The logo for plaza pizza is a circle with the word pizza in it.

Plaza Pizza® The Flavor of the Best Quality Pizza in Ohio

Pizza has become a staple in the American diet because it’s versatile. Purists can easily stick with traditional flavors, while those with a more adventurous palate can find outside-the-box toppings to please their taste buds.


One thing remains the same: everyone wants the best quality pizza wherever they order.


Good news! Plaza Pizza® offers the best quality pizza in Newark and Heath, and we’ve been in business for over 50 years as one of Ohio’s iconic pizza destinations.

A close up of a bowl of sauce with a piece of cheese sticking out of it.

The Best Quality Pizza Starts With Tradition

When Plaza Pizza® initially opened our doors in 1971 in Newark, Ohio, we understood that to capture our customers’ loyalty, we needed to capture their taste buds.


To do this, we insisted on freshness, flavor, and top quality ingredients. Our dough is made fresh, by hand, every single day. Over the years, we’ve perfected the satisfying cracker crunch of the Plaza Pizza® thin crust. Our customers often tell us this is the best part of our pizza.

Next, we ensure our toppings are satisfying not only in choice but in quantity. Finally, we perfected our proprietary sauce recipe in such a way that has made Plaza Pizza® a favorite for generations of families.


From 1971 on, Plaza Pizza® became a Newark, Ohio destination for the best quality pizza. Our top quality pizza graced birthdays, graduations, holiday gatherings, retirements, and more, and generations of Ohioans grew up loving what Plaza Pizza® served: unbeatable, flavorful pizza that made a satisfying crunch with every bite.


Even people who moved away from Newark made a point to visit Plaza Pizza® whenever they returned for a visit. That’s how we know Plaza Pizza® is the best quality pizza: we became a destination to visitors and residents alike for all their special occasions.


Plaza Pizza® Brings a New Generation of the Best Quality Pizza

In 2019, the original owners of Plaza Pizza®, after 48 years, were ready to retire. Residents of Newark, however, weren’t ready to say goodbye to the best quality pizza in the area. One family in particular, the Claggetts, felt strongly that Plaza Pizza® should remain open for business.


Ben, Brian, and Olivia Claggett had fond memories of Plaza Pizza®, having grown up with the distinctive, zesty pizza sauce and signature crunchy crust as a part of their favorite childhood moments. With the support of the wider Claggett clan, Ben, Brian, and Olivia set out to keep the tradition of Plaza Pizza® alive.


Upgrading the Plaza Pizza® Systems that Deliver the Best Quality Pizza in OH

As Plaza Pizza® entered its 5th decade in business, it became clear certain aspects of the daily operations had become antiquated. What worked well in 1971 was not as relevant beginning in the 2020s.


The Claggetts understand life moves at a faster pace than ever, and while loyal customers love the best quality pizza they can get from Plaza Pizza®, they also desire more convenient ways to order and pay.


So the Plaza Pizza® way of placing orders got a facelift. Now, customers can order online through the website, and those orders can be paid for using a debit or credit card.


We are, of course, still happy to hear from customers who prefer to place their orders over the phone and pay using cash. After all, traditional methods are part of what we all respect about Plaza Pizza®. But now, customers have more options in how they order and pay.

In addition, we’ve expanded Plaza Pizza®, so now our customers can get the best quality pizza in Heath, Ohio, too. When choosing to order online, customers will be directed to select the location closest to them.


This enables us at Plaza Pizza® to serve our customers with the biggest upgrade yet: delivery! Yes, Plaza Pizza® now delivers the best quality pizzas to Newark and Heath residents. Customers searching for pizza places near me don’t have venture far to find top quality pizza just a phone call or a mouse click away!


Plaza Pizza® Expands Our Menu

As wedded as we are to tradition at Plaza Pizza®, we also recognize that people’s tastes can be bigger than what was once available on our menu. Of course, we’ve kept all the beloved menu items that make up the best quality pizza. We’ve just added new items to give new flavors a chance to shine.


Those looking for something other than pepperoni or sausage may find themselves intrigued by Buffalo chicken pizza, which carries a bit of a zing and is topped with ranch and green onion when it comes out of the oven.


Or if you’re looking for flavor over heat, a BBQ chicken pizza might be more your style, with a BBQ sauce base rather than our traditional marinara pizza sauce. It also includes red onion, pineapple, and once out of the oven, is drizzled with more house made BBQ sauce and cilantro for extra flavor.


Perhaps a healthier spin is what’s on the menu, and we’ve got that covered with our cauliflower crust pizza. Available in a 10” crust, this option has that same satisfying cracker crunch for which Plaza Pizza® is known, and only 20 carbs and 140 calories per slice! While this crust is gluten-free, it is prepared in a kitchen among other ingredients with gluten, so please consider your level of gluten sensitivity when ordering a cauliflower crust pizza.


