For a food that's the cornerstone of birthday parties, late nights, office lunches, and video-game binges, pizza actually remains pretty mysterious. Thankfully, the team at Ozark Mountain Pizza in Branson, MO, is here to divulge some of the amazing food's deepest secrets. 

1. Pizza's Main Ingredient Didn't Originate in Italy

Tomatoes aren't native to Italy. In fact, you couldn't find them anywhere in Europe until the 15th and 16th centuries, when explorers brought them back from Peru. It was without a doubt one of the most fruitful European expeditions in world history. 

2. The City That Started It All

When you think of great pizza, plenty of cities come to mind: New York, Chicago, San Francisco, Boston. But only one can claim the title of having been the first place in America to offer pizza pies: New York City. Lombardi's, America's first pizzeria, opened there in 1905. 

3. America’s Least Popular Topping 

According to a 2016 Harris poll, pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms are America's favorite pizza toppings. Anchovies ranked last! 

But it's not just pizza's undeniable great taste that makes it such a staple for all corners of America. It's also the way pizza represents how we love to share food. After all, what's easier than splitting a pie? Ozark Mountain Pizza has been serving the Branson area since 2012, offering a local alternative to nationwide pizza restaurants. In addition to a large selection of specialty pizzas and thin and hand-tossed crust options, they have pasta, salads, and specials every day. While the restaurant has grown into a favorite dinner destination for locals, Ozark Mountain Pizza also offers pizza carry-out and delivery. Check out the complete menu on their website, or give them a call at (417) 386-4210.