Pizza Day (Piza no Hi)
Food DaysWhat Is "Pizza Day" on November 20th?
Pizza Day was established in 1995, primarily by restaurants introducing Italian food culture in Japan. The date, November 20th, marks the birthday of Queen Margherita of Savoy (born November 20, 1851), after whom the famous Pizza Margherita is named. The goal of this anniversary is to promote pizza and introduce authentic Italian food culture.
The Story Behind the Birth of Pizza Margherita
In 1889, during a visit by King Umberto I and Queen Margherita to Naples, Italy, the renowned local pizza maker Raffaele Esposito created three types of pizza for the royal couple. The queen's favorite featured tomato (red), mozzarella cheese (white), and basil (green)—representing the three colors of the Italian flag—and it's said that this pizza was named "Pizza Margherita" in her honor.
Neapolitan Pizza and Its World Heritage Status
In 2017, UNESCO added "the art of Neapolitan pizzaiuolo (pizza maker)" to its list of Intangible Cultural Heritage. The Neapolitan style—a thinly stretched dough baked for just 60 to 90 seconds in a wood-fired pizza oven—remains the ideal that pizza makers around the world strive for.
Pizza in Japan
Pizza became widely popular in Japan starting in the 1970s. Pizza delivery arrived in 1985, leading to the creation of distinctly Japanese toppings such as teriyaki chicken, mentaiko (spicy cod roe) mayonnaise, and even mochi. Today, Japan's pizza delivery market is worth roughly 300 billion yen annually, and authentic Neapolitan-style pizzerias have also spread across the country.
How to Enjoy Pizza Day
- Check for special promotions at pizza shops: Many restaurants offer discounts and special deals on Pizza Day
- Try making pizza at home: Surprisingly easy with store-bought dough or bread flour—have fun customizing your toppings
- Visit an authentic Neapolitan pizzeria: Enjoy thin, simply-topped pizza in the traditional style that lets the ingredients' flavors shine
- Host a pizza party: A classic crowd-pleasing dish that's perfect for gathering everyone around the table