Discover the magic behind John’s Pizzeria of Times Square, a beacon in the bustling heart of New York.
This spot transformed an abandoned 19th-century church into the largest pizzeria in the US, seating 400 hungry souls.
Opened in 1997 amid Times Square’s gritty makeover, it draws theater crowds with coal-fired thin-crust pies.
Fresh ingredients and handmade recipes keep locals returning for more.
How John’s Pizzeria of Times Square won locals’ hearts
Picture this: In 1995, visionary Madeline Castellotti spotted potential where others saw chaos—adult shops and graffiti-covered streets in Times Square.
She scooped up an old Gospel Tabernacle Church on West 44th, its stunning stained-glass ceiling divided like perfect pizza slices.
Two years of hands-on grit turned it into a pizza palace, opening in June 1997 as the neighborhood bloomed.
Locals fell hard for the coal-fired brick ovens hitting 800 degrees, no thermostats, just skilled pizzaiolos crafting pies that taste alive.
Reviews rave about crisp crusts with no flop, balanced cheese and sauce, plus fresh basil bursts—surprising quality smack in tourist central.
Generations later, daughter Lisa upholds the legacy, hosting Broadway bashes and weddings in this one-of-a-kind space.
Broadway stars and New Yorkers alike swear by slices that evolved with the ovens’ seasoning, proving real pizza wins hearts over hype.
Word spread through theater district whispers: pre-show fuel or post-curtain feasts here beat the chains.
Even skeptics bite into perfection, ditching expectations for that sweet sauce and crunchy edges locals guard like secrets.
Over 28 years, it’s not just pizza—it’s a Times Square survivor story blending history, heat, and heart.
Food Highlights
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Traditional Pizza: Mozzarella and tomato sauce on thin coal-fired crust—a must-try classic for its balanced flavors and NY authenticity, raved as surprisingly good in tourist traps.
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Margherita Pizza: Fresh mozzarella, sauce, and basil—local favorite for simple perfection, crisp bite that theater-goers crave pre-show.
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Pizza Bianca: Ricotta and mozzarella, no sauce—creamy delight popular for its rich, oven-seasoned taste without tomato overload.
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Buffalo Chicken Pizza: Grilled chicken in buffalo sauce with bleu cheese crumbles—spicy kick hit loved for bold flavors balancing heat and crunch.
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Hawaiian Pizza: Ham and pineapple atop cheese and sauce—sweet-savory crowd-pleaser drawing fans for its fun twist on thin crust.
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Shrimp Fra Diavolo Pizza: Shrimp on spicy arrabbiata sauce with mozzarella—fiery must-order for seafood lovers seeking bold, spicy heat.
Atmosphere
Step into a 19th-century church reborn, with soaring stained-glass ceilings painting pizzas in colorful glows.
The vibe buzzes with pre-theater energy, families, and groups filling 400 seats effortlessly.
Coal ovens roar, filling air with toasty magic amid Broadway buzz.
It’s historic charm meets lively chaos—perfect for any crew.
Bottom Line
Visit for unique church vibes, legendary coal-fired pies, theater convenience, group-friendly space, and local-approved quality. Under 50 words: Pure NY magic awaits!
Address: 260 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036
📞 (212) 391-7560
🕔 Mon-Sun 11:30 AM – 11:30 PM