What is Tomato Pie?

 What is Tomato Pie? A Guide to Philly's Classic "Gravy Pie"

In Philadelphia and South Jersey, asking for a "slice" might get you something you weren't expecting. It's not a pizza. It has a thick, chewy crust and a heavy layer of rich tomato sauce, but it's not covered in melted mozzarella.

This is Italian Tomato Pie, a beloved regional icon, and a delicious staple of Italian-American bakeries, family parties, and church gatherings for over a century.

What Exactly is an Italian Tomato Pie?

At its core, a tomato pie is a thick, porous, and chewy crust—almost like a focaccia—that is coated with a generous, thick layer of tomato sauce. The sauce is the star of the show.

It's typically finished with a light sprinkle of Parmesan or Romano cheese and sometimes a dash of oregano. It's often baked in large rectangular sheet pans, cut into square slices, and is just as popular (some say even better) when served at room temperature as it is warm from the oven.

A Philadelphia Staple Since 1910

While its exact origins are debated, tomato pie has deep roots in Philadelphia's Italian-American community. Legendary spots like the (now-closed) Iannelli's Bakery on Passyunk Avenue were serving it as early as 1910, cementing its place as a city-wide staple.

Like its cousin, the Sicilian pizza, the Philly tomato pie is traditionally baked in a rectangular pan and served by the square. It's the perfect, simple, and satisfying grab-and-go slice.

Tomato Pie vs. Pizza: What's the Real Difference?

While the terms might seem to overlap, a true Philly or Trenton local will tell you they are not the same thing. The differences are simple but crucial.

• The Cheese: This is the most important distinction. A pizza is defined by its melted mozzarella cheese, which covers the sauce. A tomato pie has no mozzarella. It only has a light dusting of hard cheese, like Parmesan or Romano, which is often added after it's baked.
• The Sauce: On a tomato pie, the sauce is the star. It's a thick, heavy layer of rich tomato "gravy" on top of the dough. On a pizza, the sauce is just a base layer under the cheese and toppings.
• The Toppings: A tomato pie is a minimalist masterpiece. It never comes with pepperoni, sausage, or other garnishes. A pizza is a vehicle for all kinds of toppings.
• The Temperature: Pizza is almost always served piping hot. Tomato Pie is famously delicious and commonly served at room temperature, making it the perfect food for parties, gatherings, or a simple bakery snack.

A Pie By Any Other Name...

This beloved food is a regional specialty, and its name can change depending on what neighborhood or state you're in. You'll often hear it called:

• Gravy Pie (a classic South Philly and New Jersey term)
• Church Pie (a nod to its popularity at Philly parish events)
• Strip Pizza (common in Rhode Island)
• Bakery Pizza (also a New England term)
• Red Bread
• Party Pizza

Whatever you choose to call it, one thing is certain: Philly and New..."

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