Pizzerias today are indeed more than just pizza. While pizza remains the centerpiece, most pizzerias offer a wide array of other menu items, from salads and pastas to appetizers, sandwiches, and desserts. This expanded menu reflects both customer demand and evolving food culture, making the modern pizzeria a versatile dining destination.
The Evolution of the Pizzeria
The roots of the pizzeria date back to 18th-century Naples, Italy, where pizza was sold as a street food to working-class people. Early pizzerias focused almost exclusively on pizza, offering a handful of classic varieties baked in wood-fired ovens. As Italian immigrants brought pizza to America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, the pizzeria evolved.
In the United States, pizzerias began adapting their menus to appeal to a broader clientele. By the mid-20th century, many added pasta dishes, sandwiches, and American-Italian appetizers. This trend accelerated as pizza became mainstream, leading to the diverse menus seen in most pizzerias today.
What Else Is on the Menu?
Although the word “pizzeria” suggests a pizza-centric establishment, most now serve a variety of other dishes. Typical non-pizza offerings include:
- Pasta dishes: Classics like spaghetti with marinara or meatballs, fettuccine Alfredo, lasagna, baked ziti, and penne alla vodka are common.
- Salads: Caesar, garden, Greek, antipasto, and caprese salads are popular accompaniments.
- Appetizers: Garlic knots, mozzarella sticks, fried calamari, bruschetta, and stuffed mushrooms are frequently found.
- Sandwiches and subs: Meatball parmigiana, chicken parmesan, sausage and peppers, Philly cheesesteaks, and Italian cold cut subs.
- Calzones and stromboli: Folded or rolled pizza dough stuffed with cheese and various fillings.
- Wings: Buffalo, BBQ, and other flavored chicken wings are often available, especially in American pizzerias.
- Desserts: Cannoli, tiramisu, cheesecake, gelato, and zeppole (fried dough balls dusted with sugar) are common sweet options.
Some pizzerias also feature soups, seafood dishes, or even burgers, reflecting local tastes and competition.
Why Do Pizzerias Offer More Than Pizza?
The expansion beyond pizza is largely a response to customer demand. Not everyone in a dining party may want pizza, so offering pastas, salads, and sandwiches ensures there’s something for everyone. This is especially important for families, groups, and workplaces ordering meals together.
Additionally, expanding the menu helps boost revenue, especially during lunch hours or for catering, when pizza alone might not suffice. Offering appetizers and desserts also encourages customers to order more, increasing average ticket size.
Finally, the rise of delivery apps and takeout culture has made it easier for pizzerias to reach a wider audience, further incentivizing menu diversification.
How to Choose the Right Pizzeria for More Than Pizza
When seeking a pizzeria that excels beyond pizza, consider the following factors:
- Menu breadth: Check if the pizzeria offers a robust selection of non-pizza items, such as homemade pastas, fresh salads, and unique appetizers.
- Quality and authenticity: Read reviews or ask locals about the quality of the non-pizza dishes. Some pizzerias are renowned for both their pizza and Italian entrees.
- Dietary options: Many modern pizzerias provide gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan dishes beyond just pizza.
- Atmosphere: Some pizzerias are full-service restaurants with a cozy or upscale ambiance, while others are casual, counter-service spots.
- Service options: Consider whether the pizzeria offers dine-in, takeout, delivery, or catering, depending on your needs.
Examples of pizzerias known for their broader menus include regional chains like Bertucci’s, which offers brick oven entrees, and many local Italian-American pizzerias that serve a wide selection of pastas and subs.
Comparing Pizzerias to Other Italian Restaurants
While there is overlap, pizzerias and traditional Italian restaurants are not identical. Italian restaurants typically offer a larger and more diverse menu, including seafood, veal, risotto, and regional specialties, with pizza as just one option among many. Pizzerias, on the other hand, keep pizza at the center but often branch out with a smaller subset of classic Italian-American fare.
Some establishments blur these lines, branding themselves as both a pizzeria and a ristorante, especially in areas with a large Italian-American population. These restaurants may offer the full range of pizza, pasta, meat, and seafood dishes in an upscale setting. In contrast, a typical neighborhood pizzeria might focus on takeout pizza and a handful of pasta and sandwich options.
