The History of Pizza: From Italy to Your Table at Manny and Olga
Firdous Ahmed
The History of Pizza: From Italy to Your Table at Manny & Olga’s
The history of pizza can be traced back to thousands of years ago with ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all eating flatbreads with topping. However, it should be noted that these early flatbreads were not "pizzas" as we understand it today but rather precursors to the modern dish. The word pizza was first recorded in 997 AD in Gaeta, Italy. The modern version of pizza evolved in Naples, Italy between the 16th and 18th centuries.
Various cultures have given this tasty delight their own traditional touch, giving birth to different “Pizza Traditions”. Everywhere you go, you will find different flavors of pizzas. It has evolved and adapted over centuries.
These traditions, from Neapolitan styles to deep-dish versions, to famous Chicago pizza, showcase the dish's widespread popularity.
From Naples to New York: Pizza crosses the Atlantic
Greeks settled in Naples way back in 600 BC. Around the 18th and 19th centuries, Naples became a populated area where street vendors sold flatbread topped with tomatoes, cheese, garlic, anchovies, and oil, and that's how pizza was born.
Pizza's journey to the United States began in the late 19th century to early 20th century, as waves of Italian immigrants arrived in search of a better life.
As Italian immigrants settled in the United States, they brought with them their customs, culture, and, of course, their treasured recipes. One of the most significant contributions from this wave of immigration was pizza, which quickly gained popularity.
This resulted in the establishment of the first documented pizzeria in the United States, Lombardi’s, which opened in New York City in 1905, founded by Gennaro Lombardi, an Italian immigrant from Naples
“Lombardi's pizza” was initially sold by the slice to factory workers, who needed quick, affordable meals. As time went by Lombardi’s showcased the authentic flavors and culinary traditions of Italy, paving the way for pizza to become a beloved staple in American cuisine.
As Italian-American communities grew, pizza traditions also grew. Over time, pizza evolved to American tastes, with variations like New York-style pizza, a larger, thinner, foldable slice, becoming an iconic regional favorite. As pizza gained more popularity in other cities, regional variations began to emerge as well.
The Legacy of Manny & Olga's
Greece native Manny Athanasakis brought his values of hard work and dedication to the U.S. in 1971, opening his first restaurant in 1974. By 1993, he officially named it Manny & Olga's, blending family traditions with warm hospitality. Growing up in Greece's olive and grape fields, Manny learned the importance of hard work and determination, which he infused into his business. Today, Manny & Olga's is celebrated for its delicious food, fair prices, and exceptional service, earning the respect of customers for decades.
A Global Phenomenon: Pizza Around the World
As pizza spread globally, different cultures adapted it uniquely. In Japan, squid and mayonnaise are common toppings, while Brazil uses guava and Sweden offers pizzas with curry or bananas. It is safe to say that pizza has transformed into a canvas for different cultures to draw in.
Even within Italy, the styles of pizza have diversified. Calling Neapolitan pizza the favorite pizza of Italians should not be an exaggeration at all, however, Rome has developed its unique flavors of Pizza, for people who like to enjoy different experiences.
But regardless of the fusion and combinations most like to keep it simple and original.
Pizza: From Gourmet Dining to Your Local Pizzeria
Today, pizza has taken on many forms. While the Classic Margherita still holds a special place, the creativity in pizza-making has reached new heights. Some chefs treat pizza as a gourmet experience, combining different flavors to make a gourmet delight, Making it feel a little bougie.
Meanwhile, Others embrace pizza’s roots as a humble, affordable meal, offering simple yet delicious takes on the traditional recipe, Using traditional flavors with authentic methods of dough kneading. Some like to keep it classy.
Pizza went from a food specially made for the working class to expensive gourmet to a local food you can get in a pizzeria. In the history of pizza, it has been through all phases of life, pizza has experienced it all.
With the widespread of technology, ordering any food online from anywhere locally has become way too easy, so it is not only available in restaurants and cafes but also you can get it from your home, from any different location possible today.
For many, pizza night has become a cherished tradition, enjoyed during family gatherings, parties, and casual dinners.
Delicious, Mouthwatering Pizza Options for Foodies
1. Margherita Pizza
A popular legend holds that Margherita Pizza was invented in 1889 by Neapolitan Pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito for the visit of Queen Margherita. The queen preferred a pizza with tomato(red), basil(green), and mozzarella(white), which represented the Italian flag.
The Margherita pizza is loaded with rich, savory flavors. Starts with a thin crisp crust topped with tasty pizza sauce, layered with creamy mozzarella, and finished with hearty slices of pepperoni and sausage. Added mushrooms for an earthy twist, and you have a deliciously balanced pizza. This pizza has everything you love about the classic pizza, and how can we forget about the basil leaves, though some don’t prefer it?
2. Vegetarian Pizza
The history of Vegetarian pizza can be traced back to the ancient origins of flatbread, which was topped with various vegetables.
