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Written by Tony DeCosmo
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Thursday, 01 December 2011 15:36 |
 Anyone who has spent much time in NEPA has likely enjoyed the “legendary taste” of Grotto Pizza. But, did you know that Grotto’s family recipe actually got its start at Joe’s Pizza on Harvey’s Lake in 1953? That’s when founder Joseph Paglianite introduced the taste to the world and the legend began.
In 1960, Joe and his brother-in-law, Dominick Pulieri, opened a pizzeria in Delaware and the name “Grotto Pizza” first appeared.
In 1988, the original location at Harvey’s Lake suffered a devastating fire. At that time, Joe’s nephew, Armand Mascioli, returned to the family business to help oversee the construction of a new and expanded Grotto Pizza restaurant.
Then, in 1994, Grotto Pizza expanded to a full-service restaurant located just outside the Wyoming Valley Mall, in Wilkes-Barre Township.
Two years later, Grotto Pizza opened its third NEPA location at the Gateway Center, in Edwardsville. The West Side location features a private party and meeting room, an arcade area, family dining, and one of the region’s best sports bars. Grotto delivers from each of its locations.
Over the years, Grotto Pizza added additional menu items. Today, guests can select from a variety of Grottobolis (a unique version of Stromboli) as well as its unique Grand Slam wing sauce. Grotto now has a special Sicilian style, too. And, as a sweet treat to end your meal, order a Gelato (Italian ice cream), available in a rainbow of flavors.
In the tradition of its local family founders, Grotto Pizza is also a committed supporter of the communities it serves through various outreach programs and charity events.
One of the most visible signs of Grotto Pizza’s community involvement is the Joseph A. Paglianite Culinary Institute on the campus of Luzerne County Community College. Opened in 2010, the institute is designed to give tomorrow’s restaurateurs and service professionals the tools needed to make their visions come to life. In addition, Grotto Pizza also partners with LCCC to award a scholarship each year to a deserving student.
For years, families have made it a holiday tradition to visit and “vote” at the Harvey’s Lake location for the “Parade of Trees.” All funds raised go directly to charity.
For more information about Grotto Pizza, visit www.grottopizzapa.com and become a fan on Facebook™.
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