Garlic bread is a beloved staple of Italian cuisine and is enjoyed by many around the world. New York City is home to some of the best garlic bread you will ever taste.
Whether you are a fan of the classic garlic bread or prefer a more adventurous flavor, there is something for everyone in the city that never sleeps.
When it comes to garlic bread, there are a few things that make it truly great. The bread should be perfectly toasted, with a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy center.
The garlic flavor should be bold but not overpowering, and the bread should be generously coated with butter or olive oil. Some places even add additional herbs and spices to their garlic bread to give it an extra kick of flavor.
New York City has a diverse culinary scene, and this holds true for garlic bread as well. From traditional Italian restaurants to trendy cafes, you can find garlic bread in all shapes and sizes.
Many places even offer unique twists on the classic dish, such as garlic knots, garlic naan, and garlic flatbread.
In this blog post, we will explore the best places for garlic bread in New York City. We will take a closer look at what makes each location special, and what sets their garlic bread apart from the rest.
So, whether you are a local or just visiting, be sure to add these spots to your list of must-try places for garlic bread in the city.
1. Carmine's Italian Restaurant – Times Square
Carmine's Italian Restaurant in Times Square offers delicious garlic bread with cheese.
The portions are family-style and reasonably priced. The restaurant can get busy, so reservations are recommended.
The service at the bar is friendly, but the service at the table can be slow.
The lasagna and shrimp pasta are highly recommended. The atmosphere is perfect for a family-friendly Italian meal.
2. Olio e Piu
Olio e Piu is a must-visit for garlic bread lovers. The restaurant offers a cozy ambiance with plenty of seating options, including a lovely outdoor area.
The staff is friendly and attentive, and the service is top-notch. The menu boasts a variety of delicious pasta dishes and Neapolitan-style pizzas, but the garlic bread steals the show.
It's crispy, buttery, and loaded with fresh garlic. The prices are on the higher side, but the quality of the food and service make it worth the splurge.
Don't forget to make a reservation, as the restaurant is quite popular.
3. Nolita Pizza
Nolita Pizza is a compact pizzeria with a mellow vibe. They serve up quality pizza at a reasonable price.
The crust is firm yet pliable, and the garlic bread is delicious.
The slices are large, and the cheese and sauce are fresh and tasty.
It's definitely worth a visit if you're in the area.
4. Scarr's Pizza
Scarr's Pizza is a retro-style pizzeria that serves up delicious slices and pies made with modern ingredients.
The standout item on the menu is the garlic bread, which is crispy, buttery, and loaded with garlic flavor.
The pizza itself is top-notch, with a nice crunch and quality ingredients that make it worth the slightly higher price tag.
The pandemic setup is simple but effective, making it easy to grab a slice on the go. If you're in the mood for a classic New York slice, Scarr's Pizza is a must-visit spot.
5. Bleecker Street Pizza
Bleecker Street Pizza offers some of the best pizza in the city. While their crust may not be perfect, their garlic bread is a standout.
The sauce is full of tomato flavor and pairs perfectly with the crispy bread.
This no-frills pizza shop is perfect for a late-night slice or a quick takeout order.
Don't miss out on their garlic bread when you visit.
6. Vic's
Vic's is a modern Italian restaurant that offers updated Italian dishes and craft cocktails.
The atmosphere is spacious and low-key, with a cool young vibe. The limited menu may make some nervous, but the garlic bread is a must-try.
The complimentary cheese spread and fried onions are fantastic, and the pizza has a delightful herb aroma without being too salty.
The service is friendly and attentive, making for a great dining experience. Vic's is a solid option for those looking for delicious Italian fare and unique cocktails.
7. Spunto NYC Thin Crust Pizza
Spunto NYC Thin Crust Pizza is a cozy pizzeria that serves excellent thin crust pizzas with creative toppings.
Their garlic bread is a must-try, perfectly crispy and full of flavor. The staff is friendly and accommodating, making every visit a pleasant experience.
With great happy hour deals and a free pizza with every bottle of wine or pitcher of beer, Spunto NYC Thin Crust Pizza is a great spot for a night out with friends or a casual dinner.
Highly recommended for pizza lovers!
8. Arturo's Coal Oven Pizza
Arturo's Coal Oven Pizza is a must-visit for garlic bread lovers. The crispy and flavorful garlic bread is a perfect appetizer to start off a meal.
