A traditional NY slice is drab compared to the show-off pies topped with salads, ratatouilles and what-have-you displayed by many pizza joints nowadays. The unadorned classic has little to show off, but taste.
Mama’s Too circumvents that somewhat by specializing in a square, house slab topped with lens shaped pepperoni slices that cup just a little chili oil and are surrounded by charred crust and deep red rich tomato sauce. It is beautiful and flavourful and resting beside a traditional triangular slice of regular house pie, topped with cut basil, the pair make a showroom presentation.
For those wanting more, who are willing to desecrate a traditional NY slice, there are toppings: fresh mozzerella, Sopressata, chili oil, arugula, prosciutto, roasted garlic, caramelized onions, roasted eggplant, basil, charred potato, crimini mushrooms, whipped ricotta, fennel sausage, marscapone and whatever else is available will be mentioned by someone on staff, some of whom can lay on a NY attitude worthy of a rank pizza parlour.
True to New York form, you can hold a slice by its crust and it will stay as flat as a piece of shirt cardboard. No droop.
Owner Frank Tuttolomondo offers pretty much only what is coming out of the oven at the time you order, unless you want to wait 15 minutes for a special slice.
Additionally there are pastas, salads, panini, housemade bread, a selection of Italian wines & a variety of beer.
Between 105th and 106th Streets; take the 1 Train to 103rd Street.
