Delaware’s Hidden Pizza Treasures: A Culinary Journey Through The First State

Yes, there’s more to explore about Delaware’s pizza scene! Here are additional insights and highlights that add depth to the state’s pizza culture:

Delaware’s Coastal Influence on Pizza:

Delaware’s proximity to the Atlantic Ocean heavily influences its pizza scene, especially in coastal towns like Rehoboth Beach, Lewes, and Dewey Beach. Pizzerias in these areas often incorporate fresh seafood into their offerings. For example, you might find pizzas topped with local clams, shrimp, or crab, bringing a taste of the sea directly to your slice. This coastal influence sets Delaware apart from other states, making its pizza offerings unique, especially during the summer months when seafood is at its freshest.

The Grotto Pizza Legacy:

Grotto Pizza is not just a local pizzeria; it’s a Delaware institution with a story that spans over six decades. Founded by Dominick Pulieri in 1960, Grotto Pizza started as a small operation in Rehoboth Beach and quickly became a favorite among beachgoers. Today, Grotto has expanded to multiple locations across Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, but it remains deeply connected to its roots in the First State. The signature sauce swirl is a hallmark of Grotto Pizza, and for many Delawareans, it’s the taste of summer. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or a first-time visitor, a trip to Grotto is a quintessential Delaware experience.

Community and Pizza in Delaware:

Delaware Weddings

Pizzerias in Delaware often serve as community hubs, bringing together locals and visitors alike. For example, Pietro’s Pizza in Wilmington has been a family-owned staple for over 40 years, known for its welcoming atmosphere and classic, no-frills pizza. Places like Pietro’s embody the community spirit of Delaware, where pizzerias are more than just places to eat—they’re gathering spots for friends and family.

Artisanal and Farm-to-Table Movement:

Delaware’s growing interest in artisanal and farm-to-table dining has made its way into the pizza scene as well. Many pizzerias are focusing on sourcing local ingredients, supporting Delaware farmers, and offering seasonal menu items. This movement is particularly strong in areas like Newark and Dover, where pizzerias like Wood Fired Pizza Shop pride themselves on using fresh, local produce and meats. This emphasis on quality and sustainability is helping to elevate Delaware’s pizza offerings to a new level.

Pizza Festivals and Events:

Delaware hosts various food festivals where pizza is a featured attraction. For example, the Rehoboth Beach Chocolate Festival often includes pizza vendors who offer sweet, chocolate-topped pizzas as a unique twist on the traditional dish. These events provide a fun and creative way to experience pizza in Delaware, allowing visitors to sample different styles and flavors in one place.

Delaware’s Pizza Diversity:

Delaware’s pizza scene is more diverse than you might expect, with influences from various cultures. For instance, La Pizzeria Metro in Wilmington offers Roman-style pizza al taglio, a rectangular pizza sold by the slice that’s popular in Italy. This diversity reflects Delaware’s growing culinary landscape, where you can find everything from traditional Italian pizzas to modern, experimental takes on the dish.

The Rise of Health-Conscious Options:

Delaware Foods

As in many places across the U.S., there is a growing demand for health-conscious pizza options in Delaware. Pizzerias like Home Grown Café in Newark cater to this trend by offering gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian pizzas made with organic ingredients. These options appeal to Delaware’s increasingly health-conscious population, making pizza more accessible to those with dietary restrictions.

Late-Night Pizza Culture:

In college towns like Newark, home to the University of Delaware, late-night pizza is a way of life. Pizzerias like Margherita’s Pizza and Claymont Steak Shop are popular spots for students looking for a late-night slice after a night out. This late-night culture adds a lively vibe to Delaware’s pizza scene, especially in areas with a younger demographic.

Pizza and Craft Beer Pairings:

Delaware is also known for its craft beer scene, and many pizzerias offer a selection of local brews to pair with their pies. Pizzerias like Crust & Craft and Wood Fired Pizza Shop take pride in their beer menus, featuring Delaware favorites like Dogfish Head. This emphasis on pairing pizza with craft beer enhances the dining experience and showcases the state’s local brewing talent.

Recognition and Awards:

While Delaware’s pizza scene might fly under the radar nationally, several pizzerias have received local and regional recognition for their quality and creativity. For example, DiMeo’s Pizzaiuoli Napulitani has been praised for its authentic Neapolitan pizza, and Grotto Pizza has earned numerous accolades for being a Delaware icon. This recognition highlights the state’s commitment to quality pizza and the passion of its pizza makers.

Delaware’s pizza scene is a blend of tradition, innovation, and local flavor, offering something for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying a slice at a beachside pizzeria, indulging in a classic Delaware institution like Grotto Pizza, or trying something new at an artisanal spot, you’ll find that the First State has much to offer when it comes to pizza. Exploring Delaware’s pizzerias is not just about satisfying your cravings—it’s about experiencing the rich culinary culture that makes this small state stand out.

Stories about Pizza in Delaware!

