NICK’S PIZZA
Neighborhood: Forest Hills, Queens

I wouldn’t consider Nick’s a destination restaurant, especially with all the fantastic pizza available in Manhattan. But if you’re in the neighborhood, definitely stop in. You won’t find much in the way of atmosphere, but you will find great pizza. The crust is thin, charred as it should be, with tons of flavor and just a bit of chew. The tomato sauce is tangy and fresh and the mozzarella perfectly creamy. As with all New York pies, Nicks’ are at their best when not loaded with extra toppings—keep it to one or two. As a prelude to our pizza, Brian and I always split the Special House Salad, a blend of arugula, spinach and watercress tossed with a sweet-and-sour dressing.

NOTE: Nick’s is located at the edge of Forest Hills Gardens, a private residential community designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the pioneering landscape architect behind Manhattan’s Central Park. A leisurely walk through this area—filled with trees, lush greenery, and multi-million-dollar homes—is a great way to work up an appetite.

NICK'S PIZZA
10826 Ascan Avenue
Forest Hills, NY 11375
(718) 263-1126

COST: Inexpensive. Cash only.
HOURS: 7 days a week for lunch and dinner
HOW TO GET THERE: “E” or “F” (express) trains to 71st-Continental Avenue. “R” or “V” (local) trains to 71st-Continental Avenue. For more detailed directions, visit http://www.hopstop.com/