Local Eats: Pizzerias
Pizza is a universal food that most enjoy. It’s easily customizable, from its endless combinations of toppings and various crusts which can conform to different taste buds and even dietary restrictions. New York City is known for their great $1 slices, but here in Utica, even if you won’t find slices at that bargain, there are quality restaurants in the area.
Palermo’s Pizza:
Palermo’s Pizza is located in the heart of downtown Utica, right on Genesee Street. A personal favorite, their pizza reminds me of the hand-tossed pies that are made in the Italian neighborhood I grew up in. Palermo’s has a typical pizzeria menu from pizza, to garlic knots, calzones, and more. The family-owned mini-chain delivers to campus if you order with a $15 minimum and they are open until 2 am if you are ever craving a late-night snack. Of the pizza slices I have sampled, I prefer Palermo’s.
My rating: 4.5/5
Pizza Boys:
Pizza Boys is located in New York Mills by the New Hartford Consumer Square. Unlike the other pizzerias, they have a more diverse menu with items such as deep fried pickles, loaded tater tots and nachos, and garlic parmesan french fries. However, their extensive menu isn’t what they are known for. Every Tuesday, the pizzeria is flooded with an influx of college students, high school students, and locals alike ready to grab a $1 slice. It’s a little out of the way from the SUNY Poly campus, but if you are ever in the area and craving a decent slice of pizza, Pizza Boys is the way to go.
My rating: 3.5/5
O’Scugnizzo’s Pizzeria:
O’Scugnizzo’s is located on Bleecker Street, just off Genesee Street in Downtown Utica. Officially given the title of the 2nd oldest pizzeria in the country, the family owned restaurant has been in business for over 100 years. While their pizza is nothing less wonderful, they are also known for selling their tomato pies which are pizzas without mozzarella cheese. Their pizza is a strong contester on their menu, but if you are looking for a true Utica classic, head on over to O’Scugnizzo’s for a taste of their tomato pie.
My rating: 3.5/5
Poly Pizza:
Though not a stand-alone pizzeria, Sodexo’s Poly Pizza is a food service that opens from 10pm to 1am, Monday through Thursday. The pizza may not be top-notch, but an item on their menu that never fails to deliver are the wings. The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your taste, and multiple dipping sauces are available on the side. The menu may not be extensive, but for a late-night snack that can be purchased with meal points, I think Poly Pizza is a great deal.
My rating: 3/5
