John's Pizzeria of Times Square

- 260 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036

## Introduction / Overview

In a city filled with pizzerias, John's Pizzeria of Times Square stands out not only for its exceptional pizza but for its truly unique and historic setting. This iconic restaurant is located inside a former Gospel Tabernacle Church, a 19th-century building that has been meticulously converted into the largest pizzeria in the United States. The interior retains much of the original church's grandeur, featuring high ceilings, beautiful stained-glass windows, and even chandeliers. This blend of history and comfort creates an atmosphere that is both cozy and awe-inspiring, offering a dining experience unlike any other. The restaurant is a women-owned business, a legacy started by Madeline Castellotti, who had the vision to transform this unique space into a pizza destination.

John's Pizzeria is known for its commitment to tradition, particularly its use of coal-fired brick ovens. These ovens, which have no thermostats and are operated by highly trained "pizza men," are the secret to their famous thin-crust, crispy pizzas. The ovens "season with age, making no two pizzas the same." The restaurant's popularity is evident by the crowds it draws, but the large space, which can seat over 400 people, is well-equipped to handle the rush. The service is consistently described as swift and friendly, ensuring that despite a typical wait time, the overall experience remains pleasant and efficient. It's a place where families, groups, locals, and tourists all come together to enjoy a slice of New York history and some of the city's best pizza.

## Location and Accessibility

John's Pizzeria of Times Square is perfectly positioned in the heart of Midtown Manhattan at 260 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036, USA. This location makes it an ideal spot for anyone visiting or working in the Theater District. Its close proximity to Broadway shows and iconic landmarks makes it the perfect destination for a pre-theater dinner or a post-show meal. The restaurant is easily accessible by a wide range of public transportation options. The Times Square-42nd Street subway station is just a short walk away, providing access to multiple lines, including the A, C, E, N, Q, R, S, W, 1, 2, 3, and 7 trains. Numerous bus routes also serve the area, making it a convenient stop from virtually anywhere in the city. The restaurant offers paid street parking nearby, though due to its central location, public transit is often the most convenient option. The building is wheelchair-accessible, with accessible entrances, restrooms, and seating, ensuring all guests can enjoy their meal comfortably.

## Services Offered

• Dine-in: The vast and historic dining space is perfect for enjoying a full meal with table service. The casual, family-friendly atmosphere is great for groups of all sizes.

• Takeout: For those on the go, John's offers convenient takeout service. It's a great option for enjoying their delicious pizza at home or on the run.

• Delivery: Enjoy John's Pizzeria from the comfort of your own home with their delivery service.

• Catering: The restaurant provides catering services, perfect for feeding large groups and events with their famous pizzas and other Italian specialties.

• Reservations: John's accepts reservations, which are highly recommended, especially for dinner, to avoid the usual wait.

• Bar Onsite: The full bar offers a great selection of beer, wine, and cocktails, perfect for complementing your meal.

• Dessert Menu: A selection of desserts is available to perfectly round off your dining experience.

## Features / Highlights

• Historic Location: The restaurant's most notable feature is its location in a historic 19th-century church. The original stained-glass ceiling and unique architecture create a dining experience that is both beautiful and unforgettable.

• Authentic Coal-Fired Ovens: The pizzas are cooked in genuine coal-fired brick ovens, which impart a unique flavor and perfectly crispy crust that has become a local specialty. No two pizzas are the same, thanks to the natural seasoning of the ovens over time.

• Women-Owned Business: John's Pizzeria of Times Square is a proud women-owned business, carrying on the vision of its founder, Madeline Castellotti.

• Extensive Menu: While famous for its pizza, the menu also offers a wide range of appetizers, salads, and traditional Italian specialties like Fried Calamari, Lasagna, and Fried Ravioli. They also have a full bar with a great selection of drinks.

• Family-Friendly: The restaurant is great for kids, with a specific kids' menu, high chairs, and even a changing table, making it a comfortable and convenient choice for families.

## Contact Information

Address: 260 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036, USA

Phone: (212) 391-7560

## What is worth choosing

What makes John's Pizzeria of Times Square truly worth choosing is the combination of its historic ambiance and its commitment to quality. This isn't just a place to grab a slice; it's a destination in itself. The moment you step inside, the beautiful, converted church setting, with its high ceilings and colorful windows, transports you to a different time and place. This unique environment makes the entire dining experience more special and memorable. As one reviewer noted, "Probably, there's only one of a kind on Earth."

The food, however, is the real star. The pizzas are hailed as "sublime" and "great," with a crispy, delicious crust and fresh ingredients. Unlike many other New York pizzerias, John's does not sell pizza by the slice, emphasizing a commitment to serving freshly made, whole pies that are baked to order in their renowned coal-fired ovens. This ensures every pizza is piping hot and perfectly crispy. While the pizzas are "huge," one customer appreciated that they could take "lots home," highlighting their generous portions. The menu's variety, from Fried Calamari to a fresh Arugula Salad, means there is something for everyone, whether you're a vegetarian or looking for classic comfort food. The friendly and swift service, even during busy times, ensures that your meal is an enjoyable one. While the restaurant can be crowded and noisy, it’s a vibrant energy that many find appealing. For anyone looking for an authentic and historic New York pizza experience with top-tier food and service, John's Pizzeria of Times Square is a must-visit. Its blend of history, quality, and location makes it an unforgettable part of the New York City experience.

John's Pizzeria of Times Square

260 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036, USA