FOR THE LOVE OF PIZZA
For the Santucci family, food has always been about bringing people together, sharing joy, and creating memories.
Founded in 1959 by Joseph and Philomena Santucci, Santucci’s Original Square Pizza began as a family dream: to provide stability and opportunity for their eight children. Joseph, a Philadelphia policeman, and Philomena, a homemaker, combined hard work, passion, and love of pizza to create a lasting legacy.
Today, Santucci’s is a beloved Philly institution and a Pizza Hall of Fame honoree, preserving the traditions of America’s pizza culture while innovating for generations to come.
From our family to yours, every slice is a celebration of togetherness.
The Beginning: South Philadelphia Roots
The Santucci family’s story began in South Philadelphia at 10th and Carpenter, where Joseph and Philomena started their family. Back then, a slice of pizza cost $0.15, a gallon of gas $0.31, and a movie ticket $1.04. Dwight Eisenhower was president, the Barbie doll debuted, and the Philadelphia Eagles were in their 27th NFL season.
1959: The First Santuccis in Northeast Philadelphia
In 1959, Joe and Philomena moved to Northeast Philadelphia and opened the first Santucci’s Original Square Pizza on “O” Street in Juniata Park, a thriving, close-knit working-class neighborhood. Sunday gravy aromas filled the air, and the sounds of children playing hopscotch, handball, and double-dutch echoed down the block.
Philomena's Traditional Italian Pizza Recipe
Philomena’s family recipe was unique for its time: square pies baked on cookie sheets with sauce ladled over the cheese. Sold from a single-oven shop in front of their home, it quickly became a neighborhood favorite. That humble shop grew into a “Best-of-Philly” legacy brand and helped introduce Philadelphia to its first original square pizza, earning acclaim for its sauce-on-top pies and unmistakable flavor.
A Family Business, Three Generations Strong
For over 60 years, Santucci’s Original Square Pizza has remained family-owned and operated, passing down not just recipes, but values—hard work, authenticity, and tradition. What began as Joseph and Philomena’s dream has grown into a multi-generational legacy involving their children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.
Today, the family continues to honor the original recipes and pizza-making techniques while embracing opportunities to share their square pizza with the wider Philadelphia community. From rolling dough to greeting customers, every family member plays a role in preserving the warmth and hospitality that has defined Santucci’s for decades. This dedication has earned the brand local stardom and multiple “Best of Philly” awards.
