If there’s one food that New Yorkers can’t get enough of, it’s pizza. From classic New York-style slices to Neapolitan pies and everything in between, the city is home to some of the best pizza in the world. But in recent years, a new trend has emerged in the pizza scene: pop-up pizzerias.

These small-scale operations are often run by passionate pizza enthusiasts who bring unique flavors and techniques to the table. With minimal overhead costs and the freedom to experiment with unconventional toppings and crusts, pop-up pizzerias are quickly gaining a devoted following in the city.

One of the standout pop-up pizzerias in NYC is Una Pizza Napoletana. This tiny shop, run by pizzaiolo Anthony Mangieri, is only open a few days a week and serves a limited menu of Neapolitan-style pies. But what the shop lacks in size and variety, it makes up for in quality. Mangieri’s pizzas are made with simple, high-quality ingredients and are baked in a wood-fired oven until the crust is perfectly charred and chewy.

Another notable pop-up pizzeria is Scarr’s Pizza. Located in a small storefront on the Lower East Side, Scarr’s serves up classic New York-style slices that are crisp, cheesy, and loaded with flavor. Owner Scarr Pimentel takes a no-frills approach to his pies, using only the best ingredients and letting the flavors speak for themselves.

For pizza lovers looking for something a bit more adventurous, there’s Ops. This Bushwick-based pop-up is known for its unconventional toppings, like smoked trout and fermented honey, as well as its sourdough crusts. With a rotating menu and a commitment to using locally-sourced ingredients, Ops is a true standout in the pop-up pizza scene.

But what is it about these small-scale pizzerias that has New Yorkers so excited? For one, the intimate setting allows for a more personal dining experience, with customers often able to chat with the pizzaiolos and watch as their pies are crafted by hand. Additionally, the limited menu and occasional nature of pop-up pizzerias creates a sense of exclusivity that draws in foodies and pizza enthusiasts alike.

There’s also a sense of innovation and experimentation that comes with pop-up pizzerias. With no strict rules or traditions to adhere to, pizzaiolos are free to experiment with new techniques and flavors, resulting in truly unique and unforgettable pies.

Of course, with the popularity of pop-up pizzerias comes the challenge of actually getting a slice. Many of these shops have limited hours and are often only open a few days a week, making them a coveted destination for foodies. But for those willing to brave the lines and wait for a taste of these one-of-a-kind pies, the reward is well worth it.

In a city known for its love of pizza, the pop-up pizzeria scene is a welcome addition. With their inventive toppings, artisanal crusts, and intimate settings, these small-scale operations are quickly becoming a staple of the city’s food culture. Whether you’re a die-hard pizza enthusiast or just looking for a new dining experience, be sure to check out NYC’s pop-up pizzerias for a taste of some of the city’s best pies.