It’s no secret that pizza is one of the most popular cuisines in the United States. Over three billion are consumed each year, which comes out to about 350 slices sold per second. In honor of National Pizza Day on February 9th, find out how this dish got its start and grew into a worldwide favorite.

How Did Pizza Originate?

Between 1700 and 1800, Naples was a thriving waterfront city in Italy consisting primarily of the working class. These individuals required food they could eat quickly, inexpensively, and for any meal. To meet this need, street vendors created flatbread dishes that were topped with various ingredients—usually cheese, oil, tomatoes, garlic, and anchovies. 

Legend has it that when King Umberto I and Queen Margherita visited Naples in 1889, they grew tired of the haute cuisine and asked to try an assortment of treats from Pizzeria Brandi. The queen ended up loving a mozzarella pizza topped with tomatoes and basil—which happened to be the colors of the Italian flag. From then on, this particular pizza was known as a Margherita. 

Even with royal appreciation, pizza did not become well-known outside of Naples until the early 20th century. Immigrants brought the dish with them to the United States, and in 1905, Lombardi’s opened in Manhattan to become the first pizzeria in the country.

Popularity increased over the next few decades, but it was really after World War II that Americans really began craving pizza. Soldiers who had spent time in Italy came home with a fondness for the dish. This helped to spread it to other areas of the country, where it evolved into the many regional varieties known today. 

What Are the Most Common Styles?

Purists believe that the true pie is the original New York style, which is a wide, thin slice smothered in marinara and Italian meats, cheeses, and seasonings. However, many people love the Chicago twist, which is a deep-dish delicacy with thick slices that must literally be eaten like pie.

The options don’t end with these two, though. There’s also Neapolitan style that offers soft, airy crusts and New Haven pies that feature charred crusts and unconventional toppings like clams. One last favorite is the Sicilian, a crispy, relatively thin-crust pizza with the tomato sauce cooked on top of the cheese to ensure you get a nice crunch with every bite. 

When you’re in the mood for pizza, visit Crico’s Pizzas & Subs for a delicious treat. This family-owned and -operated restaurant uses the highest-quality, freshest ingredients and makes all items by hand each day. Stop by today for their famous lunch buffet or a hearty dinner, or visit their website to view their menu. You can also place a food delivery order to anywhere in the Orange Beach or Gulf Shores, AL, area by calling (251) 948-3100.