Mancini’s Wood-Fired Pizza – Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, NY

Growing up in Brooklyn, I knew of Bay Ridge — that neighborhood in the far southwestern corner of the borough, made famous by “Saturday Night Fever.” We’d shop at the Korvette’s on Bay Parkway and think that was all Bay Ridge had to offer. Oh, were we ignorant.

Last week I read about the Bay Ridge Pizza Wars and its winner, Mancini’s Wood-Fired Pizza. So, visiting my daughter this past weekend, I suggested we give them a try. We were very happy we did — Mancini’s blew us away. From the friendly, attentive service to the delicious Sicilian slice and the wonderful regular pie, everything was terrific. Parking is tight in the area, especially with a street fair going on that day, but we found street parking right near the municipal lot.

What to order
The Sicilian slice was wonderful — different from Spumoni Gardens’ version, but definitely in the same league. The regular pie had a sauce that was noticeably sweet, which paired fabulously with the hot pepper flakes I like to sprinkle on my slices. When we left, we grabbed a menu to plan a return trip — that chicken parm hero was calling my name, and the pasta with grilled chicken looked wonderful at the table next to us.

A quick question for fellow New Yorkers: do you find yourself checking out what other tables are having before you order? I tend to strike up conversations with folks nearby and pick up some great recommendations that way.

Good to know before you go

• Parking: Street parking can be tight, especially on weekends or when there’s a street fair, but there’s a municipal lot nearby as a backup.
• Hours: Open 7 days, 11am–10pm — good flexibility for a late lunch or dinner run.
• Don’t skip dessert: There’s a gelato counter on site if you’ve somehow got room after the pizza.
• Cash vs. card, reservations: Worth calling ahead to confirm, since policies can change — the number’s below.

My heartfelt thanks to everyone at Mancini’s. We’ll be back.