New York pizza is truly something else. The crispy crust, the tangy sauce, the shredded mozzarella cheese -the New York style slice grew out of Neapolitan style pizza when Italian immigrants brought pizza to NYC—and America—in the early 1900s. New York-style pizza has slices that are large and wide with a thin crust that is foldable yet crispy.

Owner Anthony “AJ” Caridi had the vision of bringing a piece of his native Brooklyn to Vancouver. In Brooklyn, a pizza joint is not just about the food – it’s a place that brings neighbours and families together to connect. It was the home away from home; and so, AJ’s Brooklyn Pizza Joint opened its doors in November in Mount Pleasant. you’ll find them on the corner of Main and Broadway. The unpretentious and cozy establishment has a decent local beer selection and of course, delicious pizza.

My recommendation? Definitely try the Sicilian Squares – crunchy and doughy crust, Sicilian sauce that’s a harmony between tangy and sweet, and of course mozzarella. The one I sampled was simple, only fresh basil added to the mix, but you can dress up your Sicilian with an array of toppings, although why would you want to? This was perfection just as is.

If dining solo, Aj’s also offers pizza by the slice for $3.50 a piece throughout the day.

Of course, good food always taste better with good friends to go with it, so assemble your crew and head down to AJ’s for a slice of Brooklyn right here in Vancouver.