Few dishes cause as much controversy and passionate debate among friends as Hawaiian pizza. Ask anyone you know, and they’re sure to have an opinion on whether they love or hate it. Whatever side of this polarizing debate you find yourself on, you may be surprised at this controversial dish’s non-Hawaiian origins. Read on to learn more about how a small restaurant in Ontario started a food revolution that isn’t likely to lose steam any time soon.

The Hawaiian Pizza’s History 

Despite its name, Hawaiian pizza was invented by a Greek-Canadian restauranteur. It all started in 1962 when Sam Panopoulos, a Greek immigrant and restaurant owner in Ontario, Canada, decided to experiment with new foods and flavors. Although his restaurant’s pizza options were initially limited to basic toppings such as pepperoni and mushrooms, it wasn’t long before he began to experiment with other toppings. During this experimental phase, he dumped a can of pineapple onto one of his pizzas and tested the flavor. He added salty ham to balance out the sweetness of the pineapple chunks, and the Hawaiian pizza was born. “Hawaiian” was the name of the brand of canned pineapple he used, and it became the name of the pizza.

The Hawaiian Pizza’s Legacy

The Hawaiian pizza wasn’t an overnight sensation, but it grew in popularity after other chefs adopted the same idea. Even after Panopoulos’s death in 2017, his legendary creation is still going strong. Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau proudly stands behind this Canadian creation. A British survey from 2017 revealed that 53% of the UK’s population loves Hawaiian pizza. In Australia, it accounts for 15% of all pizza sales. Here in the U.S, a survey also conducted in 2017 showed that 47% of Americans approve of this fruity pizza, while 32% disagree.

Hungry for a slice of pizza? Check out Colombini’s Pizza & Deli in Rochester, NY. For over 35 years they’ve dishing up delectable sandwiches, wings, and pizzas. They have a large selection of pizza toppings ranging from eggplant to hot cherry peppers — and, of course, pineapple. Visit their website to see their full menu or call (585) 889-2213 today to place an order for delivery.