Full Breakdown
New York City Reclaims Title of Pizza Capital with Mama’s Too
2/11/2026, 7:18:19 AM
Mama’s Too Named Best Pizza in the World
New York City's Mama’s Too has been recognized as the best pizza on the planet by Time Out magazine. The Manhattan-based pizzeria, with locations in the West Village and on the Upper West Side, earned this accolade for its Cacio e Pepe slice, which features whipped mascarpone, aged mozzarella, Pecorino Romano, and Parmigiano Reggiano. Time Out's network of editors and writers evaluated numerous pizza establishments globally, sampling various styles including New York, Detroit, and Neapolitan.
Unique Offerings at Mama’s Too
In addition to the acclaimed Cacio e Pepe slice, Mama’s Too, owned by Frank Tuttolomondo, offers a diverse menu that includes the Angry Nonna, topped with hot soppressata, Calabrian chili oil, and hot honey; the Bufalini, featuring beer-battered chicken; and the Poached Pear, which combines sweet gorgonzola with hot honey. Time Out New York's food and drink editor, Morgan Carter, praised the Cacio e Pepe for its harmonious blend of flavors, highlighting the creamy mascarpone and the tangy stretchiness of the aged mozzarella.
Competition and Recognition
While Mama’s Too took the top spot, only one other U.S. pizzeria, Milly’s Pizza in the Pan from Chicago, made it to the top 18 list, showcasing a thick-crusted pie that represents Chicago's iconic pizza style. This recognition emphasizes the competitive nature of the global pizza scene, with various cities vying for culinary supremacy.
Official Statements & Responses
Time Out's selection process involved a thorough sampling of pizzas worldwide, reflecting a commitment to identifying the best in the industry. The magazine's editors noted the distinct qualities of the Cacio e Pepe slice, which stood out among a diverse array of offerings.
Criticism & Opposition
Despite the accolades, some pizza enthusiasts may argue that the title of "best pizza" is subjective, as personal preferences for crust thickness, sauce, and toppings vary widely. Critics may also point to the absence of other notable pizzerias in the rankings, suggesting that the list may not fully represent the breadth of pizza excellence available globally.
Verbatim Quotes
“Keep in mind, there is fresh cracked black pepper on here, so chew gingerly if you are worried about any sensitive molars.” — Morgan Carter, Food and Drink Editor, Time Out New York
Conclusion
The recognition of Mama’s Too as the best pizza in the world by Time Out magazine underscores New York City's enduring reputation as a culinary leader in the pizza industry. As pizza lovers continue to explore diverse styles and flavors, the debate over the best slice is likely to persist, fostering a vibrant and competitive landscape for pizzerias worldwide.
