This 70-Year Old Pizza Place Is One of the Most Nostalgic Destinations in Florida

Do you have your own personal favorite pizza place in Florida? Or one that stirs memories for you that will take you back to childhood? For me, it's Mamma Mia’s Pizzeria. This is a New York-style pizzeria that I grew up indulging in. But for others, it might be Frankie's Pizza, a 70-year-old pizzeria and one of the most nostalgic destinations in Florida. Ask anyone who's grown up here what their favorite place to grab pizza is, and likely, you'll find a handful that says Frankie's. Chances are, this beloved neighborhood joint in Miami will win over your pizza-loving heart, too.

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The Honeymoon That Created a Pizza Legacy

Frankie's Pizza in Miami isn't just a pizzeria; it's a cultural institution steeped in history, flavor, and community charm. This iconic pizza joint was founded on Valentine's Day by co-owners Frank and Doreen Pasquarella. After their honeymoon in Miami in 1954, the lovebirds noticed that this bustling city was missing a neighborhood pizza restaurant. Frank, the son of a small-town Ohio baker, used his mom’s sauce and recipe to create his unique slice, and the rest was history.

Since its inception in 1955, this iconic eatery has been a cornerstone of Miami's culinary scene, serving up slices of perfection and creating lasting memories for locals and visitors alike. And folks travel from near and far just to eat the delicious pizza here. A recent patron raved, "The crust was perfectly crispy, the sauce had just the right tang, and every bite tasted like authentic, old-school goodness. You can tell this place has history and heart. Totally worth the drive, and I’ll definitely be coming back again."

Discover Nostalgic Vibes in a Square Slice

Step inside Frankie's, and you're greeted by the aroma of freshly baked dough mingling with the tantalizing scent of bubbling cheese and savory toppings. The décor, a blend of vintage memorabilia and classic pizzeria charm, transports patrons to a nostalgic era. Photos on the walls showcase the evolution of the restaurant, capturing moments frozen in time, each echoing the story of this beloved establishment. What sets Frankie's apart isn't just its longevity; it's the commitment to quality ingredients and time-honored recipes.

The dough, prepared daily from a closely guarded secret recipe, yields a perfect balance of crispiness and chewiness, forming the ideal foundation for their pizzas. The sauce, a harmonious blend of tomatoes and spices, infuses each bite with a burst of tangy goodness, while the generous toppings, sourced locally whenever possible, add a symphony of flavors and textures.

What sets Frankie’s apart in terms of appearance is that the pizza is famously sliced into squares. The square pizza doesn’t have a thick dough like some Sicilian pies, either. It’s a crisp, chewy dough that just so happens to have an unusual shape. And yet, it’s perfect for sharing.

Other items include their famous garlic rolls, which are the perfect bite-sized morsels for game day. Choose from garlic, cheese, or pepperoni rolls - you won't be disappointed. Of course, be sure to pick up one of the yummy desserts.

A Timeless Joint Loved by Everyone

The impact of Frankie's Pizza extends far beyond its delicious pies. It's woven into the fabric of Miami, a place where stories are shared, friendships are forged, and memories are created. Over the years, Frankie's Pizza has amassed an impressive collection of accolades, solidifying its status as a pizza icon.

Among these honors is the esteemed recognition as one of the "Top 8 Gourmet Pizza Shops in America" by Bon Appétit Magazine, an accolade proudly received in both 1994 and 1995. The restaurant also clinched the title of "Best Pizza" in AOL's City Guide, dominating the category from 2004 through 2007.

In a city known for its vibrant culture and diverse culinary scene, Frankie's Pizza stands as a timeless beacon of excellence—a place where the simple pleasure of savoring a slice of pizza becomes an unforgettable experience. After 70 years, I believe this beloved pizza joint will still be serving its signature square slices for many years to come.

Have you ever dined at Frankie's Pizza before? Do you think it's one of the most nostalgic destinations in Florida? Sound off on our nomination page! Or if you have your own favorite iconic pizza restaurant in Florida you want to share, make sure to let us know.

Ready to cook your own pizza at home? Check out this grilled personal pizza maker courtesy of Uncommon Goods. Even better? Use Only In Your State’s itinerary planner to discover more pizza spots in Florida.