The Definitive Guide to Pizza at Fordham University

Fordham University students have the enviable position of being located within walking distance of the historically acclaimed Arthur Avenue, which features countless Italian restaurants, bakeries and pizzerias. Whether it’s going out for lunch with friends or dinner with visiting family, there are an infinite amount of delicious and inexpensive options in the form of pizzerias. Arguing on behalf of one’s favorite pizza spot is one of the more lighthearted debates that students will have during their time at Fordham.

Full Moon Pizzeria offers a wide variety of delicious specialty slices at the counter, such as chicken parmesan, eggplant parmesan, buffalo chicken, Sicilian and white pizza. They also have several rolls on display as an alternative. Many of their specialty slices range from $3.50 to $4.50, which makes Full Moon one of the more costly options. However, after taking into account their large slices with plentiful toppings, many are so satisfied with one slice that they do not have to buy a second.

This is an ideal place to bring a group of friends because everyone can find a slice that they will enjoy, and there is a good amount of seating both inside and out. It is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., and 12 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday. If it is too crowded inside or you’d prefer to enjoy the nice weather outside, it is great to have this option. Full Moon Pizzeria has a busy, lively atmosphere. It’s best to come earlier for lunch or dinner on the weekends because you may have to wait in line to place an order. Since their clientele includes both adults and Fordham students, it is also a good place to bring your parents so they won’t complain that they feel old.

In contrast, Tony & Tina’s Pizzeria is a much smaller pizzeria that has less variety—generally three different types of pies from which you can order single slices. Consequently, if you are looking to eat out with a big group or for a great variety, Tony & Tina’s may not be the place for you. However, the service is usually swift due to the limited seating, so it is a convenient place if you are looking for a quick meal. It is open for standard lunch and dinner times, spanning from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tony & Tina’s features several flavors of burek, an Albanian fried pastry, including cheese, meat and pumpkin.

Their slices are rather large, as with most Bronx pizza, so if you are still hungry after one slice you may want to try burek rather than order another slice. Their plain slices are tasty, and those who enjoy soft, doughy crust will enjoy this pizza. For anyone looking to budget, Tony & Tina’s Pizzeria is economical; a regular slice and a can of soda costs only $3.50. Another very affordable option is Pronto’s Pizzeria, located across campus on East Fordham Road, which is known for its dollar slices.

If you are looking for a late night pizza option in true New York fashion, then you should visit Pugsley’s Pizza and University Pizza & Restaurant. These popular, lively late night pizza locations are frequented by many Fordham students over the course of the weekend. Pugsley’s Pizza’s motto is “Love is it,” which can be found in the pizzeria and on the menu, along with appearing in the form of a hashtag on Fordham students’ Instagrams.

Puglsey’s is open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, and 11 a.m. to 3 a.m. on Saturdays. It is located between Hoffman and Hughes Aves., near the Walsh gate. It is best to order a single plain slice if you arrive late because it is crowded and they continually make these pies throughout the night. Their plain slices are always cooked just right, with a soft crust and lightly sprinkled with parmesan cheese and garlic. If it is crowded, it is a good idea to ask how long it will take for them to prepare something that is not on the counter because you may not get your food until your friends are done eating.

If you find yourself hungry after eating one slice, you may want to split an order of six garlic knots or a chicken roll with a friend. Half a dozen garlic knots are $2.50 and a chicken roll is $3.99. These are both delicious additions or alternatives to pizza at Puglsey’s. Pugsley’s chicken roll is highly acclaimed¬¬–the recipe can be found on the Cooking Channel’s website, and it was featured on a Buzzfeed list entitled “32 Best College Campus Foods in America.”

On its menu, University Pizza & Restaurant proclaims that it is “Fordham’s Favorite Pizza!” and has “Great Food at the Best Prices Around.” The preceding statement contributes to the Fordham “pizza debate,” but in regards to the second statement, a regular slice is $2.50 and specialty slices range from $3.25 to $3.75. Although their slices are large, they are relatively thin, so it is not too filling for a late night dinner or snack. University Pizza is open Sunday, Monday and Wednesday from 10:30 AM to 2:00 AM, and Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. As a result of its location between Arthur and Hoffman Aves., it garners a late night crowd of both on and off-campus students. Even though Pugsley’s has more seating suitable for large groups on crowded nights, University’s service is quick and the tables are clean.

There are countless other options for pizza, along with Italian food in general, outside the gates of Fordham University. It is not uncommon to hear Fordham alumni reminisce about their favorite pizza, and even return for a meal when they revisit the campus. Students will enjoy eating out with friends and family, eventually picking their own favorite spots and creating fun memories.