There are many cuisines represented in Astoria. The most well known is Greek. After the popularity of Greek cuisine in Astoria comes Italian cuisine. It's no surprise then to come upon Rosario's Deli as you descend the stairs from the Ditmars Boulevard station on the N/Q train. It's the last stop, but the first stop for some great Italian specialties at Rosario's.
Rosario's makes their own mozzarella fresh every day. It's delicious. I've bought some intending to use it on some homemade pizza only to find that it's gone, devoured plain or with some tomato and basil in a caprese salad.
In the back of the shop, they make and sell pizza. This isn't a pizzeria so you don't get a choice of many toppings. In fact, you get no choice. It's all plain cheese pizza, thin crust and delicious. The mozzarella comes from the fresh cheese that Rosario's makes. The sauce is homemade and applied sparingly. Too much sauce and the crust will become soggy before you finish your slice. This crust stays crunchy to the very end.
There are a couple of small tables and a few chairs for those who do not want to take their slices out. I never thought pizza, especially crunch thin crust pizza traveled well. The pizza always ends up a bit soggy. You can pop a slice or whole pizza into the oven for a few moments to freshen it. though. Me, I prefer to eat it at Rosario's.
I had been going to Rosario's for years before trying their pizza. For some time I didn't realize that they made pizza. There are no signs. You have to know or notice the pizza in the back. Now that I know, I stop in for a slice every time I pass by. Because it's thin crust, it's not too filling nor is it too caloric. It's just a tasty way to relax and enjoy.
Meet Rosario. He's engaged in his labor of love, making his special pizza. It's all top quality ingredients and it's made with love.
Rosario's Deli
22-25 31st Street
Astoria, NY
