The First Pizzerias in New York City

I. Introduction to the first pizzerias in New York City

New York City is known for its vibrant food scene, and one dish that has become synonymous with the city is pizza. But have you ever wondered how this delicious Italian creation made its way to the bustling streets of New York? In this article, we will take a trip back in time and explore the origins of the first pizzerias in New York City.

Pizza, as we know it today, has its roots in Naples, Italy. It was traditionally a simple street food made with just a few ingredients – dough, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and perhaps some basil or other toppings. Italian immigrants brought their love for pizza to America when they started arriving on U.S. shores in large numbers during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The birth of Lombardi’s Pizzeria

One of the most iconic names associated with pizza in New York City is Lombardi’s Pizzeria. Established in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi, an Italian immigrant from Naples, it holds the distinction of being recognized as America’s first pizzeria.

Located at 32 Spring Street in Manhattan’s Little Italy neighborhood (now called SoHo), Lombardi’s quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors alike. The coal-fired brick oven baked pizzas emerged from Lombardi’s kitchen with thin crusts that were crispy on the outside yet soft inside – a winning combination that captivated taste buds.

John’s Pizzeria: A Historic Landmark

Another noteworthy establishment is John’s Pizzeria located on Bleecker Street since 1929. Originally named “Papa Luigi’s,” John Sasso took over ownership after immigrating from Naples. This pizzeria has stood the test of time and is now recognized as a New York City landmark.

John’s Pizzeria boasts a unique feature – their coal-fired brick oven, which has been in use for over 90 years. The oven imparts a distinct smoky flavor to the pizzas, making them unforgettable to anyone who takes a bite.

Grimaldi’s: A Brooklyn Classic

Crossing the East River into Brooklyn, we find Grimaldi’s under the Brooklyn Bridge. Founded by Patsy Grimaldi in 1990, this pizzeria pays homage to the traditional Neapolitan style of pizza-making.

Grimaldi’s is known for its thin crusts, fresh mozzarella cheese, and rich tomato sauce made from San Marzano tomatoes imported from Italy. The combination of high-quality ingredients and skilled craftsmanship results in pizzas that are simply irresistible.

II. Historical background of pizza in New York City

New York City is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, and one dish that has become synonymous with the city is pizza. The history of pizza in New York City dates back to the late 19th century when Italian immigrants brought their traditional recipes and culinary skills to America.

The arrival of Neapolitan immigrants

In the late 1800s, a wave of Italian immigrants from Naples settled in New York City. These Neapolitans brought with them their love for pizza, a simple yet delicious dish made from dough topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings.

Initially, pizza was mainly sold by street vendors who carried portable ovens on their backs. They would set up shop on busy corners and serve slices of this delectable treat to hungry passersby. The popularity of these street vendors grew rapidly as locals embraced the unique flavors and textures that pizza had to offer.

The opening of Lombardi’s

Lombardi’s Pizzeria holds the distinction as being one of the first pizzerias in New York City. Gennaro Lombardi opened this iconic establishment in 1905 on Spring Street in Manhattan’s Little Italy neighborhood.

Lombardi’s quickly became a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike seeking an authentic taste of Italy. Their coal-fired brick oven produced pizzas with thin crusts that were perfectly charred yet chewy—a characteristic style now known as “New York-style” pizza.

Pizza becomes an American favorite

As more pizzerias started popping up throughout New York City, this humble Italian dish began to capture the hearts—and stomachs—of Americans from all walks of life.

The affordability and convenience of pizza made it an instant hit, particularly among working-class communities. It soon became a staple food for New Yorkers, and its popularity spread like wildfire to other cities across the United States.

The evolution of pizza in New York City

Over the years, pizza in New York City has evolved to encompass diverse styles and flavors. While classic cheese or pepperoni pizzas remain popular choices, pizzerias have also started experimenting with various toppings and unique combinations.

Today, you can find a wide range of pizzas in New York City—from traditional Neapolitan pies to gourmet creations featuring unconventional ingredients. The city’s competitive pizza scene continues to push boundaries and inspire innovation.

A cultural icon

Pizza has become more than just a dish; it is now deeply ingrained in the cultural fabric of New York City. It is not uncommon to see people lining up outside pizzerias, eagerly waiting for their slice of heaven.

The legacy left by those early Italian immigrants lives on through every bite of pizza enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Each slice tells a story—of tradition, passion, and the vibrant melting pot that is New York City.

III. The origins of pizza in Italy and its arrival in the United States

Pizza, a beloved dish enjoyed by millions around the world, has a rich history that dates back centuries. Its origins can be traced to Italy, where it first gained popularity before making its way to the United States.

The Birth of Pizza in Italy

The story begins in Naples, Italy, during the late 18th century. Back then, pizza was nothing like what we know today. It was a simple and inexpensive flatbread topped with whatever ingredients were available locally.

Naples’ favorable climate allowed for an abundance of fresh produce such as tomatoes and cheese. These ingredients became essential components of early pizzas as they were readily available and added flavor to the humble dish.

