Staten Island's most iconic hangout Lee's Tavern is way more than a bar with some good eats. Yes, Lee's has absolutely delicious pizza, wings, calamari, and beers, lets get that out of the way first. If that was "all" they had to offer, they would still deserve every 5 star rating they have on here. But Lee's is way more than that. Lee's is "small town vibes" tucked away in a quiet corner of the big city. Lee's is your quintessential neighborhood hangout, where colleagues come for a beer after clocking out, families come for pizza and wings after a little league game, and where long-time pals meet up for old times sake. Lee's is the place you bring a friend from out of town, whose skepticism is quickly erased with a sudden appreciation for your roots and your hometown. Lee's is the "hole in a wall" place tourists go to great lengths to seek out, but only a handful will be able to "take it all in" and see Lee's for what it is. (The ones who do not leave 1 star reviews here on Yelp.) Lee's is not a place that bends and caters to your needs. Lee's is loud, crowded, and disorganized at times, and it wouldn't be the same if it wasn't. Lee's is a good 20 years overdue for the very renovation that would probably suck the life out of the place. Let's hope they can hold out another 20 years. Lee's is the place that on Thanksgiving Eve gives out free Thanksgiving dinners to their patrons, because hey, that's what they do. Lee's - the best Staten Island has to offer! Side note - don't order pizza from Lee's to go. Eating Lee's after a 20 minute car ride is a recipe for leaving a 1 star review on here. There is a reason they don't deliver. Wait for a table, slow down your busy schedule and enjoy the pizza there. read more

Exceeding the Bar Pie Standard There no sign out front. It's on the corner and it's dark, so unless you're a local, you might not be ready to enter. What seems most remarkable is that this pizza is produced by a bar . It is in the same league as Denino's , surprisingly excelling in all ingredients put into the oven. The kitchen feel like it should be simple, but they also have a white clam pie, a chicken and hot pepper pie, and a grandma - which are all recommended by regulars. This is a great example of a pie that could only be Staten Island (or New Jersey). Definitely worth the trip. Opened: 1940 Distinction : Frequent favorite of NYC, especially from locals. Great example of a bar pie. read more

I'm originally from Staten Island and had never gone to Lee's. I recently read that it was named the best pizza on the Island so I decided to check it out. We arrived around 6 pm on a Friday and waited about 40 minutes for a table. The vibe of the place is mellow, and it's a bit of a dive. Most of the men were dressed in hooded sweatshirts. You get a paper napkins and plates, plastic tables (if you sit near the bar)...you get the idea. We ordered the fried calamari, an eggplant pie and white clam pie. The eggplant, which is with a red sauce, was delicious. The clam pie, not so much. The crust was very well done and crunchy. All we could taste was the garlic. It as a garlic pie basically. The calamari was ok, was a little bland for my taste and the sauce was very spicy. But I don't think it was frozen calamari, which was a plus. Lastly, the service was so-so. The waitress when she actually made it to the table was pleasant enough, however it seemed as there were only 2 for the whole place, which was really busy. I'd say go to Lee's if you live on Staten Island-but don't go out of your way. read more

If you like old fashioned and thin pizzas, then this is your spot! Usually, I am very picky with pizzas and I came from Brooklyn, we usually know which spot has good pizzas and when I moved to Staten Island a few years ago, I was having a hard time finding good pizzas places in Staten Island. I always wants good amount of cheese, tomato sauce and flavoring on the pizza to make me happy. They use fresh ingredients on the pizzas, which that is a plus! I tried a few different kinds of pizzas and they never to disappoint. If you order a veggie pie, just be reminded that the veggies are pre cooked and they throw it on top right after they pull out a hot pizza pie out of the oven. The only "downside" with thin pizzas, the crust tend to get burnt easily. The place is small but cozy. Just be prepared, come early to get seats or order out. The only "downside" with Lee's in general, they are very limited with beer sections and of course it is targeting specific audience. If you are into American beers and seasonal draft section, then come here. read more

