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Original Roma PizzaB-Worth Trying

Name: Original Roma Pizza
Address: 1562 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10128, New York, United States
Rating: 4.4

1562 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10128 · Pizza restaurant · 4.4/5 Google (135 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout

Reliable Upper East Side slice shop with wide variety and friendly counter service; sweet-leaning sauce divides opinions and occasional inconsistency on reheated slices.

Why it gets a B- for overall quality

Original Roma Pizza earns its grade through strong food quality and exceptional service attentiveness, delivering the classic UES slice-shop experience with friendly counter staff and quick turnaround. However, inconsistent execution on reheated slices and a sauce profile that divides opinion prevent it from reaching higher territory. For casual neighborhood pizza and families seeking straightforward comfort food with good value, it's a reliable local choice.

Restaurant Summary

This is a classic Upper East Side slice shop where the counter team is friendly and quick and the menu reads like a greatest-hits of NYC pies. Reviewers talk about big, crisp slices and a case full of options, with one calling the Grandma slice "worth the detour" and another praising the staff for going the extra mile with a lost item. The room is clean and casual, built for quick bites more than lingering. The cooking leans traditional NY-style with a few house twists—think vodka-sauce slices, chicken bacon ranch, and a tri-color rainbow pie. Fans love the thin, chewy crust and generous cheese, while detractors find the red sauce a touch sweet. If you like to customize, the team is happy to add toppings like spicy pepperoni to vodka slices. It suits eaters who want classic comfort with a bit of variety rather than culinary theatrics; stick to fresh pies or ask for a reheat until properly hot for best results. For families, this is an easy win. Kids can grab plain cheese or pepperoni, and there are familiar sides like garlic knots, fries, and chicken fingers. Picky eaters will find straightforward options, while adventurous teens might enjoy the Buffalo or vodka slices. No dedicated kids menu, but portions are shareable and prices are friendly for the neighborhood.

At a Glance

Wide slice variety including Grandma, vodka, and specialty chicken pies
Friendly counter service and quick turnaround
Good value for UES; large slices and fair prices
Sauce skews sweet which some dislike
Reheated slices can be uneven; ask for hot or order a fresh pie

What Sets It Apart

grandma_slice_strength
wide_slice_variety
friendly_counter_team

What People Love

That nostalgic NY-style crust snap
Grandma and margherita balance of sauce and cheese
Variety that keeps repeat visits interesting
Warm, helpful counter crew

Points of Concern

Red sauce sweetness divides opinions; some prefer a saltier profile
Occasional lukewarm or day-old slice complaints; freshness varies by timing
Isolated handling concerns (no gloves) and one upset-stomach report
Price quirks in an older review about upcharge; check receipt if customizing

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleCounter With Seating Average Cost$17-$28 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

If avoiding sweet sauce, opt for White Pizza ($16.50) or White with Pesto ($17.50).
Value play: Regular Cheese Pie ($13.95) shared, add sides like mozzarella sticks ($9.95).
Vegetarian group: Original Roma Vegetable Pizza ($26.50) or Spinach & Artichoke Dip Pizza ($25.50).
Gluten-free option: Gluten Free Pizza ($18.50), confirm prep practices if highly sensitive.

Perfect For

Quick neighborhood slice run
Casual family dinner without reservations
Late-night bite after a movie
Grab-and-go lunch near 3rd Ave

Location Insights

Area: Busy Upper East Side corridor with heavy foot traffic, families, and commuters; casual neighborhood vibe.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, active streets into late evening; typical UES safety profile.

Nearby: Near residential blocks, retail along 3rd Ave, close to Q line stations and bus routes; schools nearby.

YorkvilleYorkville is a quieter, more residential section of the Upper East Side with a growing number of casual dining options and neighborhood-focused eateries. The dining scene is a blend of traditional New York delis, family-run restaurants, and newer cafes catering to local residents, offering a relaxed and community-oriented atmosphere.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday10:00–01:30 Tuesday10:00–01:30 Wednesday10:00–01:30 Thursday10:00–01:30 Friday10:00–03:30 Saturday10:00–03:30 Sunday10:00–01:30

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout

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