Explore the rich history of America’s oldest pizzerias.
These iconic eateries have kept their authentic kitchens running strong, serving delicious pies that have stood the test of time.
Join us as we journey through 20 must-visit pizzerias across the U.S., each with a unique story and a slice of history.
Lombardi’s Pizza — 1905 (New York, NY)
Dubbed America’s first licensed pizzeria, Lombardi’s Pizza has been a staple in New York since 1905. This iconic eatery began serving its legendary coal-oven pies in Little Italy, capturing the hearts of New Yorkers with each bite.
Known for its thin, crispy crust and fresh toppings, Lombardi’s remains a beloved destination for pizza enthusiasts worldwide. The restaurant’s vintage charm and bustling atmosphere transport visitors back in time.
Whether it’s the classic Margherita or a creative new topping, Lombardi’s continues to honor its rich history, serving up slices of nostalgia with every pie.
Papa’s Tomato Pies — 1912 (Robbinsville, NJ)
As America’s oldest continually family-owned pizzeria, Papa’s Tomato Pies has been delighting customers since 1912. Nestled in Robbinsville, this legendary spot is known for its unique Trenton tomato pies, where the sauce is added on top of the cheese.
The family-run establishment boasts a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it a cherished community gathering place. Generations of pizza lovers have enjoyed the hearty, flavorful pies that reflect the owners’ commitment to tradition.
At Papa’s, each slice tells a story, connecting past and present in a deliciously satisfying way.
O’Scugnizzo Pizzeria — 1914 (Utica, NY)
Established in 1914, O’Scugnizzo Pizzeria is one of the earliest pizzerias in upstate New York. This family-owned gem is famed for its signature upside-down tomato pie, where cheese is placed directly on the dough, and sauce is added last.
The pizzeria exudes a cozy, welcoming vibe, drawing in locals and visitors with its authentic recipes and rich history. Each pie is crafted with care, maintaining the flavors and traditions of its Neapolitan roots.
O’Scugnizzo continues to preserve its legacy, serving up slices that are as unique as they are delicious.
Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano — 1924 (Brooklyn, NY)
Totonno’s Pizzeria Napolitano has been a cornerstone of Coney Island since 1924. Known for its coal-fired Neapolitan-style pizza, this century-old institution brings a taste of Italy to Brooklyn.
The pizzeria is renowned for its thin, charred crust topped with fresh ingredients, drawing pizza aficionados from near and far. The rustic charm and vintage décor create an atmosphere rich with nostalgia.
Totonno’s dedication to preserving traditional techniques ensures that each pizza is a perfect blend of flavors, offering a true culinary experience that honors its storied past.
Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana — 1925 (New Haven, CT)
Frank Pepe Pizzeria Napoletana, founded in 1925, is a legendary establishment in New Haven, Connecticut. Known for creating the iconic New Haven-style “apizza,” it remains a favorite among pizza purists.
The pizzeria’s coal-fired ovens produce a distinctive charred crust, perfectly complementing its famous white clam pie. The bustling, old-world setting adds to the charm, transporting guests to a bygone era.
With a commitment to quality and tradition, Frank Pepe’s continues to delight taste buds, maintaining its reputation as a must-visit destination for pizza lovers.
Regina Pizzeria — 1926 (Boston, MA)
Since 1926, Regina Pizzeria has been serving up classic brick-oven pizza in Boston’s historic North End. The pizzeria’s thin-crust pies, topped with fresh, flavorful ingredients, have made it a staple in the local culinary scene.
Regina’s cozy, old-world atmosphere invites patrons to savor a slice of Boston’s history. The rustic interior and friendly service add to the timeless appeal, creating a memorable dining experience.
With each bite, Regina Pizzeria honors its storied past, offering a delicious taste of tradition that continues to captivate generations.
