Pizzarito Celebrates 40th Anniversary

Big news – neighborhood pizza spot, Pizzarito NY by the Slice,  is hitting a huge milestone: 40 fantastic years in business! Let’s give a huge shoutout to Pizzarito for four decades of serving up delicious New York-style pizza. Since 1984, they’ve not only satisfied our pizza cravings but also supported the community by providing local job opportunities.

So, go celebrate by grabbing a slice and toasting to Pizzarito’s incredible journey. Here’s to many more years of tasty pizza and community spirit!

Want to hear more from the family owners, Al and Kathy Caruso? Scroll down for their story. Don’t forget to follow them on Instagram! Pizzarito is open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. (open until 1 a.m. on Friday and Saturday) for dine-in, take-out or delivery. Find them at 4371 Glencoe Avenue or give them a call at 310-823-7333.  

pizzarito sign

How did Pizzarito start?

New York native, Al Caruso, opened Pizzarito in June 1984 at the Marina Marketplace. The early 1980's was the beginning of the New York pizza boom on the West Coast. When customers would come into the restaurant, many felt they were at a local pizza shop they grew up going to in New York. Since day one, Pizzarito has served authentic New York thin-crust and Sicilian deep dish pizza by the slice.

What makes your pizza special and different?

We use family recipes handed down through the generations. We purchase only the finest quality ingredients.

Are you doing anything to celebrate the 40 year anniversary?

On Saturday, June 15th, we will celebrate 40 years at our location with specials and promotions from 12-3 p.m. We will also have live music entertainment.

pizzas on a restaurant counter

What is the secret to being a successful business after all these years?

Pizzarito has become an institution in MDR and the surrounding areas. Customers travel from afar to enjoy our food. We take great pride in what we do. As owners, we are "hands on" everyday. Quality and striving for perfection are our daily goals.

Which local celebrities are big fans of Pizzarito?

Over the years, we've had many celebrities become big fans of Pizzarito. Here's a list, just to name a few:

Jimmie Walker
Kevin Dillon
Christopher McDonald
Don Johnson
Bai Ling
Claudia Jordan
Anthony (Tony) Denison
Quinton Aaron
Dovonan Carter

How has the community contributed to your business's success and longevity?

From day one, the community welcomed us with open arms. Many of our customers who frequented our restaurants during the 1980's and 1990's now visit us with their children. We are now welcoming the next generation of loyal Pizzarito customers. During covid, we kept our restaurant open every single day. The community was eternally grateful. Today, not a day goes by that we hear from a customer, "Thank you for being here." It is because of our commitment to the community that we have been able to stand the test of time.