PHILADELPHIA, PA - Old-School Philly Pies: Before water-filtering and artisan flour-dusting, scholars took over the pizza world. Corner shops and family-owned pizza Shops in Philly made regional tomato pies and other local favorites.
Where to Find The Best Old School Pizza in Philly
These pizzerias' might not have known the old-worlds hydration ratios—but they perfected Philadelphia's version of the Old-School Pizza.
Santucci’s Pizza - Philadelphia
There are no round slices at Santucci's Pizza—just perfectly baked square pies with the sauce over the cheese. Santucci's original location is in Northeast Philadelphia, but they have since expanded to various spots throughout the city. 4010 Cottman Avenue, (215) 332-4333; 460 W. Street Road, Warminster, (215) 441-9400, 4050 Woodhaven Road, (215) 281-2900, 2313 W. Venango Street, (215) 288-2900; 901 S. 10th Street, (215) 825-5304; 655 N. Broad Street, (267) 639-6014, santuccispizza.com
Tacconelli’s - Philadelphia
Don't expect to find anything on the menu but the pizza at this iconic Pizza Shop, With a suggested three-topping limit on this crunchy, thin-crust pie. It's also recommended that you call the Port Richmond pizzeria in advance to hold your dough since once they sell out, they're done for the day. 2604 E. Somerset Street, (215) 425-4983, tacconellispizzeria.com
Charlie's Pizzeria in Norristown
Often simple is the best, and this statement rings so true at this strip mall pizza shop. Charlie's Pizzeria in Norristown turns out "top red pizza," a New York-style pizza with a signature splash of extra red sauce on top. 107 W. Germantown Pike, Norristown, (610) 275-1403, pizzacharlies.com
Gennaro's Tomato PIE - East Passyunk Avenue
Gennaro's Tomato PIE specializes in a traditional American Neapolitan pizza, with the sauce on top—not to be confused with the typical square-shaped tomato pie. This BYOB spot reminds us of the classic pizza parlor and keeps things simple with your basic toppings and old-school taste. 1533 S. 11th Street, (215) 463-5070
Marra - East Passyunk Avenue
Marra radiates charm and authenticity for over 89 years now and running. A thin-crust pizza, built on a family recipe passed down from the owner's grandparents, offers the best Italian-American traditions with a touch of Philly flair. 1734 E. Passyunk Avenue, (215) 463-9249, marrasone.com
Penny's Pizza - Limerick
You enter through the back door at this 40-year old Limerick "speakeasy" Penny's Pizza. The house specialty is an upside-down pie with a crispy cornmeal-dusted dough. This is a must-try fun spot for any pizza lover. 68 W. Ridge Pike, Limerick, (610) 489-3636; 180 Mill Road, Suite 4, Oaks, (484) 924-9766, gotcornmeal.com
Tony's Place - Northeast Philly
Tony's is a must for anyone who loves traditional Philly pizza. They off a must-try tomato pie, and the first thing you notice is the line of devoted customers. Also know as a spot, lovebirds, and first dates, due to Tony's cozy but tiny booths. This place is legendary in the Northeast to feast on the tomato pie and its unique heart-shaped pies during Valentine's Day. 6300 N. Frankford Avenue, (215) 535-9851
