Margherita pizza is more than just a delicious Italian dish; it’s a slice of history that ties royalty, tradition, and national pride together. Join us this month at Shirley Sub Shoppe as we take a trip into the past and explore the origins of one of the first pizzas!

A Queen’s Taste for Simplicity

The legend starts with Queen Margherita of Savoy, who, along with her husband King Umberto I, visited Naples. After growing tired of the elaborate French cuisine typically served at the royal palace, the queen requested a taste of local food. This is where Raffaele Esposito, a renowned pizzaiolo, enters the story. He was summoned to create something special for the queen.

The Birth of a Culinary Classic

Esposito crafted three pizzas, but one stoof out above the rest– a pizza topped with fresh tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil. These toppings, symolizing the red, white, and green of the Italian flag, struch a chord with the queen. Delighted by the taste and the patriotic gesture, Queen Margherita praised the pizza, and Esposito named it “Pizza Margherita” in her honor.

The Legend Lives On

Though the accuracy of this tale is sometimes debated, it remains a beloved part of Italian culinary lore. However, what’s undeniable is the impact Margherita pizza has had on Italian cuisine and its continued popularity worldwide!

Fun Facts

• Raffaele Esposito’s pizzeria, originally known as Pizzeria di Pietro e Basta Cosi, is still operating today in Naples under the name Pizzeria Brandi.
• In 2009, the European Union granted Margherita pizza Traditional Speciality Guaranteed (TSG) status, ensuring that authentic versions must adhere to traditional methods and ingredients.
• Despite its simplicity, Margherita pizza is often used as a benchmark for judging a pizzeria’s quality. If they can perfect this classic, you know you’re in good hands!

Shirley Sub Shoppe | Shirley Restaurants

Whether you’re craving a Margherita pizza or something else, rest assured that the possibilities are endless here at our restaurant! To discover all of our menu options, check out our online menu or stop in and dine with us today!

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