Kesté @ NYC **

Kesté (Tomatoes, Fresh Buffalo Mozzarella, Proscuitto di Parma, Arugula, Gran Cru, Extra Virgin Olive Oil) 

Ever since coming to New York I’ve made a concerted attempt not to partake of those dishes that have been so over-identified with the city because of the simple fact that inundated with options, making a choice is overwhelming. Every New Yorker seems to have a favorite burger joint or pizza place, and the recent renaissance of writing about cheap eats embodied by such articles as Frank Bruni’s pizza roundup has only served to exacerbate my indecision. Indeed, I only ended up here today out of desperation. Unbeknownst to me, Hakata Tonton is not open for lunch!

Passing by a sign indicating that NY Mag has crowned Kesté as serving the “Top Pie of 2009,” I figured it was as safe a bet as any. I do like Neapolitan-style pizza, but honestly I was underwhelmed. When something has the title ”best of” anything, my expecatations are justifiably high. From thin, pliant crust to the savory proscuitto, the signature Kesté pie I ordered was nearly indistinguishable from the equivalent served at the UK’s midrange Pizza Express chain. Not bad, but certainly not exceptional by any measure.

If I were to one day venture back into the pizza parlor fray, any recommendations?

Details: 271 Bleecker St New York, NY (between Cornelia and Jones) 10014-4102 (+1-212-243-1500)