Est. 1954: A Family Tradition
The story starts in Grandpa Sam Perrella’s small cafe in Keewatin, Minnesota in the early 1950s. Around the table, stories were shared by WWII veterans about a new favorite food discovered while serving in Italy: pizza. Sam listened, was inspired and rode the rails to Chicago to discover more about this Italian dish. After tasting his fair share of slices (for research purposes of course), he came home to Gramma Louise. Together, they kneaded, mixed, sliced, diced and created their own take on this delish delight. The results were a pizza unlike any other. A mix of Chicago, Italy, and their own secret sauce, Sammy’s Pizza quickly became a local tradition, expanding to cities across Minnesota, Wisconsin, and North Dakota.
Over the years, Sammy’s lovers developed their own traditions gathered around our bite-sized squares, Italian favorites, and friendly service and atmosphere. Today, Sammy’s Pizza proudly offers 15 locations. Each restaurant is locally owned and operated by a family member or close friend of the Perrella family still using Sam and Louise’s original recipes!
Our Home Location
This is where it all started. Grandpa Sam moved his cafe to Hibbing and Sammy’s Pizza officially opened in 1954. Today, the restaurant is locally-owned and operated by Brita and Joe Baratto, close friends of the Sammy's Family and two people with strong ties to the restaurant industry on the Iron Range. We also partner with Tony and Mike Jerulle, who are part-owners of Sammy's locations in Grand Rapids, International Falls and West Duluth as well.
When you visit, our hope is that you’ll realize Sammy’s makes much more than great pizza – we make works of art inspiring traditions with family and friends, as well as in our local community.
Don’t delay, order a pie today!
