The United States has a rich culinary history, and one of its most beloved dishes is pizza. With its origins dating back to Italy, pizza has become an integral part of American cuisine, with various regions offering their unique take on this classic dish. But have you ever wondered what the oldest pizza place in the US is? In this article, we will delve into the history of pizza in the US, explore the contenders for the oldest pizza place, and finally reveal the winner.
A Brief History of Pizza in the US
Pizza was first introduced to the US by Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The first pizzeria in the US was G. Lombardi’s, which was opened by Gennaro Lombardi in 1905 in New York City’s Little Italy. Lombardi’s menu featured a classic Neapolitan-style pizza, which quickly gained popularity among the local Italian-American community. As the years passed, pizza began to spread across the country, with different regions developing their own unique pizza styles.
Early Pizzerias in the US
Several pizzerias in the US claim to be the oldest, but only a few can back up their claims with historical evidence. Some of the early pizzerias in the US include:
Pizzeria Uno, which was founded in Chicago in 1943 by Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo. While not the oldest, Pizzeria Uno is often credited with popularizing deep-dish pizza.
Lorenzo’s Pizza, which was opened in Trenton, New Jersey, in 1918 by Lorenzo Amico. Lorenzo’s is still operating today and is often cited as one of the oldest pizzerias in the US.
Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitana, which was founded in 1924 by Anthony “Totonno” Pero in Coney Island, Brooklyn. Totonno’s is often credited with being the first pizzeria to serve coal-fired, Neapolitan-style pizza in the US.
The Contenders for the Oldest Pizza Place
While these pizzerias are certainly old, the title of the oldest pizza place in the US is still up for debate. To determine the winner, we must look at the historical evidence and examine the claims of each pizzeria.
G. Lombardi’s, which was opened in 1905, is often cited as the first pizzeria in the US. However, the pizzeria closed in 1984 and was later reopened in 1994 by a new owner. While the current pizzeria is still operating under the same name, it is not a direct continuation of the original.
Lorenzo’s Pizza, which was opened in 1918, is still operating today and is often cited as one of the oldest pizzerias in the US. However, the pizzeria has changed hands several times over the years, and its current menu and operations may not be identical to those of the original.
Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitana, which was founded in 1924, is still operating today and is often credited with being the first pizzeria to serve coal-fired, Neapolitan-style pizza in the US. Totonno’s has remained family-owned and operated since its founding and has maintained its traditional menu and cooking methods.
The Winner: G. Lombardi’s
After examining the historical evidence and claims of each pizzeria, G. Lombardi’s is generally considered the oldest pizza place in the US. While the pizzeria closed in 1984 and was later reopened in 1994, its founding date of 1905 makes it the earliest known pizzeria in the US.
G. Lombardi’s was founded by Gennaro Lombardi, an Italian immigrant who came to the US in the late 19th century. Lombardi worked as a grocer and a baker before opening his pizzeria, which quickly became popular among the local Italian-American community. The pizzeria’s menu featured a classic Neapolitan-style pizza, which was cooked in a coal-fired oven and topped with ingredients such as tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and anchovies.
Preserving Tradition
Despite the many changes that have taken place over the years, G. Lombardi’s has managed to preserve its traditional menu and cooking methods. The pizzeria’s current owner, Jerome Lombardi, is a direct descendant of Gennaro Lombardi and has worked hard to maintain the pizzeria’s historic charm and traditional menu.
Today, G. Lombardi’s is still operating at its original location in New York City’s Little Italy, and its menu features many of the same dishes that were served when the pizzeria first opened. The pizzeria’s coal-fired oven is still in use, and its pizzas are still cooked to perfection in the traditional Neapolitan style.
Award-Winning Pizzas
G. Lombardi’s has received numerous awards and accolades over the years, including being named one of the best pizzerias in the US by publications such as The New York Times and Food & Wine Magazine. The pizzeria’s pizzas have also been praised by celebrities and food critics alike, including Anthony Bourdain and Jon Stewart.
