Review of New York Pizza in Naha near Kokusai Dori. Okinawa's authentic slice of NY style pizza perfection.

I have to admit that I thought I knew what New York Pizza was i.e. a giant slice of pizza cut from a giant wheel of a pie, but when I sat down to eat and write this review I actually checked what made a great slice. Wikipedia tells us that “New York–style pizza is a pizza made with a characteristically large hand-tossed thin crust, often sold in wide slices to go. The crust is thick and crisp only along its edge, yet soft, thin, and pliable enough beneath its toppings to be folded to eat”. A bit more research told me that a slight char to the bottom is expected, along with a crisp but not too airy texture. Well, I have to say that New York Pizza in Naha has it nailed.

New York Pizza in Naha Okinawa — New York Pizza Naha

Pizza is everywhere now in Japan, much like bakeries, Japan’s love of bread products continues to grow. Once upon a time Parco Pizza and Pizza-La were the only joints on island, but now we’re spoilt for choice, but proper New York pizza has been harder to find. Normally as well toppings have been adjusted for local tastes.

Freshly cooked New York style pizzas ready to go

New York Pizza though is unashamedly authentic and does an excellent job of recreating a New York slice in Okinawa. They’re tucked one block off Kokusai street in Naha in an industrial style quite small unit with a few simple chairs, tables and a counter to enjoy your slice. There’s six pies to choose from with favorites like pepperoni and hawaiian as well as a home made sausage pizza and a jalapeno if you’re feeling spicy. Prices are a very reasonable ¥590 to ¥670 a slice with a whole pie at ¥4400. Drinks are great value, make your selection from the fridge with coke at ¥170 for example and Orion draft at ¥550. You can easily enjoy a drink and slice for under ¥1000 which is a bit of a steal being just off the very touristy Kokusai-dori. They even have a cheaper deal for lunch Monday to Friday of a drink and slice for ¥750.

The base was perfectly cooked with the right amount of crisp, air and a perfect fold. Sauce was light and fresh and no matter what toppings you choose you won’t be disappointed. It’s so good, we had a second slice to go!