Philadelphia, PA
—Tomato pies in Philadelphia were sold by the now-closed "Iannelli's Bakery" as early as 1910. Like Sicilian pizza, tomato pie is often oven-baked in rectangular pans and served in square slices. It first appeared in a 1903 article published by the New York Tribune on Italian-American foods, describing an earlier variation of today's tomato pie.
A Slice of Philly Tradition: Where to Find the Best Tomato Pie
Philadelphia's culinary scene is renowned for its iconic cheesesteaks and hoagies, but another local favorite deserves a spot on your must-try list: Tomato Pie. This simple yet satisfying dish features a thick, rectangular crust topped with a generous layer of sweet, tangy tomato sauce, often sprinkled with herbs and a touch of cheese.
Look no further if you're craving a taste of this Philly classic. Here's a guide to some of the best bakeries in the city where you can find a truly exceptional Tomato Pie:
South Philly Institutions:
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Cacia's Bakery (1526 W Ritner St): This old-school Bakery has been a South Philly staple for over 60 years. Its brick oven churns out some of the best Tomato Pies in the region. The crust is perfectly crisp, and the sauce is bursting with flavor.
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Sarcone's Bakery (758 S 9th St): A South Philly landmark since 1918, Sarcone's is renowned for its old-school bread and delectable Tomato Pie. The family-run Bakery uses time-honored recipes and techniques to create a truly authentic taste of Philly.
Chef-Driven Creations:
- Square Pie (801 E Passyunk Ave): This cozy BYOB eatery elevates the classic Tomato Pie with chef-inspired toppings like house-cured sausages and Berkshire pork. Their thick, Brooklyn-style crust provides the perfect base for their flavorful sauce and creative combinations.
Neighborhood Gems:
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Marchiano's Bakery (4653 Umbria St): This family-run Bakery specializes in Tomato Pie and Italian loaves of bread stuffed with meat and cheese. Their Tomato Pie is a local favorite, with a perfectly balanced crust and sauce that will leave you wanting more.
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Gaeta's Tomato Pies (7616 Castor Ave): This Northeast Philly gem is a go-to spot for classic Italian eats, including their signature Tomato Pie. The secret lies in their flavorful sauce, which is made with fresh ingredients and a touch of family tradition.
Classic & Unassuming:
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Tony's Famous Tomato Pie (6300 Frankford Ave): This long-standing local spot is known for its thin-crust pizzas, including its signature cheeseless Tomato Pie. The simple yet satisfying flavors will transport you back to the roots of Philly's pizza scene.
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Carangi Baking Company (2655 S Iseminger St): This unassuming Bakery in lower South Philly is a hidden gem for Tomato Pie lovers. Their housemade crust and flavorful sauce create a classic rendition of this Philly favorite.
Whether you're a lifelong Philadelphian or a visitor eager to explore the city's culinary delights, don't miss out on the opportunity to savor a slice of authentic Tomato Pie. These bakeries offer a taste of Philly tradition that will leave you wanting more.
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Written By: Philly Bite Magazines Staff
Philadelphia Best Of Series consists of a round-up of the best places in Philly for great food, entertainment, and more.
