11 Facts About Pizza You Need to Know

Discovering fascinating pizza facts compiled by your favorite Buffalo pizza place

Pizza – the universally loved dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people all over the world. From its humble origins in Naples, Italy, to its global popularity today, pizza has become a cultural icon and a comfort food that knows no borders. As a Buffalo, NY based pizza restaurant, we take pride in crafting delicious pies that pay homage to this timeless classic. Today, we’re here to share some interesting and mouth watering facts about pizza that you might not be aware of.

1. Ancient Origins

Pizza has a fascinating history that stretches back to ancient times. The concept of flatbreads topped with various ingredients has been around for thousands of years. However, the modern pizza as we know it originated in Naples during the 18th century. It was initially a simple dish enjoyed by the working class, topped with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil.

Learn more about the origins and evolution of pizza on our blog.

2. Margherita

One of the most iconic and well-known pizza varieties is the Margherita. Legend has it that in 1889, pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito created this pizza in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy. The pizza represented the colors of the Italian flag, with tomatoes (red), mozzarella (white), and basil (green). This delicious and visually appealing combination quickly gained popularity and remains a classic favorite to this day.

3. World Pizza Capital

Naples, the birthplace of pizza, has earned the title of “World Pizza Capital.” The art of Neapolitan pizza-making is even protected by UNESCO, which recognizes it as part of the world’s cultural heritage. While Naples holds the official crown, Buffalo, NY, is no stranger to fantastic pizza either, with a vibrant pizza scene that locals and tourists alike relish.

4. The Margherita War

In 2016, the city of Naples and the city of Rome engaged in a lighthearted, but passionate “pizza war.” The debate centered around whether or not the classic Margherita pizza should be made with buffalo mozzarella from Campania (Naples’ region) or regular cow’s milk mozzarella. Both cities took their pizza seriously, and the dispute captured the attention of pizza lovers worldwide.

5. Pizza Around the World

Pizza has traveled far beyond Italy’s borders, taking on diverse and innovative forms in different countries. In the United States, New York and Buffalo, along with many other cities, have their iconic pizza styles, each with a dedicated fan base. In Japan, you can find unique toppings like eel, squid, and mayo Jaga (potatoes with mayonnaise). In Brazil, pizzas often include green peas as a topping.

6. Out-of-This-World Pizza

Did you know that pizza has even made its way to space? In 2001, Pizza Hut delivered the first pizza to the International Space Station (ISS). The pizza was vacuum-sealed and specially prepared to withstand the challenges of space travel. Sharing a slice of pizza with the astronauts at the ISS would undoubtedly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience!

7. Record-Breaking Pizza

In 2023, the world record was broken for the largest pizza ever made with an astonishing 13,653 pounds of dough, 4,948 pounds of pizza sauce, and more than 8,800 pounds of cheese. Previously, the world record was held in Rome from a 2012 pizza about 131 feet in diameter. Talk about some colossal pies!

8. America’s Obsession

Pizza truly holds a special place in the hearts and plates of Americans. In the United States, approximately 3 billion pizzas are consumed every year. To put that into perspective, it equals about 100 acres of pizza every day or a staggering 350 slices per second! From family gatherings and sporting events to casual weeknight dinners, pizza has become a go-to choice for many, making it one of the most beloved dishes across the nation.

9. America’s Favorite Toppings

While pizza toppings can vary widely depending on personal preferences, some toppings have emerged as the most popular in the United States. According to surveys, the top three favorite toppings are pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms.

Find out our picks for the best pizza toppings in Buffalo on our blog.

10. Pizza for a Cause

Pizza has often been used to raise funds for charitable causes. Many pizzerias and organizations host “Pizza Nights” where a percentage of the proceeds from pizza sales are donated to a specific charity or cause. This delicious way of giving back to the community has helped support various initiatives and bring people together for a good cause.

Learn about Franco’s efforts to give back to our community.

11. The Power of Pizza

Beyond being a delectable treat, pizza holds a special place in our hearts because it brings people together. Whether it’s a family gathering, a night out with friends, or a celebration, pizza has a unique way of fostering connections and creating cherished memories.

At Franco’s Pizza, we cherish the legacy of pizza and the joy it brings to our patrons. Our pizzas are made with love and a commitment to preserving the rich traditions of this beloved dish. Come join us at one of our Buffalo, NY locations and experience the magic of pizza firsthand. Order delicious Buffalo pizza online today for pickup or delivery. Bon appétit!

And don’t forget to browse our coupons beforehand to get the best deal possible.