Sofia Pizza Shoppe

A quality slice shoppe in midtown east. The price is a bit higher $3.25 for a plain slice but they have a 2 for $6 plus a drink lunch special. When I want better quality or if I'm recommending a NYC slice place, I'll recommend this in the area. I'd gladly take the trip down from the 60s.

great pizza still lives on the island of Manhattan! it thrives in a tiny pizzeria called Sofia Pizza Shoppe. though the number of places serving up legit slices of NYC pizza has shrunk over the years. the cheesy saucy magic of team at Sofia’s is something to appreciate bc even though times change…great pizza remains the same…delicious. Sofia Pizza Shoppe is mostly a grab-n-go place. it is squeezed into a tiny space on First Avenue in the east 50s. this pizza joint has a several pies on display, a couple of tables outside, and a raised ledge if you want to eat inside. the plain cheese pizza called the “classica” is amazing. seriously. this is what classic NYC should be—thin crispy crust with some flop but not too thin or cracker-like; crushed salty sweet plum sauciness; a melty layer of mozzarella; and the hints of Pecorino Romano cheese. the crust has that slight crunch yet soft chew, the cheese is scattered and smooth but doesn’t become like a thick blanket, and the flavor of fresh ripened tomatoes in a sauce is what takes this slice from “very good” to AWESOME is its authenticity and commitment to serving that iconic NYC pizza slice to veteran carb eaters as well as pizza eating rookies. don’t underestimate these plain slices as they are filling because they are high quality. there are a good variety of round specialty pies as well as specialty square pies (like Sicllian and Grandma Pizza). of course, you can customize your own with those classic toppings. your eyes will feast on those pies on display. Sofia’s also serves calzones and rolls and such, but the focus is on pizza. PRO TIP: there’s a two slices of “classica” + can of Coca Cola lunch special from 11 am to 3 pm. the staff is friendly and cool. it’s clear that the pizza here is a product of passion and hard work. if you haven’t had this pizza, you are not living your best life…seriously.

Great first experience!! We were looking for our first slices while visiting and this was a great spot!!!

Update: Been back a couple of times since with much better pizza and etiquette from the staff. Sicilians have been delicious (and upside down vodka one particularly standing out) and classic slice has been solid. Upgrading rating as a result. Original: Underwhelming. Sicilian was really dry and didn't have much flavor, spinach dip slice was fine but I wouldn't be in a rush to go back for it. Guy behind the counter had an attitude and was rude to folks in the shop with accents that were tricky to understand as well. Overall really not great.