Philadelphia, PA - Old-School Pizza in Philadelphia: Long before there were water-filtering, artisan flour-dusting scholars of pizza in the area, there have been corner shops and family-owned parlors making the regional specialty of tomato pie and other local fan favorites. These pizzas might not hew to centuries-old Italian hydration ratios—but they perform just fine on any taste test.
Philly's Old School Pizza Pioneers: A Slice of Nostalgia
Step back in time and savor the flavors of tradition at these iconic pizzerias, each a testament to Philadelphia's rich pizza heritage:
Marra's: A venerable institution since 1935, Marra's exudes old-world charm and unwavering authenticity. Their thin-crust pizzas, crafted from a cherished family recipe passed down through generations, epitomize Italian-American heritage with a distinct Philly flair.
Penny's Pizza: Enter this 40-year-old Limerick "speakeasy" through the back door and discover the magic of their "upside-down" pies. Open Thursday through Sunday, Penny's (now with a second location in Royersford) boasts a crispy, cornmeal-dusted dough that creates a unique and addictive pizza experience.
Santucci's Pizza: Forget the wedge-shaped slices—at Santucci's, it's all about the pillowy squares with a saucy twist. The original Northeast Philadelphia locations have recently expanded, bringing their irresistible square-shaped pies to Bella Vista and North Broad Street.
Tacconelli's: A BYOB institution in Port Richmond, Tacconelli's is a pizza purist's paradise. The menu features pizza and only pizza, with a (strongly suggested) three-topping limit for their crunchy, thin-crust creations. Be sure to call ahead to reserve your dough, as their limited daily supply makes this a coveted pie.
Tony's Place: A true Philadelphia tradition, Tony's Place in Northeast Philly is a haven for tomato pie devotees. Indulge in their iconic heart-shaped pies, a special treat offered around Valentine's Day, and experience the timeless allure of this beloved pizza style.
These pizzerias aren't just serving slices; they're serving up a slice of Philadelphia's history. Each bite transports you to a simpler time, when family recipes and time-honored traditions reigned supreme. So, step inside, savor the flavors, and let the nostalgia wash over you.
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