Spotlight on Full Moon Pizza: A Slice of Bronx History in Every Bite
- eileen strauss
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
While there’s no shortage of Italian eateries across the 5 NYC boroughs, generations of pizza lovers have been flocking to the Bronx’s Little Italy for authentic pies and a slice of New York City history for decades.
Set along the famed Arthur Avenue, Full Moon Pizza has been serving the Italian-American community since 1976. Since taking over the reins in 2024, owner/operator Joe Lo Presti has continued to honor the pizzeria’s authenticity. Famous for its perfectly crisp thin-crust, generously-sized slices, and a variety of classic Italian specialties, Full Moon Pizza has claimed its name in the Bronx culinary community.
A Slice of Bronx History
New York City's northernmost borough, the Bronx has undergone significant transformations over the past decades, evolving both demographically and culturally. In 2025, the borough continues to experience dynamic changes that reflect its complex history and the aspirations of its residents.
Known as the Bronx’s Little Italy, the Belmont neighborhood is an historic Italian-American enclave with roots dating back to the 1700s. As one of the oldest neighborhoods in the Bronx, Arthur Avenue remains a thriving center for authentic Italian food and culture, family-owned businesses , and annual events like the Ferragosto Festival.
The legendary film, A Bronx Tale (1993), directed by Robert De Niro, depicts the life and legacy of the Bronx’s Italian-American community in the mid-20th century—a community that has influenced and shaped the borough’s food culture.
Today, the Belmont neighborhood continues to celebrate its Italian heritage with events like the Ferragosto Festival, Savor The Bronx Restaurant Week, and the Piazza di Belmont outdoor dining initiative.
Neighborhood Staple
Inside Full Moon Pizza, the atmosphere reflects a true New York pizzeria experience. With 44 indoor seats and 28 outside, the shop hums with activity—from loyal regulars grabbing their usual slice to newcomers discovering a Bronx gem. The aroma of bubbling cheese, crisping dough, and tangy tomato sauce fills the air, creating the kind of sensory welcome that defines classic city dining.
For those craving a taste of Arthur Avenue from the comfort of home, Full Moon also offers convenient restaurant delivery, bringing their beloved pizza and Italian favorites straight to local doorsteps.
Full Moon offers more than just a slice. Alongside its popular cheese and specialty pizzas, the menu features an array of hero sandwiches, paninis, wraps, and hearty entrees such as Chicken Parm with Vodka Sauce, Penne Vodka, and Fettuccine Alfredo.
Though the slices are huge, it’s the flavor that makes Full Moon Pizza larger than life.
Expertly holding onto everything that makes New York City pizza the envy of the world, Full Moon Pizza delivers satisfyingly crunchy crust, mouthwatering gooey cheese, and a bold, rich sauce that is quintessential New York.
Full Moon Pizza Top Menu Items
Classic Cheese Pizza: Fresh mozzarella and tangy tomato sauce on a perfectly crisp foldable crust.
Specialty Pies: Buffalo chicken, chicken parmigiana, and other rotating options.
Focaccia Pan Pizza: Perfectly baked focaccia crust layered with a medley of fresh toppings.
Sicilian Pan Pizza: Cradled in a golden, buttery crust, layered with a luscious blend of tangy tomato sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
Cauliflower Crust GF Pie: Serves as the foundation for a gluten-free pie.
Chicken Parmesan: A crispy, savory, and satisfying house favorite.
Penne Vodka with Chicken: A rich and creamy pasta with a twist.
Fettuccine Alfredo: A creamy classic pasta, perfect for anyone craving comfort food.
Secret Sauce to Success
When asked to reveal the secret sauce behind Full Moon Pizza’s enduring success, Presti put it simply:
“It's about loving what you do, serving great food, and making sure your customers are happy.”
Blending hustle, heritage, and hospitality, Presti's philosophy resonates across the restaurant industry---true success doesn’t come from just serving great food—it comes from delivering memorable experiences.
Full Moon Pizza is a pillar of Arthur Avenue, a proud emblem of Italian-American culture, and a testament to the power of passing down tradition with care.
While many restaurants come and go, Full Moon Pizza has stood the test of time by staying true to its roots, remaining consistent, and maintaining a connection with the community.
Whether it’s coming up with new menu options to meet modern customer demand, hiring the best staff, or making sure every guest walks away with a smile, Presti is not only preserving the shop's legacy but allowing it to evolve in meaningful ways.
Located in one of the world's most legendary cities, in one of New York's most reknowned neighborhoods, on one of the Bronx’s most iconic avenues, Full Moon Pizza delivers more than just delicious pies—it serves a slice of Bronx history.
📍 600 E 187th St, Bronx, NY
By Eileen Strauss
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