The Piedmont Triad area is a mecca for ethnic restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for Chinese, Greek, Mexican, Indian, or Italian, you’ll find an eatery serving up your favorites. Italian food is popular for its simplicity, affordability, and taste. When searching for authentic Italian food Greensboro NC offers, stop by Mario’s Pizza.

A Brief History Of Italian Cuisine In America

In the late 1800s to early 1900s, many Italians left their country to resettle in America. Some 4 million immigrants arrived, taking up residence in New York City and other urban areas. While they brought family recipes with them, many of the ingredients weren’t available in their new home. Thus, they created new dishes using ingredients on hand.

At first, only the Italians enjoyed these new recipes. However, that changed after WWII. While fighting in Europe, returning soldiers had grown fond of pasta and other Italian food. To meet the new demand, immigrants began opening restaurants serving Americanized dishes using Italian family recipes.

Top Italian/American Foods

Some of the best Italian food Greensboro NC offers are also the same Italian foods we love here in America. Although, they have transformed a bit from the original. Most of the time, this was due to the availability of ingredients. Below, you’ll find our top 5 Italian/American foods.

1. Pizza

Legend credits an Italian immigrant living in Manhattan in 1905 with opening the first pizzeria in America. Back then, pizza provided an affordable and portable meal for the urban population. Today, it’s an all-time favorite with Americans consuming an average of 40 pizzas per year. Although you’ll find many versions across America, the NY style pizza is the most popular.

2. Lasagna

Lasagna first appeared in Naples during the Middle Ages. As it spread throughout Italy, each region developed a different version. In those days, this dish took many hours, sometimes days to prepare. In Italy, families saved this dish for special occasions because of the time commitment and the expense of meat.

Upon arriving in America, immigrants discovered meat was plentiful and cheap. Moreover, as lasagna became more popular, American cooks simplified the dish. For example, instead of using fresh pasta, cooks used dried versions.

3. Baked Ziti

Another popular dish, pasta al forno, has roots tracing back to the Renaissance. Nobles enjoyed this ancestor to America’s baked ziti at special ceremonies and celebrations. The Italian version could contain meatballs, scrambled eggs, bechamel sauce, or vegetables depending on the area. Most Americanized versions usually use just pasta, tomato sauce, and mozzarella cheese.

4. Ravioli

Italians have been cooking up this stuffed pasta since the 16th century. At that time, families simmered ravioli in a broth. It wasn’t until the late 1800s that Italians began cultivating and using tomatoes in recipes.

Then, in the 1950s, the ravioli underwent a transformation. Although historians disagree on the inventor, one chef began serving toasted ravioli. Smothered in tomato sauce or toasted, don’t forget to enjoy a plateful on National Ravioli Day, March 20th.

5. Parmigiana

The earliest form of parmigiana used vegetables layered in a casserole. Although there is a reference to zucchini, the main ingredient was usually eggplant. Native to India and China, traveling Arabs introduced eggplant to the Italians in the 15th century.

When Italians arrived in America, eggplant wasn’t widely available. Many Americans were suspicious of this vegetable because it is a member of the nightshade family. Plants belonging to this family contain compounds that can be poisonous in high concentrations. However, proteins like chicken were widely available and inexpensive. Thus, cooks began cooking up versions of chicken parmigiana.

FAQs About Finding the Best Italian Food Greensboro NC Offers

When searching for Piedmont Triad restaurants, how do you find the best Italian food Greensboro NC has to offer? Of course, we are a bit biased about our food at Mario’s Pizza. If you haven’t tried our food, you’re missing out on some delicious cuisine! Below, we answer a few of our most frequently asked questions.

Which Italian Dishes Do You Serve?

While we are known for our NY style pizza, we also serve strombolis and calzones. Our entrees include pasta dishes like baked ziti and ravioli, lasagna, and spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce. We also serve both chicken and eggplant parmigiana.

You’ll also find both hot and cold submarine sandwiches. For a lighter meal, you can choose from one of several salads. Plus, we have over a dozen appetizers including toasted ravioli. Finally, you can finish off your meal by indulging in one of our delicious Italian desserts.

Where Can I Find Mario’s Pizza?

You’ll find our restaurants at the following locations:

  • 5824 Samet Drive, High Point
  • 2645 North Main Street, High Point
  • 1066 Hanes Mall Boulevard, Winston-Salem
  • 2205 Cloverdale Avenue, Winston-Salem
  • 266 Harvey Street, Winston-Salem
  • 1469 River Ridge Dr. Clemmons
  • 4215 Wendover Avenue, Greensboro
  • 1575 New Garden Road, Greensboro
  • 3354 W. Friendly Ave Suite 412 Greensboro (Friendly Center)

Thus, we’re not far if you live in one of Greensboro’s surrounding communities:

  • Lindley Park
  • Colfax
  • Oak Ridge
  • Pleasant Garden
  • Summerfield
  • Browns Summit
  • McLeansville

Does Mario’s Pizza Serve The Best Italian Food Greensboro NC Offers?

Many of our customers seem to think so and we believe you will too. Our customers love our NY style pizza and extra-large slices. Furthermore, our patrons praise our other menu items for their fresh taste and deliciousness.

