There’s no better rite of passage in New York City than grabbing a hot, greasy slice of dollar pizza from a hole-in-the-wall joint at 2 a.m. The $1 slice is a cultural phenomenon, a lifesaver for broke students, night owls, and budget travelers alike. But not all slices are created equal—some drip oil like a waterfall, while others are shockingly crisp and flavorful for the price. We’ve rounded up seven of the best $1 slice spots in NYC and ranked them from the greasiest to the greatest, so you know exactly where to go when that pizza craving hits.
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1. 2 Bros. Pizza (Greasiest)
2 Bros. Pizza is the king of the greasy slice. With multiple locations across Manhattan and Brooklyn, it’s the go-to spot for a fast, cheap fix. The crust is often floppy, and you’ll definitely need a few napkins—or maybe a towel—to handle the oil. That said, it’s hard to beat the price and availability, especially when you’re hungry and in a rush. For better or worse, 2 Bros embodies everything you imagine in a dollar slice.
2. Joey Pepperoni’s Pizza
Located in the Financial District, Joey Pepperoni’s offers up a greasy slice that still manages to hit the spot. The cheese is thick and slightly rubbery, and the sauce tends to slide off if you’re not careful. It’s not gourmet, but it’s got that nostalgic, cafeteria-pizza vibe that some people secretly love. It’s a favorite among students and Wall Street interns looking to stretch their lunch money.
3. Percy’s Pizza
Tucked away in Greenwich Village, Percy’s serves a dollar slice that walks the line between greasy and satisfying. The crust has a little more crisp than the previous entries, and the cheese-to-sauce ratio is more balanced. You’ll still see some oil pooling on top, but it doesn’t overwhelm the flavor. It’s a solid mid-tier option if you want a quick bite that doesn’t taste like pure grease.
4. Pronto Pizza
Pronto’s offers a dollar slice that’s slightly less oily and a bit more flavorful than its cheaper counterparts. The crust is airy, with a bit of chew, and the sauce has a hint of sweetness that makes it stand out. It’s a step up from your typical dollar-slice joint, and you’ll walk away feeling like you got a little more value for your buck.
5. Champion Pizza
Champion Pizza’s dollar slice feels like an upscale take on the genre. It’s not drowning in grease, and the ingredients seem just a bit fresher than most competitors. The cheese melts evenly, the crust holds its shape, and the tomato sauce actually has flavor. It’s a popular pick in SoHo and Williamsburg, especially for people who want a cheap slice without sacrificing too much quality.
6. NY Fresh Pizza
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This place lives up to the name—NY Fresh Pizza delivers a clean, crisp slice that tastes like it should cost more than a buck. The crust is thin but firm, the cheese is nicely melted, and you won’t need to mop up any grease. It’s one of those rare dollar slice spots that surprises you with how good it is. One of the best bang-for-your-buck deals in the city.
7. Slice Joint NYC (Greatest)
Slice Joint might be bending the “$1 slice” rule depending on the day or location, but when they run specials, it’s worth every penny. Their slice is crispy, balanced, and downright delicious. The crust is blistered and crunchy, the sauce is rich and flavorful, and the cheese is melted to perfection. It’s the kind of slice that makes you pause mid-bite and go, “Wait, this was a dollar?” If you catch a deal here, it’s hands-down the greatest dollar slice in NYC.
New York City’s dollar slices are more than just a budget-friendly bite—they’re a culinary adventure. From the greasy napkin-soakers to the surprisingly gourmet contenders, there’s a $1 slice out there for every taste. Whether you’re broke, hungry, or just in need of a classic NYC experience, use this list to find the right spot for your next pizza run.
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