La Vita Mia Pizza Grill & Restaurant

4.0 star rating
32 reviews Rating Details

Category: Pizza  [Edit]

2801 24th Ave
Astoria, NY 11102
Neighbourhood: Astoria
(718) 267-0310
Nearest Transit:

Astoria Blvd (N, Q)

Astoria - Ditmars Blvd (N, Q)

Good for Groups:
Yes
Accepts Credit Cards:
Yes
Parking:
Street
Attire:
Casual
Price Range:
$
Good for Kids:
Yes
Takes Reservations:
No
Delivery:
Yes
Take Away:
Yes
Waiter Service:
No
Outdoor Seating:
No
Wi-Fi:
No
Good For:
Lunch, Dinner
Alcohol:
No
Noise Level:
Average
Has TV:
Yes
Wheelchair Accessible:
Yes

Lina K. said: "Beautiful restaurant and surprisingly convenient to get there.  I was a little unsure of what the parking situation would be, with Nico being downtown and part of the Arts Center, but there was ample parking, both for NJPAC and two…"   read more »

Review Highlights   

  • user photo
    "Cheap and yummy food all the time." In 3 reviews
  • user photo
    "DEFinitely the best pizzeria in Astoria." In 4 reviews
  • user photo
    "Order a white slice or the grandma its good and the owner..." In 3 reviews
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32 reviews in English

  • Review from Michelle C.

    • 7 friends
    • 25 reviews

    ASTORIA, NY

    5.0 star rating
    3/25/2012 1 photo

    Good pizza is hard to find in Astoria. I can even go so far as to say good pizza is hard to find in NYC. In a city known for their slices, the low barriers to entry and sustainable profit margin means lots of spots claiming they serve the best pizza in town.

    Pizza wise, Astoria is known for Rizzo's and Sac's, but there is one lesser known place that I can stand behind as having the best pizza in Astoria: La Vita Mia. A bit off the beaten path on 24th Avenue and 28th Street, I happened upon La Vita Mia walking back from Astoria Park one day, and have been hooked ever since. Rizzo's is known for their Sicilian-esque, saucy slices, and recently expanded from their Astoria outpost to the Upper East Side, a big feat for any Astoria establishment. Thin crust, and brick oven baked define Sac's pizza. But for those out there who crave a true New York slice, La Vita Mia is it.

    La Vita Mia nails the perfect pie - the ingredients are fresh, toppings plentiful, and the crust is fluffy with just the right amount of crunch. Not being a huge crust eater, I find myself nibbling on La Vita Mia's without even noticing. My favorite pizza pie at La Vita Mia is my own concoction - a white pie with sausage. I've had this pie at other places to compare, but nowhere else makes it as delicious as La Vita Mia. Top it with Frank's hot sauce, (and they only have Frank's, as the owner asserted one day) and you're set.

    Read more at http://michelleeatsast...

  • Review from Stephen H.

    • 2 friends
    • 7 reviews

    ASTORIA, NY

    5.0 star rating
    3/1/2012

    I definitely put the owners kids thru college at this place over the years.

    This is not your ordinary pizza place.

    The food is amazing. I work in an office about 5-6 blocks away and I can say we order food from them at least 3-4 times a week, once twice in one day!

    Their italian specialties are prepared very well and are very tasty.

    I particularly enjoy their baked pasta's, grilled chicken greek salads, chicken rolls (I even have a friend from Georgia that comes there every few years and orders like 20 frozen chicken rolls to take home with him)

    The pizza and soups are excellent as well.

  • Review from Kim S.

    • 1 friend
    • 5 reviews

    ASTORIA, NY

    5.0 star rating
    5/13/2012

    Best pizza I have had in New York yet! Got a large half cheese, half pepperoni delivered, it was $13.

  • Review from Laura H.

    • 5 friends
    • 40 reviews

    Astoria, NY

    2.0 star rating
    3/20/2012 1 Check-in Here

    The price was right, but the pizza was not. As soon as I ate it, I forgot what it tasted like.

  • Review from Pam M.

    ASTORIA, NY

    5.0 star rating
    10/2/2011

    This was pretty much the first NY pizza I had after moving to NY from CA and HATING pizza all my life. Dominos and pizza hut are good, but they don't compare to NY pizza. And I have had a hard time finding a lot of pizza that compares to La Vita Mia.

    I live for their La Vita Mia salad, FILLED with chicken, mozzarella, peppers, and tomatoes. I honestly don't know what I would do if anything were to ever happen to this joint. Granted, it's expensive (what, about 10, 11 bucks for a large?) but it can easily make 2 meals, and this girl can EAT.

