The history of this fan-favorite food dates back to 18th-century Naples, where the poorest Italians often consumed flatbreads which were cheap yet filling meals. When Peruvian explorers brought tomato plants to Europe, many locals thought the fruit was poisonous, meaning tomatoes were inexpensive and abundant. Lower-class Neapolitans began topping their flatbreads with tomatoes and eventually, cheese, creating what would eventually shape into the pizza we know today.
As Italians began immigrating to the United States near the turn of the 20th century, they brought along recipes of simple Neapolitan-style pizzas and shared them with new friends and neighbors. Cities with booming Italian communities such as New York and Chicago soon began crafting their own distinct styles of pizza and, in 1905, the first American pizzeria, Lombardi’s, opened its doors in the Little Italy neighborhood of Manhattan.
In the decades that followed, the Italian-American staple only grew further in popularity and has arguably become the most beloved meal in the United States. Each year, more than 3 billion pizzas are sold nationwide, or 8 million each day, with the industry estimated to have generated sales in excess of $50 billion in 2024.
Much of the country’s pizza fandom can be attributed to pies made right here in the Land of Lincoln. Chicago’s contributions to creating incredible pizza in a number of styles alone have solidified the city as a premier pizza city and the favorite amongst many foodies. Iconic deep-dish spots such as Lou Malnati’s, Giordano’s, and Gino’s East have become world-famous institutions in their craft and have made the style synonymous with the City of Broad Shoulders. Other pizzerias including Vito and Nick’s and Aurelio’s take a far different approach, serving up “tavern style” pies known for their crack thin crusts and square slices. No matter where you are in the city, you are always just minutes from an incredible slice.
While Illinois’ claim to pizza fame often stems from the legacy and unique styles of many Chicago-based pizzerias, some of the best slices in the state lie outside of the Windy City limits. Many of the state’s best pizzerias can be found in all parts of Illinois, each offering a unique take on the American favorite. Spots such as Di Carlo’s in Virdin, Anna’s in Rockford, Joe’s in Paris, Quatro’s in Carbondale and Agatucci’s in Peoria are just a few examples of the state’s many hidden gems worth planning your National Pizza Day around.
Whether you are team thin-crust or a deep-dish fanatic, there is no better way to spend National Pizza Day than by indulging in one of America’s favorite foods. Treat yourself to a meal at one of your favorite local spots, order in, or make one yourself! Happy National Pizza Day!