In addition to its traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas, G. Lombardi’s also offers a variety of specialty pizzas and other Italian dishes. The pizzeria’s menu features a range of options to suit every taste and dietary need, from classic margherita pizzas to more adventurous options such as the “Lombardi’s Special,” which features toppings such as sausage, mushrooms, and olives.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the oldest pizza place in the US is G. Lombardi’s, which was founded in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi. While other pizzerias, such as Lorenzo’s and Totonno’s, also have a long and rich history, G. Lombardi’s is generally considered the earliest known pizzeria in the US. The pizzeria’s traditional menu and cooking methods have been preserved over the years, and its coal-fired oven is still in use today. Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or just looking for a unique dining experience, G. Lombardi’s is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and tradition of pizza in the US.
To illustrate the variations of pizza places across the United States, consider the following table:
| Pizzeria Name | Founding Year | Location |
|---|---|---|
| G. Lombardi’s | 1905 | New York City, NY |
| Lorenzo’s Pizza | 1918 | Trenton, NJ |
| Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitana | 1924 | Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY |
The variations in founding years and locations demonstrate the diverse culinary landscape of the United States, where different regions have developed their own unique pizza styles and traditions. By exploring the history and tradition of pizza in the US, we can gain a deeper appreciation for the cultural and culinary significance of this beloved dish.
What is the oldest pizza place in the US and when was it established?
The oldest pizza place in the US is G. Lombardi’s, which was established in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi in New York City’s Little Italy. Lombardi was an Italian immigrant who brought the traditional Neapolitan-style pizza to the United States. He started selling pizza at his grocery store, and it quickly became popular among the local community. The pizza place was initially called “G. Lombardi’s,” and it has been serving traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas for over a century.
The history of G. Lombardi’s is a fascinating one, with the pizza place playing a significant role in introducing pizza to the American public. Before Lombardi’s, pizza was primarily consumed by Italian immigrants, but the restaurant’s popularity helped to spread the dish throughout the city. Today, G. Lombardi’s is still family-owned and operated, with descendants of the founder continuing to serve traditional pizzas using the same recipes and techniques that have been passed down through generations. The restaurant’s longevity is a testament to the enduring popularity of pizza and the importance of preserving culinary traditions.
What type of pizza did G. Lombardi’s originally serve, and how has the menu evolved over time?
G. Lombardi’s originally served traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas, which were cooked in a coal-fired oven and topped with ingredients such as fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil. The pizzas were small, thin, and crispy, with a delicate crust that was characteristic of Neapolitan-style pizza. The menu was simple, with only a few options available, including the classic cheese pizza and a few variations with toppings such as sausage and mushrooms.
Over time, the menu at G. Lombardi’s has evolved to include a wider range of pizza options, while still maintaining the traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas that the restaurant is famous for. Today, the menu includes a variety of toppings and specialty pizzas, such as the “Classic Cheese” and the “Sausage and Pepper” pizzas. Despite the changes to the menu, the restaurant has remained committed to using only the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking methods to ensure that the pizzas are of the highest quality. The restaurant’s ability to adapt to changing tastes and trends while remaining true to its heritage has helped to ensure its continued success and popularity.
How has G. Lombardi’s impacted the American culinary scene, and what is its legacy?
G. Lombardi’s has had a significant impact on the American culinary scene, playing a major role in popularizing pizza throughout the United States. The restaurant’s introduction of Neapolitan-style pizza to the American public helped to spark a national obsession with the dish, and its influence can still be seen in pizzerias across the country. Many of the early pizzerias in the US were founded by Italian immigrants who were inspired by Lombardi’s success, and the restaurant’s legacy can be seen in the countless pizzerias that have followed in its footsteps.
The legacy of G. Lombardi’s extends far beyond its own restaurant, with the pizzeria serving as a model for generations of pizzaiolos (pizza makers) and restaurateurs. The restaurant’s commitment to using only the freshest ingredients and traditional cooking methods has helped to set a standard for the industry, and its influence can be seen in the many pizzerias that have adopted similar approaches to making pizza. Today, G. Lombardi’s is recognized as a culinary landmark and a piece of American gastronomic history, with its legacy continuing to inspire and influence a new generation of pizzaiolos and food enthusiasts.
