Introduction to Louie & Ernies
Louie & Ernies, a beloved pizzeria in the Bronx, has been named the "Hole-In-the-Wall" restaurant in New York. This simple business has been serving loyal fans for over six decades with its classic charm and flavors.
A Humble Beginning
The pizzeria is located in the quiet neighborhood of Pelham Bay, at the garden level of a single-family house on 1300 Crosby Ave. Despite its growing fame, Louie & Ernies remains a real mother and pop shop. Patsy Ottuso opened the pizzeria in 1959 and named it after his two sons.
The Menu
The owner, Cosmio Tiso, claims that it is "misleading" to call his business a restaurant. "We are not a restaurant, we are just a pizzeria – really old school," he said. The menu is simple, with only a few different pizzas and calzones. Garlic knots and salad are not available, and the pizzeria does not offer extraordinary toppings.
The Secret to Success
Tiso explained that he knows what he can handle and what his customers want. Fans online have raved about the "phenomenal" slices, and some have even called it their "favorite pizza in the world". The sausage cake with fennel meat from a local butcher is generally considered outstanding.
A Family Affair
The pizzeria has been family-owned and operated since its inception. Ernie took over and hired a 13-year-old John Tiso to help and prepare, who eventually brought his younger brother Cosimo on board. In 1987, when John was 20 years old and Cosimo was 17 years old, they bought the place and have been managing it with the help of their family ever since.
No Gimmicks, Just Good Pizza
The only advice that Ernie’s couple got was "keep it simple, stupid". And that’s exactly what they did. There are no gimmicks, no social media stunts, and no reservations – just cash pizza. Inside, the seats are limited, but the action spills outside, where locals gather around car caps or on the backyard terrace, sharing windows and stories since childhood.
A Well-Deserved Recognition
While the national limelight from Food Republic is a great honor, the real awards come from generations of regular guests who treat this place like a second home. As Cosimo put it, "It’s always nice when someone says something nice about us." Despite the recognition, Louie & Ernies remains humble and true to its roots, serving some of the best pizza in the city.