As pizza’s popularity grew among Neapolitans, street vendors known as “Pizzaioli” began selling the delicacy from open-air stalls or makeshift carts. These vendors would bake their pizzas on hot stones or inside wood-fired ovens called “fornos.” This traditional method ensured that the crust would become crispy while maintaining a soft interior.

The Journey Across the Atlantic

In 1889, Queen Margherita of Italy visited Naples and expressed her desire to taste this famous street food everyone was talking about. A renowned pizzaiolo named Raffaele Esposito seized this opportunity to showcase his skills by creating three different pizzas for her.

It is said that Queen Margherita favored one particular combination: mozzarella cheese (representing white), tomato sauce (representing red), and basil leaves (representing green). This patriotic blend created what we now know as Margherita pizza – a classic Neapolitan creation still enjoyed today.

With the mass migration of Italians to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, pizza crossed the Atlantic. Italian immigrants settled in various cities, with a significant number finding their new home in New York City.

The First Pizzerias in New York City

A Taste of Italy on American Soil

As Italian communities flourished in New York City, so did their culinary traditions. The first pizzeria to open its doors was Lombardi’s, established in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi. Located on Spring Street in Manhattan’s Little Italy neighborhood, it quickly became a hotspot for locals and tourists alike.

Lombardi’s paved the way for other pizzerias to emerge throughout the city. Totonno’s, John’s Pizzeria, and Patsy’s are just a few notable names that joined the burgeoning scene during this time.

Pizza Takes America by Storm

While initially popular among Italian immigrants and their descendants, pizza soon captivated Americans from all walks of life. In post-World War II America, soldiers returning from Italy developed a taste for this delectable dish while stationed overseas.

The rise of television also played a significant role in promoting pizza to wider audiences. Popular shows like “Bimbo’s Initiation” featured characters enjoying slices of pizza – an image that lingered long after viewers turned off their TVs.

Today, pizza has become an iconic part of American cuisine with countless variations available across all fifty states. From deep-dish Chicago-style pizzas to thin-crust New York-style slices enjoyed on-the-go – there is no denying that this humble Italian creation has left an indelible mark on American food culture.

IV. The first pizzerias established in New York City

New York City is known for its vibrant food culture, and one of the most iconic dishes associated with the city is pizza. The origins of pizza in New York City can be traced back to the late 19th century when Italian immigrants started opening pizzerias to cater to their fellow compatriots.

The Immigrant Influence

Italian immigrants brought with them their culinary traditions, including their love for pizza. These early pizzerias were small establishments run by families who wanted to share a taste of Italy with their new community. They would often use simple ingredients such as tomatoes, cheese, and dough to create delicious pizzas that quickly gained popularity.

Coal-Fired Ovens and Thin Crusts

A defining characteristic of the first pizzerias in New York City was the use of coal-fired ovens. These ovens provided intense heat that allowed for quick cooking times and imparted a unique smoky flavor to the pizzas. The thin crust became another hallmark feature as it allowed for faster baking while maintaining a crispy texture.

Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba: The First Pizzeria

While there were several early pizzerias in New York City, Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba holds the distinction of being recognized as the first pizzeria opened by Italian immigrants in 1905. Located on Spring Street in Manhattan’s Little Italy neighborhood, it quickly became a gathering place for Italians craving an authentic taste of home.

Lombardi’s Pizza: A Slice of History

Lombardi’s Pizza is another historic establishment that played a significant role in popularizing pizza in New York City. Gennaro Lombardi, an Italian immigrant, opened his pizzeria in 1905, just a few blocks away from Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba. Lombardi’s is often credited as the birthplace of New York-style pizza and continues to serve its delicious pies to this day.

Gas Ovens and Modern Innovations

As the popularity of pizza grew in New York City, pizzerias started transitioning from coal-fired ovens to gas ovens. This change allowed for more precise temperature control and increased efficiency. Along with technological advancements, modern pizzerias have embraced innovative toppings and flavors while still honoring the traditional techniques that made New York City pizza famous.

V. Popular pizzerias in New York City during the early years

New York City has a rich history when it comes to pizza, dating back to the early 1900s when Italian immigrants brought their recipes and culinary traditions to America. As the popularity of pizza grew, numerous pizzerias emerged in the city, each with its unique style and flavors. Let’s take a closer look at some of the popular pizzerias that made their mark during those formative years.

1. Lombardi’s Pizza

Lombardi’s Pizza holds the distinction of being America’s first licensed pizzeria. Established in 1905 by Gennaro Lombardi on Spring Street in Little Italy, this iconic eatery quickly gained fame for its coal-fired brick oven pizzas. The thin-crust pies topped with fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and various toppings continue to be a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

2. Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano

Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano is another legendary establishment that opened its doors in Coney Island around 1924. Created by Anthony “Totonno” Pero, an immigrant from Naples, this family-owned joint became famous for serving Neapolitan-style pizza cooked in a coal-fired oven. The secret lies in their dough recipe that has been passed down through generations.

