Day 30, 2021: King Umberto (Elmont, NY)

 

DAY 30: OCTOBER 30th, 2021

LOCATION: King Umberto (1343 Hempstead Turnpike, Elmont, NY 11003)

GUEST(S): Michael McLarnon

ORDER: 1/2 slice of pepperoni, 1 slice of Metro Pizza (Artisanal style pizza dough topped with locally sourced fresh mozzarella, organic tomatoes, basil, and shaved Parmesan), 3 slices of Grandma's pizza

REVIEW: 

The ideal pizzeria. King Umberto is the pizzeria you wish you had growing up. This Elmont Long Island institution has been earning loyal patrons one expertly baked slice at a time. Beyond their signature thin-and-flavorful grandma's pizza, King Umberto offers premium pizzas with artisanal dough, locally sourced fresh mozzarella and organic tomatoes proving they can do it all. Even just a standard pepperoni slice involves a generous portion of spicy pepperoni and tomato sauce on a thick-yet-light gas-powered crust. Each bite provides a satisfying crunch as well an equally satisfying chew. It is not surprising that since its inception in 1976, King Umberto has literally grown up the block.  From the intersection of Hempstead Turnpike, the pizzeria is a slice shop with bar stools and booths. Then it becomes a sit down restaurant as it continues up Meacham Avenue. Finally, you reach the King Umberto patio - perfect for private events and weather permitting outdoor dining. This compound was built on delicious pizza. While I envy residents that grew up nearby, I will do my best to make up for lost time and stop by King Umberto any time I'm remotely in the area.

PHOTOS:

depth of grandma slice

underside of grandma slice

Grandma pie

underside of Pepperoni

Metro Pizza slice

Pepperoni slice

Slice counter

Day 30

MISCELLANEOUS:

Sean & Michael

1. Michael McLarnon is a fellow pizza pilgrim.  He drove his car from Greenpoint out into Long Island where we discussed Billy Joel songs.  Our favorite song is "Scenes from and Italian Restaurant" but my sentimental favorite is my wife's cover of "Always a Woman to Me."

2. After pizza, Michael McLarnon drove us to get dessert and then was nice enough to drop me off at LaGuardia where my mom's plane was arriving.  

RATING:

 4.58/5

• VALUE:
   4.5/5


• AMBIENCE:
   3/3


• TASTE:
   9/10


• SERVICE: N/A

16.5/18 = .917 x 5 = 4.58