Slice
Vinny Vincenz: Open Late, Tastes Great
words and photographs by mara and eli, special to slice .::.
While there is no shortage of late-night pizzerias, good ones are few and far between. But Vinny Vincenz is changing that. Vincenz offers real Sicilian pizza right off the L train—and as late as 4 a.m. Vincenz, born in Carroll Gardens and raised in Bensonhurst and Bay Ridge, has brought his Italian magic to the East Village, near the corner of 14th Street and First Avenue.
Vincenz been working in New York City pizzerias from age 13. Now owner of his own pizzeria, open less than a year, he specializes in Sicilian squares, and I could eat one every night of the week. Crisp, delicious crust, with a variety of toppings: fresh mozzarella and basil, sautéed spinach, olives, yellow and green grilled zucchini, wild mushrooms, broccoli rabe, Mama’s meatballs, and roasted garlic with homemade tomato sauce. Slices start at $2. I go for the broccoli rabe. But if you walk in and something’s coming out the oven—that’s the slice you want.
And the Napolitan pies are just as good. Thin crust just the way Italians like it. I love the red onion and tomato.
If you decide to get takeout, take advantage of an economical microbrew while you wait (Harpoon IPA is currently on tap)—7 ounces for just a dollar. Vincenz has a great wine list too. Bottles start at $18.
Vinny Vincenz has a casual, old-fashioned vibe. I could see the Sopranos being regulars. Go for the mobster art on the walls, go for a seat on the bench outside, go for the Sicilian slices, or go just to meet Vinny. Once you get to know him and he gets to know you, you won’t go anywhere else in the hood.
VINNY VINCENZ
Location: 231 1st Ave., Manhattan NY 10009 (b/n 13th and 14th streets)
Phone: 212-674-0707
Hours: Sunday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 2 a.m.; Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 4 a.m.
Payment Accepted: Cash and credit cards
Prices: Plain slice (Sicilian or Napolitan), $2; plain round pie, $12.75; plain Sicilian, $16