It may be a cliche, but Lee's surely falls into the category of "neighborhood gem" and I sure wish it was in MY neighborhood. The corner taproom where locals go, everything is casual, folks are friendly (at least until they get drunk), and someone with a real talent is preparing bar food, be it burgers or sandwiches or pizza. It's so easy to miss from the outside; there are a few low-profile neon signs inside the windows. I didn't see any discernible exterior signs announcing suds or pie. I knew I was a stranger in this place. Sometimes, that gets you some circumspect treatment. But here, the large and affable bar man came over to take my drink order and bring a menu. I settled for a lemonade and I ordered the large pie with sausage (just $10 per pie and $2 for the topping). A bar pie is also offered for $5.75 and I got one to go. The toppings offered included most of the standard ones, red OR white onions, and some specialty pies with stuff like clams or chicken on top. My pie came pretty quickly. It looked promising, with a nice golden browning to the crust and the cheese. It was piled generously with real Italian sausage. In fact, this was the best sausage topping I've ever seen or tasted outside of DeLorenzo's on Hudson St. in Trenton NJ. The pie truly had the classic "bar pie" cracker-thin crust. It was devoid of char on the bottom, but it was cooked about perfectly and it had great flavor. At the cornicione, there was no bend or chewiness -- it crumbled just as a cracker might but with tons of flavor. The sauce sparkled, with a deft touch of sweetness and saltiness. The cheese seemed to be conventional mozzarella or mozz blended with another cheese. What I discovered as I eagerly wolfed down half a pie was that Lee's has achieved the same magic as Totonno's in Coney Island; namely, the magical melding of crust, sauce, and cheese. The whole is truly greater than the sum of the parts. Don't confuse Lee's with the artisanal output of DiFara and Forcella, both of which use so many ingredients imported from Italy. At the incredible $10 a throw, Lee's is taking good but not boutique ingredients and using some kitchen skill to crank out the consummate bar pie. Destination pie? Man, this is right on the edge. I gotta say yes. Best. Bar. Pie. I've. Had. I am Pizza Quixote! read more

Lee's Tavern - Slice with sausage - Pizza Near Me - Staten Island, New York

This is a neighborhood favorite but could easily be top-5 bar dining experiences in the city. This place is far from stuffy, it's iconic, well-placed, has locals, somewhat hipster(without the hipsters), and no-frills. Buffalo Calamari - 10/10. You're coming here for food and beer. The food is nothing short of phenomenal and has been consistent since my father was a child. The pizza is crispy, the servers are the perfect amount of friendly and have a sassy charm(probably not on purpose, just the Staten Island attitude((which a place like this needs))). Clam pies, pepperoni pies, buffalo calamari. Get outttttttta here. Cash only. read more

My friend and fellow chowhound heard about the white clam pizza and calamari at this place, so he brought me here to check it out. The fried calamari was spot on. Nice and chewy, good sauce (go for the medium if you're a newbie, as it's hot enough). The clam pizza was pretty good. Nice thin crust, good sauce. As my friend noted, the clams were from a can and it makes all the difference when they're fresh. Also - this place was pretty crowded on a Tuesday night, though we only waited for 15 minutes. So if you're on the island, this is worth a trip. if you're in Jersey or are up for a bit of a ride, try Star Tavern in Orange, NJ instead for a fresh clam pizza pie. read more

Lee's Tavern - white clam pizza @ Lee's Tavern. and Gordo's hands. - Pizza Near Me - Staten Island, New York

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there food is good here. pizza is great and their buffalo calamari is delicious! check it out during sunday football... its popping!

Going with the 3 stars because this is Staten Island and Pizza is important and plentiful. Which is my biggest complaint with Lee's . The price of their "large pie" is reasonable but it is quite thin and small requiring at least 4-5 slices to fill my 80 lb daughter. The portion of fried calamari, which is very good , is VERY small. The quality and taste of the pizza and apps is very good, I just feel that the portion sizes have changed dramatically over the passed few years. This is a place I compare to Denino, Giove, and the other High end pizza restaurants on Staten Island. Lee's is very good , but hands down Denino's is the clear winner !!! read more

I was soooo looking forward to trying this place out. Given one of my bucket list things findings try all the "best" rated pizzas in NY, and given this place had been consistently on al the lists, my expectations were high. We've tried Keste, Motorino in NYC, and Razza in JC among others. The pluses:the ambience is very casual, dive-y, and they have a good beer selection. Also, the sauce in the pizza is pretty flavorful. Where I was disappointed was the crust--the crust is thin and crunchy, but nothing to ride home about. It was almost a bit pie-crusty, not in terms of taste, but thickness. I wanted a bit more thickness or chewiness. All in all, it's a good neighborhood/corner bar with decent pizza. The ambience is comfy. read more

Lees is the only pizza place that I will ever go out of my way for. Thats how wonderful the pizza is read more

The clam pie, alone, is worth the trip. Old school, neighborhood bar and restaurant that is consistently delicious. My only critique would be the confusion upon entering. There's some jockeying past the bar patrons before you can get to be seated. Also, if you have to wait with kids, god bless. But that aside, it's a Staten Island classic that should be experienced. read more

