Paisan’s - Revision history

Jacques: Add the Best of Madison record (Madison Magazine, 2021)

2026-10-29T04:21:07Z

Add the Best of Madison record (Madison Magazine, 2021)

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:21, 29 October 2026
Line 35:		Line 35:
	* The founding date has several accounts: 1949 (Capital Times, 2026), December 31, 1950 (Roy McCormick's obituary, 2017)<ref name="cress-2017-roy-mccormick" />, 1950 (State Journal, 2023) and 1951 — a 2019 reprint of the paper's 1975 review says Paisan's "first opened in '51 where Vilas Hall is now on University Avenue"<ref name="mc-2019-06-21-paisans-1975">Campbell, G. (2019, June 21). [https://madison.com/article_c51f068c-9459-11e9-9210-07cd0fba6767.html "Paisan's: After all these years, still great."] ''madison.com''.</ref>. The restaurant's own advertisements in 2012 said "A Madison tradition since 1950"<ref name="ct-2012-05-03-p20">(2012, May 3). Paisan's advertisement: "A Madison tradition since 1950". ''The Capital Times''. p. 20. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/522584823/ 522584823].</ref>, and a 2014 feature placed the start "in 1950 in a little building at the corner of University Avenue and Park Street", with the marinara a recipe of Rose Troia McCormick, wife of the first owner, Roy McCormick<ref name="ct-2014-12-04-p4">(2014, December 4). Happy-hour feature on Paisan's: started in 1950 at University Avenue and Park Street by Roy McCormick. ''The Capital Times''. p. 4. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520705171/ 520705171].</ref>.		* The founding date has several accounts: 1949 (Capital Times, 2026), December 31, 1950 (Roy McCormick's obituary, 2017)<ref name="cress-2017-roy-mccormick" />, 1950 (State Journal, 2023) and 1951 — a 2019 reprint of the paper's 1975 review says Paisan's "first opened in '51 where Vilas Hall is now on University Avenue"<ref name="mc-2019-06-21-paisans-1975">Campbell, G. (2019, June 21). [https://madison.com/article_c51f068c-9459-11e9-9210-07cd0fba6767.html "Paisan's: After all these years, still great."] ''madison.com''.</ref>. The restaurant's own advertisements in 2012 said "A Madison tradition since 1950"<ref name="ct-2012-05-03-p20">(2012, May 3). Paisan's advertisement: "A Madison tradition since 1950". ''The Capital Times''. p. 20. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/522584823/ 522584823].</ref>, and a 2014 feature placed the start "in 1950 in a little building at the corner of University Avenue and Park Street", with the marinara a recipe of Rose Troia McCormick, wife of the first owner, Roy McCormick<ref name="ct-2014-12-04-p4">(2014, December 4). Happy-hour feature on Paisan's: started in 1950 at University Avenue and Park Street by Roy McCormick. ''The Capital Times''. p. 4. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520705171/ 520705171].</ref>.
	* The Super Hot pizza was one of the Capital Times' candidates for the area's best pizza in November 2013<ref name="ct-2013-11-20-p13">(2013, November 20). Best-pizza poll photo page: Porta Alba's Alpina, Greenbush Bar, Glass Nickel's Fetalicious, Grampa's Barberini, Paisan's Super Hot and Salvatore's Fig and Bacon. ''The Capital Times''. p. 13. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520984544/ 520984544].</ref>. Who sold the restaurants to the 1985 buyers is still to be checked in the papers of the 1980s.		* The Super Hot pizza was one of the Capital Times' candidates for the area's best pizza in November 2013<ref name="ct-2013-11-20-p13">(2013, November 20). Best-pizza poll photo page: Porta Alba's Alpina, Greenbush Bar, Glass Nickel's Fetalicious, Grampa's Barberini, Paisan's Super Hot and Salvatore's Fig and Bacon. ''The Capital Times''. p. 13. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520984544/ 520984544].</ref>. Who sold the restaurants to the 1985 buyers is still to be checked in the papers of the 1980s.
			* In Madison Magazine's Best of Madison readers' poll, Paisan's first appeared in 1982, for inexpensive dining. It won the pizza category seven times from 1986 and the Italian category 16 times from 1997, for 53 awards by 2021<ref name="madmag-2021-10-28-paisans-legacy">Denzin, N. (2021, October 28). [https://www.channel3000.com/madison-magazine/city-life/paisan-s-produces-popular-pizza-and-more/article_22ea9a4d-e297-50a9-88dd-3cb0e6b462a7.html "Paisan's produces popular pizza and more."] ''Madison Magazine''.</ref>.

