Pizza – the ultimate comfort food that has captured the hearts (and stomachs) of millions worldwide. But did you know that the history of pizza can be traced all the way back to the ancient Greeks and Romans? Staten Island, one of the five boroughs of New York City, has its own story to tell when it comes to this delicious dish. So, let’s take a journey through time and explore the brief history of pizza on Staten Island.
History of Pizza on Staten Island
In the early 1900s, Staten Island was a hub for Italian immigrants who brought their love for pizza with them. One of the earliest pizzerias on the island was the ‘Joe and Pat’s’ pizzeria which opened its doors in 1950. The restaurant was first located on Victory Boulevard, but later moved to its current location in Castleton Corners. The secret to their success? The thin crust, crispy bottom, and simple toppings that let the dough and cheese shine through.
Another notable pizzeria on Staten Island is ‘Denino’s’, which opened in 1937. Located in Port Richmond, Denino’s is famous for its thin-crust pizza that has a crispy texture and chewy interior, which is a result of the high-speed mixing of the dough. Denino’s pizza gained so much popularity that it has been ranked as one of the top pizzerias on Staten Island.
However, it’s not just traditional thin-crust pizza that has been popular on Staten Island. ‘Goodfella’s’ pizzeria, which opened in 1992, brought the Sicilian-style pizza to the island. The rectangular pizza has a thick crust and fluffy dough and is topped with a layer of mozzarella cheese and tomato sauce. Goodfella’s became so popular that they even won the International Pizza Challenge, beating out more than 2000 competitors from around the world.
The love for pizza on Staten Island doesn’t stop there. In recent years, new pizzerias, such as ‘Pizzeria Giove’ and ‘Tony’s Brick Oven Pizza,’ have opened on the island, each bringing their unique take on the classic dish. Pizzeria Giove offers a fresh, garden-to-table approach using locally sourced ingredients, while Tony’s Brick Oven Pizza uses a wood-fired oven, giving the pizza a smoky flavour.
Goodfella’s is more than just your typical pizza place. It’s a sanctuary for pizza lovers and food enthusiasts alike. With a menu that boasts a wide variety of toppings, crusts and sizes, Goodfella’s will surely impress even the most discerning pizza connoisseur. But it’s not just the pizza that makes this restaurant a standout.
The ambiance is warm and inviting, and the staff are friendly and accommodating. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a place to relax with friends, Goodfella’s is the perfect spot. It’s no wonder they’ve become a staple in the community and a favourite among locals. If you’re in the mood for great pizza and a great atmosphere, Goodfella’s is the place to be.
Conclusion
In conclusion, pizza is more than just a dish on Staten Island; it’s a culture. From the traditional thin-crust pizza to the Sicilian-style pizza, the island has a variety of offerings. The pizzerias have become staples in their neighbourhoods, providing not only delicious food but also a gathering place for the community. So the next time you’re on Staten Island, be sure to indulge in a slice (or two) of pizza and take in the rich history that comes with it.