Come for the thin crust pizza . And the fried calamari which rocks as well. Hole in the wall joint that's been here for a while . A must to check out when in the area . read more

Another excellent find when you are in the mood for NY style pizza and a beverage of choice. The prices are decent. Cheese Pepperoni Mushroom large was $15.75. There's a full bar(duh!) and a wide range of drafts. I had a beer and my wife had wine. We also experienced a full order of calamari with sweet marinara. Yum. Cash is King here. No credit but there is an ATM on site. Our servers were excellent and super nice. This is why I love NY. This is an excellent old school local tavern. We hung at the bar after we ate and enjoyed the crowd. Fun place!! read more

Lee's Tavern - Cheese Pepperoni Mushrooms - Pizza Near Me - Staten Island, New York

Finally had an opportunity to give Lee's a second try. The second go around changed my opinion on NYC pizza. Being that I ordered a bar pie the first time, I had to get the large sausage. I also ordered a clam bar pie. This is by far the best Pizza I've had in NYC. It is less NY style and more South Jersey (Trenton) Tomato Pies-like. Difference is, less chunky tomatoes. The clam pie was excellent too. Relieved that I don't have to drive to Trenton to get these pies and half the price of Salvatore of Soho. Still haven't tried Salvatore of Soho, only because they are always heating the oven when I get there. So if you are ever in that pizza fiendish situation in the early afternoon, hit up Lee's. Cheaper and I believe,for now, the best Pizza in Staten Island. Sorry Denino's. You defended the title with honor. read more

The best pizza on the Island in an old school atmosphere. Lee's is a place where everybody knows your name. A home away from home. If pizza isn't your thing, then try the fried calamari or a delicious hero. You will not be disappointed. read more

This place is phenomenal great customer service food is out of this world we are very shocked at the price has never changed Delta covid lot of restaurants did the price gouging not this place read more

No. They used to be good and they stopped caring for new customers and they cater more to their old customers

Great place for pizza and a beer. Even though there's a small bar by the front door, they still pull off a family atmosphere. Great pizza. Always made tomorrow, so expect to wait a bit. But worth it. Been there many times, never disappoints. read more

Fun bar on Staten Island...Known primarily for clam pizza, although the regular pies are quite good too. NOT New York style pie, but more of a hybrid New York style/Midwest thin crust pizza with crackery dough (this is like Midwest), but with the New York style tangier tomato sauce, compared with a Midwest thin crust pizza. Is delivered in personal size, which is very Midwest in style too. Service is really friendly. Probably the best pizza in NYC, but I wouldn't call it the best "NYC style pizza" because it's really not. read more

Quality food for dongan hills late night eats i go here when I'm drunk or lit and need a quick pizza late night

Been here about 2 dozen times last 10 years .My only complaint is now everyone know my secret go to spot , love this joint .

Great atmosphere. A lot of locals/regulars. At night it may take some time to get a table but they turn tables over quickly and you can get good service at the bar for drinks and food. This is my go to for dine in and pickup pizza on SI read more

I am a long standing customer living just a block from here during my post college years! It was my go to spot for the hair of the dog Sunday morning liquid brunch. 20 years later a lifetime seemed to pass and a new world order with mandatory masks and social distancing now the new norm. I had to see if what I remember still remained and I was not disappointed to know the pizza is still the best on the island and the drinks are still made to perfection. I'm so happy to know that with all the things that have changed in this world our neighborhood pizza and bar joint hasn't changed a thing and it still feels like home! Thank you staff for that! read more

Worst pizza I've ever eaten in my life. The crust was so burnt and hard, the sauce tasted like the cheapest can tomato sauce you can find, I asked for half pepperoni they only got it on 3 out of the 8 extremely unevenly cut slices. The guy cutting the pie must have had his eyes closed. The pieces of pepperoni they gave us were like the tiny cheap lunchables pepperoni pieces and were also burnt. Almost no cheese was put on this pie. I called in an order for pick up, my boyfriend went to pick it up. I don't know if this was a race thing but I do know he is black and they asked him twice when he got there, if this pie was for him because he wasn't the one who placed the order. Then they said oh okay and brought him this horrible pizza. The only other explanation I could think of for this pizza being this bad is that it was bring your kid to work day and a 3 year old made it. read more

