National Deep Dish Pizza Day

National Deep Dish Pizza Day celebrates one of America’s most beloved pizza styles, originating from the vibrant city of Chicago. This day is dedicated to indulging in the rich, cheesy goodness of deep dish pizza, characterized by its thick crust and hearty toppings.

Quick Facts

When is it?: April 5th
Tagged as: National Deep Dish Pizza Day
What’s the hashtag?: #DeepDishPizzaDay
When was it founded?: 1943
Who founded it?: Ike Sewell, founder of Pizzeria Uno in Chicago

History of National Deep Dish Pizza Day

Deep dish pizza was created in 1943 at Pizzeria Uno by Ike Sewell and his chef, Rudy Malnati. This unique style of pizza features a buttery crust that can be up to three inches tall, allowing for a generous filling of cheese, toppings, and a thick layer of tomato sauce. The innovative layering method—placing cheese directly on the crust to prevent burning—set deep dish apart from traditional pizzas.

Timeline

1943: Deep dish pizza is invented at Pizzeria Uno in Chicago.
1949: The term “deep dish” is first used in a Chicago Daily News article.
1970s: Deep dish pizza gains popularity beyond Chicago.
1987: Pizzeria Uno expands nationally, bringing deep dish to a wider audience.
Present Day: Deep dish pizza remains a staple in pizzerias across the United States and has inspired countless variations.

Dates by Next Year

Year	Month	Date	Day
2025	April	5	Saturday
2026	April	5	Sunday
2027	April	5	Monday
2028	April	5	Wednesday
2029	April	5	Thursday

Observed

National Deep Dish Pizza Day is celebrated by pizza lovers across the country. Many people indulge in this hearty meal by visiting local pizzerias or making their own deep dish pizzas at home. Special promotions and discounts are often available at various restaurants to mark the occasion.

Fun Facts About National Deep Dish Pizza Day

Approximately 100 acres of pizza are consumed daily in the U.S.
Over 25% of males aged 6 to 19 eat pizza every day.
Eating pizza once a week may lower the risk of esophageal cancer due to antioxidants found in tomato sauce.

Quiz

What year was deep dish pizza invented?
Which city is known as the birthplace of deep dish pizza?
What is the typical order of ingredients in a deep dish pizza?

Answers:

1943
Chicago
Cheese first, then toppings, followed by sauce on top.

FAQs

What makes deep dish pizza different from other pizzas?

Deep dish pizza has a thicker crust and a unique layering method that prevents burning while cooking.

Can I find deep dish pizza outside of Chicago?

Yes, many pizzerias across the U.S. offer deep dish pizza, and some even ship frozen versions nationwide.

Importance of National Deep Dish Pizza Day

This day not only celebrates a delicious food item but also highlights its cultural significance as part of American cuisine, particularly as a symbol of Chicago’s culinary heritage. It brings people together to enjoy a meal that is both filling and flavorful.