Things to Do , Pizza , Places to Eat & Drink
NEPA’s World-Famous Old Forge Pizza
Posted: February 8, 2023
Pizza Capital of the World
If any NEPA town knows pizza, it’s Old Forge – the famously self-titled “Pizza Capital of the World.” Since the 1920s, when the foundations of Old forge-style pizza were laid, this little borough has been cranking out tray after tray of its namesake culinary curiosity from several, time-tested family-run pizza joints.
Each of these unforgettably delightful, rectangular pizzas, whether stuffed into a shirt box to go or on one of those well-known red plastic trays, is an expression of authentic mastery over simple ingredients.
Old Forge Pizza is a true NEPA original. And if you want to try the best there is, you’ve got to go to the source. We’ve rounded up some of the most iconic places to get authentic Old Forge-style pizza. Trust us, you’ll want to hit em’ all.
Classic Old Forge Pizza Joints:
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Anthony's Restaurant
This South Main Street favorite has been cooking up authentic, homemade Italian dishes in Old Forge since 1999. While the menu covers everything from classic pastas to mouth-watering streaks, Anthony’s is also well known for their delicious red and white trays.
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Arcaro & Genell Restaurant
This Main Street favorite has been a staple of the Old Forge pizza scene since 1962. Arcaro and Genell boasts a true “family feel” from the moment you sit down to the happy wave goodbye. Their simple Peasant Style tray with just basil, fresh garlic and Romano cheese will linger in your thoughts for eternity.
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Augustine’s Club 17
Located on the north end of Old Forge, this old school bar and restaurant serves up tasty, traditional trays of red and white. With a large dining room and a classic bright red upholstered bar, Augustine’s offers a nod to its own unique history as a hopping venue for big band music and dancing. And while the good old days have come and gone, the pizza remains the same. Get the classic tomato and garlic tray.
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Cafe Rinaldi
This popular Italian restaurant in the center of it all on Main Street traces its roots back to Louisa Laurenzi, one of the original Old Forge pizza grandmas. With a huge dining space and a full bar, Cafe Rinaldi has all the ingredients for a pizza night to remember. The spicy and salty red tray with hot seeds and anchovies pairs perfectly with an ice cold beer from the bar.
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Cusumano
You can try it all at this Main Street staple from classic Italian cuisine to new twists on old favorites to perfectly crafted cocktails. Of course, Cusumano still offers their own take on traditional Old Forge pizza, which is available in full or half trays and several special variations.
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Mary Lou’s Pizza
Truly a hidden treasure, Mary Lou’s quaint pizza shop on Dunn Ave. is a perennial local favorite. This newly redecorated shop is famous for having what many believe is the most delectable pizza crust in town. Locals recommend the Fresh Tomato tray when in season of course.
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Revello’s Pizza
This family operated gem on Main Street has been baking traditional Old Forge trays for over 50 years. Family atmosphere, fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes are the secrets to success at Revello’s. You can also find their delectable pizzas at locations in Kingston and the Marketplace at Steamtown. Revello’s is also the official pizza of the Mohegan Sun Arena and the Scranton/Wilkes-Barre Railriders.
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Revello's Old Forge Pizza -- Kingston
Yeah, it might not be officially in Old Forge, but the legendary restaurant also serves up its famous red and white trays in Kingston. Stop in for classic red or white with or without your choice of toppings, or pick up their famous Open Face Broccoli by the cut or tray.
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Salerno’s Café
A neighborhood mainstay for over 90 years, Salerno’s Café on Moosic Rd. must be doing something right. Our guess is it’s the pizza. Salerno’s is just off of Main Street, but easy enough to find as it is the house with the two tables out front and the unbelievable smell of hot, fresh pizza wafting from the kitchen. Stop by during Lent for their incredibly, delicious Pagach tray.
Article Updated from its Original Version Published on 04/23/2018.
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