Seemor
Mariella PizzaBWorth Trying
965 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10021
· Pizza restaurant, Italian restaurant, Delivery Restaurant
· 4.4/5 Google (677 reviews)
Delivery · Takeout
Reliable Upper East Side slice shop with standout Grandma and Sicilian slices, quick counter service, fair prices for the area, but reports of uneven service and occasional pricing confusion.
Why it gets a B for overall quality
Mariella Pizza delivers dependable neighborhood pizza with strong food quality anchored by praised Grandma and Sicilian slices, supported by exceptional service speed and ample seating. However, inconsistent execution on standard slices and occasional service lapses prevent grade A territory, while modest design appeal keeps it a practical local stop rather than a destination.
Restaurant Summary
A classic Upper East Side slice shop that feels busy and welcoming, Mariella draws both locals and park-wandering visitors. Reviews highlight quick counter service and a back room with plenty of seating. One diner summed it up: "The Grandma square was crisp and balanced, and I found a table right away." Expect a straightforward setup and fast turnaround more than charm. The cooking leans traditional and comforting rather than trendy. The Grandma and Sicilian slices are the clear hits, while the plain slice earns mixed notes from "solid" to "a bit bland." Beyond pizza, heroes and classic pastas like vodka sauce and chicken parm satisfy those after a heartier plate. Pricing sits in the reasonable UES range; portion sizes keep value solid, though a few guests reported confusion on add-on charges. Families do well here: the menu is kid-friendly by design with cheese and plain slices, pasta with butter or tomato sauce, and chicken parm. Salads and a vegetable pie cover simpler preferences. There is no explicit kids menu, but the selection offers plenty that children actually eat, and the ample seating makes group logistics easy.
At a Glance
- Grandma and Sicilian slices consistently praised
- Quick service with ample seating in back
- Portions are generous for the price
- Service can be curt; some rude interactions reported
- Occasional pricing/overcharge confusion noted at counter
What Sets It Apart
- standout_grandma_slice
- ample_back_room_seating
- longstanding_staff_history
What People Love
- Crisp Grandma squares with balanced sauce
- Hearty portions that fill you up
- Fast turnaround when you are hungry
- Classic comfort choices beyond pizza
Points of Concern
- A few reviews report curt or rude counter interactions
- Scattered complaints about bland or overly sweet/plain slices
- Pricing confusion on slices or toppings mentioned by a few diners
- One food safety complaint contrasted by otherwise typical cleanliness mentions
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleCounter With Seating
Average Cost$20-$32 per person
ReservationsNot required
What to Order
- For vegetarians, try Pizza Bianca ($28) or Baked Ziti ($19). For lighter meals, House Salad ($14) with a Regular Cheese Slice ($5.99) balances cost and variety.
Perfect For
- Quick bite after Central Park
- Casual family pizza night
- Solo slice with easy seating
- Group lunch without reservations
Location Insights
Area: Upscale residential and retail corridor near Central Park; steady local foot traffic and visiting shoppers.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit streets with consistent pedestrian activity day and evening.
Nearby: Near Central Park, boutique retail, cafes, and Hunter College; mix of families, students, and shoppers.
Upper East SideThe dining scene here is characterized by elegant, often classic restaurants, upscale cafes, and refined eateries catering to a well-heeled clientele. The atmosphere is generally quiet, sophisticated, and family-friendly, with a focus on quality and tradition rather than trendiness.
Lenox HillLenox Hill is known for its proximity to major hospitals and medical centers, attracting healthcare professionals and patients. Dining options range from upscale bistros to casual neighborhood spots, maintaining a polished yet approachable vibe.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday10:00–19:30
Tuesday10:00–19:30
Wednesday10:00–19:30
Thursday10:00–19:30
Friday10:00–19:30
Saturday10:00–19:30
Sunday10:30–19:30
Available: Delivery, Takeout
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