National Margherita Pizza Day: How to Celebrate with Hungry Howie’s

There’s a holiday for just about everything (National Ferret Day, anyone?), but June 11th? That’s sacred. That’s National Margherita Pizza Day, a celebration of one of the most iconic pies in pizza history.

While Hungry Howie’s doesn’t serve traditional Margherita pizza, we absolutely understand the hype. (For those types who light up at the words "thin crust" and "gooey cheese," you might want to try our Flatbreads.) The Margherita Pizza is simple. It’s flavorful. It’s the OG of elevated pizza minimalism. 

With Flavored Crusts®, a Build Your Own pizza option, Stuffed Crust on any large, and all the delivery ease so you can skip the oven, Hungry Howie’s can help you celebrate how you want.  

What is a Margherita Pizza? (And Why It’s Worth Celebrating)

A Margherita pizza is a classic Italian pie that keeps it elegantly simple: fresh mozzarella, crushed tomatoes, a few basil leaves, and olive oil. That’s it. No meat tornado, no mile-high veggie pile. Just delicious, balanced flavor in every bite.

As for why it’s called Margherita pizza, the origin story goes back to the late 1800s in Naples. During a royal visit, Queen Margherita of Savoy was served a pizza pie crafted to reflect the colors of the Italian flag, red (tomatoes), white (mozzarella), and green (basil). She loved it. Raffaele Esposito is said to have designed it and named it in her honor, and thus began the pizza Margherita that’s still celebrated and enjoyed today.

From its beginnings in small kitchens to global fame, the Margherita pizza has stood the test of time. It’s a reminder that when the ingredients are good, simple really is spectacular. (For all the nerdy ones, find a deep dive into the history of pizza right here.)

Margherita Pizza Toppings: Simple, Fresh, and Flavorful

What’s on a Margherita pizza? Not much, and that’s the point. So, where’s the magic? It’s in the restraint. Margherita pizza isn’t built to overwhelm with tastes, textures, or color. Its simplicity is designed to showcase each element.

On the Margherita pizza, each ingredient can play a starring role:

• Tomatoes: Often crushed San Marzanos or a lightly simmered sauce
• Mozzarella: Traditionally fresh, like Fior di Latte or buffalo mozzarella
• Basil: Added post-bake for a pop of green and aroma
• Olive oil: Just a drizzle for depth
• Salt or garlic: Optional but common for a little kick
• Crust is usually thin and/or crispy. 

Now, Hungry Howie’s doesn’t serve a traditional Margherita (sorry, basil lovers), but you can still savor the simple, classic foundation of our Flatbread or regular pizza. Use our Build Your Own Pizza option and keep it minimal: mozzarella, a simple tomato topping, maybe some onions or a light dusting of garlic. And to give it a flavor-forward edge, choose from one of our legendary Flavored Crust® options, because if you’re going to make it your own, make it sing.

Fun Ways to Celebrate National Margherita Pizza Day

Sure, you could just eat pizza and call it a day. But we say go full-out foodie. Here’s how to elevate your pizza celebration, Hungry Howie-style:

Host a Margherita Pizza Night with Friends or Family

Set the scene and let the pizza do all the work. Here’s how:

1. Dress the table in red, white, and green napkins or plates (shoutout to the Italian flag).
2. Serve Italian cream sodas in tall glasses with red, white, and green straws.
3. Make a DIY pizza party. Hungry Howie’s Build Your Own pizzas are perfect for letting guests customize.
4. Pair with dessert (may we suggest a sweet treat from your local Hungry Howie’s menu?).

Bonus: Italian Cream Soda Recipe

• Fill a tall glass with ice.
• Add 1/2 cup club soda and 1/4 cup half-and-half.
• Add 2-3 tablespoons flavored syrup (orange, vanilla, or raspberry work great).
• Stir and top with whipped cream and a cherry.

Post Your Perfect Slice on Social Media

If your pizza party doesn’t end up on Instagram or TikTok, did it even happen?

• Snap a photo of your Margherita-inspired pizza with your crust of choice.
• Share your home party setup or Hungry Howie’s delivery unboxing.
• Tag us @HungryHowies so we can join the party.

Try an Italian-Themed Trivia Game

For some fun pizza party ideas, try testing guests' knowledge with an Italian-themed trivia game. Time the game while you wait for Hungry Howie’s delivery. Here are a few sample questions you can use:

• What Italian city is considered the birthplace of pizza? (Answer: Naples)
• What’s the difference between Fior di Latte and mozzarella di bufala? (Answer: One’s from cow’s milk, the other from buffalo)
• Which Italian dish translates to “little ears” in English? (Answer: Orecchiette)
• What is the Capital of Italy (Answer: Rome)
• When was the last time Italy won the World Cup? (Answer: 2006)
• Name a famous Italian explorer. (Answer: Marco Polo, to name one of many.)

Winner gets the last slice!

Order Pizza for Delivery or Takeout and Celebrate with Hungry Howie’s

Look, who doesn’t love a DIY moment, but who can say no to a delivered pizza? Hot and ready with no fuss. So, if you're feeling inspired by the flavors of a classic Margherita pizza, Hungry Howie’s is just a few clicks away.

Customize a Build Your Own pie, pick your favorite crust flavor, and try the Stuffed Crust on any large pizza. Become a Crustomizer® and add Flavored Crust® like Butter Cheese, Cajun, Garlic Herb, or all three! There are no wrong choices here. Next, let the celebration begin. Margherita is the muse, and Hungry Howie’s can craft your masterpiece the way you want it.

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