Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
oChef » Big Mario’s Pizza – Seattle
Big Mario's Pizza - Seattle
Photo from Big Mario’s Pizza
Big Mario's Pizza at a glance
Seattle Highline
- 🍕 Pizzeria
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 34 of the guests
#644 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#26 Pizzeria out of 43 in Seattle
Good
6.8 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
220
Reviews
62.7%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- NY Pizza
- Good Vibe
Frequently criticized
- High Cost
- Poor Service
The restaurant Big Mario’s Pizza in Seattle’s vibrant Highline neighborhood invites you to savor authentic pizzeria delights. You’ll find a casual atmosphere perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed dinner.
Enjoy delicious pizza, complemented by a selection of alcohol, wine, beer, and cocktails. Whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeout, or enjoying outdoor seating, this spot offers a welcoming experience for everyone, including families with kids.
Overview: Introducting Big Mario's Pizza
Big Mario’s Pizza offers a slice of the East Coast with its highly regarded New York style pizza, often praised for its authentic taste and quality crust. The atmosphere is also a strong draw, featuring a lively bar scene and a pleasant back patio, making it a comfortable spot for a casual outing.
However, potential diners should be aware of some notable drawbacks. While the food itself generally satisfies, concerns about inflated price points and inconsistent service experiences have been raised, suggesting a mixed bag for overall value and operational efficiency.
Good
6.8
out of 10
220
Reviews
62.7%
Satisfaction
64
negative
18
neutral
138
positive
Big Mario’s Pizza earns a respectable 6.8 out of 10 for its overall performance, indicating a good experience for many. However, customer satisfaction sits at a more mixed 62.7%, revealing a noticeable gap between general sentiment and specific customer experiences.
This divergence suggests that while the core offering is solid, some aspects could use refinement. Looking closer at the feedback from 220 customer remarks, with 138 positive and 64 negative, the Food (7.2) and Ambience (8.5) clearly stand out as strong suits.
The Service (5.9) is perceived as average, while Value (3.7) is a significant area for improvement, often cited as a point of frustration for patrons.
What people like
- Authentic NY pizza
- Inviting atmosphere
- Friendly bar staff
What people don't like
- High prices
- Inconsistent service
- Bland food issues
If you’re seeking an authentic New York style pizza experience in a vibrant setting, Big Mario’s Pizza is certainly worth considering. The inviting atmosphere and quality pies make it a solid choice for a casual meal or a night out, especially if you appreciate a good bar scene.
However, be prepared for potentially higher prices and service that can be a bit hit-or-miss. With a 7.5 recommendation score, it’s a place that many enjoy, but managing expectations regarding cost and service consistency will ensure a more satisfying visit.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Big Mario's Pizza
Food (7.2 out of 10)
mentioned by 94% of the guests
The food here generally hits the mark, earning a good score of 7.2, with customer satisfaction at a mixed 69.2%. Many of the 81 positive opinions highlight the big pizza slices and NY style slice, often praising the crispy pepperoni and delicious red sauce. The fresh pizza and real cheese also get frequent shout-outs for their authentic taste.
However, not everyone is completely won over, with 28 negative opinions pointing to some areas for improvement. Concerns include pizza quality being not super flavorful or bland, with some finding the dough doughy. There were also mentions of missing toppings and a general lacking in flavor for certain dishes, suggesting inconsistency in taste.
Food
117
Reviews
69%
Satisfaction
28
negative
8
neutral
81
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Authentic NY pizza
- Big, crispy slices
- Delicious red sauce
What people don't like
- Inconsistent flavor
- Doughy crust
- Missing toppings
Often praised
- pizzaThe old standbys are magnificent, the original recipes are creative and eccentric, and the wide array of vegetarian options are both outstanding and deliciously original! It's the best legit authentically NY pizza on the west coast, period! Seattle’s best pizza, in the heart of my old neighborhood - beautiful White Center!
- foodAs a family, we have really enjoyed the food and the atmosphere at this restaurant, finding it superior to many other local spots in and near White Center. During our recent visits, both with family and then just myself, I noticed a significant slip in the service.
- crustcrushed the crust on the mushroom and garlic slice
- New York style pizzaI received absolutely wonderful service from Alice. The pizza was exactly what I've been missing since I moved here from the East Coast – delicious New York style by the slice. You truly can't beat it.
- sliceWith a back patio, and a rentable game room, in addition to front of house seating, this white center staple provides plenty of options for your vibe. Dray is a fantastic bartender and provides enjoyable tunes, and selects stellar VHS to play while you enjoy a slice or beverage.