Plus, Mario’s Pizza has a generous loyalty program. It’s free to join and you earn points every time you eat at any of our locations. Moreover, we’ll give you a slice of our tasty pizza just for joining. You can become a member by downloading our app or asking a team member the next time you visit.

Whether you are planning a first date, celebrating Valentine’s Day with your sweetheart, or taking your spouse out for your anniversary, Mario’s Pizza is the perfect setting for a casual bite to eat. We have a wide selection of Italian dishes on our menu, or you can of course share an authentic New York style pizza. If you’re looking for the best food in Winston Salem, stop into one of our convenient locations for the perfect date night.

Feel the Love with Our Family Recipes

Here at Mario’s, we use family recipes that have been passed down for generations. Some of our recipes even came over from Calabria, Italy! Our family got their start serving delicious food in Brooklyn, New York before moving to North Carolina in the 1980s. We opened our first Mario’s location off Hanes Mall Boulevard in Winston-Salem and today we have nine locations throughout the Triad, including our brand new Friendly Center pizzeria in Greensboro, which is perfect if you want to do some shopping after your dinner date.

It might be a cliche to say that our food is made with love, but you have to experience it for yourself! Our menu includes not only pizza, but these other Italian dishes:

  • Strombolis
  • Calzones
  • Baked Ziti
  • Chicken or Eggplant Parmigiana
  • Meat Lasagna
  • Baked Ricotta Cheese Ravioli
  • Spaghetti with Fresh Tomato Sauce
  • Hot and Cold Subs
  • Entree-Size Salads

We also have a full menu of appetizers including garlic knots, wings, Italian meatballs, and more. Of course, don’t forget our claim to fame: pizza! We offer a wide range of toppings to suit every taste, and we also offer gluten-free crust and cauliflower crust options for those who have dietary restrictions.

Make Your Meal Extra Special With an Italian Dessert

If you’re coming to Mario’s for date night, why not splurge a little and end your meal with one of our Italian desserts. A rich, luscious bite of one of our desserts is the perfect cherry on top. We offer the following dessert options:

  • Tiramisu – Just like the Italian grandma on our block used to make it! We use layers of smooth cream, cake, and chocolate to create this delicious traditional dessert.
  • Cannoli – These are made with a fried shell with a sweet cream and ricotta cheese filling mixed with chocolate chips. We dust the entire plate with powdered sugar for an extra touch of sweetness.
  • Cheesecake – Our cheesecake is authentic New York style, with no bells or whistles needed!
  • Limoncello mascarpone cake – For something really special, try this cake, which is made from a lemon-infused sponge and Italian mascarpone filling. We top the cake with European white chocolate curls.

Our desserts are the perfect size to share. Or, order them all for the ultimate sweet feast! Keep in mind that we’re the perfect place to stop for dessert if you already enjoyed lunch or dinner at home. During your day of shopping, swing by and dine in for a quick sweet pick-me-up.

What to Do After You Have the Best Food in Winston Salem

After eating at Mario’s, continue your date with one of the many activities and beautiful locations Winston-Salem has to offer. Trip Advisor has some great ideas for things to do in Winston-Salem, but here are a few of our favorite recommendations:

  • Old Salem Museums and Gardens – this is a living history site with historic interpreters who show you what life was like in this area in the 1700s and 1800s.
  • Trade Street – If you love to shop, head to this downtown area of Winston-Salem to find a treasure trove of boutiques, galleries, and small locally-owned specialty shops. This area is even home to a craft artists’ guild shop where you can find hundreds of handmade items.
  • ARTivity on the Green – The downtown area is also home to this artsy park, which is a wonderful place to have a relaxing walk or just people-watch from a bench as you digest.

If you love to get in touch with nature, you can also head just outside the city to Hanging Rock State Park or Pilot Mountain State Park, which are both places to hike and enjoy a picnic lunch. Yes, we can pack your meal to go so you can eat some delicious Italian food overlooking the beautiful scenery this state has to offer.

FAQs About Mario’s Pizza

Our helpful staff would be happy to answer any questions you have about Mario’s or our menu. Here are a few frequently asked questions to get you started:

What makes your pizza the best?

Winston-Salem and the surrounding area is best known for southern cooking and barbecue. There aren’t many authentic Italian restaurants in Winston-Salem. We make Brooklyn-style pizza with a thin chewy crust and tons of toppings. Come in today to try a single slice before you commit to a whole pie.

Do you have a rewards program?

Yes! If you sign up for our rewards program you can earn points every time you eat at any of our Mario’s locations. You can also get special gifts when you sign up and during your birthday month. Sign up via our app or just ask your server for information about how to join the program.

Where can I visit Mario’s Pizza?

We now have nine convenient locations throughout the Triad including:

  • 5824 Samet Drive, High Point
  • 2645 North Main Street, High Point
  • 1469 River Ridge Dr. Clemmons
  • 1066 Hanes Mall Boulevard, Winston-Salem
  • 2205 Cloverdale Avenue, Winston-Salem
  • 266 Harvey Street, Winston-Salem
  • 4215 Wendover Avenue, Greensboro
  • 1575 New Garden Road, Greensboro
  • 3354 W. Friendly Ave Suite 412 Greensboro (NEW)

We also have a sister restaurant, Tony’s Pizza, with locations in Mooresville, Charlotte, Hickory, and Huntersville. We’d love to see you and your sweetheart soon for a date night with the best food in Winston-Salem at any of our locations.

