Lombardi's - New York, NY

The reason to come here is obvious: beautiful, smoky-crusted pizza with fresh tomatoes and mozzarella. The genius of this pizza starts with the crust, which is black and crispy on the underside (with pleasant, slightly bitter overtones), but gives way to a wonderfully soft, yeasty interior. Signature toppings like pepperoni and homemade meatballs, along with the restaurant's famous clam pie, keep locals and tourists alike coming back.

Opened in 1897 at 53 Spring St., just down the street from its present location, Lombardi's is easily one of the city's oldest eateries. Now, since taking over the space next door, the restaurant has almost doubled its former size. And while the original half--with its well-worn booths and open kitchen--easily outcharms the new dining room, the famously long wait has been cut in half, and thanks to the addition of a bar, it's almost a pleasure.