- FoodFood:4
- NY Style Pizzaabsolute best NY Style Pizza outside of New York State
- NY pieSimply put, Big Mario's is the best and most consistent pizza in all of Seattle. As an East Coaster looking for a solid NY pie, there isn't anything close. I've lived here for 13 years and have tried them all, and Mario's has continued to improve.
- NY style pizzabest NY style you can get
- NY style slicebest NY style slice I’ve had in years
Frequently criticized
- pizzaMy pasta craving was satisfied during my visit. I tried a slice of pizza, and while the crust was perfect, the pizza itself was bland. I ordered the garlic and fungi pizza.
- slicesonly had three slices of cheese. Nothing else.
- 14” pizzaMy experience at the restaurant was disappointing. We arrived at 5 PM and they were already out of 14” pizza, forcing us to order an 18” instead. The pizza itself was just okay, not particularly flavorful, which was a letdown given the prior recommendation.
- Seattle sodaSeattle soda tastes like dirt
- beersmissing things we ordered like beers
- classic pepperoniordered a classic pepperoni and saw no pepperoni
- croutonsput the croutons inside the salad, degrading the crunch, making them soggy
- doughDough tast like plain dry dough
- doughySo doughy even though we asked for well done
- flavorThe crust was fantastic, and the sauce was unique and different. However, something was just a bit lacking in flavor for the price. On the positive side, the staff were awesome and friendly!
If youre craving authentic "NY style pizza" with "big slices" and dont mind a bit of inconsistency, this place is definitely worth a try. Just be aware that while many find the food excellent, some experiences mention blandness or doughy crusts, so manage your expectations.
Service (5.9 out of 10)
mentioned by 66% of the guests
Based on 48 total comments, service here is a bit of a mixed bag, with a 5.9 score landing it squarely in the average range, and customer satisfaction sitting at a 52.1% mixed rating. Many guests, across 25 positive remarks, have raved about the friendly staff, helpful staff, and even amazing customer service, with some shouting out specific bar tenders for their excellent work. However, its not all smooth sailing, as 22 negative comments highlight some bumps in the road.
Issues like "wait time" and struggling to get "bartenders attention" pop up, alongside concerns about "incorrect orders" and even some "rude" interactions with "staff. " It appears theres room for improvement in consistency.
Service
48
Reviews
52%
Satisfaction
22
negative
1
neutral
25
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, helpful staff
- Amazing customer service
- Fast service
What people don't like
- Long wait times
- Ignored by staff
- Incorrect orders
Often praised
- servicethe service is incredible. Amber went above and beyond for me
- staffIt's also conveniently close to my home and workplace. All of this was complemented by amazing customer service from the staff; they were super friendly and helpful.
- ServiceService:5
- DrayDray is a fantastic bartender
- Kind staffKind staff
- amazing customer serviceamazing customer service from the staff
- bar tendersthe bar tenders are nice
- best humanwith the best human
- friendly staffWe got served drinks from friendly staff.
- helpful staffEverywhere folks were helpful.
Frequently criticized
- serviceWhile the price per person was on the higher side at $100+, the overall experience made it worthwhile. The service, rated 1/5, was the only area that needs significant improvement.
- Uber driverI showed him both the text messages (A.) confirming the order, B.) saying the order was ready, plus the email receipt. He told me that an Uber driver had walked in off the street, had my order information, and walked off with my order ($87 worth of product including tip). Luis told me I was out of luck.
- bartenders attentionstruggling to get the bartenders attention
- business ownersbusiness owners not know how to run a business
- carryoutAlso, there is a chance a guest simply read the order on the small register screen they have at checkout when Luis was not looking. Sadly, I will never order carryout from them again, and should I ever dine-in, will pay cash. Their store is not safe and now I need to spend what would have been a day of celebration, changing passwords.
- employeeI ordered two slices of pizza, and it turned out the employee never put them in the oven. They served other customers, including my companion, who had already eaten most of their food by the time the employee realized the mistake. When the employee finally went to get my slices, he dropped one on the floor and then put it back in the display case as if nothing had happened.
- food handlingdropped one and put it back in the case
- frontWe visit about six times a month. The experience is normally great, except when the older chick at the front works. The pies are not consistent when she's there, and she also refuses to give you the garlic every time, which is never a problem unless she's working.