Are you craving pasta… and not just any old pasta, but the best pasta near me? If you live in the NC Triad, come out to Mario’s Pizza. We make authentic Italian pasta dishes based on our secret family recipes all the way from Italy. Our team would love to satisfy your craving with a piping hot plate of pasta straight from our kitchen.

Pasta Dishes at Mario’s Pizza

Here at Mario’s, we give diners a taste of Italy with our Italian food. If you’re looking specifically for pasta for dinner, here’s what we offer:

  • Baked ziti
  • Eggplant parmigiana
  • Chicken Parmigiana
  • Meat Lasagna
  • Baked ricotta cheese ravioli
  • Spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce

We serve all these dishes with a side salad and garlic knots and top it with a delicious savory tomato sauce. Of course, you can also expect a lot of cheese and perfectly-done pasta that is never mushy or soggy. Our dishes are filled with flavor, which is why our customers come back again and again. Click here to read what they’re saying about the food from Mario’s.

The History of Pasta in Italy and the US

Today, pasta is usually recognized as an Italian food, because so many delicious pasta recipes originated in Italy. However, this recipe from Italy was likely derived from noodle dishes from China, which were brought to Italy by Marco Polo in the 13th century. Others believe that the first dishes spread to Europe from nomadic Arabs. Either way, pasta has a long and rich history in Asia. In China, they used flour made from the breadfruit tree to make several different kinds of dishes.

Once it made its way to Europe, makers began to use durum wheat to produce pasta flour. This created a dried product that could be easily stored and transported. Thanks to the mild temperatures in Italy, most dishes included fresh vegetables, and tomato sauce became extremely popular.

Pasta made its way to America in the 1700s. Thomas Jefferson was actually a huge influence on eating habits at the time and brought several cases of pasta over to his home in Virginia after spending time in Europe. In the 1800s, the United States saw a huge influx of Italian immigrants, especially from the Naples area, so pasta became a popular street food. You can read more about the history of pasta here!

Our Other Italian Entrees

Although our pasta dishes are very popular, we also serve a variety of other dishes. Of course, our main offering is pizza! We create NY-style pizza and have a variety of specialty toppings to satisfy any tastes. We also have the following other entrees on our menu:

Moreover, we also have several delicious appetizers available including Italian sausage, boneless and bone-in wings, toasted ravioli, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, garlic knots and garlic bread, jalapeno poppers, Italian meatballs, french fries, and fried mushrooms.

If you have a sweet tooth, you might also want to check out our dessert menu, which includes several authentic Italian treats such as tiramisu, cheesecake, and cannoli. We also have a homemade limoncello mascarpone cake, which has layers of luscious mascarpone between lemon-infused sponge and topped with white chocolate curls.

FAQs About Our Restaurant

A member of our staff would be happy to answer any questions you have about finding the perfect pasta dish at our restaurant. Here are a few frequently asked questions we get, along with the answers!

Do you really have the best pasta near me?

Finding the “best pasta near me” is going to be subjective of course, but we humbly think our recipes are top notch. Our family has been in the restaurant business for decades, starting in New York before moving to North Carolina. Come in and try one of our favorites; we think it will become your favorite as well.

Where is your Italian restaurant located?

We have several locations throughout the Triad, including locations in Winston-Salem, High Point, Greensboro, and Clemmons. Our newest Italian restaurant is located at Friendly Center in Greensboro. If you live in the Charlotte or Hickory area, you can also visit our sister restaurant, Tony’s Pizza. Use the drop-down at the top of the of the page to order from any of our locations or find our address and hours.

Do you have a rewards program?

Yes! You can sign up via our app or simply give your phone number to a member of our wait staff. You’ll earn points every time you eat at Mario’s Pizza. There’s no downside! Sign up today to start earning.

Can I get a Mario’s gift card?

We would love to help you give the perfect gift for any special location with a Mario’s gift card. Our gift cards are available in any amount, and you can buy them via our app or at any restaurant. They make great stocking stuffers for the holidays, and people also love to receive our gift cards for anniversaries, birthdays, Valentine’s Day, and other special occasions.

Do you have any dinner specials near me?

Yes! We have several lunch specials, as well as a daily dinner special. If you’re looking for dinner specials near me, check out our Italian menu.

Can I order delivery to Winston-Salem, Greensboro, or the surrounding areas?

We would love to deliver pasta, pizza, or other delicious foods straight to your door. Our restaurant is available using Slice, Doordash, UberEats, and Grubhub. Order now for delivery or give our nearest location a call for pickup! We hope to see you soon.

Just a few miles Southwest of Winston Salem lies the village of Clemmons. Settled in 1802, today the town boasts a growing population with plenty of things to do. You’ll find shopping, golfing, hiking, and even ax throwing here. Yet, once you’ve finished your activities, you’ll be searching for food Clemmons NC has to offer. First, let’s take a look at some of the great recreational opportunities and family owned restaurants in the area:

1. Tanglewood Park

As Forsyth County’s largest park, the facility has many amenities including two golf courses, horse stables, and tennis courts. The park also features an aquatic park with a wading pool, a tube river, and a large main pool. Plus, you can enjoy overnight stays at the Providence Manor House Inn, Guest House, or cabins. Finally, you can enjoy the park’s annual twinkling display with over a million lights during the holiday season.