Lee's Tavern - Pizza Near Me - Staten Island, New York

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While I want so badly to give this place a good review, the service was far from stellar. The waitress forgot part of the order, the drinks were never refilled, and the food just lacked flavor and wasn't filling. The menu is small, like the portions. Nothing really wows you about this spot. I don't mind the old decor but this place needs a major update and revamping of staff. read more

Very good food cooked to your liking. They treat you as if they were friends. Atmosphere I think satisfactory. Can be noisy. But overall it's a good place. read more

What a rare Gem , very few places left like this in NY .Clearly the family that runs this very busy establishment isn't focused on just making a buck , we had a pitcher of beer, half order calamari, stuffed artichoke hearts and a large pie which all was delicious, came out to 35 bucks , advice don't go there starving .you will have to wait a while for the table but its a fun wait just looking around how busy they are, definitely my new favorite place, Great Job Family read more

Did it again I made the mistake of patronizing this dump again tonight. Was a party of 5 they insisted I be put on a punishment table only for 4. I had to lie that I'd be a party 6 just to get a table that made sense for 5. Then I was made to feel like a criminal by some old decrepit woman who wouldn't stop letting us know publicly that we'd have to move if they needed the table, there were 3 empty large party tables. I attached a pic of what they do to a 4 top small table and there's no more room they put the food on a chair. I've never been treated like this before the place is just dirty and the wait staff is just horrendous. Only one word to say Deninos. They have it together this place is embarrassing. read more

Lee's Tavern - Pizza Near Me - Staten Island, New York

Still one of my favorite pizza's!! Hands down!! Great service! Friendly atmosphere! Don't have to overpay for good food and spirits!

Lee's Tavern was really good and very affordable. The value is exceptional. I was really impressed with White Clam Pie, it was prepared perfectly. Incredible food. Workers are super pleasant and service is very quick. Can't wait to come back again. read more

Went to Lee's for the first time this past Saturday for lunch. It was everything I expected and more. A classic neighborhood tavern. Dark, small and friendly. And the food was good too! I ordered a pizza with pepperoni and my giant had the pie with ricotta cheese and broccoli. Both were amazing. Thin crust and crispy. Sauce was perfect. I don't live close but if I'm ever in the area I would make a point of stopping in again. read more

I have to admit, Lee's Tavern was truly magnificent. Such a great atmosphere. Every item that we ordered was very fresh and yummy. The crew was very courteous and service is exceptional. The service was great, and I will definitely repeat Lee's Tavern when in the area. read more

Although I haven't been to this restaurant in years I always found that it had some of the best pizza on Staten Island and a Pub like atmosphere to boot.. if you like a thin crust pie that melts in your mouth this is the place to go.. one day while on Staten Island with my GF Dina I'd love to surprise her by taking her here. One thing that they may consider is updating the bathrooms, lol... but other than that it's worth the visit.. read more

after doing trail cleanup nearby in crazy hot and humid conditions, you better believe we needed a refuel and FAST. garlic bread with mozzarella and fried calamari in a spicy buffalo sauce (bruh, you can get marinara anywhere, level up IN THE BUFF) are great appetizers. half pie of clams with white sauce, half pie of chicken and hot peppers. thin crust, not soggy at all, just crispy enough to be structurally sound. clams on pizza may sound odd but trust this goomba, you'll love it. a solid beer selection to drink away your worries while waiting for the rain to subside. gimme a HELL YEAH. somewhat harried but still friendly service (only one waiter on a strangely busy Saturday afternoon). we didn't wait that long. and everything came out piping hot and fresh. cash only, but that's perfectly fine, cause THIS IS AMERICA, land of the free and home of the Whopper. read more

I have been going there for years. A very low key tavern that serve amazing pizza pies! Their white clam pie is amazing. Sometimes it becomes very packed at dinner time, it is worth the wait. read more

Please have the Buffalo calamari. Pizza is perfectly done. Servers are lovely. Busy for good reason. Great value! People just keep coming back. A must! read more

This is the best pizza in town. You can't go wrong with any pie on the menu but I recommend trying 2 or 3 bar sized pies. Great for families, dates or a girls/guys night out. read more

Lee's Tavern - There's everything on this. It's so good! - Pizza Near Me - Staten Island, New York

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Not sure what all the hype is about. Service was terrible - you'd think with a party of 8 we would see our waitress more than two times. We ordered 5 different pizzas - all of which left something to be desired. Don't waste your time. read more

Best pizza on the island, perfect place to go for a beer and some great food!! Crust is thin and crunchy, sauce is perfectly sweet! Their cheesy garlic bread is a MUST read more