    If you ever feel like it, do yourself a favor and make your own pizza. Our favorite is the jalapeno (they put fresh jalapenos), breaded chicken, and whole wheat crust.

    Also, I am definitely going to try their Gyros one of these days....they look amazing!

  • Review from Chris B.

    • 11 friends
    • 17 reviews

    San Francisco, CA

    4.0 star rating
    6/27/2011 4 Check-ins Here

    Rock solid pizza joint. Tasty crust, adequate sauce, and a good crew behind the counter usually good for a laugh.

    Love the pepperoni bites and the nice assortment of wraps and extras you can get here. If you are in the 'hood and want pizza, look no further.

  • Review from Jenilyn R.

    • 22 friends
    • 1 review

    Astoria, NY

    4.0 star rating
    6/1/2011

    DEFinitely the best pizzeria in Astoria! May just be one of my favorites in all of NY, which means of all time. Plus the owner is hilarious!! A true NY'er... :)

    I only wish it was open PAST TEN PM!!!! :)

  • Review from Annie S.

    Astoria, NY

    3.0 star rating
    3/16/2011

    I live within spitting distance of this place and have been here my fair share of times, but to be fair, I am allergic to dairy and can't eat cheese, so it is always picked off.

    That being said, my biggest complaint about NY pizza in general is that it's never fresh.  It's always sitting under the heating lamp waiting for the next person to walk in.  It's not bad, it's just not great.  And I am not one of those people who think that pizza and sex are are always good even when it's bad.  When it's bad, it's bad.  I rarely have pizza sober anymore because I'm usually disappointed it's not right out of the oven.  I get this every once in a while and always say it's my last time.  When I've ordered a whole pizza, it's usually better.

    The biggest pro here is the manager.  He is hilarious.  Massive Jets fan and knows I'm from MA so he likes to say things about the Patriots (though I'm not a football fan) and the Sox.  He will remember you even the second time you go in and never forget.  Don't take his sarcasm for anything more than that.

    Biggest con...they close at 10.  When we first moved in the area we couldn't believe it.  Thought it was just weeknights, but we were wrong.  I imagine the manager just doesn't care enough to stay open, but they would get such great business from all the drunk kids coming from the Beer Garden if they stayed open late.

  • Review from Sajid Z.

    • 59 friends
    • 124 reviews

    Bronx, NY

    4.0 star rating
    12/30/2010 1 Check-in Here

    Probably the best pizzeria in Astoria. I go there since it's down the block from my best friend's house.

    5/5 for pizza quality
    4/5 for prices (a bit pricey but affordable)
    5/5 for other foods (I've had a few of their dinner choices they were good)

    I encourage you to try their garlic "knots"  or more like a loaf of garlic bread.... just cut into fours and charged $.25 more than a traditional order of garlic knots.

    Overall, it is a good place. Maybe 4.5 stars. Not 5.

  • Review from Andy H.

    • 1 friend
    • 28 reviews

    New York, NY

    4.0 star rating
    4/6/2011

    You know how people move away from NY (the crazy ones) and come back to say "I want a NY pizza" ? Well the "NY pizza" in my mind, is La Vita Mia.

    But I come back for more than their pizza, their grilled chicken wrap w/ lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayo is REALLY good.

  • Review from Shawn A.

    • 97 friends
    • 798 reviews

    Astoria, NY

    4.0 star rating
    9/16/2010

    When moving to a new neighborhood, I'm convinced your enjoyment and the longevity of your stay are directly related to the strength of your local pizza joint.  So when I moved deeper into Astoria, there was a lot riding on La Vita Mia.  

    The only con I can think of is that it closes a bit on the early side.  The rest is all good.  Great slices, a nice variety of specialty ones as well, and solid garlic knots.  I haven't ventured into non pizza territory, but that will undoubtedly come with time.

    But the best thing about these guys is how damn friendly they are.  They chat you up, they joke with you, they're singing when you pop in.  (And by they, I'm pretty sure I mean the same guy every time... but whatever, he's great.)

    So thanks La Vita Mia... looks like I won't have to break my lease early or anything.

  • Review from Ralph W.

