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If you’ve ever spent time in South Jersey and didn’t grab a slice of De Lorenzo’s Tomato Pie, you might want to reconsider your priorities. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill pizza joint—it’s a living piece of New Jersey food history, a place where tradition, taste, and family pride come together in every bite.
A Family Legacy Since 1947
The story of De Lorenzo’s starts back in 1947, when Alexander “Chick” De Lorenzo opened the first shop in Trenton, New Jersey. From day one, the focus was laser-sharp: make the best tomato pies in the state and never cut corners. It wasn’t about doing a little bit of everything—it was about doing one thing better than anyone else.
And what exactly is a tomato pie? It’s not quite the same as a traditional pizza. Think of it as the purist’s take: a thin, crispy crust, a light spread of cheese, and a bold, flavorful tomato sauce on top. That’s right—sauce on top, cheese underneath. It’s simple, it’s elegant, and it’s delicious.
Cherry Hill Gets Its Slice
While the original De Lorenzo’s built a cult following in Trenton, the family eventually brought the magic to Cherry Hill. This wasn’t just a business move—it was a way to keep the tradition alive for a new generation of Jersey locals and Philly-area pizza lovers.
The Cherry Hill location quickly became a destination in its own right. Families, couples, and die-hard foodies make the trip, sometimes driving hours just to sit in those booths and taste that perfect balance of crisp crust and fresh tomato flavor.
Why De Lorenzo’s Stands Above the Rest
There’s no gimmick here. No overloaded toppings, no overcomplicated menu, no “New York-style” or “Chicago-style” marketing spin. Just the same old-school tomato pies made with care and consistency for nearly 80 years.
The dough is perfectly thin yet sturdy enough to hold up under that rich tomato topping. The sauce is bright, tangy, and seasoned to perfection, and the cheese—used with restraint—melts into the crust in a way that feels intentional, not accidental.
Even celebrities and public figures have made their way here. From old-school entertainers like Frank Sinatra to Supreme Court Justice Samuel Alito (back in his college days), De Lorenzo’s has been serving the famous and the everyday with equal dedication.
A Taste of Tradition
Walking into De Lorenzo’s in Cherry Hill is like stepping into a different time. You’re not bombarded with flashy décor or loud gimmicks. Instead, you’re met with a warm, family-style atmosphere that feels like it’s been here forever—and in a way, it has.
Every slice is a reminder that great food doesn’t need to change with the trends. Sometimes, all you need is flour, water, tomatoes, cheese, and a whole lot of heart.
If You Go
📍 Address: 319 Evesham Rd, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
📅 Best Time to Visit: Early evening to avoid the dinner rush.
🍕 Pro Tip: Start with the classic plain tomato pie before trying anything else—you’ll understand why they’ve stayed in business this long.
Bottom Line: De Lorenzo’s Tomato Pies isn’t just a restaurant—it’s an institution. In a world of ever-changing food fads, it’s proof that sometimes the simplest recipes, done perfectly, are the ones worth keeping around forever.
