In a close-knit small town like, Closter, pizza isn’t just dinner–its a debate. For years, locals have been split between two beloved restaurants: Ray’s and Rudy’s. 

For many residents, loyalty starts early. Some have grown up visiting one spot with family, turning a simple restaurant into a long-standing tradition. 

“I’ve been going to Ray’s ever since I moved to Closter. It is the staple pizza parlor among my family,” junior Elliot Yoon said. 

Beyond just tradition, Yoon adds that the restaurant’s service plays a major role in his choice. 

“At Rudy’s the staff is nice, but not compared to Ray’s where they want to get to know you as a person,” Yoon said. 

Others point to overall quality and atmosphere as deciding factors. 

“I like Ray’s because the quality and atmosphere feel superior to Rudy’s,” junior Michael Espinosa said.

Sophomore Justin Steiner agrees, especially when it comes to dining in. 

“I prefer Ray’s because it feels like a much better restaurant to sit down and eat a pizza in. Ray’s from the inside is a much nicer and more relaxed place in my opinion,” Steiner said. 

For some Ray’s supporters, it ultimately comes down to the details of the pizza itself. 

“The crust is crispy but still soft inside, and the sauce has a really good balance of sweetness and acidity,” junior Jonathan Rosenblum said.

On the other hand, Rudy’s has dedicated fans who feel just as strongly. 

“I like Rudy’s better. I think the pizza and other food options, like the pasta, taste way better than Ray’s,” junior Amit Azoulay said. “I like when it’s thin and crispy, the dough is what makes a pizza good or not.” 

Senior Eden Shaul, who has supported Rudy’s for years, also stands firmly on her opinion. 

“I have been loyal to Rudy’s for 10 years, Rudy’s pizza is not chunky like Ray’s and it doesn’t feel like it has like a thousand different textures,” Shaul said. 

While Ray’s fans highlight service, atmosphere, and consistency, Rudy’s supporters emphasize texture and flavor. In the end, the rivalry isn’t about having a clear winner, it’s about personal taste, tradition, and community pride. 

“Both Rays and Rudy’s are both pretty good but at the end of the day pizza is pizza,” Espinosa said.