National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day

The story

National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day, observed to celebrate the beloved dish, recognizes the rich history and diverse toppings of pizza. Originating in Italy and introduced to the United States by Italian immigrants in the late 19th century, pizza has evolved into a global phenomenon with countless topping options. While pizza can be customized with various ingredients like meats, vegetables, cheese, seafood, and more, anchovies remain a contentious choice due to their intense and divisive flavor. National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day encourages enthusiasts to explore alternative toppings, setting aside the polarizing anchovies. The history of pizza dates back to ancient Greeks and Romans, with the modern Neapolitan flatbread in Italy paving the way for the original pizza featuring mozzarella cheese. The United States embraced pizza with the opening of its first establishment in 1905 in New York's Little Italy. Pizza's popularity soared in the U.S., with cheese production reaching 2 billion pounds in 1997. Anchovies on pizza have ancient roots, harking back to Roman times when fermented fish called Garum adorned flatbreads. Despite their historical significance, anchovies' overpowering flavor and extreme saltiness make them a divisive choice. National Pizza with the Works Except Anchovies Day provides an opportunity for pizza lovers to appreciate the diverse world of toppings without the inclusion of anchovies.