2. Golfing

If you love to play golf, you’ll want to stop by the Triad’s only Nicklaus-designed course, Salem Glen. Golf Digest has given the 18-hole championship course a prestigious 4-star ranking. Additionally, the facility’s banqueting hall can host your next special event.

3. Village Point Greenway & Fishing Pier

Looking for the challenge and thrill of landing a Bream? Head out to the Village Point Fishing Pier. The jetty offers a 59-foot long, 48-foot wide fishing space over Village Point Lake. Before packing your equipment, buy your fishing license from a wildlife service agent or online.

4. Axe Throwing

People have been engaging in friendly axe throwing competitions for hundreds of years. However, it’s only been since about 2006 that the activity became an organized sport. You can experience this sport at Tap That Axe Throwing, the first of its kind in the Piedmont Triad area.

5. Mrs. Hanes’ Moravian Cookie Factory Tour

If you love Moravian cookies, you’ll want to visit Mrs. Hanes Moravian Cookie Factory. This family owned business has been making cookies from a secret recipe for several generations. Book a tour and you’ll see the entire process from beginning to end. Plus, you’ll receive samples during the visit.

A Diverse Mix Of Food Clemmons NC Offers

Of course, you’ll find a great variety of food Clemmons NC has available. While the town boasts of all the usual national chains, you’ll also find some family-owned eateries:

1. Ava’s Cupcakes

The owner of Ava’s cupcakes, Michelle Spell, is also the winner of a baking competition. In 2012, she won season 4 of Food Network’s Cupcake Wars: I Love Lucy 60th Anniversary. One bite of her delicious cupcakes and you’ll agree with the judges. Yet more than just a cupcake bakery, you’ll also find macarons, cookies, handpies, scones, and trifles here.

2. Full Moon Oyster

When you want fresh seafood, you’ll want to visit the Full Moon Oyster Bar. Like its other locations, this family-owned restaurant in Clemmons offers steamed, grilled, baked, or fried fresh (not frozen!) seafood. Simply seat yourself at the bar to experience an unforgettable meal.

3. 2520 Tavern

The Gallins Family began with Dockside Seafood over 30 years ago in Clemmons. In 2011, the family revamped the restaurant, reopening it as 2520 Tavern. Although the name and menu changed, their mission has not. The owners strive to provide the freshest ingredients, the highest-quality foods, and the most creative dishes at a fair price.

4. Simply Southern

Sometimes you want home-cooked, southern food without cooking. Pot pies, macaroni and cheese, and other southern favorites are on the menu at this restaurant. Whether you want an individual, family-sized, or large catering order, Simply Southern has you covered. Place your order ahead of time and the staff will have it cooked and waiting for you when you arrive.

5. Mario’s Pizza

Searching for some of the best Italian food Clemmons NC offers? Stop by Mario’s Pizza for a taste of Little Italy. Since 1981, this family owned restaurant has been cooking authentic Italian food. Using family recipes dating back to Calabria, Italy, Mario’s pizza serves NY-style pizza, calzones, subs, and a whole lot more.

FAQS About Mario’s Pizza

If you’ve never had the pleasure of trying one of our delicious dishes, you probably have some questions. Below, we’ve answered some of our most frequently asked questions.

Where Can I Find Mario’s?

We have conveniently located our Italian restaurants throughout the Piedmont Triad in Greensboro, Winston-Salem, High Point, and Clemmons. Moreover, we’ve just opened our newest location in Friendly Center in Greensboro. If you’re looking for us in Clemmons, we’re on the same strip as Ava’s and Full Moon Oyster! Grab an oyster appetizer at Full Moon, lasagna or pizza at Mario’s and a cupcake from Ava’s!

Plus, we serve the same tasty meals at our sister store, Tony’s Pizza. You’ll find Tony’s Pizza in Charlotte, Mooresville, Huntersville, and Hickory.

Do You Offer A Kids’ Menu?

Of course! We serve many of your children’s favorites in smaller sized portions. Additionally, we price all our kid’s menu items at $5 or less. At that price, you can afford to treat the whole family to a night at Mario’s.

How Can I Buy A Gift Card?

For many people, holiday gift-giving is very stressful. Let Mario’s Pizza take the anxiety out of your shopping with one of our gift cards. We have them available in any amount you need at our Italian restaurants or from our app.

Plus, if you buy a gift card worth $25 or more through Dec. 23rd, 2022, we’ll reward you! We’ll give you a FREE 6-piece of our delicious garlic knots! If you’ve never tried our garlic knots before, you’re in for a real treat. We take pizza dough, tie it in a knot and smother it with a garlic sauce.

Forget slogging through store after store looking for the perfect present! Give the gift of Mario’s Pizza.

Whether simple or exotic, every culture has its version of the sandwich. Savory, hot or cold, big or small, the sandwich is a universal comfort food. So, when you have a yearning for the best Italian sub near me, where do you go?