Common Issues and Misconceptions
One common misconception is that non-pizza items at a pizzeria are afterthoughts or of lower quality. In reality, many pizzerias pride themselves on their pasta sauces, homemade meatballs, or freshly baked bread. In some cases, the chef’s expertise in Italian cooking extends well beyond pizza dough.
Another issue is menu bloat—some pizzerias add too many items, leading to inconsistency or lower food quality. A smaller, well-executed menu often results in better food and service than an overly ambitious one.
Finally, some diners expect pizzerias to serve authentic regional Italian cuisine. Most American pizzerias offer Italian-American dishes, which are often adapted from traditional recipes but reflect local tastes and ingredients.
Costs of Non-Pizza Offerings
The price of non-pizza items at pizzerias varies widely by location, ingredients, and portion size. Generally, appetizers range from $5 to $12, salads from $6 to $15, sandwiches and pasta dishes from $10 to $20, and desserts from $4 to $8. Upscale or sit-down pizzerias may charge more, especially for house-made pastas or specialty entrees.
Combo deals or lunch specials often bundle pizza slices with a salad or drink at a reduced price. For catering, pizzerias typically offer trays of pasta, salads, and sides to serve larger groups.
Food Safety and Dietary Considerations
Most pizzerias follow standard food safety practices for all menu items, but there are some things to keep in mind:
- Perishable ingredients like meats, cheeses, and cream-based sauces should be stored and cooked at safe temperatures (the USDA recommends 165°F/74°C for reheated foods).
- Gluten-free and allergy-friendly options are increasingly common, but cross-contamination can still occur in kitchens where flour and allergens are present.
- Vegan and vegetarian options are expanding, with some pizzerias offering plant-based cheeses or meat substitutes beyond pizza toppings.
If you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to call ahead and ask about ingredient sourcing and preparation methods.
Alternatives to Pizzerias for Italian Food
If you’re craving Italian cuisine but want more variety than a typical pizzeria offers, consider these alternatives:
- Italian trattorias and ristorantes: These establishments usually provide a broader menu, including regional specialties, seafood, and more elaborate pasta dishes.
- Delis and bakeries: Italian delis often serve sandwiches, salads, and hot entrees, while bakeries may offer focaccia, arancini, and sweet pastries.
- Fast-casual Italian chains: Brands like Panera Bread or Fazoli’s serve pasta, salads, and sandwiches in a quick-service format, though authenticity varies.
- Food trucks and pop-ups: In urban areas, mobile vendors may offer innovative takes on Italian classics beyond pizza.
Each option has its own strengths, price points, and dining experience, so your choice will depend on what you’re seeking.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Do all pizzerias serve pasta and other Italian dishes?
Not all pizzerias offer an expanded menu, but it’s very common, especially in the United States and Canada. Smaller or more traditional pizzerias may focus solely on pizza and a few sides, while others have extensive menus. - Are non-pizza items at pizzerias freshly made?
This varies by establishment. Some pizzerias make sauces, pastas, and desserts in-house, while others may use pre-made or frozen products. Reading reviews or asking staff can help gauge quality. - Are there vegetarian or vegan options beyond pizza?
Yes, many pizzerias now offer vegetarian and sometimes vegan versions of salads, pastas, and sandwiches in addition to pizza. However, choices vary widely by location. - Is it common to order just pasta or salad at a pizzeria?
Absolutely. Many customers visit pizzerias for pasta, salads, or sandwiches, especially if they’re regulars or dining with a group. It’s not unusual and is generally welcomed by staff. - Are pizzerias a good choice for catering events?
Yes. Pizzerias often offer catering menus including pizza, pasta trays, salads, and appetizers, making them a convenient option for parties, office events, and gatherings. - How can I tell if a pizzeria’s non-pizza items are worth ordering?
Look for signs of quality like house-made sauces, fresh ingredients, and positive reviews. A focused menu and busy dining room are often good indicators.
Conclusion: Pizzerias as Versatile Dining Destinations
Modern pizzerias are much more than just pizza shops. While pizza remains their hallmark, the diversity of menus now available reflects changing tastes and the desire to serve a wider range of customers. Whether you’re craving a classic margherita, a hearty pasta, a fresh salad, or a sweet cannoli, today’s pizzerias offer a little something for everyone. When choosing a pizzeria, consider menu variety, quality, and atmosphere to find the best fit for your meal or event.