Smith Street Pizza Shops Compete as Slice Prices Surge in Brooklyn

• Average price for a plain slice on Smith Street rose to $4.25 in June 2024.
• Joe’s Pizza opened its Smith Street outpost in April 2024.
• Local favorites Table 87 and F&F Pizzeria are expanding their menus and promotions.

Strolling down Smith Street in Cobble Hill, locals and tourists now face a new reality: the classic New York slice costs more than ever before, with some shops charging upwards of $4.50 by early summer 2024. This transformation is not just about inflation—it’s a full-fledged pizza price war involving some of Brooklyn’s most storied names. Joe’s Pizza, a Manhattan icon, opened its Smith Street doors in April, immediately ratcheting up competition among established local favorites like Table 87 and F&F Pizzeria.

Brooklyn pizza culture has always rested on thin crusts and strong opinions, but 2024 marks a turning point as affordability collides with rising costs and big-name expansions. According to SliceWatch NYC, the average price for a plain slice in the neighborhood has jumped 18% since last year, fueled by higher cheese, flour, and rent expenses. Yet, the rivalry isn’t just about who charges less—it’s about who delivers on taste, tradition, and that ineffable New York attitude.

For Joe’s Pizza, the newest arrival, the strategy is clear: offer a classic slice at $4.25, backed by decades of Manhattan street cred and a relentless Instagram campaign. Meanwhile, Table 87, famous for its coal-oven pies and coal-fired slice, counters with weekday deals and inventive toppings, hoping to lure loyalists and curious newcomers alike. F&F Pizzeria, beloved for its airy sourdough crust, is betting on quality ingredients and community partnerships to keep seats—and ovens—full.

Amid the competition, customers are weighing more than just price. “I grew up on $2.75 slices, but the flavor now is next level,” says Sylvia Martinez, a Cobble Hill resident queued up at Table 87. While some grumble about the cost, few can resist the allure of a piping hot slice, New York-style—proof that in Brooklyn, the hunger for the best pizza remains as insatiable as ever.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why have slice prices on Smith Street increased so rapidly?

Rising ingredient costs, particularly for cheese and flour, combined with increased rents and utility expenses, have pushed prices higher since late 2023. Competition from new entrants like Joe’s Pizza has also led shops to boost quality, further elevating prices.

Which pizzerias are considered the top contenders on Smith Street?

Joe’s Pizza (opened April 2024), Table 87, and F&F Pizzeria are the most prominent rivals. Each offers distinct styles and specialty menu items, attracting enthusiastic local followings and media attention.

Are there any deals or promotions for pizza slices on Smith Street?

Yes, several shops offer specials—Table 87 frequently has weekday discounts, while F&F Pizzeria occasionally runs neighborhood promotions. It’s best to check their social media or ask in-store for current offers.