kid-friendly? Absolutely - Yelp marks it 'good for kids' and the $6 kids special (2 slices + soda) has been a neighborhood staple for decades. Clean environment, quick service, no fuss. Perfect for families.
Best For
Better for: Authentic 57-year-old NYC thin-crust slices at unbeatable prices, quick neighborhood meals, late-night cravings, and feeding the whole family without breaking the bank. The Schiralli family recipe endures through new ownership.
Skip if: You want a sit-down dining experience or romantic atmosphere - head to Armondo's or Uncle Peter's instead. Pizza Sam is counter-service casual, not white-tablecloth Italian.