When Did Pizza Delivery Start? Here’s Its History!

Imagine a world where your favorite pizza arrives at your doorstep with just a few clicks or a quick phone call—this is a reality we often take for granted today. But have you ever wondered how pizza delivery started? From its humble beginnings in the bustling streets of post-war Italy to an out-of-this-world delivery to a space station, the history of pizza delivery is as fascinating as it is flavorful.

The Birth of Pizza Delivery

The concept of delivering pizza began in the aftermath of World War II in Italy, a time when the country was rejuvenating its economy and culture. The very first pizza delivery is rumored to have occurred in 1889 when King Umberto I and Queen Margherita visited Naples. Renowned pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito was asked to prepare a special pizza for the queen, which he did, delivering what would become known as the Margherita pizza directly to the royal residence.

Looking at the broader spectrum of food delivery, the honor of the oldest food delivery service likely goes back to ancient times. However, in a more modern context, services like the British Meals on Wheels, which began during WWII, are notable. They were essential in providing meals to individuals who were unable to purchase or prepare their own, setting a precedent for future food delivery services.

Pizza Crosses the Atlantic

As Italian immigrants brought their culinary traditions to the United States, pizza began to root itself in American culture. The first documented pizza delivery in the U.S. took place in 1943, credibly linked to the famous Pizzeria Uno in Chicago, although multiple pizzerias from New York to Chicago also claim this title. Each played a part in popularizing this convenient service, especially among busy Americans who cherished the fast, delicious meal option.

Pizza delivery achieved a memorable milestone when it made its way to the White House in 1989. Ordered by then-President Ronald Reagan, this event underscored pizza's entrenched status in American culture and its reach across all societal levels.

The Digital Age and Pizza

The digital revolution brought about the next big leap with the introduction of online pizza ordering in the early 1990s. Pizza Hut claims the distinction of accepting the first-ever online order in 1994—a large pepperoni, mushroom, and extra cheese pizza. Online ordering transformed pizza delivery into a quick, customizable, and hassle-free process, becoming immensely popular by the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Pizza in Space

The final frontier for pizza delivery was literally the cosmos when in 2001, Pizza Hut made headlines by delivering a pizza to the International Space Station. This delivery was not only a marketing triumph but also a demonstration of extraordinary logistical planning. The pizza was specially prepared to meet space standards, ensuring that it could be both transported and consumed in a microgravity environment.