Delaware Pizza

While Delaware may not have the national spotlight like some larger states, it does have some fascinating pizza stories that highlight its local charm and the strong connection its pizzerias have with the community. Here are a few notable stories from Delaware’s pizza scene:

The Grotto Pizza Story:

Grotto Pizza is perhaps Delaware’s most famous pizza institution, and its story is deeply intertwined with the state’s history. Founded in 1960 by Dominick Pulieri in Rehoboth Beach, Grotto Pizza started as a small pizzeria that quickly gained popularity among beachgoers. Pulieri, who learned pizza-making from his Italian relatives, introduced Delaware to the concept of a “sauce swirl,” which became Grotto’s signature feature. The combination of the unique sauce distribution and the crispy crust helped Grotto Pizza stand out, and it became a must-visit spot for tourists and locals alike.

Over the years, Grotto Pizza expanded to multiple locations across Delaware, Pennsylvania, and Maryland, becoming a household name in the region. Grotto Pizza is often associated with memories of summer vacations at the Delaware beaches, making it more than just a place to grab a slice—it’s a beloved tradition. Grotto has also played a significant role in supporting the local community, sponsoring events and sports teams, and being a fixture at local festivals. The enduring success of Grotto Pizza is a testament to the power of a great product and strong community ties.

DiMeo’s Pizzaiuoli Napulitani: A Taste of Naples in Delaware:

DiMeo’s Pizzaiuoli Napulitani in Wilmington has brought authentic Neapolitan pizza to Delaware, and its story is one of dedication to tradition. The DiMeo family, originally from Naples, Italy, sought to bring the true flavors of their homeland to the First State. They imported a wood-fired oven from Italy and strictly adhered to the guidelines set by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), which certifies pizzerias that uphold the standards of traditional Neapolitan pizza-making.

DiMeo’s has become famous not only for its adherence to tradition but also for its connection to the local community. The pizzeria regularly hosts events, such as pizza-making classes and wine pairings, that bring people together to celebrate both Italian culture and local Delawarean spirit. The story of DiMeo’s is a perfect example of how a family’s passion for their craft can create a beloved community institution.

The Controversy of the “Best Pizza in Delaware” Title:

Delaware’s small size belies the fierce competition among pizzerias for the title of “best pizza in the state.” Over the years, various publications and local food critics have sparked debates over which pizzeria truly deserves the crown. Grotto Pizza often comes up as a top contender, but newer, artisanal pizzerias like DiMeo’s and Crust & Craft have also earned high praise. The competition has led to a healthy rivalry among pizzerias, each trying to outdo the other with unique offerings and innovative flavors.

In 2018, Delaware Online ran a bracket-style competition called “March Pizza Madness,” where readers voted on their favorite pizza spots across the state. The contest garnered significant attention, with thousands of votes cast and heated debates among fans of different pizzerias. In the end, Luigi’s Pizza in Lewes took home the top prize, solidifying its place as a Delaware favorite. This kind of local enthusiasm for pizza underscores just how passionate Delawareans are about their favorite slices.

Pizza and the Beach: A Summer Tradition:

Delaware’s beach towns, particularly Rehoboth Beach, Dewey Beach, and Bethany Beach, have a strong pizza culture tied to the summer tourist season. For decades, families have flocked to the beaches, and grabbing a slice of pizza has become a cherished part of the beach experience. Grotto Pizza, with its prime locations along the boardwalk, has become synonymous with summer in Delaware. The tradition of grabbing a slice after a day on the sand has been passed down through generations, making pizza a staple of the Delaware beach experience.

This tradition extends beyond Grotto Pizza, with other beachside pizzerias like Nicola Pizza in Rehoboth Beach also becoming iconic spots for tourists and locals. Nicola Pizza, famous for its “Nicoboli” (a pizza turnover stuffed with cheese, sauce, and various fillings), has been a staple in the Rehoboth area since 1971. The Nicoboli became so popular that Nicola Pizza expanded its menu and opened additional locations. The story of Nicola Pizza’s rise to fame is another example of how Delaware’s beach culture has helped shape the state’s pizza scene.

Delaware’s Pizza for a Cause:

Delaware’s pizzerias have also been involved in various charitable efforts over the years. For instance, many local pizzerias participate in fundraising events for schools, sports teams, and local charities. In 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, several Delaware pizzerias, including Grotto Pizza, stepped up to help frontline workers by delivering free pizzas to hospitals and healthcare facilities. This gesture of support highlighted the strong connection between Delaware’s pizzerias and their communities, showing that pizza in Delaware is about more than just food—it’s about giving back.

These stories highlight the rich pizza culture in Delaware, where tradition, community, and innovation come together to create a vibrant and beloved culinary scene. From iconic beachside pizzerias to authentic Neapolitan spots, Delaware’s pizza stories reflect the state’s unique blend of local flavor and global influence. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or just visiting, exploring Delaware’s pizzerias offers a slice of the state’s history and heart.