Nestled in the heart of West Haven, amidst the bustle of Union Avenue, stands a testament to culinary tradition and family heritage. Zuppardi's Apizza, a cornerstone of the local community, is gearing up to celebrate an incredible milestone—its 90th anniversary. This isn't just any birthday; it's a monumental celebration of a family-owned business that has been serving slices of history since 1934.
A Slice of History with Zuppardi's Apizza
When Zuppardi's first opened its doors, it was a modest venture with big dreams. Over the decades, those dreams have been realized through the hands of the Zuppardi family, now in its fourth generation. As one of the oldest family-owned pizzerias in the United States, Zuppardi's is not just a pizzeria; it's a repository of memories and traditions passed down through time.
The secret to their longevity? A steadfast commitment to quality and the community. "We've kept true to our roots," shares Lori Zuppardi, who co-owns the pizzeria with her sister Cheryl Zuppardi Pearce. "Every pizza is a piece of our family’s history, a slice of our legacy."
Celebrating 90 Years of 'Abeetz'
The upcoming anniversary event, scheduled for Monday, June 17, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., promises to be a vibrant celebration of food, family, and the enduring legacy of the Zuppardi family. The event will feature an array of festivities including live music, Italian ice, and, of course, plenty of their signature New Haven-style pizza, locally known as 'abeetz'.
Special guests will include West Haven Mayor Dorinda Borer and other dignitaries, who will join the community in celebrating this significant milestone. At 11:15 a.m., a special speaking program will take place, where Mayor Borer will present the Zuppardi family with a proclamation in recognition of their 90 years in business.
A Community Affair
"It’s more than just pizza; it’s about the people who walk through our doors," says Cheryl. Over the years, Zuppardi's Apizza has become a beloved gathering spot, a place where generations of families have shared meals and made memories. The anniversary event is as much a tribute to the community as it is to the pizzeria itself.
Pizza and Philanthropy
In the spirit of giving back, Zuppardi's will be selling commemorative 90th-anniversary T-shirts for $10, with all proceeds going to the Closer to Free Fund for Smilow Cancer Hospital at Yale New Haven Hospital. "We wanted to use this milestone to do something meaningful for the community that has supported us for nearly a century," Lori explains.
Looking to the Future
As for what the next 90 years hold, the Zuppardi family is optimistic. They plan to continue evolving while staying true to the traditions that have made Zuppardi’s a beloved institution. With the recent feature on ABC’s “Good Morning America” and the expansion of their frozen pizza distribution, the future looks bright.
Join the Celebration
Whether you're a lifelong fan or a new convert, Zuppardi’s invites you to join them in this special celebration. For those unable to attend, remember that Zuppardi’s ships nationwide, so you can enjoy a taste of West Haven wherever you are.
As June 17 approaches, the ovens at Zuppardi's are heating up, ready to bake not just pizzas, but new memories. This anniversary isn't just about marking another year; it's about celebrating a legacy of passion, community, and, most importantly, delicious pizza. Come be a part of this historic day and experience why Zuppardi's Apizza has been a beloved name for nine decades.
.jpg "Zuppardis_Apizza_90th_Anniversary_New_Haven_Style_Pizza_Best_West_Haven_Connecticut_Family_Tradition_Linda_Borer_Colin_Caplan-(2024) Zuppardi's Apizza Celebrates 90 Years of Culinary Excellence in West Haven - BISTRO BUDDY | Food & Drink Community Network Join us for Zuppardi's Apizza 90th Anniversary on June 17 in West Haven! Enjoy pizza, music, and fun from 10 AM to 2 PM. All are welcome!")
