pizzeria

A pizzeria is a restaurant that specializes in pizza, a flatbread typically topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings, and baked in an oven. Pizzerias may also offer related dishes such as calzones, breadsticks, salads, and beverages.

Pizza has its roots in Naples, Italy. The modern pizzeria emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as urban pizza vendors and dedicated shops served scholars and workers. The dish gained international popularity after World War II, and the concept spread worldwide, adapting to local tastes and ingredients.

Common styles of pizza differ in dough and bake method. Neapolitan pizza uses a soft, elastic dough and a very hot wood-fired oven; Roman pizza tends to have a thinner, crisper crust; New York and Chicago styles in the United States emphasize large, foldable slices or deep-dish pies. Ovens may be wood-fired, gas-fired, or electric. Pizzerias offer a range of toppings, from classic margherita and pepperoni to vegetables, cheeses, and meats, with vegetarian and vegan options increasingly available. In addition to standard pizzas, many shops sell calzones, stromboli, and antipasti.

Operations vary by location. Pizzerias may serve dine-in customers, offer takeout, and provide delivery. They range from small independent shops to international chains and may emphasize fast service, artisanal dough, or family recipes. Health and safety regulations govern food preparation, sanitation, and labeling.