The Vegetarian Pizza is a vibrant celebration of fresh garden flavors. Savory tomato spread on top of a golden heavenly crust. Topped with fresh sliced tomatoes, crunchy onions, olives, and green peppers, a colorful combination with the taste of heaven for veggie lovers. The extra layer of cheese ties everything together in every bite.
3. BBQ Chicken Pizza
The BBQ Chicken pizza was invented in 1985 by ED LaDou, a pizza chef, who worked at Puck’s Spago restaurant in LA.
Talking about comfort food and not including a smoky BBQ Chicken Pizza is more like a crime to BBQ lovers. With the smoky, sweet twist, the BBQ Chicken Pizza is the way to go. Tender, juicy chicken breast pairs with tangy BBQ sauce and mozzarella, creating a comforting combination of flavors, and thinly sliced onions for a bit of a bite, and balance it all with a hint of tomato sauce, it is a savory sensation with just a hint of sweetness.
4. Hawaiian Pizza
Hawaiian pizza originated in Canada by San Panopouls, a Greek-born Canadian at the Satellite Restaurant in Chatham-Kent, it was traditionally topped with pineapple, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and either ham or bacon.
Hawaiian Pizza, a delightful twist on the classic pie, with a base of tangy tomato sauce and mozzarella cheese, juicy chunks of pineapple, savory ham, and crispy bacon. Sweet, salty, and chewy, a combination of flavors.
5. Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza
The origin of Chicken Bacon Ranch pizza is believed to have started in the US in the late 20th century, by American college students in Washington D.C.
Okay! Imagine this, a golden crust topped with tender pieces of grilled chicken breast and crisp, smoky bacon, with fresh spinach leaves. Chicken Bacon Ranch Pizza is a blend of savory tomato sauce with creamy ranch dressing drizzled on top of it. Every bite got this mix of flavors and delight.
6. Big Fat Greek Pizza
Greek pizza was invented by Costas Kitsatis, a Greek from Albanis, at his restaurant Pizza House in New London, Connecticut, in 1955.
This Big Fat Greek Pizza is loaded with juicy, flavorful gyro meat, black olives, and the fresh taste of spinach. Creamy, tangy feta cheese is crumbled generously on top, along with thinly sliced onions and tomatoes. Each slice brings you a burst of flavor.
Each of these pizzas offers a unique experience, from classic flavors to adventurous pairings, making it easy to find a favorite that satisfies every craving.
Why Manny & Olga's Pizza should be your go-to Pizza place:
When it comes to satisfying your pizza cravings or feeding a crowd, Manny & Olga’s Pizza should be the top choice for anyone craving a delicious pizza delight in Washington DC, and Maryland.
Why is this a local favorite?
We have a wide range of Pizza and snack options for your cravings, you name it we have it.
Pizza options for big gatherings
Affordable catering options
Easy delivery for nearby areas
Convenient Online pizza ordering
All the classic Pizza and Snack Options
From your classic Margherita to our original, from delicious steak & cheese sub to chewy cheeseburger with crispy bacon.
Whether you want a traditional flavor or something new, the menu is full of delight, so satisfying right?
Every ingredient we use is prepared with fresh ingredients, locally sourced, and sustainable as well.
Crowd-Pleasing Party Pizzas for Gatherings
Are you thinking of throwing a large gathering full of family and friends? We got you, starting from 6-inch medium pizza for just an individual to large party pizza designed just right for larger gatherings, serving 6 people at a time or more.
Affordable Catering options
The catering menu is affordable and delightful. Your guests will leave the party in a happy mood with filled stomachs and satisfying smiles, without you emptying your wallet dry.
Just order our services and enjoy with no worries.
Convenient Online Pizza Ordering
One of our most standout features is our convenient online pizza ordering. The delivery partner will bring your pizza to your doorstep with a click on your phone.
Visit our website, select what you wanna eat from the awesome menu, pick and customize your pizza as you want, order, and bang it is at your doorstep in no time.
So convenient right?
Easy Pizza Delivery Nearby
If you live nearby and don’t feel like walking toward us, it’s fine, we will run to you! With our awesome delivery partner, your food will be at your table in a snap of your fingers. Easy, just like squeezing lemon on your salad, Oh! We got that too.
Not in the mood to cook, craving takeout, or planning a last-minute surprise party? We’ve got you covered with fast and easy pizza delivery in your area if you are nearby.
The Best Pizzas for Events
Whether you’re organizing a big party, a family gathering, or a cozy night with friends and loved ones, we offer the best pizzas for any event, with our classing pizza to deluxe pizza options.
Manny & Olga’s Pizza has been here for decades and it is here to stay for a long time with a rich history of pizza and rich Italian-to-American fusion that gave birth to our pizza traditions.
We celebrate this rich history by serving authentic, delicious pizza with love. Indulge in this delightful culinary experience. Join us for a slice and taste the love in every bite!
Visit site: https://www.mannyandolgas.com
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Posted Feb 8, 2025
An SEO blog post was written for a famous pizza spot located in Washington DC.
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The History of Pizza: From Italy to Your Table at Manny and Olga
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