How did Pagliai’s Pizza start?
In 1914 John and Catterina Pagliai left their native home in Northern Italy to seek a better life in America. They crossed the Atlantic Ocean settling in the small mining town of Zookspur, Iowa. Along with them they brought family recipes of the crisp crust of their “tomato tarts”, savory sauces and homemade sausages. Fortunately for them, and future generations of Pagliai’s, their family recipes were welcomed by neighbors and friends alike.
In 1953, son Sam served the first Pagliai’s pizzas to the crowd at his neighborhood tavern in Ames, Iowa. While customers were sure about pizza in the beginning soon word spread with increasing crowds and quickly the bar gained restaurant status replacing their tavern.
Local appetites for pizza were growing, so in 1957, Sam and his brother, Armond opened the first official Pagliai’s Restaurant in Ames’ Campus town and they called it “The Pizza House”. Sam and brother Armond simply treated customers as they wished to be treated. Soon they expanded to Iowa City. With the help of nephews, family members and great employees word spread and so did the family business.
How did Charleston Pagliai’s start?
Following the success of his two brothers, a third Pagliai son, Aldo decided in 1964 this would be a good option for his family. Aldo was on his way from Iowa to Indiana to scout for a location in a university town, when he drove through Charleston, IL. On the drive Aldo spotted the “castle” like building of Old Main on the campus of Eastern Illinois University in the middle of town. As they drove on there was a building available across the street from the local Charleston High School, with a busy bowling alley and drive-in theatre nearby. Aldo never did make it to Indiana, as he was charmed by the town of Charleston, IL and made the decision to move town and open his own Pagliai’s Pizza in Charleston. In the mid 1970’s Aldo’s son, Paul, picked up the reins of operating the restaurant.
Continuing the traditions
Over the years we’ve had customers turn into employees, friends, and even family members. Today Pagliai’s is still owned by Paul, and operated with his daughter, Rosie, & her husband, Dan. The fourth generation has started working here now as we are truly a family owned and operated small business.
Our menu may be simple, but we work hard to provide the same flavors, recipes, and atmosphere that customers have experienced since 1964. We still use our family recipes for our fresh made dough, spaghetti sauce, and the locally raised pork that is ground into our sausage. We still cut blocks of fresh cheese to grind & blend for our pizzas. And the House dressing for salads is made in the kitchen too.
Whether its your first time dining with us, you’re a weekly regular customer or its been 25 years since you’ve walked through the front doors - we are glad you chose us! And hope to see you again soon!
