Mystic Pizza: A Slice of Heaven
In the charming town of Mystic, Connecticut, Mystic Pizza has been serving up delicious slices since 1973. The Zelepos family, who founded the pizzeria, combined hard work, family effort, and a "secret recipe" to create a local gem that quickly became a favorite for both tourists and locals. The restaurant's signature pizza, with its addicting flavors and unique blend of spices, gained such popularity that customers often wished they could bring Mystic Pizza home with them. In response, Mystic Pizza Food Co. was established, allowing fans to enjoy their favorite slices from the comfort of their own homes.
The secret to Mystic Pizza’s fame lies in its all-natural ingredients and hand-prepared crust. The “secret sauce,” a zesty blend of spices, has been a hit since the restaurant's early days. As demand grew, so did the restaurant, leading to the creation of a frozen pizza line that now graces the shelves of stores across New England and the Midwest. Now, customers everywhere can savor what has been famously dubbed "A Slice of Heaven."
The Movie: Mystic Pizza
The charm and appeal of Mystic Pizza extended beyond just its delicious food. In the late 1980s, the pizzeria caught the eye of Los Angeles-based screenwriter Amy Jones, who was spending the summer in the area. Jones was captivated by the quaint pizzeria and decided to make it the focal point of her story about the lives and loves of three young waitresses.
The movie "Mystic Pizza," released in 1988, was filmed on location in Mystic and its neighboring towns. Due to the restaurant's small size and the need to keep it open during filming, a set was constructed for the indoor scenes. The film, which starred a young Julia Roberts, along with Annabeth Gish and Lili Taylor, follows the three waitresses as they navigate the complexities of life, love, and their futures.
The movie was a hit, receiving praise from critics and audiences alike. It captured the hearts of viewers with its relatable characters and the picturesque setting of Mystic, Connecticut. Even famed critics Siskel and Ebert gave the film two thumbs up, further cementing its place in cinematic history.
The Sign: "A Slice of Heaven"
The phrase "A Slice of Heaven" has become synonymous with Mystic Pizza, thanks in part to the film's success. This iconic sign represents not only the delicious pizza but also the magic and charm of the small-town pizzeria that inspired a beloved movie. The sign, featured prominently in the film, became a symbol of the restaurant's legacy and its impact on popular culture.
Following the movie's release, Mystic Pizza became a pilgrimage site for fans wanting to experience the real-life setting of their favorite film. The pizzeria could hardly keep up with the demand, with customers lining up for a taste of the famous pizza and to capture a photo with the iconic sign. Menus and matchbooks from the restaurant turned into treasured souvenirs, and the overwhelming popularity even led to the opening of Mystic Pizza II in nearby North Stonington.
In response to the national demand for their pizza, the Mystic Pizza Food Co. began producing frozen pizzas that are now available in various stores nationwide. This expansion allowed fans far and wide to enjoy the pizza that made the movie famous, all while keeping the magic of "A Slice of Heaven" alive.
Mystic Pizza is more than just a pizzeria; it's a piece of pop culture history. From its humble beginnings in 1973 to becoming the inspiration for a hit movie, the restaurant has remained a beloved destination for pizza lovers. The iconic "A Slice of Heaven" sign continues to draw visitors, while the frozen pizza line ensures that the flavors of Mystic Pizza can be enjoyed by fans across the country. Whether you're a local, a tourist, or a movie buff, Mystic Pizza offers a taste of something truly special.