- interactions among staffWe also struggled to get the bartenders' attention. This seemed to stem from the interactions among the staff; it felt like we were interrupting a social gathering among staff, with guests being in the way. While I appreciate that you enjoy your job and are among your coworker friends, the primary function is to care for those who patronize your business.
- managerLuis told me I was out of luck. I asked for a manager (I hate uttering those words) and he said there was no manager. I refused to leave, so he quickly and politely remade the order.
If youre looking for service thats consistently top-notch, you might find it a bit hit-or-miss here. While many praise the friendly and helpful staff, be prepared for potential wait times or order hiccups. Its worth a try if youre in the neighborhood, but don't expect perfection every time.
Ambience (8.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 49% of the guests
When it comes to the overall vibe, this spot truly shines! Boasting a good score of 8.5 and a fantastic 88.6% customer satisfaction, its clear most patrons are loving the atmosphere. Out of 35 total remarks, 31 rave about the atmosphere, booths, back patio, and cool bar, creating a cozy and comfy feel with stellar VHS playing.
However, there was one comment among the 35 that touched on a technical hiccup, specifically concerning wi-fi security. While not directly about the decor or general feel, its worth noting for those who might rely on the internet connection during their visit.
Ambience
35
Reviews
88%
Satisfaction
1
negative
3
neutral
31
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great atmosphere
- Cool bar vibe
- Fun back patio
- Stellar VHS
What people don't like
Often praised
- atmosphereThe service and atmosphere were excellent
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- HardwoodHardwood all over inside and out.
- Hipster barHipster bar in back
- NY experienceadds to the NY experience
- back patioWith a back patio
- barThe bar is cool too
- boothsdope booths at the bar area
- cool barhang out in the cool bar
- cozy and comfyIt's cozy and comfy.
Frequently criticized
- wi-fiManagement (if they exist) needs to lock down their tech platform. Perhaps the wi-fi at the store is not secure and someone right outside the door can read the orders. Also, there is a chance a guest simply read the order on the small register screen they have at checkout when Luis was not looking.
If youre seeking a place with a vibrant atmosphere, diverse seating options, and a fun, unique vibe, this restaurant is definitely worth a visit. The positive energy and cool touches make it a solid choice for a good time, though perhaps dont plan on doing sensitive online tasks there.
Value (3.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 34% of the guests
While the overall sentiment around value might be challenging, there's a glimmer of positivity! Some folks have found the bar to be quite affordable, contributing to a phenomenal experience with high-quality pizza. Despite this, customer satisfaction sits at a low 5%, suggesting this positive view is quite rare among the 20 opinions.
However, the general consensus points to significant concerns regarding value. Many feel that slices and food prices are out of control, with mentions of an automatic service charge and overall price being too high. The score for value is a poor 3.7, heavily influenced by 13 negative remarks, indicating that many find the cost simply not worth it.
Value
20
Reviews
5%
Satisfaction
13
negative
6
neutral
1
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Affordable bar
What people don't like
- Pricey slices
- High food prices
- Hidden service fees
Often praised
- barMy experience at Big Mario's was phenomenal. They've put together yet another establishment with high quality pizza paired with a high quality, affordable bar. Simply put, Big Mario's is the best and most consistent pizza in all of Seattle.
Frequently criticized
- priceMy experience at Big Mario's was absolutely disgusting. The restaurant is known for its low-quality food, service, and taste, all at a wildly inflated price, but this visit was on another level. I ordered two slices of pizza, and it turned out the employee never put them in the oven.
- Greek salada small Greek salad is ridiculous
- Medium pizza$55 for a Medium pizza
- automatic chargethey charge $2 automatically without even ordering anything
- food pricesthe food prices are out of control!!!
- priceshide and up charge instead of being honest with prices
- service chargeadds a 5% service charge that does NOT go directly to the servers
- service feebeing charged 20% service fee for 7 take out pies was a bit much
- slicesslices are a bit pricey
If you're looking for great value, this spot might not be your best bet, as many find the prices quite steep for what you get. While the bar might offer some affordability, the overall cost of food and additional charges seem to be a major sticking point for most customers.
How are the prices at Big Mario's Pizza?
You’re looking at roughly 30 per person – reported by 34 diners. That puts it in the $21–$30 category. For a Pizzeria, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
While the average is 30, most guests cluster in the $21–$30 range, with a good number also opting for slightly cheaper options. There are a few who splurge, but it’s generally a balanced mix.
Here’s a quick look at what guests spend per person, based on the latest 34 reviews.