Searching For The Best Italian Sub Near Me?

While there isn’t a standard type of Italian sub, there are certain guidelines to create the perfect sandwich. To begin with, your choice of bread must hold moist fillings without getting soggy. With a thin crust and fluffy interior, Italian bread is the perfect way to begin building your sub.

Next, let’s talk about the fillings. Many people argue over what constitutes the best ingredients. Ultimately, you want to choose cured meats, cheese, and vegetables that give you a full range of flavor and texture. Of course, you need to top it off with oil and vinegar.

Here at Mario’s, we make our Italian sub sandwiches with delicious bread and the freshest ingredients. Layers of ham, salami, provolone, lettuce, tomato, and banana peppers sit atop our 8 or 12-inch loaves. Finally, we slather on mayo and drizzle oil and vinegar over everything. There’s no doubt about it when you’re searching for the best Italian sub near me! We have it at Mario’s Pizza.

Other Delicious Subs On The Menu

What if you want a hot sub? Or vegetarian? Don’t worry! Mario’s Pizza has you covered. We serve many different kinds of sub sandwiches to satisfy your taste.

You can choose one of our classic subs, steak, grilled chicken, or chick-o-filly. Plus, we can prepare these sub sandwiches 2 different ways, Mario’s or Philly style. Mario’s Way has cheese, banana peppers, onions, mayo, lettuce, tomato, oil, and vinegar. Or, pick Philly style with cheese, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions.

Perhaps, you’re in the mood for a parmigiana sub? We’ve got eggplant, chicken, and meatball subs smothered in our famous Marinara sauce and melted mozzarella.

Of course, choose our vegetarian sandwich if you’d rather skip the meat. It’s loaded with peppers, mushrooms, onions, olives, lettuce, tomato, banana peppers, and mozzarella.

Top 5 Reasons To Visit Mario’s Pizza

With so many pizzerias in town, why should you choose Mario’s? We’ve put together a list explaining how we stand out from other Italian restaurants.

1. Great Tasting NY Style Pizza

Outside of “the Big Apple”, it’s very difficult to find authentic NY style Pizza. Unless of course, you have some Italian brothers from Brooklyn. Brothers Vinny, Tony, and Mario relocated to North Carolina in 1981. Since then, the brothers have been serving up delicious slices to patrons all across the state.

2. Convenient Locations

We’ve located Mario’s Pizza throughout the Piedmont Triad area to make ordering convenient. Our locations include restaurants in Greensboro, High Point, Winston-Salem, and Clemmons. Plus, we’ve just opened a new eatery at Friendly Center.

Moreover, we serve the same great food at our sister store, Tony’s pizza. You’ll find these restaurants in Charlotte, Hickory, Huntersville, and Mooresville.

3. Online Ordering and Home Delivery

Who doesn’t love the convenience of online ordering and home delivery? Simply visit our website and pick your location. Place your order and we’ll have it hot and ready when you come to pick it up. Or, choose delivery and one of our transportation partners will bring your meal to your home.

4. Lots of Menu Choices

In addition to delicious subs and pizza, we also serve several freshly made salads and authentic Italian entrees. Plus, we have over a dozen appetizers to begin your meal. And to finish it off, choose one of our sweet desserts. Additionally, we have a kids’ menu with smaller-sized portions and a price you’ll love.

5. Loyalty Program

As a family restaurant, we want to help you make dining out affordable. That’s why we offer you a fabulous rewards program that’s free to join. Simply download our app or ask your server to sign you up next time you order.

Then, start earning great rewards for doing what you love, eating our delicious Italian food. Plus, we offer double point days, games with special prizes, and rewards for social sharing.

FAQs About Mario’s Pizza

If you’re not familiar with our restaurant, you probably have some questions. Below, we answer some of our most commonly asked ones.

Do You Offer Catering?

Planning an event? Sub sandwiches are easily portable allowing your guests to grab and mingle. Plus, they don’t have to mess with forks or knives. Whatever the size of the crowd, you’ll find the best Italian sub near me at Mario’s.

Moreover, you can combine subs with our delicious NY style pizza, appetizers, or trays of our traditional Italian food. We do ask that you contact your nearest Mario’s at least 72 hours before your event. This way we’ll have your food ready when you need it.

Can You Make Gluten Free Pizza?

We offer 2 types of gluten free crusts. First, we can make a rice flour crust that’s similar to a traditional pie. Additionally, we can bake a tasty cauliflower crust. Plus, many of our toppings are gluten free. Just ask your server for help when you place your order.

However, we realize that some people can react strongly to even a tiny amount of gluten. While we take precautions against cross-contamination, we make all our food in the same kitchen.

Where Can I Find Out About Special Offers?

Typically, we do offer daily specials and we list these on our website. However, we also love giveaways like free pizzas. These we announce on our Facebook and Instagram pages. Follow Mario’s Pizza on these social media channels so you never miss a deal!

At Mario’s Pizza, you can get a taste of authentic Italian food right here in the Triad. We have a full menu of Brooklyn-style pizza, pasta, and other favorites, including what we humbly believe is the best calzone near me. If you’ve never had a calzone before, we would love to make one for you, filled with your favorite toppings.

What is a Calzone?

