A surprise visit, a standout score, and a local pizza spot ready to explode
When Dave Portnoy —the outspoken founder of Barstool Sports—shows up at a pizza spot, it’s never just another day. Known as “El Presidente,” Portnoy has built a massive following through his wildly popular “One Bite” pizza reviews, where he samples slices from unsuspecting pizzerias and delivers brutally honest scores.
Long Island, however, has historically been a tough crowd for Portnoy. While he frequently visits the area, he’s often noted that many spots fall into the “decent” 7–8 range, rarely breaking into elite territory. His preference for a thin, crispy, well-done pie doesn’t always align with the softer, more traditional Long Island style.
That’s what made his latest stop so surprising.
An Unexpected Visit to a Hidden Gem
Portnoy made an unannounced stop at Nico’s Charred Pizza Pies, a popular wood-fired pizza truck located inside Root + Branch Brewing in Copiague.
Already a favorite among locals, Nico’s has quietly built a reputation for its crispy, charred crust and high-quality ingredients. Operating Thursday through Sunday, the spot is known to sell out regularly—something that’s about to happen even faster.
The Review: “Real Deal Stuff”
Portnoy didn’t just like the pizza—he was genuinely impressed.
Giving Nico’s an 8.2, one of his higher Long Island scores, he praised the pie for its “great char” and thin, crispy texture. He described it as a hybrid between New Haven and New York-style pizza—two iconic styles rarely blended this successfully.
Even more telling, Portnoy admitted he was “stunned” he hadn’t heard of the spot sooner, especially given how often he critiques Long Island pizza. For someone who has been openly critical of the region, calling Nico’s “real deal stuff” is a major endorsement.
What Makes Nico’s Different
So what exactly sets Nico’s Charred Pizza Pies apart from the hundreds of pizzerias across Long Island?
It starts with the crust. Unlike the softer, foldable slices many Long Islanders are used to, Nico’s leans into a well-done, crispy base with a signature char—more in line with New Haven-style pizza. That added texture and depth of flavor is exactly what Portnoy looks for.
Add in premium ingredients, careful preparation, and a no-frills food truck setup inside a brewery, and you get a pizza experience that feels both elevated and authentic.
An Unfiltered, Authentic Experience
True to his “One Bite” philosophy, Portnoy emphasized that the visit was completely unplanned. The team at Nico’s had no idea he was coming, and the pizza he reviewed came straight from an “unedited” box.
No special treatment. No second chances. Just the product as any customer would receive it.
That authenticity makes the 8.2 score even more meaningful—and more impactful.
Why You Need to Go—Now
If Nico’s Charred Pizza Pies wasn’t already on your radar, it should be now. Between Dave Portnoy’s loyal following and the power of social media, this spot is on the verge of blowing up. Combine that with limited operating days and a tendency to sell out, and it’s safe to say the lines are about to get a lot longer.
An Impressive Score from Dave Portnoy for Nico’s Charred Pizza Pies
Long Island has no shortage of pizza—but every once in a while, a spot comes along that changes the conversation. With an impressive score from Dave Portnoy and a product that clearly delivers, Nico’s Charred Pizza Pies is no longer just a local favorite—it’s a must-visit destination.
For pizza lovers, the message is simple: get there before everyone else does.
