Francesco's Grandma Slice - value and taste-satisfaction in Greenwich Village

June 4, 11:22 PMNY Pizzeria ExaminerElena Mancini

Francesco's Pizza
140 W 4th St
New York, NY 10012
212-477-1161

Francesco’s is a classic New York-style eat-in/ take-out pizzeria specializing in the standard genres of Neapolitan and Sicilian pizzas and pizzeria fare, but with above average taste.

Yet, despite the quality of the ingredients, the skillful crust and the gentle pricing, it does not seem to have the following that it deserves. Let me explain that claim.

On my most recent visit I sampled their grandma slice. I was in between meals so the fact that it did not have cheese appealed to me at the moment. Also, the look of the homemade tomato sauce and basil leaves convinced me that this would be the right choice.

The square lived up to its appearance. The sauce was fresh and not too acidic. The crust was thin, baked medium gold and packed some real crunch. The fact that it did not contain any traces of garlic was also a plus. Garlic should be an optional topping in my view.

Generously cut, the square, which was more like a (4" x 7") rectangle, cost a total of $2.98, including sales tax, making it not only a quick and satisfying lunch, but an excellent value as well.

While I wasn't busy savoring my pizza, I wondered: where are the crowds? Not that I minded being able to enjoy my pizza sitting down on the clean granite-topped table, but why were they missing out? Any clues?

A review of their enticing spinach slice will be soon to follow. Will it live up to their grandma square? Stay tuned...