Calzones are an Italian invention, and roughly translates to “pants legs.” Naples pizza-makers created calzones in the 1700s as an on-the-go pizza so you could eat it while walking around, hence the name. They were originally just normal pizzas folded in half, which gave them their traditional half-moon shape. However, over time calzones have become their own thing, rather than just being a version of pizza.

Today’s calzones still have the half-moon shape, as opposed to stromboli, which is a rectangle shape where the dough is rolled into a log. Calzones typically have a cheese blend inside, featuring ricotta and other cheese varieties. They can also be stuffed with a variety of other toppings. We serve the sauce on the outside, however. It’s perfect for dipping. With a stromboli, the sauce is baked into the center with the other ingredients, so the resulting texture is a bit different.

Calzones still make a great meal on the go. We even have a calzone lunch special on Tuesday if you stop by Mario’s for a quick bite. We have eight locations throughout the Triad, in Winston-Salem, Clemmons, High Point, and Greensboro. Our sister restaurant, Tony’s Pizza, also has locations in Mooresville, Charlotte, Hickory, and Huntersville to satisfy your calzone cravings.

Calzones: Are They Better Than Pizza?

Pizza will always be our first love, but there are a few reasons why you might choose a calzone instead. Here are the top five reasons why calzones are sometimes better than pizza:

  1. You get a bigger ratio of toppings to crust. Hey, we get it. Some people are just not “crust” people. We think our crust is the best in the Triad, but you might still like that a calzone gives you a huge pocket of delicious toppings to enjoy.
  2. Calzones are grab-and-go, as mentioned. While you can sit in our dining room to enjoy a calzone, they are perfect when you want Italian food but don’t have time to stop for a long meal.
  3. You get to determine the perfect amount of sauce for every bite. Because we serve the sauce on the side for dipping, you can pick if you want a little sauce or a lot. Just ask one of our servers if you need more!
  4. Calzones stay warmer longer. Who doesn’t like to catch up with old friends over pizza? The only problem is that sometimes you get so caught up talking, your pizza gets cold in the meantime. Because of the pocket shape, calzones stay warm a lot longer.
  5. Everyone in your family can choose their own toppings. Our pizzas easily serve the whole family, but that means you have to agree on toppings. Calzones are single-serve, so you can each pick your own.

Strombolis also have some of the same benefits over pizza, but with more crust and sauce on the inside. Our strombolis also have mozzarella cheese instead of a mozzarella/ricotta blend, so if you don’t like ricotta cheese, they might be the best option for you.

Delicious Calzone Toppings

Our calzones come with a delicious cheese blend and your choice of one topping. We have a huge range of toppings available here at Mario’s Pizza!

Toppings for meat lovers:

  • Pepperoni
  • Sausage
  • Sliced sausage
  • Beef
  • Ham
  • Chorizo
  • Salami
  • Beef roni
  • Meatball
  • Bacon
  • Canadian bacon
  • Grilled chicken (premium)
  • Crispy chicken (premium)
  • Steak (premium)

Vegetarian options:

  • Mushrooms
  • Onions
  • Banana peppers
  • Bell peppers
  • Roasted peppers
  • Black olives
  • Fresh garlic
  • Spinach
  • Pineapple
  • Fresh tomatoes
  • Jalapenos
  • Green olives
  • Eggplant
  • Feta cheese (premium)
  • Artichoke hearts (premium)
  • Broccoli (premium)
  • Anchovies (premium)
  • Kalamata olives (premium)
  • Sun-dried tomatoes (premium)
  • Roasted red peppers (premium)

Some of our most popular topping options for calzones include spinach, pepperoni, and mushrooms, but you can choose the topping that sounds tastiest to you. The best calzone near me will be the one that fits your personal preferences.

FAQs About Ordering the Best Calzone Near Me

Our servers would be happy to answer any calzone questions you may have. Here are a few we get about ordering an authentic calzone you love:

Do you have any calzone specials?

Along with our weekly Tuesday calzone lunch special, we also have a rewards program. You can sign up online, via our app, or by giving your phone number to one of our staff members when dining in. You’ll earn points any time you order a calzone or any food at Mario’s Pizza!

What other entrees do you have available?

We are a top Italian restaurant in the Triad and offer a large selection of traditional Italian entrees, including not only the best calzone near me, but also the following other dishes:

  • New-York style pizza and strombolis
  • Appetizers such as Italian sausage, garlic knots, wings, garlic bread, toasted ravioli, onion rings, mozzarella sticks, jalapeno poppers, Italian meatballs, garlic cheesy bread, french fries, and fried mushrooms
  • Hot and cold subs
  • Salads
  • Eggplant parmigiana and chicken parmigiana
  • Meat Lasagna
  • Baked Ziti
  • Baked Ricotta Cheese Ravioli
  • Spaghetti with Fresh Tomato Sauce

We also offer a selection of authentic Italian desserts, including tiramisu, cannoli, cheesecake, and limoncello mascarpone cake, as well as a kids menu with seven different options. You can see our full menu here!

Are you open for dine in?

Yes! Our dining rooms are open if you’d like to enjoy your calzone or other entrees at our restaurant. We also offer convenient online ordering if you would rather pick up or have your pizza delivered. Click here to learn more or stop into any dining room today for you next authentic Italian meal.

