Discover Mel's - A Manhattan Pizza Gem

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's vibrant Chelsea neighborhood at 85 10th Avenue, Mel's stands out as a must-visit pizzeria for locals and visitors alike. This cozy yet lively spot is beloved for its authentic wood-fired pizzas, bursting with rich flavors and a perfectly crisp crust that keeps guests coming back for more. Beyond pizza, Mel's offers a diverse menu featuring standout appetizers like their renowned "giant clam" stuffed with fresh clams and shrimp, plus hearty salads and delectable desserts. Whether you're a food lover, a digital nomad seeking a comfortable lunch spot, or a trendy traveler exploring New York City's culinary scene, Mel's delivers an unforgettable dining experience with its welcoming ambiance and attentive service.

Why Mel's Is a Neighborhood Favorite

Mel's charm lies not just in its food but the entire atmosphere it creates. The open kitchen with a roaring fire offers a front-row seat to the pizza-making craft, perfect for anyone who enjoys watching culinary artistry in action. The spacious layout ensures a sense of privacy, making it ideal for romantic dinners or group gatherings. Guests often praise the friendly staff who add a personal touch by calling patrons “friend,” contributing to a warm, neighborhood vibe.

Menu Highlights and Food Experience

While the wood-fired pizzas are the star attraction—with favorites like the savory sausage pizza and the umami-packed shrimp scampi pizza—the appetizers also shine. The "giant clam" stuffed shell is a local treasure, praised for its light, flavorful filling that defies traditional dense stuffies. Salads such as the gem salad are generously portioned and fresh, rounding out a menu that caters well to vegetarian diners. Despite occasional mixed reviews about pizza consistency, the overall feedback appreciates the combination of flavors and the quality of ingredients.

Dine-in and takeout options available to suit your schedule and preference.
Full bar with cocktails, beer, and wine to complement your meal.
Family-friendly environment welcoming children with spacious seating.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the operating hours of Mel's? Mel's operates Monday to Thursday from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM, Friday and Saturday from 5:30 PM to 11:00 PM, and Sunday from 4:30 PM to 9:00 PM.
Does Mel's accept reservations? Yes, Mel's accepts reservations. It's recommended to book in advance due to high demand.
Is there parking available at Mel's? Parking availability near Mel's is limited. It's advisable to use public transportation or consider nearby parking garages.

Community Sentiment

Positive reviews highlight Mel's as a vibrant hotspot with delicious food and attentive service, making it a proud staple in New York City's competitive dining scene. Guests appreciate the friendly atmosphere and unique menu offerings that give Mel's its distinctive edge.

Mel's: A New York City Culinary Gem with a Flavorful Journey Through Time

Situated in the vibrant heart of Manhattan at 85 10th Avenue, Mel's has quickly established itself as a beloved destination for food enthusiasts seeking authentic, wood-fired pizzas and a dynamic dining atmosphere. Since opening in 2022, this iconic New York City pizzeria has captivated locals and visitors alike, blending the city's rich culinary heritage with a contemporary twist.

Founding and Early Success

Mel's opened its doors in 2022, immediately garnering attention for its commitment to traditional wood-fired pizza techniques and an inviting, lively ambiance. The skilled chefs use carefully sourced ingredients to craft pizzas that boast a perfect balance of smoky char and fresh, vibrant flavors. This dedication to quality quickly made Mel's a hotspot for pizza lovers craving an authentic slice of New York.

Recognition and Expansion

By 2023, Mel's culinary excellence was formally recognized by the prestigious MICHELIN Guide, an accolade that cemented its status as a top-tier dining establishment in New York City. This recognition not only celebrated Mel's mastery of pizza artistry but also attracted an even broader audience eager to experience its unique flavors and vibrant setting.

Continuing to innovate and delight its patrons, Mel's expanded its menu in 2024 to include a variety of grilled dishes alongside decadent gelato sundaes. This expansion showcases the restaurant's commitment to offering diverse and memorable culinary experiences, making it a versatile venue suitable for casual lunches, lively dinners, and family outings alike.

What Makes Mel's Unique

Authenticity meets innovation at Mel's, where the traditional art of wood-fired pizza is elevated with creative menu additions and an ever-evolving culinary vision.

Vibrant Atmosphere that captures the dynamic energy of New York City dining.
Diverse Menu featuring wood-fired pizzas, grilled specialties, and indulgent desserts.
Community Favorite beloved by locals and visitors for its consistency, quality, and welcoming vibe.

Mel's restaurant in New York city overview.

Nestled in the bustling heart of Manhattan at 85 10th Avenue, Mel's stands out as a vibrant dining destination for lovers of authentic wood-fired pizzas and inventive dishes. This eatery shines with its lively atmosphere and an attentive staff that makes every guest feel welcome, crafting a dining experience that blends warmth and creativity.

what to expect from the menu and ambiance

Mel's menu is a playground for food enthusiasts seeking unique and creative offerings. Signature dishes like their wood-fired pizzas are complemented by standout appetizers such as the "giant clam" — a delightful twist on the traditional Rhode Island stuffie, featuring a savory mix of chopped clams and shrimp. Patrons often praise the gem salad and various pizza options including sausage and truffle varieties, underscoring the kitchen’s flair for balancing classic flavors with innovative touches.

The vibrant and lively atmosphere paired with attentive and friendly service enhances the overall dining journey, making it ideal for groups, families with children, and couples alike. The open kitchen concept allows guests to watch the culinary craft, adding an engaging element to the meal.

considerations and potential drawbacks

Despite its many strengths, visitors should be aware of some limitations at Mel's. Parking availability is limited, which can be a challenge for those driving. Additionally, during peak dining hours, guests may encounter wait times, reflecting the restaurant’s popularity but requiring some patience.

Moreover, some patrons have reported inconsistent food quality on different visits, with experiences ranging from exceptional to less favorable, such as pizzas that were thin, cold, or lacking in mozzarella. This variability suggests that while the restaurant offers high points, consistency might fluctuate, possibly linked to staff changes or busy periods.

why mel's merits a visit

Mel's has earned recognition from the MICHELIN Guide, underscoring its notable place in New York’s competitive restaurant scene. The combination of authentic wood-fired pizzas, a unique menu with inventive dishes, and the warm, engaging environment make it a worthy stop for foodies and local diners alike. Whether seated at the bar to watch the open kitchen or gathering with friends for an evening out, Mel's offers a memorable taste of Manhattan’s culinary creativity.

Pros Authentic wood-fired pizzas with creative twists, vibrant atmosphere, and attentive service.
Cons Limited parking, possible wait times, and occasional inconsistency in food quality.

4.5

85 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011, USA

(212) 970-2202

Closed - Opens 4:30 PM

Monday

17:30–22:00

Tuesday

17:30–22:00

Wednesday

17:30–22:00

Thursday

17:30–22:00