In 1861 pizza got another boost in popularity. Queen Margherita visited Naples and wanted to try some of the local delicacies. She ate a variety of pizzas and was particularly struck by the one that featured mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil. This combination is still popular today, and affectionately known as pizza margherita. The marinara style of pizza is older than the margherita, and utilizes tomato, oregano, garlic, and oil to create a delicious, classic sauce. It was traditionally prepared by “la marinara”, the seaman’s wife, when their husbands returned from fishing expeditions. Italian immigrants who came to America in the 19th century brought with them the treasured tradition of pizza, and in large Italian neighborhoods in New York City, Chicago, Philadelphia, and St. Louis, pizza was sold on the street by vendors. Up until the 20th century pizza was mainly consumed by Italian immigrants and their descendants, but after Allied troops came back from Italy after World War II they brought an affection for pizza back with them. While pizza enthusiasts might claim that there are only two true forms of pizza, margherita and marinara, we at Maggio’s embrace pizza flavors of all kinds, and you can always create your own!