Here at Mario’s Pizza, we serve traditional Italian food using our family’s recipes all the way from Italy. However, we know that sometimes pizza and pasta don’t hit the spot. You may instead want a fresh salad, filled with veggies and other delicious toppings. If you’re looking for good salads near me, Mario’s has you covered.

Why Salads Make the Perfect Meal

Did you know that adults should be eating 2 to 3 cups of vegetables daily? The CDC reports that only about 10% of American adults are getting the right amount of vegetables. Here in North Carolina, that number is even slightly lower than the national average, with only 9.5% of adults eating the recommended amount of vegetables. That’s less than one in ten!

Salads are a great solution because they pack a lot of varied vegetables into one meal. A healthy diet helps prevent a number of health conditions, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even some kinds of cancer.

Our Specialty Salads

If you order a salad at Mario’s, we can add any toppings you like from our selection. This includes:

  • Cheese (mozzarella, feta, parmesan, and more)
  • Meats such as ham, turkey, and salami
  • Olives
  • Tomatoes
  • Peppers
  • Cucumbers

This is just a short list of some of the toppings we have available. Of course, we also offer a selection of delicious dressings.

What’s best to put in good salads near me? You can also order one of our specialty salads, created by our chefs to hit all the right notes. You’ll love the flavors of our salads. Here’s what’s on the menu at Mario’s:

  • Caesar Salad: A blend of romaine and iceberg lettuce, topped with crunchy parmesan croutons and creamy dressing
  • Greek Salad: Our Greek salad has olives, pepperoncinis, feta, onions, tomatoes, and cucumbers on top of our romaine and iceberg lettuce blend, along with a delicious Greek dressing.
  • Craisin’ Cranberry & Walnut Salad: This salad option has crasin’ cranberries, sugar-coated walnuts, and feta on a bed of spinach. It’s perfect for the summer.
  • Garden Salad: Our garden salad option starts with our romaine/iceburg lettuce blend. We then add mozzarella, cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, olives, and peppers.
  • Chef Salad: This one is for meat lovers! We add salami, ham, turkey, and provolone cheese atop a bed of romaine and iceburg lettuce. Then, we add even more toppings: mozzarella, cucumbers, onions, tomatoes, olives, and peppers.

We are happy to customize your fresh salad to meet your exact tastes!

Entrees for the Whole Family at Mario’s

Our salads are fresh and delicious, but some members of your family might want a hot meal instead. Here at Mario’s, we also have a number of Italian entrees the entire family will love. Our menu includes:

  • Baked Ziti
  • Eggplant parmigiana
  • Chicken parmigiana
  • Meat lasagna
  • Baked ricotta cheese ravioli
  • Spaghetti with fresh tomato sauce

Of course, we also serve up individual slices and pies of our famous Brooklyn-style pizza along with mouth-watering wings. There’s something for everyone at Mario’s. You can get any of our salads as a side to your main entree if you want to enjoy fresh vegetables and also have a hot meal.

What makes Mario’s different? Our food uses only the best ingredients, and our recipes have been passed down through the generations from our family in Italy, by way of Brooklyn, New York. We provide that authentic Italian cuisine experience right here in the North Carolina Triad. And, if you are traveling through the Charlotte area, make sure to check out our sister restaurant, Tony’s Pizza, which has six locations.

Even More Delicious Options – Check Out Our Sub Menu

If salad, pasta entrees, and pizza aren’t your cup of tea, we also have an extensive sub menu. Subs are great for meals on the go. We have both cold and hot options. We make our subs “the Mario’s way” or “Philly style” with a variety of toppings, but we can completely customize any sub to your tastes. Our three best sellers are:

  1. Steak Sub
  2. Grilled Chicken Sub
  3. Chick-O-Philly Sub

Ask for your sub served the Mario’s way and you’ll get cheese, banana peppers, onions, mayo, lettuce, tomato, oil, and vinegar. Or, choose it Philly style with cheese, bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions. Again, we can customize your sub with other toppings if you wish.

We also serve four types of parmigiana subs (sausage, eggplant, chicken, and meatball), which are baked with marinara sauce and cheese. Additionally, you can try one of our other popular sub options: Italian, turkey, veggie, or sausage, peppers, and onions. Get them with one of our salads as a side so you can make sure to add those vegetables to your diet.

FAQs About Mario’s Pizza

We’d love to answer any questions you have about our Italian food so you can make the perfect order. Here are a few frequently asked questions we hear to get you started:

How can I order good salads near me?

We have the best salads for both dine in and take out. To order, give us a call or use our convenient online ordering system. We also offer delivery through Slice, DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub from our restaurants in Winston-Salem, Clemmons, High Point, and Greensboro.

Do you have a rewards program?

Yes! You earn points every time you order good salads near me from Mario’s (or any other meal for that matter). You can sign up via our app or let your server know that you’d like to join the loyalty program.

Where can I learn more about your menu and prices?

We have our full menu and prices online. Simply select your closest Mario’s location from the dropdown above and view the full menu now.

