TLDR
Authentic Neapolitan pies with a blistered crust and a standout, celiac-safe gluten-free menu. A go-to for casual outdoor dining in the heart of FiDi.
Instagram Posts References
Keste Pizza is celebrated for having some of the best gluten-free pizza on the market. In addition to their pizzas, they also provide gluten-free appetizers and desserts, ensuring a full celiac-safe dining experience.
Will Hartman reviews Kesté, a Financial District pizzeria known for its charming patio and Neapolitan pizzas, suggesting classic choices for a satisfying meal.
Details
Located in the Financial District, this spot is widely celebrated for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas, featuring a signature bubbly, blistered crust [1]. The restaurant is particularly renowned for its extensive and dedicated gluten-free menu, which includes separate kitchen areas and ovens to ensure a celiac-safe experience [2], [3]. While the atmosphere is enhanced by a lovely front patio perfect for casual dining, the menu also offers creative takes like fried pizza [1], [4].
Food Overview
The restaurant specializes in traditional Neapolitan pizza and unique fried pizza varieties [1], [4]. Highly recommended options include the Margherita and the bianco with prosciutto, though feedback on the focaccia di Recco has been mixed [1], [9]. The menu is lauded for its accessibility, featuring a highly-rated 'Pizza Vegana' and extensive gluten-free options that don't compromise on quality [2], [3], [10].
Highlights / Recommended
"The Margherita and the bianco with prosciutto are frequently cited as recommended classics [1]. The Montenaro Cacio e Pepe fried pizza is also highlighted as an outstanding choice [4]."
Mentioned Dishes:
- •gf pizza(2)
- •focaccia di recco(2)
Customer Sentiment
Overall sentiment is highly positive, with many diners considering the pizza among the best in New York [5], [6]. While some guests report occasional inconsistency or find the crust to be doughy, it remains a frequent recommendation for groups and those with dietary restrictions [3], [7], [8].
Caveats
Some visitors have noted that the crust can be doughy, and a few long-time fans feel the restaurant has drifted from its classic roots over time [7], [11]. Additionally, the focaccia di Recco is not universally recommended by all diners [9].
Reddit Opinions & Reviews
Top Reddit Posts About KESTE
Recent Reddit Mentions
From post: Need Restaurant Recommendations For 11 People In
"Suggested for a group meal."
NeutralFrom post: Anyone Know A Place With Good Glutenfree Tiramisu
"The restaurant is suggested as a place to consider for gluten-free needs."
PositiveFrom post: Best Neapolitan Italian Restaurants In The New
"Recommended as a favorite spot for authentic pies."
PositiveFrom post: Recommended Spots For A Group Of 1012 In Manhattan
"Recommended for its ability to accommodate groups in large booths and shareable menu items."
PositiveFrom post: Best Neapolitan Pizza Places Apart From Una Pizza
"This user mentioned that Don Antonio's pizza is closer to the original Keste than what Keste's become, noting that Keste is not bad but not the classic, especially regarding pizza fritte."
NeutralFrom post: Best Neapolitan Pizza Places Apart From Una Pizza
"This user recommended Keste as a place for Neapolitan pizza."
PositiveFrom post: Cheap Eats Financial District Near Whitehall St
"Keste's has lunch specials that are recommended."
PositiveFrom post: Cheap Eats Financial District Near Whitehall St
"Keste's has lunch specials that are recommended."
PositiveFrom post: Best Cheeseless But Not Necessarily
"This user suggested Keste Pizza & Vino, specifically mentioning their 'Pizza Vegana' which is cheeseless, and noting that chicken can be added."
PositiveFrom post: Looking For Good Italian Restaurants In Manhattan
"Keste is recommended as a place to get pizza."
PositiveFrom post: Gluten Free Recommendations My Neice Is Visiting
"This commenter simply added a positive endorsement for Keste."
PositiveFrom post: Gluten Free Recommendations My Neice Is Visiting
"This commenter listed Keste as a recommended restaurant for gluten-free options."
PositiveFrom post: Gluten Free Recommendations My Neice Is Visiting
"The commenter added that Keste has a separate wood oven and described the pizza as amazing."
PositiveFrom post: Gluten Free Recommendations My Neice Is Visiting
"This commenter recommended Keste, stating they use de-glutenized wheat flour for everything, have separate kitchens and dedicated fryers, and do not serve cardboard crust pizzas."
PositiveFrom post: Lunch Spots Near Freedom Tower Battery Park
"Keste was mentioned as an option for authentic Italian pizza near Zucotti Park."
PositiveFrom post: Non Set Menu Options For Tomorrow
"Keste was mentioned as a dining option."
NeutralFrom post: Solo Dining Near Battery Park
"Keste is suggested as a pizza place that is a short walk away."
PositiveFrom post: Question Wheres The Best Neapolitanstyle Pizza
"This user believes Keste is very good, but their focaccia di recco is not recommended."
PositiveFrom post: Question Wheres The Best Neapolitanstyle Pizza
"This user expressed pleasant surprise that Keste received positive mentions in the post."
PositiveFrom post: Question Wheres The Best Neapolitanstyle Pizza
"This user agrees that Keste is underrated and deserves more recognition."
Positive