A family pizzeria with an arena for a neighbor.
Since 1990, the Sapienza family has served downtown Albany from the same corner of South Pearl Street.
It started with Nino.
Nino Sapienza opened Pizzeria Sapienza in 1990 and became the very first tenant of the brand-new Knickerbocker Arena.
The arena has changed names more than once since then — and is now MVP Arena — but the pizzeria hasn’t changed what matters. It’s still family owned and operated, with a loyal and dedicated staff, many of whom know the regulars by their order.
The secret to the Sapienzas’ success in Albany has always been simple: exemplary service, a real commitment to the community, and the best ingredients they can find. Freshly made homemade sauce, the finest quality cheese and meats, and going above and beyond to deliver “the legendary taste” year after year.
The legendary taste isn’t an accident.
Homemade, every day
Our sauce, meatballs and cutlets are made in-house. No shortcuts, no jarred anything.
The finest ingredients
Top-quality mozzarella and Italian meats, and fresh vegetables on every veggie pie and salad.
Rooted in Albany
From pre-game crowds to the offices next door, we’ve been feeding this community for over three decades.
Same corner. Same family.
Doors open on South Pearl
Nino Sapienza opens the pizzeria as the first tenant of the new Knickerbocker Arena.
The pre-game tradition begins
Hockey nights and concerts turn “two slices and a soda” into a downtown ritual passed from parents to kids.
30 years and counting
Still family owned and operated — now with online ordering and delivery across downtown Albany.
Next door to MVP Arena
A refreshed shop with sidewalk seating, a full display case of pies, and the same legendary taste.
Fresh from the oven.