3. John’s of Bleecker Street

Situated on historic Bleecker Street since 1929, John’s specializes in classic New York-style pizza made using simple yet high-quality ingredients like homemade mozzarella cheese and San Marzano tomatoes imported from Italy. The no-frills ambiance coupled with mouthwatering thin-crust slices has turned John’s into a beloved institution in Greenwich Village.

4. Patsy’s Pizzeria

Patsy’s Pizzeria traces its roots back to 1933 when Pasquale “Patsy” Lancieri opened the original location in East Harlem. Known for their coal-fired thin-crust pizzas, Patsy’s has consistently delivered a delightful combination of crispy crust, tangy sauce, and gooey cheese that keeps customers coming back for more.

5. Grimaldi’s Pizza

Around since 1990, Grimaldi’s Pizza is located under the Brooklyn Bridge and offers stunning views along with their delicious pizzas. They are known for using a coal-fired brick oven to achieve that perfect char on their thin-crust pies. The classic Margherita pizza is a standout here, topped with fresh basil leaves and creamy mozzarella cheese.

The early years of New York City’s pizzerias laid the foundation for what would eventually become an integral part of the city’s culinary identity. These pizzerias continue to thrive today while staying true to their traditions and serving up slices that have stood the test of time.

VI. The impact of the first pizzerias on New York City’s culinary scene

The introduction of the first pizzerias in New York City had a profound impact on the city’s culinary scene. Not only did it introduce a new type of cuisine to the diverse food landscape, but it also sparked a cultural phenomenon that still thrives today.

The birth of pizza culture

When Italian immigrants brought their traditional recipes to New York City in the late 19th century, little did they know that they were laying the foundation for an iconic food culture. The opening of Lombardi’s, America’s first pizzeria, in 1905 marked a turning point in New York City’s dining history.

A melting pot of flavors

Pizza quickly became popular among working-class communities due to its affordability and delicious taste. As word spread about this new dish, people from different backgrounds and ethnicities started flocking to pizzerias. This influx of diverse customers contributed to the blending of flavors and techniques, creating unique variations like Neapolitan-style and New York-style pizza.

Influence on American cuisine

The success and popularity of pizzerias in New York City paved the way for Italian cuisine to gain widespread acceptance across America. As more immigrants arrived from Italy, they brought with them their culinary traditions, including pasta dishes and other Italian delicacies. Today, Italian-American cuisine is deeply ingrained in American food culture thanks to these early pioneers.

Celebrating tradition while embracing innovation

Despite its humble beginnings as street food sold by immigrant vendors on pushcarts or out of small shops, pizza has evolved over time without losing its essence. Pizzaiolos (pizza makers) have continued perfecting their craft, experimenting with toppings, crust styles, and cooking techniques. This dedication to tradition combined with a spirit of innovation has kept the pizza scene in New York City vibrant and exciting.

Pizza’s role in pop culture

Over the years, pizza has become more than just a dish; it has become an iconic symbol of New York City and its lively culture. Countless movies, TV shows, and songs have featured scenes or references to pizza joints in the city. The image of grabbing a slice from a local pizzeria is deeply ingrained in the collective imagination of both locals and visitors alike.

VII. Frequently asked questions about the first pizzerias in New York City

As we delve into the history of the first pizzerias in New York City, you may have some burning questions. Here are some frequently asked questions and their answers:

1. When did the first pizzeria open in New York City?

The very first pizzeria in New York City was Lombardi’s, which opened its doors in 1905.

2. Was pizza instantly popular among New Yorkers?

While it took some time for pizza to gain popularity outside of Italian immigrant communities, it eventually became a beloved staple among all New Yorkers.

3. What made Lombardi’s pizza stand out from others?

Lombardi’s initially stood out for its coal-fired brick oven, which gave their pizzas a unique flavor and texture that set them apart from competitors.

4. How did other iconic pizzerias emerge after Lombardi’s?

Pasquale “Patsy” Lancieri worked at Lombardi’s before opening Patsy’s Pizzeria in 1930, followed by John Sasso who later opened John’s of Bleecker Street in 1929.

5. Were these early pizzerias only found in Manhattan?

No, as pizza gained popularity, it spread beyond Manhattan to other boroughs like Brooklyn and Staten Island.

6. Did any female entrepreneurs play a role during this time?

Around the same era, Filomena “Nonna” D’Agostino started Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano on Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn back in 1924.

7. What is the oldest continuously operating pizzeria in New York City?

Lombardi’s holds the title for being the oldest continuously operating pizzeria in New York City, even though it has changed locations over time.

8. Did these early pizzerias influence pizza culture in America?

Absolutely! The success and popularity of these first pizzerias helped pave the way for pizza to become a national obsession and an integral part of American cuisine.

9. Do any of these original pizzerias still exist today?

Yes, Lombardi’s, Patsy’s Pizzeria, John’s of Bleecker Street, and Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano are all still open today and continue to serve delicious pizzas to locals and visitors alike.

10. What impact did these early pizzerias have on New York City’s culinary scene?

The opening of these first pizzerias not only introduced a new type of cuisine but also contributed to the cultural diversity that defines New York City today. They laid the foundation for countless other pizza establishments that followed suit.