National Pizza Day is celebrated every year on February 9th. In 2025, this popular food holiday will fall on a Sunday, making it the perfect excuse to gather friends and family for a pizza feast. How did National Pizza Day come about? While its exact origins are unclear, it was created to recognize and celebrate the cultural significance of pizza, a dish enjoyed in countless variations around the world.

The history of pizza: From Italy to the World

The roots of pizza can be traced back to Naples, Italy, in the 18th century. Originally a simple street food for the working class, Neapolitan pizza consisted of a thin, hand-stretched dough topped with tomatoes, olive oil, and local cheeses. It is said that the now iconic pizza Margherita was created in 1889 in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy and featured the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil.

As Italian immigrants moved to different parts of the world, they brought their pizza-making traditions with them. In the United States, pizza evolved into several unique styles, leading to the rise of New York-style pizza, Chicago deep-dish, and other regional variations. Today, pizza is a global phenomenon enjoyed in nearly every country, with endless possibilities for toppings and crust styles.

Classic Italian vs. American Style Pizza

While both Italian and American pizzas share the same base, they differ significantly in preparation, ingredients, and presentation.

Italian Pizza: Traditional Italian pizza, especially Neapolitan-style, is known for its thin, soft, and chewy crust with a slightly charred exterior from cooking in a wood-fired oven. Toppings are simple and high-quality, often including fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, olive oil, and basil.

American pizza: In contrast, American-style pizza has evolved into several varieties. New York-style pizza features a thin, crispy yet foldable crust with generous cheese and toppings, while Chicago deep-dish pizza features a thick, buttery crust filled with layers of cheese, sauce, and toppings. 

How to Celebrate National Pizza Day 2025

There are many ways to enjoy National Pizza Day, whether you dine out, order in, or make your own masterpiece. Here are some fun ideas to make the most of the celebration:

• Host a pizza party: Gather your loved ones and create a DIY pizza-making station with different toppings, sauces, and cheeses.
• Try a new style of pizza: Step outside your comfort zone and explore different types of pizza at your local restaurant.
• Experiment with unique toppings: Go beyond the usual pepperoni and mushrooms by trying unconventional toppings like prosciutto, figs, truffle oil, or even honey.
• Make your own pizza: If you love to cook, National Pizza Day is the perfect opportunity to perfect your homemade dough, sauce, and cheese combinations.

Pizza and wine pairing: A perfect match

While pizza and beer are a classic duo, wine can also enhance the flavors of your favorite slice. Here are some ideal wine pairings for different types of pizza:

• Margherita pizza: Goes well with a light-bodied red like Chianti or a crisp Pinot Grigio.
• Pepperoni Pizza: A medium-bodied red such as Sangiovese balances the spicy, salty flavors of pepperoni.
• White Pizza: A creamy, cheesy pizza pairs well with a Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.
• Meat Lover’s Pizza: A bold red like Zinfandel or Syrah complements the richness of the meats.

Where to get authentic italian pizza on National Pizza Day

For those looking to experience authentic Italian flavors, Mercato della Pescheria is the perfect destination. Known for its dedication to traditional Italian cuisine, this restaurant offers wood-fired pizzas made with high-quality ingredients and time-honored techniques. 

Ready to enjoy authentic Italian cuisine? Reserve your table at Mercato Della Pescheria in Miami here or Las Vegas here and taste the flavors of Italy!

The future of pizza: Trends in 2025

As pizza continues to evolve, new trends are shaping the way we enjoy this classic dish. Here’s what to expect in 2025:

• Health-conscious options: More restaurants are offering gluten-free, cauliflower, and plant-based crusts to accommodate dietary preferences.
• Sustainable ingredients: A growing emphasis on organic, locally sourced, and ethically produced toppings is making pizza healthier and more eco-friendly.
• Creative fusion flavors: Expect to see more pizzas that blend flavors from different cuisines, such as Korean BBQ pizza, Mediterranean-inspired toppings, and sushi pizza.
• Tech-driven ordering: With the rise of AI and automation, pizza delivery services will become faster and more personalized, offering customization options and robotic cooking.

National Pizza Day 2025 is the perfect opportunity to enjoy one of the world’s favorite foods. From enjoying a classic Neapolitan pizza, experimenting with new toppings, or dining at a traditional Italian restaurant like Mercato della Pescheria, there are endless ways to celebrate. As pizza continues to evolve with new trends and flavors, one thing remains the same-its ability to bring people together for a delicious and satisfying experience. So mark your calendars for February 9, 2025, and get ready to enjoy a slice (or two) of pizza perfection!