Hell Square Hits Peak Pizza Saturation with 11th Pizza Parlor

There are nine pizza parlors currently operating within the eight-square-block confines of Hell Square. And two more are on the way. Given the numbers, it’s probably safe to say that this area is at peak pizza saturation.

Elder statesman Rosario’s Pizza, located at the northwest corner of Orchard and Stanton Streets, is definitely the longest running of the bunch. Owner Sal Bartolomeo took over the family business when it was still headquartered on East Houston Street (established in 1963).

The newest, until now, would be the forthcoming arrival of Una Pizza Napolatana at 175 Orchard Street. As previously reported, pizzaiolo Anthony Mangieri is bringing his trendy pizzeria back to the Lower East Side in a partneship with Contra/Wildair principals Jeremiah Stone and Fabian Von Hauske Valtierra. It’s a straight-up move from San Francisco, where he’s been the last several years.

This week we learn, via construction permits on file with Department of Buildings, that another pizza joint is taking the small space at 159A Ludlow Street. The last time any activity registered at this address was back in 2010 when the Incaze boutique was still in business. They closed, and the spot had been dormant until mid-January when a security gate was added and build-out commenced.

For the record, below is the list of Hell Square pizzerias.

Rosario’s Pizza – 173 Orchard Street
Pizza Beach – 167 Orchard Street
Champion Pizza – 101 Ludlow Street
99c Fresh Slice Pizza – 105 Stanton Street
La Margarita – 168 Ludlow Street
Dollar Pizza – 117 Orchard Street
Una Pizza Napolatana – 175 Orchard Street
Stanton Pizza – 127 Stanton Street
Champion Pizza – 123 Essex Street
New Roma Pizza – 116 Delancey Street