Maybe pizza isn’t what you’re craving. We’ve got you covered with delectable garden or Italian salads, or a Torpedo sandwich that’ll make your mouth sing. Our garlic bread or garlic bread with cheese rounds out any order.


We can even satisfy the sweet tooth with the Shirly Lou dessert pizza, with house-made apple pie filling, streusel topping, and drizzled with icing. Named after our beloved late grandmother, it’s a surefire hit!


If you’re looking for the best quality pizza, look no further than more than 50 years of tradition with a modern twist at Plaza Pizza® in Newark and Heath, Ohio!


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Pizza is one of the most beloved foods worldwide, known for its versatility and deliciousness. Pizza's popularity is unmatched, whether it's a casual meal at home, a party favorite, or a quick bite on the go. However, while enjoying this culinary delight, it's crucial to consider food safety, particularly regarding how long pizza can sit at room temperature. Improper handling and storage of pizza can lead to foodborne illnesses, which can be easily avoided with the right precautions. Ohio, renowned for having some of the best pizza in the country, offers a variety of options that are not only tasty but also safe to enjoy when proper food safety practices are followed. Risks of Pizza Left in Hotter Conditions Leaving pizza (or any perishable foods),left out in the sun or in conditions hotter than room temperature accelerates bacterial growth, significantly increasing the risk of food poisoning. Bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella multiply rapidly in warm environments, making the pizza unsafe to eat in a shorter time frame. In hot weather, the one hour rule shortens to 20 minutes, as bacteria can reach dangerous levels more quickly. To prevent foodborne illness, always store pizza in a cooler or refrigerator within 20 minutes when temperatures exceed 90°F (32°C) . Ensuring rapid cooling and proper storage is essential for maintaining food safety during warmer months. Importance of Refrigerating Leftover Pizza Refrigerating room temperature leftover pizza within one hour is crucial to prevent bacterial growth and foodborne illnesses. The ideal refrigerator temperature for storing pizza is below 40°F (4°C) . At this temperature, the growth of harmful bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Salmonella is significantly slowed, reducing the risk of contamination. Proper refrigeration ensures that your leftover pizza remains safe to eat, preserving its quality and taste for future enjoyment. By promptly storing pizza in the refrigerator, you can enjoy your favorite slices without the worry of health risks, ensuring a safe and delicious meal. Safe Reheating Practices for Pizza Methods for Reheating Pizza Oven: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) . Place the pizza on a baking sheet or directly on the oven rack for 10-15 minutes . This method ensures even heating and maintains a crispy crust. Microwave: Place the pizza on a microwave-safe plate with a cup of water next to it to keep the crust from getting too chewy. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes , checking frequently. Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the pizza in the skillet, cover with a lid, and cook for 5-7 minutes . This method helps retain the crust’s texture. Importance of Reaching 165°F (74°C) Regardless of the method, ensure the pizza reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to eliminate any harmful bacteria. Tips for Even Reheating and Maintaining Quality Avoid Overheating: Reheat slowly to avoid drying out the pizza. Cover Pizza: When using the oven or stovetop, covering the pizza helps retain moisture. Check Temperature: Ensure the pizza is evenly heated to 165°F (74°C) . By following these tips, you can enjoy your leftover pizza safely and deliciously. Tips for Enjoying Leftover Pizza Safely Best Practices for Storing Leftover Pizza Refrigerate pizza within one hour of it being at room temperature. Store pizza in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Keep the refrigerator temperature below 40°F (4°C) . Signs That Leftover Pizza Has Gone Bad Off smell or sour odor. Visible mold or discoloration. Unusual texture. Recommendations for Avoiding Common Mistakes Avoid leaving pizza out for more than one hour, especially in hot weather. Reheat pizza to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to kill any potential bacteria. Do not reheat pizza more than once to ensure safety and quality. By following these guidelines, you can safely enjoy your leftover pizza without the risk of foodborne illness. Food Safety Protocols in Ohio and Plaza Pizza Ohio's food safety protocols are stringent, ensuring that restaurants maintain high standards of hygiene and food handling. The Ohio Department of Health conducts regular inspections to enforce compliance with safety regulations, such as proper food storage, cooking temperatures, and employee hygiene practices. Plaza Pizza adheres to these protocols meticulously, ensuring all pizzas are prepared and stored safely. Refrigerator temperatures are maintained below 40°F (4°C). By prioritizing food safety, Plaza Pizza guarantees a safe and delicious pizza for all customers. Conclusion: Following food safety guidelines is essential to prevent foodborne illnesses and ensure your pizza remains safe to eat. By adhering to the one hour room temperature rule, refrigerating leftovers promptly, and reheating pizza to the correct temperature, you can enjoy your pizza without worry. Proper storage and reheating practices not only preserve the quality and taste of your pizza but also protect your health. Enjoying the best pizza in Ohio can be both delicious and safe when you follow these simple yet crucial steps. Prioritize food safety to savor every bite of your favorite pizza worry-free.
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