When a seasoned New York chef brings four decades of restaurant expertise to a Texas strip mall, magic happens. 🍕
Alan Kruger discovered Corpus Christi’s pizza scene dominated by corporate chains and decided locals deserved better.
His family-owned spot, Authentic New York Pizza, transforms simple ingredients into slices that transport diners straight to the Big Apple.
How They Won Locals’ Hearts
Kruger’s journey from dishwasher to executive chef spans an impressive culinary career across New York’s finest establishments.
After relocating to Corpus Christi with wife Maria in 2010, he sampled every pizza joint in town and found nothing but disappointment. “What they were serving as pizza was not what I know as pizza in New York,” Kruger declared, prompting him to open Authentic New York Pizza that December.
The restaurant quickly climbed Corpus Christi’s dining ranks, consistently earning spots among the top three restaurants citywide.
TripAdvisor currently ranks it #11 out of 855 restaurants in the city, with glowing reviews praising everything from the scratch-made dough to the mouth-watering sauce.
Food Highlights
- Cheese Pizza: Classic simplicity featuring Kruger’s signature crust that balances perfectly chewy and crunchy textures with rich tomato sauce and premium mozzarella cheese
- Meat Lovers Pizza: Hearty combination loaded with pepperoni, sausage, and multiple meat selections that satisfy even the most carnivorous appetites with authentic New York flair
- Four Cheese Pizza: Indulgent blend of mozzarella, cheddar, parmesan, and provolone creating a creamy, rich flavor profile that cheese enthusiasts absolutely crave 🧀
- Margherita Pizza: Traditional Italian-American favorite topped with fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomatoes that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to quality ingredients
- Veggie Lovers Pizza: Garden-fresh combination featuring mushrooms, olives, and seasonal vegetables that proves healthy options don’t sacrifice flavor
- Supreme Pizza: Everything-loaded masterpiece combining multiple meats and vegetables for those who want the complete pizza experience in every bite
Atmosphere
This hole-in-the-wall gem embraces classic pizzeria vibes with red-checkered tablecloths and vintage New York wall décor.
The relaxed, inviting space encourages lingering conversations over steaming slices. Families appreciate the casual environment while couples enjoy the BYOB policy that adds personal touches to dinner dates.
Despite its strip mall location, the restaurant creates an authentic neighborhood pizzeria feel that regulars absolutely treasure. ✨
Bottom Line
Authentic New York Pizza delivers legitimate East Coast flavors without requiring a cross-country flight. Kruger’s decades of experience shine through every perfectly crafted slice, while the welcoming atmosphere makes everyone feel like family.
Fresh ingredients, scratch-made preparations, and genuine New York authenticity create an experience that keeps locals returning weekly and converts skeptical visitors into devoted fans. đź’«
Address: 5838 S Staples St, Corpus Christi, TX 78413
đź“ž (361) 986-1151
đź•” Tue-Fri 3PM-9PM, Sat 11AM-9PM, Sun 12PM-7PM (closed Mon)