National Pizza With The Works Day

A mouthwatering pizza with a colorful assortment of toppings, surrounded by smiling people enjoying a picnic in a sunny park.. — National pizza with the works day illustration

Welcome to National Pizza with the Works Day! Get ready to dive into a smorgasbord of flavors as we celebrate this delightful day dedicated to the art of pizza. Whether you're a fan of gooey cheese, tangy tomato sauce, or a mouthwatering array of toppings, this is the perfect occasion to indulge in your favorite pizza masterpiece. So, grab a slice and let's explore the fascinating history and mouthwatering creations of this beloved dish!

When is Pizza With The Works Day?

It's national pizza with the works day on the 12th November.

The Intriguing History of National Pizza with the Works Day

It's no secret that pizza holds a special place in our hearts (and stomachs!). The origins of this delectable dish can be traced back to ancient times. The ancient Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all had their own versions of flatbread topped with various ingredients. However, it was the Italians who truly perfected the art of pizza as we know it today.

The first pizzerias started popping up in Naples, Italy, in the late 18th century. These humble establishments offered simple yet delicious pizzas topped with ingredients like tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and basil – a combination known as the Margherita pizza, named after Queen Margherita of Italy.

Fast forward to the 20th century, and pizza made its way across the Atlantic to the United States, thanks to Italian immigrants. It quickly gained popularity, especially in cities like New York and Chicago, where different regional styles started to emerge.

What Does 'Pizza with the Works' Mean?

If you're wondering what exactly constitutes a 'pizza with the works,' get ready for a flavor explosion! This term generally refers to a fully loaded pizza, piled high with a wide variety of delicious toppings. Think pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, and perhaps even some pineapple for those brave enough to venture into controversial territory. It's a celebration of abundance and flavor that promises to satisfy even the most voracious appetite!

History behind the term 'Pizza With The Works'

1940

The Birth of Pizza with the Works

The term 'pizza with the works' was first introduced in 1940. It originated from the United States, where pizza was gradually gaining popularity among American consumers. The phrase 'with the works' was commonly used in diners and restaurants to indicate that a dish includes all available toppings and condiments. Over time, this expression started being associated specifically with pizza, referring to a pie that is loaded with various toppings.

1889

The birth of Margherita pizza

In 1889, the Margherita pizza was created in Naples, Italy, to honor Queen Margherita of Italy. It consisted of a delicious combination of tomato, mozzarella cheese, and basil leaves, representing the colors of the Italian flag: red, white, and green. This traditional pizza eventually became the foundation for the 'pizza with the works' concept.

Late 19th century

The Birth of Pizza

Pizza, a dish originating from Italy, began to gain popularity in the late 19th century. It started as a simple flatbread topped with tomatoes, cheese, and other basic ingredients. This traditional form of pizza laid the foundation for the 'pizza with the works' concept we know today.

1889

The birth of pizza margherita

In 1889, Queen Margherita of Italy wanted to taste the traditional Neapolitan peasant dish, pizza. At this time, pizza was a simple meal with only a few basic ingredients. The renowned Neapolitan pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito, along with his wife Maria Giovanna Brandi, was summoned to the royal palace to create a special pizza for the queen. He decided to represent the colors of the Italian flag with the toppings. He used tomatoes for red, mozzarella cheese for white, and fresh basil for green, thus creating the pizza margherita.

1950

Rise of Toppings and Diverse Palates

In the 1950s, as the pizza industry continued to expand, so did the range of toppings that could be added to a pizza. The concept of 'pizza with the works' became synonymous with piling on an abundance of ingredients like pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, bell peppers, olives, and more. This variation allowed pizza enthusiasts to enjoy a diverse array of flavors on a single pie, catering to evolving and adventurous palates.

19th Century

Moving beyond simplicity

As pizza gained popularity beyond Naples, various toppings started to be added to the dough. It became common to find pizzas topped with ingredients like pepperoni, olives, mushrooms, and onions. However, during this time, the term 'pizza with the works' had not yet emerged.

1930s

Pizzerias thrive in the US

During the 1930s, Italian immigrants brought the art of pizza making to the United States. Pizzerias began to pop up across the country, with New York City becoming a hub for the growing pizza industry. It was in the US that the concept of topping pizzas with a variety of ingredients started to gain popularity.

1950s

The Rise of Toppings

In the 1950s, the concept of adding various toppings to pizzas gained traction. This was a turning point in the evolution of 'pizza with the works.' Pizzerias started experimenting with an array of ingredients to create more diverse and flavorful pizzas. The toppings included not only the traditional ingredients but also meats, vegetables, and even seafood.