How this Pizzeria’s value for money stacks up against similar spots in Seattle.
Overall, we think the pricing feels fair for a Pizzeria in Seattle. It offers a good middle ground, not too cheap, not too extravagant.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Big Mario's Pizza
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Authentic NY Pizza with Incredible Service
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic, particularly with the service. Amber went above and beyond, ensuring my order was prepared exactly as I wanted, even though it wasn't a standard menu item. The food is 100% authentic New York-style pizza, which I can attest to as an Italian who used to live in NY.
While it's pricier than the $1 slices I'm used to, the flavor is definitely worth it. The salad was also a highlight – simple, yet incredibly fresh and crunchy, with no mushy tomatoes or wilted lettuce, which is a rare find these days. I would definitely recommend this place.
- food10
- service10
- pizza10
Price per Person
- $31–$40
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Delivery
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
2
Disappointing New York Pizza Experience
I was really excited to try a New York pizza, and I really hope this is not representative of that. Unfortunately, I'm stuck eating the rest of a 17-inch pizza because my wife will not eat anymore. The dough tasted like plain dry dough.
Some of the onions were not edible. Maybe we got them on a bad night, but for that price, it's hard to try it again.
- dough2
- onions2
- price3
Price per Person
- $41–$50
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Size
- Solo
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Best NY Style Pizza on the West Coast!
As a born and raised East Coaster who has lived in Seattle for over 20 years, I can confidently say Big Mario’s is the absolute best NY Style Pizza outside of New York State! The old standbys are magnificent, the original recipes are creative and eccentric, and the wide array of vegetarian options are both outstanding and deliciously original! It's the best legit authentically NY pizza on the west coast, period!
Seattle’s best pizza, in the heart of my old neighborhood - beautiful White Center! 🤘
- NY Style Pizza10
- old standbys9
- original recipes9
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Group Type
- Couple
Group Size
- Couple
Service Type
- Dine-in
1
Gross Pizza, Regrettable Experience
My experience at this restaurant was quite disappointing. We ordered two slices of salami and jalapeño pizza, but the quality was gross 🤮. We both regretted eating it.
To make matters worse, it cost $16 for just two slices of what we considered gross pizza.
- pizza quality1
- pizza1
- price1
Visit Type
- Delivery
Service Type
- Takeout
7
Great Food, Questionable Service Fee
My experience at the restaurant was a mixed bag. The food was absolutely great, with a rating of 5/5. However, I was surprised and felt it was a bit much to be charged a 20% service fee for 7 take-out pies.
While I understand this fee for large parties dining in, for take-out, it felt like I paid for 8. 5 pies and only received 7. The service and atmosphere both received a rating of 3/5.
- food10
- service6
- atmosphere6
- service fee3
- take out pies4
What Big Mario's Pizza offers
Crowd
- Family-friendly
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Dinner
- Lunch
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
Offerings
- Alcohol
- Wine
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- No-contact delivery
- Takeout
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Parking
- Free street parking
Atmosphere
- Casual
FAQs
What service and accessibility options does Big Mario's Pizza offer?
At Big Mario’s Pizza, you have several convenient service options including no-contact delivery, takeout, and dine-in. You can also enjoy outdoor seating. The restaurant is fully wheelchair accessible, with an accessible entrance, parking lot, and seating, ensuring a comfortable visit for all guests.
Is Big Mario's Pizza a good place for families, and what dining times are available?
Absolutely! Big Mario’s Pizza is good for kids, offering high chairs to accommodate younger diners. You can enjoy your meal here for both lunch and dinner. Plus, if you have a furry friend, dogs are allowed in the outdoor seating area, making it a great spot for the whole family.
What is the overall customer sentiment for Big Mario's Pizza?
Big Mario’s Pizza has an overall Restaurant Score of 6.8, which is considered good, but customer satisfaction is a mixed 62.7%. This indicates that while many enjoy their experience, there are areas that could be improved for a more consistent visit.
What do customers enjoy most about Big Mario's Pizza?
Customers frequently praise the authentic New York style pizza and the inviting atmosphere, which includes a cool bar and a back patio. The food (7.2) and ambience (8.5) are consistently highlighted as strong positive aspects.
What are the main drawbacks or concerns at Big Mario's Pizza?
The primary concerns revolve around value (3.7) and service (5.9). Many customers find the prices to be inflated, with issues like automatic charges and expensive slices. Service can be inconsistent, with some experiences noting inattentive staff or order errors.