Who Wants Pizza?

Cynthia Lopinto Then & Now Leave a comment 2,381 Views

By CYN LoPINTO
Editor-in-chief, gerontologist

If you are looking for another reason to go out and enjoy some pizza today, October is National Pizza Month. While there are conflicting reports on which country pizza originated from (Italy, Greece or Egypt), there is no argument that Americans love pizza. As you may guess, New York City was where pizza first showed up in Italian communities at the beginning of the 1900s. Connecticut, New Jersey and the cites of Chicago and Boston soon followed, with pizzerias feeding mostly Italian immigrants.

Pizza really took off when American soldiers who were stationed in Italy began returning from WWII. They were introduced to delicious pizza overseas and wanted it available at home. According to Ed Levine’s book, “Pizza: A Slice of Heaven,” pizza restaurants across the country really began to spring up between 1945-1960. These were independently-owned pizzerias. The “pizza chain” experience (Pizza Hut, Little Caesar’s, and Dominoes) began in the late 1950s and cut into the profits of local restaurants. Since these pies could be made at a much-cheaper cost, consumers paid less and didn’t go as often to sit-down Italian eateries to enjoy their pizza.

Today, both delivery chains and neighborhood pizzerias have a place in America. While it is both convenient and affordable to get a pizza delivered, it can’t compare to enjoying a freshly homemade pie served at a table covered by a red/white checkered tablecloth. The other advantage in many pizzerias is the different type of pies available. Many customers are looking for vegan/vegetarian selections and gluten-free choices. Restaurants are catering to a growing population by offering these special requests and dietary restrictions. They offer fresh ingredients and customers can pick and choose exactly what they want.

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Cynthia Lopinto

Cyn LoPinto, M.A. is a gerontologist focusing on significant issues affecting older adults and their families. Her areas of interest include lifestyle enrichment, family dynamics, and caregiver support. Cyn has worked in both the recreational and healthcare industries.