Patsy’s Pizzeria — 1933 (Harlem, NY)
Patsy’s Pizzeria, established in Harlem in 1933, is celebrated for its pioneering approach to pizza-by-the-slice. This beloved institution is known for its thin, coal-oven NY-style pies that have delighted locals for decades.
The pizzeria’s bustling atmosphere and vintage charm transport diners to a time when life was simpler, yet no less delicious. Each slice is a testament to Patsy’s dedication to preserving its authentic pizza-making methods.
With a rich history and a commitment to excellence, Patsy’s continues to be an integral part of New York’s culinary landscape.
Zuppardi’s Apizza — 1934 (West Haven, CT)
Since 1934, Zuppardi’s Apizza has been a family-run treasure in West Haven, Connecticut. Known for its New Haven-style pizza, this beloved eatery has been serving generations with its flavorful, handcrafted pies.
The pizzeria embodies a nostalgic ambiance, inviting patrons to enjoy a slice of tradition in a welcoming setting. Each pizza is made with love and dedication, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
With nearly a century of history, Zuppardi’s remains a cherished destination for those seeking an authentic taste of New Haven’s pizza heritage.
Modern Apizza — 1934 (New Haven, CT)
Modern Apizza, founded in 1934, is a cornerstone of New Haven’s pizza scene. Known for its oil-fired ovens, this iconic spot serves up traditional apizza with a modern twist.
The lively atmosphere and authentic flavors transport diners to a world where every pie is crafted with precision and care. Each bite is a harmonious blend of crispy crust and rich toppings, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Modern Apizza’s dedication to preserving its culinary legacy ensures that its pies remain a delicious testament to New Haven’s storied history.
Jennie’s Pizzeria — 1935 (Monroe, CT)
Jennie’s Pizzeria, a Connecticut staple since 1935, is known for its long-standing family recipes and loyal generations of customers. This charming eatery offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere where guests can enjoy time-honored dishes.
Each pie is crafted with the same care and attention that has defined Jennie’s for decades, ensuring a delicious experience with every visit. The pizzeria’s rich history is reflected in its flavorful offerings and dedicated service.
Jennie’s continues to be a beloved gathering place for those seeking a taste of tradition and community spirit.
Vito & Nick’s — 1940s (Chicago, IL)
Vito & Nick’s has been a Chicago legend since the 1940s, specializing in traditional cracker-thin tavern-style pizza. This iconic spot is beloved for its crispy crusts and flavorful toppings, capturing the essence of classic Chicago pizza.
The tavern-style setting, complete with vintage décor, creates a welcoming environment where diners can enjoy a slice of history. Each pizza is made with meticulous attention to detail, ensuring a perfect balance of taste and texture.
Vito & Nick’s remains a cherished part of Chicago’s culinary heritage, offering a delicious journey through time.
Di Fara Pizza — 1965 (Brooklyn, NY)
Since 1965, Di Fara Pizza has been a mid-century legend in Brooklyn, renowned for its owner’s meticulous, decades-long handmade approach. Each pie is crafted with precision, using the finest ingredients and a dash of passion.
The cozy, artisanal setting invites diners to savor the unique flavors and textures that have made Di Fara a must-visit destination. The iconic owner’s dedication to his craft is evident in every slice, making each bite a memorable experience.
Di Fara Pizza continues to captivate pizza lovers, offering a delectable taste of Brooklyn’s rich culinary history.
Gino’s East — 1966 (Chicago, IL)
Gino’s East, founded in 1966, is one of Chicago’s original deep-dish pizza giants. Known for its iconic yellow walls covered in graffiti, this lively pizzeria has become a staple for both locals and tourists.
The thick, buttery crust and hearty toppings define Gino’s signature style, offering a satisfying meal that embodies the essence of Chicago deep-dish pizza. The bustling atmosphere and friendly service add to the charm.
Gino’s East remains a beloved destination for those seeking an authentic taste of Chicago’s pizza heritage, serving up slices that are as iconic as they are delicious.