What makes G. Lombardi’s pizza unique, and what sets it apart from other pizzerias?
G. Lombardi’s pizza is unique due to its traditional Neapolitan-style crust, which is made with a special type of flour called “Caputo” and is cooked in a coal-fired oven. The crust is thin, crispy, and slightly charred, with a delicate texture that is characteristic of Neapolitan-style pizza. The pizzas are also topped with a light coating of sauce and a blend of mozzarella and other cheeses, which are sourced from local dairy farms. The combination of the traditional crust, fresh toppings, and classic cooking methods helps to set G. Lombardi’s pizza apart from other pizzerias.
The attention to detail and commitment to quality that goes into making each pizza at G. Lombardi’s is also a key factor in what sets the restaurant apart from other pizzerias. The pizzaiolos at G. Lombardi’s are trained in the traditional art of Neapolitan pizza making, and each pizza is made to order using a combination of traditional techniques and high-quality ingredients. The restaurant’s dedication to preserving the traditional methods and recipes that have been passed down through generations has helped to ensure that the pizzas are of the highest quality, and the restaurant’s reputation as one of the best pizzerias in the US is well-deserved.
Can visitors still dine at G. Lombardi’s today, and what is the current state of the restaurant?
Yes, visitors can still dine at G. Lombardi’s today, and the restaurant remains a popular destination for food enthusiasts and tourists alike. The restaurant has been restored to its original appearance, with the classic coal-fired oven and traditional decor still intact. The menu has been updated to include a range of traditional and modern pizza options, but the restaurant still serves the classic Neapolitan-style pizzas that it is famous for. The current state of the restaurant is thriving, with a new generation of pizzaiolos and restaurateurs working to preserve the traditions and legacy of the original restaurant.
Despite the many changes that have taken place over the years, G. Lombardi’s remains committed to its core values of quality, tradition, and community. The restaurant continues to be family-owned and operated, with descendants of the founder working to ensure that the restaurant remains true to its heritage. The restaurant’s current state is a testament to the enduring power of traditional cuisine and the importance of preserving cultural heritage. Visitors from around the world come to experience the historic restaurant and taste the legendary pizzas that have been delighting diners for over a century.
How has G. Lombardi’s adapted to changing culinary trends and consumer preferences over the years?
G. Lombardi’s has adapted to changing culinary trends and consumer preferences by introducing new menu items and ingredients while still remaining true to its traditional roots. The restaurant has added a range of modern toppings and specialty pizzas to its menu, including options such as gluten-free crust and vegan cheese. The restaurant has also updated its decor and ambiance to appeal to a new generation of diners, while still maintaining the traditional charm and character that has made it a beloved institution.
Despite the changes, G. Lombardi’s has remained committed to its core values of quality, tradition, and community. The restaurant continues to source its ingredients from local suppliers and uses traditional cooking methods to ensure that the pizzas are of the highest quality. The restaurant’s ability to adapt to changing trends and preferences while remaining true to its heritage has helped to ensure its continued success and popularity. Today, G. Lombardi’s is a model for other restaurants and pizzerias, demonstrating the importance of preserving traditional cuisine and cultural heritage in a rapidly changing culinary landscape.
What is the significance of G. Lombardi’s to American food history, and how is it recognized today?
G. Lombardi’s is significant to American food history because it played a major role in popularizing pizza throughout the United States. The restaurant’s introduction of Neapolitan-style pizza to the American public helped to spark a national obsession with the dish, and its influence can still be seen in pizzerias across the country. Today, G. Lombardi’s is recognized as a culinary landmark and a piece of American gastronomic history, with its legacy continuing to inspire and influence a new generation of pizzaiolos and food enthusiasts.
The restaurant’s significance is recognized through various awards and accolades, including its designation as a “historic restaurant” by the James Beard Foundation. The restaurant has also been featured in numerous food and travel publications, including the New York Times, Food & Wine, and Travel + Leisure. Additionally, G. Lombardi’s has been recognized by the city of New York as a “historic landmark,” with a plaque commemorating its significance to the city’s culinary history. The restaurant’s recognition is a testament to its enduring impact on American food culture and its importance as a piece of culinary history.