Given the popularity of Italian food, particularly pizza and pasta, it wouldn’t be a big surprise if you were searching for Italian restaurants Winston Salem. In fact, if you are looking for authentic and delicious Italian food, then look no further than Mario’s Pizza. Best of all, we have eight locations in the Piedmont Triad, including three located in Winston-Salem!

Are you ready to learn more about Italian food and all Mario’s Pizza has to offer?

Top Italian Dishes

Notably, Italians are known for making some of the best pizza and pasta dishes in the world. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that those two foods are rated two of the top Italian dishes.

What are some other popular Italian foods? Below are seven other popular Italian foods people can’t get enough of.

  1. Risotto
  2. Gnocchi
  3. Gelato
  4. Cured meat, such as Parma Ham
  5. Minestrone
  6. Tiramisù
  7. Cannoli

Now that you know what Italian food is the best, we want to share how Mario’s ranks up in its Italian food offerings!

Mario’s Pizza – More Than Just Pizza!

We consider ourselves one of the best Italian restaurants Winston Salem has to offer its residents and visitors. Why?

First, our owners come from a long line of Italians and know all the best ways to make popular Italian dishes, from pizza to pasta.

Next, we utilize only the freshest and best ingredients in every single dish we serve. We only select ingredients that add the right Italian flavors to our food.

Additionally, we have a loyalty program to reward our customers. As a loyalty club member, you will earn points and rewards. One great offering we have right now is a free slice of pizza for simply joining the loyalty program! Just download the “Mario’s Tony’s” app in your phone’s app store or give us your mobile number next time you order in-person to join.

Finally, we offer a huge assortment of Italian foods. While our name might signify pizza, we are so much more than that. Read on to learn about some of our most popular Italian dishes.

A Full Menu – from Appetizers to Desserts

Moreover, we offer an assortment of some of the most popular Italian foods. There is something for everyone on our menu. In fact, this comprehensive menu is sure to keep every family member happy at dinner or lunch!

Our menu includes:

  • Pizza
  • Subs
  • Pasta & Italian entrées
  • Salads
  • Appetizers
  • Kid’s meals
  • Desserts

Now, on to the delicious Italian offerings at Mario’s Pizza.

Italian Foods Galore

Pizza

First, we would be amiss if we didn’t mention pizza at the top of our Italian food list. Not only is it among one of the most well-known Italian foods, but it is our namesake after all!

What sets our pizza apart?

  • Authentic NY-style pizza
  • Large range of sizes – from 10 to 24 inches
  • Huge assortment of toppings
  • Pizza by the slice available
  • Alternative crust options – gluten-free and cauliflower crusts are available

Pasta & Italian Entrées

Next, we offer a variety of popular pasta choices and Italian entrées on our menu. Those include:

  • Spaghetti
  • Cheese Ravioli
  • Meat Lasagna
  • Baked Ziti
  • Chicken Parmigiana
  • Eggplant Parmigiana
  • Stromboli
  • Calzone

Appetizers

Want to start your Italian meal with an authentic Italian appetizer? Fortunately, we’ve got you covered. Below are some popular Italian appetizers. They are sure to make you think you are kicking off your meal in Italy!

  • Toasted Ravioli
  • Garlic Bread
  • Garlic Cheesy Bread
  • Italian Meatballs
  • Italian Sausage

Kids’ Meals

For our littlest Italian food fans, we provide a big selection of kids’ meals. While we have some kid-friendly staples, such as chicken tenders, we also have some Italian specific options. Those include:

  • Pepperoni pizza slice
  • Cheese pizza slice
  • Spaghetti
  • 4-piece ravioli

Better yet, every single one of our kids’ meals is $5 or less and includes a kid’s sized drink!

Desserts

Have a hankering for an Italian sweet treat but want to avoid flying across the Atlantic Ocean? Luckily, we have three wonderful Italian desserts available on our menu.

  • Cannoli
  • Limoncello Mascarpone Cake
  • Tiramisu

Frequently Asked Questions about Mario’s Pizza

As one of the top Italian restaurants Winston Salem has to offer, we want to ensure we answer all your questions before you visit us. Thus, we pulled together some commonly asked questions we often hear.

Where in Winston-Salem are you located?

We have three locations in Winston-Salem. You can find us at:

  1. 2205 Cloverdale Avenue Northwest Winston-Salem, NC 27103
  2. 1066 Hanes Mall Blvd. Winston-Salem, NC 27103
  3. 266 Harvey St. (off Stratford) Winston-Salem, NC 27103

In addition to our three Winston-Salem locations, we have five other locations in the Piedmont Triad. Our other restaurants include two locations in Greensboro, two locations in High Point, and one location in Clemmons. Furthermore, all of our locations are convenient to the entire Triad such as, Lewisville, Kernersville, and Advance.

How much does your Italian food cost?

Like any other Italian restaurants Winston Salem offers, price is dependent upon what you order. Click here to see our full menu, which includes prices.

Do you cater parties?

Our large 24” pizza is perfect for any party, especially if you get a few of them! Add in some apps and pasta and your party is all set!

Ready to Enjoy One of the Best Italian Restaurants Winston Salem is Home To?

Then, stop your search for Italian restaurants Winston Salem and head over to Mario’s Pizza today. Our three Winston-Salem locations are conveniently located throughout the city to provide access to all!

Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and Instagram for the latest deals and contests.