Dig into the late-night vibe at Big Mario's New York Pizza on Capitol Hill

Big Mario's is a slice joint, known for serving up New York-style pizza to throngs of bar-hoppers after last call.

It also has become a reliable standby for college students during the day and for the barmen, bouncers and line cooks who work around Capitol Hill.

The place stays open until 4 a.m. on those busy Thursday-through-Saturday bar nights.

Some serious pedigree behind this spot; It's owned by Capitol Hill Block Party organizer Dave Meinert, Neumos owner Jason Lajeunesse and Via Tribunali/Caffe Vita owner Mike McConnell, men who know the pulse of the Pike and Pine corridor better than most.

The menu: Pastas, calzones, meatball sandwiches, salads and desserts ($5-$11), but known for pizza by the slice ($3.25-$3.75). Eight different pizzas to choose from, including two Sicilian pizzas. Slices come with three or more toppings. After 2 a.m., choices narrow to just pepperoni or cheese slices.

What to write home about: Slices are wide, thin and crisp — this is New York-style pizza, with generous toppings, including huge chunks of sausage and mushrooms. More filling are the thick Sicilian squares, with a crunchy outer crust and a soft, cheesy, gooey topping. Most underrated item is the big, juicy meatball sandwich ($8.50).

What to skip: The calzone is too doughy and not worthy of its $11 price tag.

The setting: Trying for that '70s and '80s vibe with salvaged barstools and leather booths, with posters of Andy Gibb, Erik Estrada and the Bunkers from "All in the Family" on the walls. Late at night and early morning, though, most regulars just stand and share the sidewalk with the smokers. There's a walk-up window for late-night/early-morning pizza.

Summing up: One of the best and cheapest dining solutions to the late-night munchies. Four specialty slices, a meatball sandwich, a calzone and soda totaled $39.62 after tax, enough to feed at least five people.

Tan Vinh: 206-515-5656 or tvinh@seattletimes.com