Pizza House/Pizza Chef Has a Long History in Downtown Cranford

Pizza House/Pizza Chef was originally started by Vincent and Ronnie Preziosi in Newark in the 1950's. The pizza shop closed its doors in Newark in the late 60's, but was reborn in Cranford at 111 North Union Avenue in 1970. In 1974 Pizza House moved to 29 Alden Street. After selling that building, the owners rented space at 123 North Union Avenue in Cleveland Plaza, where the pizza shop still operates.

Ronnie and Vincent had lived in Union since 1958 but on their travels they came across Cranford and felt their business would thrive there. Upon its opening in 1970, Pizza House was the only pizza shop in town. Ronnie and Vincent had a number of successful years as owners before Vincent passed away in 1999. Their daughter, Gina, grew up in the business and took over as owner in 2000. Gina and her sister Rene can often be found working in the restaurant while their mother continues to oversee things and greet customers.

When Pizza House started in Newark, a slice of pizza cost 35 cents and the restaurant also sold Italian hot dogs. The move to Cranford led to a menu change and the restaurant's focus turned to Italian specialties. The recipes have remained the same for years, with chicken dishes and thin crust pie being the most popular. Pizza House also offers catering and parties can be hosted in the space.

One of the most interesting tidbits is that Ray Liotta was friends with Ronnie and Vincent's son and worked at Pizza House when he was a teenager. "He was a great employee!" said Ronnie. On the wall of the restaurant you can find an autographed photograph of Ray Liotta that he signed for the Preziosi family. Talk about a unique item that you can't find anywhere else!

It's not an exaggeration to say that Pizza House has served generations of Cranford families. "We love Cranford," said Ronnie. "We have such love for our customers and for the pizza business. That's why we've been so successful. Cranford has been so good to us."

Pizza House/Pizza Chef
123 North Union Ave. (Cleveland Plaza)
(908) 931-0101