The pizza isn’t the only thing that’s noteworthy about Tuccillo’s Tomato Pies in Little Egg Harbor. The restaurant is housed in a spot formerly occupied by a bank. But even more surprising, the bank vault is still intact (and actively used by the family while making pizza).
“We joke that it’s where we keep our best recipes,” says Chris Tuccillo, creative director and family partner. In actuality, the vault is where they make their dough. “It feels fitting, since the heart of what we do is quite literally made in the safe,” he adds.
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A Taste of Trenton
Perhaps not surprisingly, Tuccillo’s Tomato Pies specializes in authentic Trenton -style tomato pies. These pizzas are a thin and crispy Jersey-style pie with seasoned crushed tomatoes over mozzarella and finished with EVOO. What sets Tuccillo’s apart from other pizzerias is that everything is made in-house using family recipes.
“We stay true to the traditional Trenton tomato pie style our family has been making for generations,” Chris says. “It’s a specific balance of dough, cheese, and crushed tomatoes, baked to achieve a crisp, light, deeply flavorful pie.”
In addition to their signature tomato pies, other fan favorites include the Margherita Pie and the Mustard Pie. Other standout pizzas include the memorable Brenton from Trenton sausage and potato pie, and the Spicy Baby Ben. But Chris admits the Original Tomato Pie will always be his favorite. “It captures everything about who we are and where we come from,” he explains.
Besides pizza, Tuccillo’s serves classic Italian dinners, freshly made sandwiches, starters, and salads. All Italian desserts are made fresh daily by Bonni (aka Bon Bon) including her pizzelles and ricotta cookies. They offer gelato and Villa Dolce sorbet year-round, too.
About Tuccillo’s Tomato Pies
Tuccillo’s Tomato Pies is owned and operated by Michael and Bonni Tuccillo. The Tuccillo’s are from Trenton and the whole family is involved in the business. Chris is their son, who helps with design, branding, and marketing. Another son, Brent, manages the front of house, while a third son, Corey, makes pies alongside his father. As far as they know, they’re one of the only tomato pie restaurants with a drive-through option.
The family has owned and/or operated several restaurants in the area over many decades. (J&J’s Deli, Jerry’s Tavern, J and J Villa Restaurant, and Zingo’s). But in 1992, they opened their first Tuccillo’s Tomato Pies in Yardville.
Visit Tuccillo’s Tomato Pies at 980 Radio Road in Little Egg Harbor. Look for them online to learn more.
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All Photos: © Tuccillo’s Pizza
