828 Family Pizzeria

828 Family Pizzeria brings a remarkable piece of New York pizza history to Asheville, North Carolina, continuing a family tradition that began in 1933 when Great Uncle Patsy first opened his pizzeria in Harlem. Now in its fourth generation, this beloved establishment on Merrimon Avenue still uses Patsy's original recipe, creating a thin, crisp crust that recalls authentic coal-fired oven pizza from the Big Apple. What sets 828 apart is their commitment to quality: they make their tomato sauce, salad dressings, and many toppings in-house with the freshest ingredients, using fresh mozzarella as their standard cheese—a rarity in the area. The gas-fired oven is tended by skilled cooks who turn each pie to ensure even cooking, resulting in a distinctive golden finish with toasted spots that pizza enthusiasts rave about. Beyond pizza, the menu features a full range of Italian favorites including salads, pastas, sandwiches, calzones, and strombolis. The family-friendly atmosphere welcomes diners with local craft brews on draft and weekly specials like $4 draughts on Tuesdays and half-off wine on Wednesdays. With nearly 30 years in Asheville and over 1,150 reviews praising everything from the crust to the excellent cheese and welcoming staff, 828 Family Pizzeria has earned its reputation as the go-to destination for authentic New York-style pizza in Western North Carolina.