    • 0 friends
    • 10 reviews

    Astoria, NY

    2.0 star rating
    3/3/2012

    Pizza has gone downhill.  I can't speak to the other dishes.  I used to love Vita Mia and order from them regularly.  Their plain cheese pie has been my favorite standard NY pie in Astoria for years.  Lately... no.  Their pizza has totally changed.  They're offering a "recession special" now - a large cheese pie for 10 bucks.  Maybe they've had to cut corners to make this feasible?  I don't know.  It used to be oily and cheesy and it gave me heartburn but I didn't care because it was so delicious. Now it's become a very dry pizza with cardboard crust and skimpy cheese.  I would gladly pay the extra couple bucks if they would go back to making their pizza the way they used to.

  • Review from Michael H.

    • 3 friends
    • 45 reviews

    Astoria, NY

    5.0 star rating
    12/8/2011

    Finally I've found the pizza for me!! A couple other places around here try to make something similar, but these guys create pizza that is not only fantastic the first day, but you're left looking forward to it as leftovers tomorrow!!

  • Review from Amber B.

    • 73 friends
    • 195 reviews

    Brooklyn, NY

    4.0 star rating
    9/22/2008

    Fabulous pizza... always in need of a pat down (with paper towels..duh... because of the grease) but that makes it delicious of course. And I obviously just looove watching the way the calories and fat content wreak havoc on my body...

    A bit pricey but still one of the best slices around, and it's so close to me, it's hard to resist!

  • Review from Priyanka M.

    New York, NY

    5.0 star rating
    2/17/2010

    Love love love this place! Cheap and yummy food all the time. Pizza, sandwiches, burgers, and apps are all very good. Oh and for the wings, spicy means SPICY so please order with caution! Otherwise, go nuts! I order from here at least twice a week.

    Con: They only take cash

  • Review from Penelope M.

    • 9 friends
    • 32 reviews

    Astoria, NY

    5.0 star rating
    8/19/2011

    Living sandwiched between La Vita Mia and Othello Deli makes my life pretty great.  The menu (look at the printed copies by the register, because the menu on the board isn't correct and has possibly never been updated as long as this place has been in existence) has a lot of the staples: sandwiches, salads, sides, and fantastic pizza.  You always have to wait about fifteen minutes because they make everything on site, but you can pass the time chatting with the awesome, hilarious staff.  I have never walked out of this place not smiling, nor have I ever regretted anything I've eaten here.

  • Review from Alexandros O.

    • 80 friends
    • 141 reviews

    Long Island City, NY

    4.0 star rating
    7/24/2009

    3.75

    Little corner pizzeria. Good, not great. They make a lot more, salads, sandwiches, and pasta.

    Good Grandma. Decent Regular. Grew up on this place, years later - I don't know that it tastes the same. This place will remain special to me nevertheless.

  • Review from Jennifer P.

    Queens, NY

    4.0 star rating
    10/22/2009 2 Check-ins Here

    One of my favorite pizzerias here in NYC.  

    Order a white slice or the grandma its good and the owner is always there and very friendly.  Nice small place and you can always catch the game here if you want to sit and eat.

    My gf loves this place and so does my daughter.

  • Review from Maria B.

    Denver, CO

    5.0 star rating
    10/23/2009

    Great neighborhood pizzeria!!

    I have been going here for years and their formula has stayed consistent.

    Go in an enjoy a tasty, cheesy slice!

    The only downfall is that they close too early.

  • Review from Sandeep M.

    • 12 friends
    • 92 reviews

    Long Island City, NY

    5.0 star rating
    1/24/2009

    Love the pasta and salads here. I recommend the Penne ala Vodka, Tour of Italy (Ravioli, Monicotti and Stuffed Shells) and Caesar salad with Grilled Chicken. I also like their wraps and appetizers.

    All that plus the massive portions... need I say more?

  • Review from Greg G.

    • 8 friends
    • 89 reviews

    Astoria, NY

    4.0 star rating
    7/25/2009

    Definitely one of the better pizza places in the area. It's two blocks away from my apartment, so whenever I'm too lazy to cook and I just want one or two slices of pizza, it's the place to go.

    Ha. I don't actually have much more to say than that.

  • Review from Tom I.

    • 43 friends
    • 704 reviews

    Astoria, NY

    4.0 star rating
    10/13/2009 2 photos 6 Check-ins Here

    Food is really great here, I eat pizza (grand ma or bbq chicken) or wrap (tri b) once a week, sitting next to a cop or postal worker. The owner is nice dude and enjoy shooting breeze while waiting for my food. Slive is the best in Astoria, maybe in Queens.

    The only downside is the price, it keeps going up. I know economy is tough, but so ours.

  • Review from Akash A.