The cozy and charming atmosphere of the restaurant adds to the experience.
The friendly staff and live music make the visit even more enjoyable. The restaurant also offers a wide selection of pizzas and vegetarian options.
For those looking for authentic Italian cuisine, Arturo's Coal Oven Pizza is definitely worth a visit.
9. Proto's Pizza
Proto's Pizza is the place to be for garlic bread lovers.
Their crusty bread is infused with the perfect amount of garlic and baked to perfection.
The friendly staff and cozy seating make for a comfortable dining experience.
Don't forget to try their delicious pizza and pasta dishes. Proto's Pizza is a must-visit for those craving a garlic bread fix.
10. Tony's Pizza
Tony's Pizza is a great place for garlic bread lovers. The pizza is made with fresh mozzarella and delicious tomato sauce, which makes it an excellent choice.
The workers are kind and attentive, making sure that every customer leaves satisfied.
The slices are reasonably priced, and the portions are generous. The garlic bread is tasty and worth trying.
It's a great spot to grab a slice after a show or for a quick lunch. If you're in the mood for Italian or pizza, Tony's Pizza is a great option to consider.
11. John's of 12th Street
John's of 12th Street is a veteran, old-school Italian restaurant that serves classic red-sauce specialties and vegan versions.
The garlic bread is a must-try, with visible pieces of fresh chopped garlic.
The restaurant also offers outstanding pizza, roasted peppers, and fresh mozzarella.
The ambiance is cozy and authentic, making it a perfect spot for a delicious Italian meal. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a taste of classic Italian cuisine.
12. Zia Maria Little Italy
Zia Maria Little Italy is a gem hidden in the midst of Little Italy. This low-key destination serves up some of the best Italian fare in the area. While everything on the menu is worth trying, their garlic bread is a standout.
It's warm, crispy, and perfectly seasoned with garlic and herbs. The restaurant also offers housemade pasta, shared plates, pizza, and other Italian classics.
The atmosphere is warm and cozy, making it a great spot for a date night or a casual dinner with friends. The attentive and knowledgeable staff add to the overall experience.
If you're in the area, be sure to check out Zia Maria Little Italy for their mouth-watering garlic bread and other delicious Italian dishes.
13. Piccolo Angolo
Piccolo Angolo is a cozy Italian restaurant that serves classic Italian dishes. One of their standout items is their garlic bread.
It's warm, buttery, and has just the right amount of garlic. The bread is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
It's the perfect appetizer to share with friends or family. The restaurant itself is small and intimate, making it a great spot for a date or a night out with friends.
The staff is friendly and attentive, adding to the overall enjoyable dining experience.
14. Little Italy Pizza
Little Italy Pizza is a pizza restaurant that offers a wide range of pizza slices and pies. They also serve calzones and garlic knots.
The staff is friendly and provides fast service. The restaurant is moderately priced for the quality of ingredients used in the pizzas.
The unique pizza combinations are a must-try, especially the chicken with vodka sauce and chicken and mushroom with sweet chili sauce.
The garlic bread is the star of the menu, with a perfect balance of garlic and cheese. The restaurant has a basic NYC-style pizzeria vibe and is a great place to grab a quick bite to eat.
15. Garlic New York Pizza Bar
Garlic New York Pizza Bar is a must-visit for garlic bread lovers. Their soft bready base with a crispy bottom is topped with a generous amount of fresh sauce.
With a variety of options to choose from, including unique flavors like ziti and vodka sauce, Garlic offers square slices that are chewy and satisfying.
The staff is friendly and hospitable, making for a pleasant dining experience. Don't miss out on their garlic knots and specialty slices like the bbq chicken or chicken-bacon-ranch.
Garlic New York Pizza Bar is a solid and consistent pizza joint that won't disappoint.
16. Benito One
Benito One is a must-visit place for garlic bread lovers. The appetizer of bruschetta and garlic bread is top-tier and sets the tone for a delicious meal.
The portions are hearty, and the pasta is cooked to perfection. The owner is hands-on and ensures that everything goes smoothly.
The atmosphere is unfussy and authentic, making it a quintessential Little Italy spot.
The porcini mushroom raviolis are a must-try and leave a lasting impression. The garlic bread is a standout and will have you coming back for more.
