7 Overrated Pizza Places in New Jersey and 5 Hidden Gems Locals Swear By

New Jersey has a long-standing reputation for its pizza culture, with both classic New York-influenced slices and unique local styles. Some pizzerias attract large crowds thanks to their name recognition or location, but the experience does not always live up to the hype. On the other hand, the state is also home to small, less-publicized spots where locals return again and again for consistency and flavor.

This guide highlights seven pizza places that many visitors consider overrated, followed by five lesser-known gems that reflect New Jersey’s strong pizza traditions.

1. Star Tavern (Orange)

Walk through the doors of Star Tavern and you are greeted by the hum of conversation and the sight of thin-crust pizzas emerging from the kitchen. The tavern’s rich history brings in visitors from across the state looking to experience a longstanding local institution.

However, some patrons mention that the pizza’s crust can be brittle, with toppings distributed less evenly than at other tavern-style spots. The anticipation fueled by word-of-mouth and nostalgia sometimes gives way to a less memorable meal than expected.

Despite its charm, Star Tavern has received mixed feedback regarding flavor consistency and texture. Many appreciate the vintage ambiance, but others feel that similar pies in the area offer a more balanced bite for those searching for the quintessential New Jersey pizza experience.

2. Mack’s Pizza (Wildwood Boardwalk)

Mack’s Pizza is a name nearly synonymous with seaside summers for many who visit Wildwood. The boardwalk location guarantees foot traffic, with bright lights and the sound of amusement rides setting the backdrop for a casual slice.

Yet, behind the nostalgia, reviews often note that the pizza serves more as a quick snack than a culinary highlight. The crust can vary between visits, sometimes lacking the crispness or flavor that regulars elsewhere expect.

For vacationers, convenience and tradition may outweigh the need for exceptional pizza, but some locals express disappointment in the uneven quality. While Mack’s remains a staple for generations of beachgoers, those seeking standout flavor often look to quieter spots off the boardwalk.

3. Pete & Elda’s Bar / Carmen’s Pizzeria (Neptune City)

At Pete & Elda’s Bar, conversation often turns to the restaurant’s famous pizza-eating challenge. The extra-thin pies make for impressive stacks, attracting those eager to win a T-shirt for finishing a whole pie solo.

While the playful atmosphere draws visitors, some locals believe that the focus on the challenge overshadows the pizza’s overall flavor. The novelty of the wafer-thin crust sometimes comes at the expense of a satisfying, balanced meal.

Beyond the fun, opinions about the pizza remain divided. Some enjoy the light, crunchy crust, while others find the experience more about spectacle than substance. For those craving depth of flavor or varied textures, other Neptune City spots may prove more rewarding.

4. Grimaldi’s (Hoboken and other locations)

Brand recognition goes a long way at Grimaldi’s, whose coal-fired pies echo a Brooklyn tradition. The interior attempts to capture that classic New York pizzeria vibe, complete with visible ovens and memorabilia.

Despite the appealing presentation, reviews sometimes highlight inconsistent quality across New Jersey locations. The crust may not always achieve the signature smoky char that defines the original Brooklyn shop.

For fans of the coal-fired method, the experience is still worthwhile. However, pizza enthusiasts have noted a lack of the attention to detail found in smaller, independent shops nearby. The chain’s expansion appears to have diluted the distinctive edge that made Grimaldi’s a household name.

5. Seaside Heights Boardwalk Pizzerias

The boardwalks of Seaside Heights are lined with pizza stalls competing for swimmers, sunbathers, and tourists. Slices are cut extra large and sold at a premium, often meant to be enjoyed while strolling by the ocean.

Many describe the pizza as convenient more than exceptional. Greasy cheese, quick service, and a focus on volume sometimes result in pies that are heavy but short on memorable flavor.

Frequent visitors mention the sense of novelty but often seek out other establishments for a more refined or consistent slice once the boardwalk’s novelty wears off. For those prioritizing taste over location, alternatives nearby offer a more satisfying pizza experience.

6. Joe’s Tomato Pie (Trenton)

Joe’s Tomato Pie sits firmly within Trenton’s storied tomato pie tradition. The restaurant’s longevity has developed a loyal customer base, many of whom appreciate the old-school approach and familiar flavors.

Yet, visitors sometimes note that experiences can be uneven, with sauce-to-crust ratios varying from day to day. Some fans of Trenton-style pies compare Joe’s to other longstanding institutions and find the balance occasionally lacking.