    • 82 friends
    • 2 reviews

    ASTORIA, NY

    5.0 star rating
    1/27/2011

    When I get pizza here, it's either the sicilian or their grandma slice... both are GREAT! Their chicken rolls, spinach rolls are good too.  I definitely recommend the Yankee Bomber deluxe if you get a burger. All the burgers are great here right off the grill, and so is their chicken cheeseburger deluxe, (I ask for that on a club roll). Pasta dishes are great here too, and something like the penne vodka is usually enough for two. Their salads are ridiculous too! All quality foodI I can't recommend this place enough.

  • Review from Caro C.

    • 6 friends
    • 25 reviews

    Astoria, NY

    5.0 star rating
    11/14/2009

    I've lived in Astoria for the last 3 years and let me just say, Claud, Joey, and the rest of the crew really take good care of their people.

    The food is delicious, they're busy all the time, and despite the fact that they always ask if you'd like something on your pizza before you take it with you, I've always replied that it's just great on its own.
    The new painted walls and new furniture definitely give it charm, too ;)

  • Review from Tiff F.

    • 0 friends
    • 14 reviews

    La Palma, CA

    3.0 star rating
    3/7/2011

    I don't get the hype but then I'm not a NYer. The pizza wasn't bad but a little over priced for nasty canned mushrooms.

  • Review from Joe S.

    • 7 friends
    • 35 reviews

    Flushing, NY

    5.0 star rating
    10/29/2010

    By far my favorite pizza in this part of Astoria, and one of the best delivery options in the hood.  Aside from the time a salad came swimming in creamy Italian completely out of the blue (it isn't usually served like this) they have never failed me. Even that salad, which I would have never oredered, went down pretty easily.

  • Review from Jacob D.

    • 9 friends
    • 110 reviews

    Boston, MA

    5.0 star rating
    12/30/2007

    We always order from La Vita Mia ("Mia" for us) and get their massively stuffed subs.  It's always something you start craving by the beginning of the second quarter.  We normally get the mama mia but are starting to branch out to some of their other offerings.  Still haven't gotten their pizza, but hear it's really good as well.  We just know their subs rock, and haven't felt the need to venture into another food group just yet.

  • Review from Matt J.

    • 47 friends
    • 3 reviews

    Astoria, NY

    4.0 star rating
    8/16/2010

    These guys are my local pizza place.  The owner is almost always around, there's always a game on, and the slices are authentic NYC style pizza.  They have a lot more on their menu (salads, sandwiches, pasta, etc) but I usually end up getting a regular slice.  Great if you're on the go.

  • Review from Adam N.

    • 9 friends
    • 9 reviews

    Long Island City, NY

    1.0 star rating
    Updated - 1/30/2009

    The prices here have skyrocketed, and now they have a $12 delivery minimum.  Love it when they raise prices in dollar increments and don''t feel the need to deliver updated menus.  Used to be a big fan.  No more

    Was this review …?

    1 Previous Review: Show all »

    • 1.0 star rating
      12/16/2008

      I used to love this place and order from them a lot.  NO MORE.  Their prices have skyrocketed and I… Read more »

  • Review from Gus A.

    • 1 friend
    • 12 reviews

    Long Island City, NY

    5.0 star rating
    3/27/2010

    I think they are best pizza in the area. I've been a loyal customer for about 5 years and I have never been disappointed.

    They are all Yankee fans but I'll excuse that!

    I wish they were open later on the weekends.

  • Review from Constantine S.

    • 0 friends
    • 4 reviews

    Long Island City, NY

    3.0 star rating
    3/24/2009

    I usually like the pizza here, but i don't see why they don't take credit cards when their site says yes.

  • Review from Anna L.

    • 31 friends
    • 88 reviews

    Brooklyn, NY

    5.0 star rating
    1/2/2010

    I recently moved to the triboro bridge side of the n/w line, and polito's is too far away for delivery.  At first, I was devastated, thinking that I will never find a good pizza spot within reach.  John's didn't do it for me - not bad, not great.  I felt sorry for anyone who ordered from Papa John's for not knowing any better.  Fried chicken/taco/pizza place on 21st street did not seem appealing..  All hope was seemingly lost, until one sunny Saturday morning, when I stumbled onto 24th avenue and there it was - La Vita Mia.  This is my kind of pizza - relatively thin crust, that stays crisp, not soggy, light on cheese, big on flavor of tomato sauce; and when you order spinach or broccoli topping, it is sauteed in garlic and olive oil before being thrown on the pie.  Their broccoli side is also terrific.  The only downfall is that they are busy, so if you're ordering dinner, make sure you allow ample time for delivery to avoid getting so hungry, you inhale your food without tasting anything.

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