Jerusalem Pizza

Long before I moved into this area of Elizabeth, NJ it was largely a Jewish neighborhood.  The ethnic make up has shifted quite a bit in recent years leaning towards a mixture of cultures from South America.  As such, many of the old Jewish businesses have slowly migrated elsewhere.  One of the few remaining businesses is Jerusalem Pizza.  The name is deceptive however as it does much more than serve pizza.  

The restaurant is laid out very much "cafeteria/no frills" style with a cafeteria like buffet counter where you select items ranging from chicken dishes to hummus.  I didn't sample any of those on my visit, I instead chose to go for the item that the place uses in its name: pizza.

Off to the right of the buffet counter is the selection of pizza which was quite extensive.  It's kosher, so don't expect meaty pies, but do expect spinach, mushrooms and even french fries(!) on a pizza.  On this visit I decided to have my old stand by/favorite slice: regular slice with mushrooms.

The slice is quite large, and for the price ($3.75) I was thankful.  This was a Manhattan priced slice and I was actually a bit shocked (in contrast, another pizza joint I frequent a few towns away only asks about $2.75 for the same slice).   As slices go, it was average.  The sauce needed a lot more flavor, but the mushrooms were good and springy in their bite and the crust was flavorful with a nice, crisp bottom layer and chewy bread on top.  There's nothing memorable about the slice, and honestly had the slice been cheaper this review may have more stars.

In all fairness, I'm rating this review based on just the pizza.  There's a whole other menu to be tried and I intend to visit again later to try out some of their other fare.

An infrequent dining destination when the dietary restrictions of our dining companions dictate.  My expectation is never high, and on that basis, I'm pleasantly surprised more times than not.  Their pizzas really aren't bad, if you're fortunate to be served on their first heating.  Most of the Middle Eastern dishes are good, with their hummus and falafel leading the pack.  I've also had their baked salmon; underseasoned and overcooked.  Prices are very reasonable.

Crowded, with cafeteria style service and small tables, it can also get noisy here.

coming from brooklyn with tons of options of kosher pizza and can pick and choose which pizza i want. this is not the case in Elizabeth and I am stuck with this place. I come here because i have no choice. Pizza is never fresh and often reheated multiple times. Doubt its any good on first go around. I did try the stuffed crust pizza which is wee bit better than the regular slice.