For those exploring the city’s iconic tomato pies, Joe’s offers a window into tradition. However, consistency in preparation may leave first-time visitors searching for a more reliably harmonious slice elsewhere in Trenton.

7. Lombardi’s (Atlantic City)

Lombardi’s in Atlantic City borrows its name from the famed Manhattan pizzeria, drawing in curious tourists seeking a taste of New York history at the Jersey Shore. The exterior mimics classic city signage, with a bustling dining room inside.

Despite this association, reviews often point out that the Atlantic City location struggles to deliver the depth of flavor found at its New York predecessor. The crust and sauce may not hit the same high notes, leaving some diners underwhelmed.

While the atmosphere is lively and the menu extensive, pizza aficionados tend to favor less commercialized spots that focus on craft and tradition. Lombardi’s remains a recognizable stop for visitors, but regulars may direct those seeking excellence to smaller shops in the area.

Still, beyond the overhyped slices, New Jersey has plenty of local pizzerias that truly deliver:

8. Papa’s Tomato Pies (Robbinsville)

Dating back to 1912, Papa’s Tomato Pies is woven into the fabric of New Jersey’s pizza history. The pizzeria’s claim as one of the country’s oldest continuously operating spots is a point of pride for Robbinsville residents.

Papa’s specializes in Trenton-style tomato pies, with cheese laid beneath a layer of tangy tomato sauce. Locals admire the careful attention to tradition and the way flavors remain consistent through the decades.

Family ownership and a commitment to heritage are evident in every detail, from the crisp crust to the choice of toppings. Papa’s draws steady praise for delivering a slice that feels both classic and carefully crafted, making it a beloved staple among those in the know.

9. Razza Pizza Artigianale (Jersey City)

At Razza Pizza Artigianale, the focus is firmly placed on quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. The restaurant showcases New Jersey’s agricultural bounty through carefully sourced toppings and a menu that changes with the seasons.

The airy, modern space provides a welcoming setting for diners seeking something beyond the standard slice. National accolades have brought attention, but Razza’s commitment to craftsmanship remains central.

Chefs here experiment with fermentation, dough hydration, and locally sourced flour, resulting in a crust that is both tender and flavorful. For those interested in a thoughtful, ingredient-driven approach, Razza is a standout that continues to impress locals and visitors alike.

10. Denino’s Pizzeria & Tavern (Cranford)

Denino’s in Cranford carries on the tradition of its Staten Island roots, with a strong neighborhood feel and a menu that highlights thin-crust pies. The inviting bar and casual atmosphere lend themselves to lively gatherings.

Regulars appreciate the consistency of each pizza, from the light, crisp crust to the well-balanced toppings. The approach is straightforward yet satisfying, with quality ingredients at the forefront of each pie.

The pizzeria’s understated presence attracts those more interested in substance than spectacle. While it may not top travel lists, Denino’s earns steady acclaim from locals who value reliability and a welcoming space to enjoy a meal with friends and family.

11. Santillo’s Brick Oven Pizza (Elizabeth)

Santillo’s Brick Oven Pizza has been firing up pies since 1918, lending a deep sense of history to every visit. The shop’s brick oven, which is nearly a century old, produces pizzas with a distinctive crust and smoky aroma.

One standout feature is the option to customize crust thickness, reflecting decades of evolving pizza styles in a single menu. The family-run approach means each pizza is hand-crafted, with attention paid to technique passed down through generations.

Locals return not just for the nostalgia, but for the reliable quality and inventive choices. Santillo’s dedication to tradition and flexibility makes it a unique presence in New Jersey’s pizza landscape, appealing to both old and new fans alike.

12. Conte’s Pizza (Princeton)

Conte’s Pizza has anchored Princeton’s pizza scene for decades, earning a loyal following among students, locals, and visitors. The unpretentious bar-style atmosphere invites relaxed meals and friendly conversation.

Pizzas emerge with a crackling thin crust, topped with just the right amount of sauce and cheese. Many praise Conte’s for maintaining a steady level of quality over the years, a feat that keeps patrons returning time and again.

The pizzeria’s history is reflected in its décor and menu, both of which emphasize tradition over trends. For those seeking a reliable slice in a welcoming environment, Conte’s delivers a tried-and-true experience that continues to resonate with the Princeton community.