FAQ About Pizza

The history of pizza in the United States dates back to the late 19th and early 20th centuries when Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the country. Here's a brief overview of the history of pizza in the United States:

• Late 19th Century: Italian Immigration - In the late 1800s, a significant wave of Italian immigrants arrived in the United States, particularly from Naples and other southern regions of Italy. With them, they brought their traditional Neapolitan-style pizza.
• Early 20th Century: Pizzerias Begin to Emerge - In the early 1900s, Italian immigrants started opening pizzerias in cities with large Italian populations, such as New York City, Boston, and Chicago. These early pizzerias primarily served the Italian immigrant community.
• 1905: Lombardi's - Lombardi's, established in 1905 in New York City, is often credited as the first pizzeria in the United States. It started as a grocery store and began selling pizza to workers in the area. Lombardi's is still in operation today and is considered an iconic pizzeria.
• World War II: Pizza Gains Popularity - During World War II, American soldiers stationed in Italy developed a taste for pizza. After returning home, they sought out pizzerias, which helped popularize pizza among non-Italian Americans.
• Post-War Era: Pizza Spreads Across the Country - In the post-war era, pizza gained momentum and started spreading across the United States. More pizzerias opened, and pizza began to appear on menus in non-Italian restaurants. The introduction of commercial pizza ovens and frozen pizza also contributed to its popularity.
• 1960s and Beyond: Pizza Chains and Diverse Varieties - In the 1960s, the rise of pizza chains like Pizza Hut, Domino's, and Little Caesars led to the widespread availability and standardization of pizza across the country. These chains introduced various toppings and styles, including thick-crust, deep-dish, and pan pizzas.
• Contemporary Pizza Culture - Today, pizza has become a staple of American cuisine. It has evolved to include a wide range of styles, including New York-style, Chicago-style, Neapolitan, Sicilian, and many regional variations. American creativity has also led to unique and innovative pizza toppings and flavor combinations.