Curioni's Pizza

- 80 Liberty St, Lodi, NJ 07644

The Garden State is renowned for its incredible, authentic Italian food, and deep in the heart of Bergen County, in Lodi, you’ll find a true, multi-generational slice of that history at Curioni's Pizza. More than just a pizza shop, this establishment represents nearly a century of Italian-American heritage, community spirit, and dedication to simple, delicious comfort food. For New Jersey residents searching for an authentic “Jersey” experience—one that feels like stepping back in time—Curioni's Pizza offers a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere paired with top-quality pizza and sandwiches. It is a local landmark that has evolved from a simple grocery store to the beloved pizzeria it is today, run by the Curioni family for decades.

The story of Curioni's Pizza begins long before the first pizza was baked. The business was initially opened by the current owner, Walter Curioni Jr.'s grandparents, all the way back in 1923. It started its life as a neighborhood grocery store, a vital resource that catered to the burgeoning local Italian-American population in Lodi. The transformation into the legendary pizza place occurred when Walter's father took over the business in 1945. Sensing that groceries might not sustain the business long-term, he installed a pizza oven, and as they say, the rest is history. Walter Jr. took the reins in 1975, and now, even the fourth generation, including his son Ryan, can be found cooking alongside him, ensuring that the legacy of great food and warm community service continues. This long family lineage is not just a nice story; it's an ingredient you can taste in the food and feel in the atmosphere.

Despite a brief period where the closure seemed imminent as Walter Curioni Jr. considered retirement, the overwhelming local demand and community loyalty encouraged the family to adjust their hours and keep the tradition alive. The shop is a testament to resilience and the enduring power of a local, family-run business in an ever-changing landscape. It is this commitment that has made Curioni's Pizza a must-visit destination for anyone in North Jersey looking for that classic, old-school pizzeria vibe.

The food at Curioni's is celebrated for being wonderful, flavorful, and generously portioned, all offered at fair and competitive prices. Customers consistently praise the food for arriving sizzling hot. The heart of the menu, naturally, is the pizza. Their pizza sauce, which is a cornerstone of their success, is noted for being nicely spiced with hints of oregano, basil, and garlic, providing a distinctive "zip" to the flavor profile. The pies are loaded with cheese, creating a gooey, satisfying consistency. Patrons have highlighted the incredible value, with large round cheese pies and generously portioned slices making it a favorite for families and solo diners alike.

One of the most praised non-pizza items is their meatball hero. Reviewers describe a generous sandwich served on a fresh hoagie roll, loaded with six homemade pork and beef meatballs, a generous layer of mozzarella cheese, and a ladle of their signature sauce that oozes out, perfect for dipping the crusty bread. The meatballs themselves are noted for containing the savory flavors of rosemary and basil. Beyond pizza and heroes, the menu also features perfectly cooked ravioli, which can be ordered with either meat or cheese and served with their famous sauce. Customers also frequently mention the highly recommended turkey sandwiches, often described as some of the best in the area. For those with different dietary needs, the venue does offer various vegetarian options on its menu.

The experience at Curioni's Pizza is defined by its deep community roots, making it an authentic “Jersey” experience. Customers often sit at one of the ten stools inside and find themselves in conversation with Walter Curioni Jr., his wife, or his son, discussing everything from local politics and sports to family matters. It’s an atmosphere where you feel like a regular, a 'Cheers' type of experience where everyone knows your name and cares about what’s going on in your life.

Location and Accessibility

Curioni's Pizza is conveniently situated in the borough of Lodi, a welcoming, family-friendly town in Bergen County, New Jersey, making it highly accessible for North Jersey locals.

Address: 80 Liberty St, Lodi, NJ 07644, USA

Accessibility for patrons is straightforward, with a casual and cozy atmosphere waiting inside. For those driving, free street parking is available, which is always a bonus in a busy Bergen County town. The location is good for kids and is particularly popular for locals, making it a comfortable and welcoming spot for family outings, a quick lunch, or a cozy dinner.

Services Offered

• Delivery: Meals can be ordered for delivery, perfect for enjoying their Italian-American comfort food at home.
• Takeout: The traditional pizzeria service, allowing customers to pick up their orders to enjoy off-site.
• Dine-in: Customers can eat inside, offering a cozy and historic atmosphere, with limited counter seating.
• Dining Options: Serving customers for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, though popular times are typically lunch and dinner.
• Cuisine Types: Primarily a Pizza Restaurant and an Italian Restaurant, specializing in classic comfort food and quick bites.
• Beverages: Coffee is an offering on the menu for a quick morning or afternoon pick-me-up.

Features / Highlights

• Historic Family Business: Opened in 1923 as a grocery store, the business transitioned into a pizzeria in 1945 and has remained family-run for four generations, giving it a truly historic New Jersey character.
• Authentic Jersey Experience: Known for its strong community ties, where the owners and staff engage with locals, creating a 'Cheers'-like, friendly, and family-oriented environment.
• Diverse Pizza Styles: Offers both a regular round pie, celebrated for its thin, light, and crispy crust, and a Sicilian pie, which is thicker and satisfying, catering to all pizza preferences.
• Exceptional Value: Customers consistently praise the competitive pricing and generous portions, noting that it's difficult to find better deals on a pie or a slice in the area.
• Signature Items: Famous not just for pizza, but also for homemade meatball heroes, classic ravioli, and highly-rated turkey sandwiches.
• Atmosphere and Crowd: The atmosphere is casual, cozy, and historic, attracting a loyal crowd of Lodi locals and is notably family-friendly and good for kids.

Contact Information

Address: 80 Liberty St, Lodi, NJ 07644, USA

Phone: (973) 473-7934

What is Worth Choosing

For residents of New Jersey, choosing Curioni's Pizza is an opportunity to support a local institution whose legacy spans nearly a century. This isn't just about grabbing a bite; it’s about participating in a piece of Lodi's Italian-American history. What makes Curioni's truly stand out is the combination of genuine, warm service and old-world quality. You are greeted by Walter Curioni Jr. or his son, Ryan, who are committed to maintaining the high standards their family set decades ago. The prices are a testament to their dedication to the community, offering fantastic value that is a rarity in today’s market.

The pizza itself is the star, with a distinct, flavorful sauce and perfect crusts. Whether you prefer the satisfying thickness of the Sicilian pie or the thin, crispy delight of the regular round pie, you will find a carefully crafted product. The generous portion sizes mean a slice is often larger than average, delivering excellent value per bite. Beyond the pizza, the highly praised meatball hero is a must-try for anyone seeking ultimate comfort food. Furthermore, the chance to enjoy a meal in a historic and cozy setting, where local life and friendly chatter fill the air, elevates the experience far beyond a typical quick-service restaurant. Curioni's Pizza provides an authentic taste of North Jersey’s culinary and cultural heritage, making it an absolute gem worth visiting and supporting for years to come.

Curioni's Pizza

80 Liberty St, Lodi, NJ 07644, USA