The History of Pizza
Pizza continues to delight the world with its hot, cheesy goodness. Deemed the world’s most popular fast food, it’s no wonder that we all want to thank the genius who invented this delicacy. After all, we wouldn’t have Beau Jo’s famous Colorado Mountain Pie were it not for this legend. So, settle down and dig into the savory tale that is the history of pizza.
Where Was Pizza Created?
The history of pizza can be traced back to the 18th century. Despite there being records of other types of flatbreads with toppings from Greece and Egypt, we still question where pizza was invented? Historians believe that Naples, Italy is the home of modern-day pizza. Back then, it wasn’t the delicious treat that is modern pizza. The invention was just a simple flatbread that was considered food for the poor.
They could barely afford decent food; instead, they relied on street vendors who sold slices of this flatbread with basic toppings. Sometimes, those toppings would just be as simple as garlic and a few other toppings, depending on one’s pocket. The rich despised the dish strongly, while food writers would frequently scorn it, terming it as disgusting.
That, however, changed in 1889 when King Umberto I and Queen Margherita visited Naples. Legend has it that the pair soon grew tired of their regular French diet and decided to try something new. Tavern owner Raffaele Esposito, considered the best pizza maker at the time, welcomed them into his restaurant, Pizzeria di Pietro.
He prepared different pizza varieties, but the Queen is said to have enjoyed the tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil pizza so much that it was named after her. And that is how Margherita Pizza was born.
The combination also marked an important point in the history of pizza by becoming the basis of modern-day tomato-cheese pizza. With pizza gaining royal approval, Italians soon embraced the dish, and it was only a matter of time before its popularity crossed Italian borders.
How Pizza Made Its Way to the US
History shows that during the late 19th century, millions of Italians immigrated to the US. The immigrants would make delicious pies at home and serve them up in slices on the streets for a small price. Soon, pizzerias began to appear wherever there were Italian immigrants. However, the true popularity of pizza in the US can be attributed to World War II veterans.
During the war, soldiers stationed in Italy enjoyed the delicacy, which soon became a favorite. Post-war, US soldiers returned home and began to search for the same. The demand for pizza grew rapidly, and soon, pizzerias were a common sight on the east and west coasts.
The pizza had found a new home.
Restaurants began to adapt it to match local tastes. The Chicago-style pizza, complete with its deeper and thicker crust and an abundance of toppings, was born. The Rocky Mountain Pie from Colorado followed swiftly; this time, chefs outdid themselves by making a wider crust to be enjoyed with honey.
Fun Facts About the Invention of Pizza
The versatility of pizza easily makes it a favorite among many. Thanks to the brains behind this popular dish, here are a few interesting facts to remember when you stop by a Beau Jo’s for a slice with your favorite toppings:
- Antica Pizzeria Port’Alba was the first pizzeria in the world. It opened up in 1830 in Naples.
- The first pizzeria in the US opened its doors in 1905. It was run by Gennaro Lombardi.
- Gennaro Lombardi’s pizza stove is still in use even today, although Lombardi’s moved from its original Manhattan location.
- Neapolitan pizza is regulated by rules passed down from father to son.
What is Colorado Mountain Pie?
There are so many ways you can enjoy your pizza, but few come close to the deliciousness of the Colorado Mountain Pie. If you love a thick crust, you’ll be happy to know that the mountain pie has a hand rolled edge holding in all the toppings.
You get to enjoy the hearty toppings; Pepperoni, Roasted Red Peppers, Andouille Sausage, or whatever toppings your cravings are asking for. When you get to the crust, you can drizzle it with honey for an extra kick. Don’t be shy. Polish off the sweetness of honey and perfectly baked crust, and that is how you enjoy a Colorado Mountain Pie.
Enjoy Colorado’s Best Pizza at Beau Jo’s!
The rich history of pizza makes for an interesting read and a delicious treat. That’s why centuries later, the dish continues to dominate the world, with Americans said to consume about 350 slices of pizza every second.
At Beau Jo’s, we love to make you happy by creating delicious pizzas with perfect toppings and a fine crust. Enjoy your next slice of pizza by visiting any of our locations in Colorado. You can also order online from select locations and enjoy swift delivery.