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria — 1971 (Chicago, IL)
Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, established in 1971, is a family-run gem with deep roots in Chicago’s pizza beginnings. Known for its buttery crust deep-dish, Lou Malnati’s offers a slice of nostalgia with each pie.
The pizzeria’s vintage décor and welcoming atmosphere create a cozy environment where diners can enjoy a hearty meal. Each pizza is crafted with care, using recipes passed down through generations.
Lou Malnati’s continues to be an integral part of Chicago’s culinary scene, offering a delicious taste of tradition that never goes out of style.
John’s of Bleecker Street — 1929 (New York, NY)
Since 1929, John’s of Bleecker Street has been a mainstay in Greenwich Village, serving up classic NY-style pizza. Known for its coal-fired ovens, this historic spot offers a taste of New York’s rich pizza heritage.
The vintage charm and rustic setting invite diners to enjoy a slice of history in a cozy, welcoming environment. Each pizza is crafted with the same dedication and care that has defined John’s for nearly a century.
John’s of Bleecker Street remains a beloved destination for those seeking an authentic slice of New York’s culinary past.
Barone’s — 1945 (Valley Glen, CA)
Barone’s, established in 1945, is a classic 1940s-era pizzeria located in Valley Glen, California. Known for its red-sauce Italian dishes, Barone’s offers a nostalgic dining experience that captures the essence of mid-century America.
The retro vinyl booth seating and vintage ambiance create a warm, inviting atmosphere where diners can enjoy a slice of history. Each dish is crafted with authentic ingredients, preserving the traditional flavors that have delighted patrons for decades.
Barone’s continues to be a beloved community staple, offering a delicious journey through time with every meal.
Grimaldi’s — early 1990s (Brooklyn, NY)
Though the current location was established in the early 1990s, Grimaldi’s carries a legacy rooted in the traditions of early New York pizza masters. Known for its coal-oven approach, this iconic Brooklyn spot offers a taste of history with every pie.
The pizzeria’s dedication to traditional techniques ensures that each pizza is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, delighting both locals and tourists. The charming setting adds to the appeal, making Grimaldi’s a must-visit destination.
Grimaldi’s continues to honor its storied past, serving up slices that are as flavorful as they are memorable.
Sally’s Apizza — 1938 (New Haven, CT)
Sally’s Apizza, established in 1938, is a legendary institution in New Haven, Connecticut. Known for its coal-fired pies, Sally’s has been serving up authentic apizza with family recipes for over eight decades.
The historic, bustling atmosphere invites diners to experience a slice of New Haven’s rich culinary heritage. Each pie is crafted with care, offering a perfect balance of flavors that have captivated generations.
Sally’s remains a beloved destination for those seeking an authentic taste of tradition, continuing to honor its legacy with every delicious slice.
Armando’s Pizza — 1966 (Cambridge, MA)
Since 1966, Armando’s Pizza has been a beloved old-school pizzeria near Harvard Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Known for preserving classic East Coast pizza-making methods, this charming spot offers a slice of nostalgia with every pie.
The pizzeria’s historic charm and welcoming atmosphere invite patrons to savor the traditional flavors and textures that have defined Armando’s for decades. Each pizza is crafted with care, ensuring a delicious experience.
Armando’s continues to be a cherished destination for those seeking a taste of authentic East Coast pizza tradition.
Santarpio’s Pizza — 1903 (Boston, MA — pizza since 1930s)
Originally a family bakery in 1903, Santarpio’s Pizza began serving pizza in the 1930s and remains one of Boston’s oldest, most authentic pizza institutions. Known for its coal-fired oven, Santarpio’s offers a taste of history with every slice.
The pizzeria’s classic recipes and warm, inviting atmosphere create a dining experience that honors its rich heritage. Each pie is crafted with a dedication to quality and tradition, ensuring a perfect balance of flavors.
Santarpio’s continues to delight patrons with its timeless appeal, serving up slices of Boston’s culinary past.