1950s

The rise of pizzerias

In the 1950s, pizzerias quickly multiplied across the United States as the popularity of pizza grew. These pizzerias, often owned and operated by Italian immigrants, were responsible for introducing a wider range of toppings and combinations to American consumers. However, the specific phrase 'pizza with the works' had not yet become part of the culinary lexicon.

1960s

The rise of toppings

In the 1960s, pizzerias started experimenting with different toppings to cater to diverse tastes. This period saw the introduction of ingredients such as pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, peppers, and olives onto pizzas. The idea was to create pizzas that would satisfy a range of preferences, leading to the emergence of the 'pizza with the works' – a pizza loaded with a wide assortment of toppings.

1960s

The Origins of 'Pizza with the Works'

Although the exact origin is uncertain, the term 'pizza with the works' emerged in the United States during the 1960s. It refers to pizzas topped with a comprehensive selection of ingredients. The phrase 'with the works' is an expression meaning 'with everything included,' indicating a pizza loaded with a generous variety of toppings.

1960

National Pizza Chains Popularize the Term

During the 1960s, national pizza chains emerged, and they played a significant role in popularizing the term 'pizza with the works.' These chains, such as Pizza Hut and Domino's, started featuring 'pizza with the works' as a menu item, embracing the idea of a fully loaded pizza. By prominently showcasing this option, they helped solidify the term in the minds of pizza lovers across the nation.

1990

The Works Evolve with Global Influence

In the 1990s, as globalization influenced culinary trends, the definition of 'pizza with the works' expanded even further. With increased accessibility to international ingredients, pizzas started incorporating toppings from various cuisines, such as sun-dried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, pesto, prosciutto, and more. This culinary fusion brought about exciting, multicultural variations of 'pizza with the works,' enriching the gastronomic landscape.

1970s

Pizza chains popularize 'pizza with the works'

In the 1970s, pizza chains like Pizza Hut, Domino's, and Papa John's gained popularity and helped spread the 'pizza with the works' concept. These chains offered customizable pizzas with a variety of toppings, allowing customers to choose their preferred combinations. 'Pizza with the works' became a catch-all phrase for pizzas loaded with various toppings, combining flavors and textures in every bite.

1960s

The birth of 'the works'

During the 1960s, as pizza continued to evolve in America, the term 'the works' began to be used in relation to pizza toppings. It referred to a pizza that had a multitude of different toppings, often including but not limited to pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, onions, peppers, and olives. This term quickly gained popularity, becoming a shorthand way for customers to order a pizza with an abundance of toppings.

1980s

Cultural Impact and Popularity

Throughout the 1980s, 'pizza with the works' became a popular choice among pizza enthusiasts across the United States. The loaded pizzas were often embraced as a festive meal option for parties and gatherings. The concept of 'pizza with the works' embraced creativity and allowed individuals to personalize their pizzas according to their taste preferences.

Present Day

Pizza with the works

Today, 'pizza with the works' is a commonly used phrase in pizzerias around the world. It represents the idea of a pizza loaded with a diverse array of toppings, providing a burst of flavors and textures. While the specific toppings may vary depending on personal preference and regional variations, 'pizza with the works' remains a beloved option for pizza enthusiasts everywhere.

Present

Continued Evolution and Global Enjoyment

In the present day, 'pizza with the works' continues to evolve and be celebrated worldwide. Regional variations incorporate local ingredients and flavors, adding further diversity to this beloved dish. Whether it's pepperoni, mushrooms, bell peppers, olives, or any combination you can imagine, 'pizza with the works' provides a canvas for culinary exploration and enjoyment.

Present

Pizza with endless possibilities

Today, 'pizza with the works' encompasses countless topping options and continues to evolve with changing food trends. From traditional favorites like pepperoni, sausage, and mushrooms to innovative additions such as artichokes, goat cheese, and arugula, the 'pizza with the works' concept embraces endless possibilities. It has become a beloved choice for pizza enthusiasts seeking a flavor-packed culinary experience.

Present

Continued Popularity and Personalization

Today, 'pizza with the works' remains a popular pizza choice, and its exact composition can vary depending on personal preferences and regional traditions. While traditional toppings like pepperoni, sausage, and vegetables are still commonly associated with the term, the definition is now open to interpretation. Some may prefer seafood additions, while others focus on unique combinations like barbecue chicken or vegan alternatives. The ongoing evolution of 'pizza with the works' showcases the versatility and adaptability of this beloved dish.