The Margherita is the most iconic pizza in history. Here is its story and our Chicago thin-crust take on it.
The Legend
In 1889, pizza maker Raffaele Esposito of Naples created a pizza for Queen Margherita of Italy. He topped it with tomato, mozzarella, and basil to represent the red, white, and green of the Italian flag. The queen reportedly loved it, and the Margherita pizza was born. Whether the story is completely true or embellished, the pizza endures as a timeless classic.
The Traditional Version
A classic Neapolitan Margherita uses San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella di bufala, fresh basil leaves, olive oil, and a soft, wood-fired crust. It is a study in simplicity: three main flavors in perfect balance.
Our Chicago Interpretation
At Mad Pizza, our Margherita respects the spirit of the original while embracing our Chicago thin-crust style. Our 4-generation tomato sauce replaces the raw crushed tomatoes, adding a depth of simmered flavor. Our hand-shredded mozzarella creates a different texture than the traditional fresh mozzarella, melting into a golden, bubbly layer. And our cracker-crisp rolled crust provides a crunchy foundation instead of the soft Neapolitan base.
Different but Equally Delicious
Comparing our version to a Neapolitan Margherita is like comparing a jazz standard to its classical origin. The core elements are the same, but the interpretation is distinctly different. Both are valid, both are delicious, and both celebrate the magic of tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
Why Simple Works
The Margherita proves that great pizza does not need a dozen toppings. Three quality ingredients on a well-made crust create something transcendent. It is the same philosophy behind our cheese pizza: when the fundamentals are excellent, simplicity shines.
Try our Chicago thin-crust Margherita at 211 N 21st Ave in Hollywood, FL. Call (754) 275-8466 and discover how classic flavors meet Chicago crunch.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Margherita pizza?
Margherita pizza is a classic pizza featuring tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Named after Queen Margherita of Italy in 1889, it represents the colors of the Italian flag.
Does Mad Pizza serve Margherita pizza?
Yes, Mad Pizza offers a Chicago thin-crust interpretation of the Margherita with our 4-generation sauce, hand-shredded mozzarella, and fresh basil on a cracker-crisp crust. Call (754) 275-8466 to order.
What is the difference between Margherita and regular cheese pizza?
Traditional Margherita uses fresh mozzarella and fresh basil, while regular cheese pizza typically uses shredded mozzarella without basil. Margherita celebrates simplicity with specifically three ingredients.
Ready to Taste the Difference?
Order authentic Chicago thin-crust pizza from Mad Pizza. Every slice supports veterans through our LEGION partnership.