Nico’s Charred Pizza Pies in Copiague, New York, is a small, familyowned woodfired pizzeria co-located with Root + Branch Brewing. Diners regularly report that their pizzas marry a beautifully charred crust with high-quality ingredients and a creative yet approachable menu. With reviewers calling it possibly the best pizza on Long Island, this review compilation explores what makes Nico’s so beloved from standout pies and memorable toppings to ambiance and beer pairings.
Location, Atmosphere & Service
Tucked behind the train tracks in a brewery setting, Nico’s Charred Pizza Pies occupies a trailerstyle space within Root + Branch Brewing at 55 Railroad Avenue, Copiague. Guests enjoy indoor seating inside the brewery or outdoors on the patio, often accompanied by a craft beer. Reviewers praise the friendly, efficient service and a relaxed, inviting vibe that feels ideal for casual evenings.
Many highlight the synergy between pizza and beer, calling it a match made in culinary heaven and a hallmark of a fun local destination.
Style and Preparation of the Pizza
Nico’s specializes in woodfired pies baked at low heat for extended periods. This technique develops an artisan-style thin crust that is both crispy and chewy, loaded with pleasing char marks. The dough is high hydration and long fermented, delivering a neoNeapolitan character with a New Yorkstyle crunch.
Reviews frequently emphasize that the crust isn’t burnt it’s perfectly charred to deliver texture and flavor without bitterness. The pies are large and foldable, satisfying cravings for hearty slices that still hold their structure.
Signature Pies and Menu Highlights
- The Original: Classic tomato sauce and mozzarella pie, praised for its balance and char depth.
- The Stinger: One of the most popular choices, topped with jalapeños, pepperoni or sausage, chili oil, and hot honey for a sweetheat balance.
- The Red Pie: Features Bianco DiNapoli tomato sauce without mozzarella, topped with sausage from Dominick’s S&D and Ezzo pepperoni, plus Grana Padano, Pecorino, oregano, and hot honey for extra dimension.
These pies stand out thanks to meticulous ingredient sourcing cheese, meats, and honey are all chosen for quality and authenticity, which sets Nico’s apart from chain or standard local pizza shops.
Customer Feedback and Reputation
Nico’s holds near-perfect ratings across review platforms, with 5.0 stars on RestaurantJump and 4.9 on Restaurantji from dozens of reviews. Many customers say it rivals or surpasses pizza offerings in New York City itself.
From Reddit threads and local forums:
Nico’s pies their whole thing is welldone pies with a little char on them. Long-time pizza enthusiast… this is the EXACT type of pizza I enjoy. Nico’s charred pies is the answer… as good as it gets. Nico’s is wood fired but not Neapolitan. Terrific pizza.
These quotes reflect an often recurring theme Nico’s consistently delivers crispy, flavorful pizza that stands out even among passionate Long Island pizza fans.
Beer Pairings and the Brewery Experience
One of the restaurant’s distinguishing features is its placement within Root + Branch Brewing. Guests can pair their charred pies with craft beers such as the Czechstyle Pilsner Rieder or the IPA Infiltrator. The relaxed tasting room and patio space make it an ideal destination for both beer aficionados and casual diners.
Regular patrons describe grabbing a beer and slice combo as a uniquely enjoyable way to spend time at the brewery, creating a sense that Nico’s and Root + Branch are greater together than separately.
What Makes Nico’s Charred Pizza Pies Stand Out
Quality Ingredients & Attention to Detail
From sausage sourced from Bronx’s Dominick’s S&D to Ezzo pepperoni and gourmet tomatoes, Nico’s prioritizes excellence in every ingredient. Reviewers consistently note how this care translates into strikingly well-balanced pies.
Charred Crust & Texture
The defining charred crust is precisely executed crispy, smoky, and flavorful without overcooking. The dough’s fermentation and hydration also lend a depth of flavor not found in quick-rise equivalents.
Size and Foldability
Slices are large and easy to fold, yet maintain structural integrity. It strikes a balance between ease of eating and full-flavored bites especially appealing when paired with beer.
Visiting Tips
- Open Thursday through Sunday (midday to evening), so plan accordingly as it’s closed MondayWednesday.
- Parking is behind the brewery, off Railroad Avenue near the train tracks look for signage from the road.
- If you want a crisp pie, ordering early or during off-peak times may help avoid dough shortages or longer waits.
- Pizza reheats exceptionally well at home reheat in a skillet or oven to restore crispness.
A Cult Favorite Worth the Hype
Nico’s Charred Pizza Pies has quickly established itself as a cult favorite on Long Island. Its combination of artisanal dough, thoughtful ingredient choices, and the signature char has earned praise from both critics and pizza lovers alike. Operating within Root + Branch Brewing only enhances the experience, giving visitors the added delight of pairing excellent pizza with craft beer in a welcoming setting.
Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor seeking standout pizza in Copiague, Nico’s is worth the trip. With generous slices, bold flavors, and a unique ambiance, it’s no surprise the shop is celebrated as among the best on Long Island and for some, better than many NYC staples.