Patsy Grimaldi, a pioneer in New York City’s pizza scene, passed away at the age of 93. Known for his coal-oven pies made with attention to detail, he helped usher in the artisan pizza movement in the city. Originally opening his pizzeria under different names due to legal issues, Grimaldi eventually settled on Juliana’s Pizza, paying tribute to his mother.
With roots in his uncle’s pizzeria in East Harlem, Grimaldi brought traditional techniques and focused on high-quality ingredients to his craft, influencing a new wave of pizzaioli. His dedication to the art of pizza-making set him apart, drawing famous patrons like Frank Sinatra and Warren Beatty to his establishments.
Grimaldi’s legacy continues through his family and the ongoing success of his pizzerias, Juliana’s and Grimaldi’s. His commitment to quality and customer experience has left a lasting impact on the culinary landscape of New York City. Even as the pizza business faced challenges and changes, Grimaldi remained a stalwart figure in the industry, beloved by his patrons and respected by his peers.
Survived by his sister, daughter, and grandson, Grimaldi leaves behind a rich legacy of excellence in pizza-making. His dedication to the craft and innovative approach to traditional recipes have solidified his place in the history of New York’s pizza culture. As customers continue to flock to his pizzerias, Grimaldi’s influence remains palpable, shaping the way people view and enjoy pizza in the city.
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