When you think of New Jersey, you think of Italian-American pride, deep family traditions, and of course — great pizza. And while NY-style slices often get the spotlight, true New Jersey pizza fans know there’s one pie that tells the real story of the Garden State’s pizza legacy — The Trenton Tomato Pie.
At Bella Pizza, proudly serving Rutherford, East Rutherford, and pizza lovers across North Jersey, we’re honored to keep that tradition alive. Voted one of the best pizza delivery spots in New Jersey, we know our pizza history — and this one’s too important not to share.
A Slice of History: The Origins of the Trenton Tomato Pie
Before pizza became a staple on every street corner in New Jersey, Trenton was making waves with a style all its own.
According to the pizza experts at Bella Pizza, home of the best pizza delivery in Rutherford, the Trenton Tomato Pie dates back over a century. While debates still swirl over whether Papa’s Tomato Pies or Joe’s Tomato Pie truly invented it, the consensus is clear: Trenton is where it all began.
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Papa’s is often credited with popularizing the pie.
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But legend has it, the original recipe was developed when “Papa” still worked at Joe’s.
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No matter who you side with, both pizzerias played a major role in crafting one of NJ’s most iconic culinary inventions.
At Bella Pizza, known for the best pizza in East Rutherford, we honor that tradition — and we believe there’s enough credit (and slices) to go around.
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What Makes the Trenton Tomato Pie So Special?
You’ve seen thin crust. You’ve had deep dish. But the Trenton Tomato Pie is its own category — and here’s why:
- Sauce on Top: Unlike traditional pies where cheese and toppings go over the sauce, Trenton pies flip the script.
- Cheese First: Mozzarella is laid down before the sauce — locking in moisture and giving each bite that gooey, savory pull.
- Toppings Under the Sauce: Want sausage, mushrooms, or spinach? They go under the crushed tomatoes — creating a rich, layered flavor.
- Hand-Stretched Thin Crust: Not to be confused with focaccia or pan pizza — this is a round pie with a light, crispy, New Jersey-style base.
If you’ve never tried it, it might just change how you look at pizza forever.
Why It Still Matters Today
According to Bella Pizza, offering some of the best pizza delivery in NJ, the Trenton Tomato Pie has stood the test of time because it tells a story. It’s not just about food — it’s about heritage, craft, and local pride.
Sure, today’s pizza world is filled with trends — hot honey, buffalo chicken, cauliflower crusts. And yes, we offer those too. But when locals talk about the soul of Jersey pizza, they always come back to the Trenton Tomato Pie.
Where to Find the Best Trenton-Style Pizza in East Rutherford
You don’t have to drive to Trenton to get the real deal. At Bella Pizza, we’re proud to serve our own take on this legendary pie — crafted with fresh ingredients, house-made dough, and love for tradition.
Whether you’re in:
- Rutherford
- East Rutherford
- Hasbrouck Heights
- Lyndhurst
- Or anywhere else in Northern New Jersey…
You can count on Bella Pizza to deliver pizza the way it was meant to be: bold, flavorful, and deeply rooted in Jersey’s culinary past.
Call Bella Pizza or Order Online Today
Whether you’re craving something classic or feeling adventurous, we’ve got the pie for you. Try the iconic Trenton Tomato Pie and discover why generations of New Jersey families have fallen in love with this local legend.
Bella Pizza – Your go-to for the best pizza in East Rutherford and beyond.
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