Bella Vita: Are looks Deceiving or is it Midtown’s Best?

June 6, 2008

The quest for the best slice of pizza in Midtown near Times Square continues. Thus far, Bella Napoli’s Grandma slice has received the only mark of distinction. I’ve heard good things about the brick oven pizza at Bella Vita, on 58th between 6th and 7th, but have only had it by delivery. It’s time to put Bella Vita to the test with a fresh pie, in house. Are looks deceiving or is it delicious enough to take the Midtown crown?

The Brick Oven pie: Half Cheese, Half Pepperoni ($16.50)

The Pepperoni Slice

The Plain Slice

The Verdict

Cheese/Sauce

Generic fresh mozz. Basic, thin tomato sauce. The ratio of cheese to sauce varies depending on slice. Overall, could have used more cheese and sauce.

Crust

Way too much end crust for a pizza with dry, tasteless crust. Cardboard-like texture under the slice, dry and thin. By far the worst aspect of the pie as you can see from the leftover crust below.

Conclusion: Definitely not the best in Midtown

The pepperoni was the most redeeming quality of the pie. Small, crisp and slightly spicy. Unfortunately most of it was sprinkled on just two of four slices. Overall flavor of the pie was light and bright thanks to the combo of tomato sauce and fresh basil but the crust and lack of fresh mozzarella made it a little toothsome. Not a pie I’m particularly looking forward to eating again.