	==Former Locations==		==Former Locations==

Jacques: Link the new Frozen pizza page

2026-10-29T02:36:11Z

Link the new Frozen pizza page

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:36, 29 October 2026
Line 43:		Line 43:

	==See also==		==See also==
			* [[Frozen pizza]]
	* [[COVID-19 pandemic]]		* [[COVID-19 pandemic]]
	* [[Frank & Andrea]], next to the former Porta Bella		* [[Frank & Andrea]], next to the former Porta Bella

Jacques: Joe Troia's later Italian Village; the obituary's December 31, 1950 opening date

2026-10-28T20:27:04Z

Joe Troia's later Italian Village; the obituary's December 31, 1950 opening date

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:27, 28 October 2026
Line 2:		Line 2:

	==History==		==History==
	Roy and Rose McCormick, who also founded Porta Bella in 1968, opened Paisan's with Rose's brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Bette Troia. Rose was a Troia, of an Italian family from the Greenbush neighborhood<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />. It was "a popular spot for University of Wisconsin-Madison students — and a young Dave Zweifel's introduction to pizza"<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />.		Roy and Rose McCormick, who also founded Porta Bella in 1968, opened Paisan's with Rose's brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Bette Troia. Rose was a Troia, of an Italian family from the Greenbush neighborhood<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />. Roy McCormick's obituary dates the opening, on Park Street, to December 31, 1950. In about 1952 Joe Troia bought the [[Italian Village]] on State Street from his uncle, Matt Lombardino, and the McCormicks became the sole owners of Paisan's<ref name="cress-2017-roy-mccormick">(2017, May). [https://www.cressfuneralservice.com/obituaries/roy-mccormick "Roy McCormick obituary."] ''Cress Funeral and Cremation Services''.</ref>. It was "a popular spot for University of Wisconsin-Madison students — and a young Dave Zweifel's introduction to pizza"<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />.

	The earliest Paisan's advertisement found, in December 1951, reads "Madison's Newest Italian Restaurant — PAISAN'S — OPEN TILL 3 A.M. • 317 N. PARK", together with its new "Shrimp House & Pizzaria — 821 University Avenue — NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS", featuring Italian and American food, pizza in a "Choice of 10 recipes", spaghetti with five sauces and shrimp, open from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.<ref name="wsj-1951-12-09-p29">(1951, December 9). Paisan's, "Madison's Newest Italian Restaurant", 317 N. Park St., with its Shrimp House & Pizzaria, 821 University Ave., "now open for business". ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 29. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/400685379/ 400685379].</ref> By 1954 the University Avenue restaurant advertised as "Paisan's PIZZA — We invite you to compare ... we're sure you'll say ... 'the finest in Madison'!", with the same telephone number<ref name="ct-1954-10-19-p26">(1954, October 19). "Paisan's Pizza — We invite you to compare", 821 University Ave. ''The Capital Times''. p. 26. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/518348350/ 518348350].</ref>.		The earliest Paisan's advertisement found, in December 1951, reads "Madison's Newest Italian Restaurant — PAISAN'S — OPEN TILL 3 A.M. • 317 N. PARK", together with its new "Shrimp House & Pizzaria — 821 University Avenue — NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS", featuring Italian and American food, pizza in a "Choice of 10 recipes", spaghetti with five sauces and shrimp, open from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.<ref name="wsj-1951-12-09-p29">(1951, December 9). Paisan's, "Madison's Newest Italian Restaurant", 317 N. Park St., with its Shrimp House & Pizzaria, 821 University Ave., "now open for business". ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 29. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/400685379/ 400685379].</ref> By 1954 the University Avenue restaurant advertised as "Paisan's PIZZA — We invite you to compare ... we're sure you'll say ... 'the finest in Madison'!", with the same telephone number<ref name="ct-1954-10-19-p26">(1954, October 19). "Paisan's Pizza — We invite you to compare", 821 University Ave. ''The Capital Times''. p. 26. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/518348350/ 518348350].</ref>.
Line 33:		Line 33:
	* "A Madison Institution since 1950", the 1995 Yellow Pages ad said, with "genuine Italian thin crust pizza" and award-winning homemade pasta<ref name="yp-1995-p640">(1995). Ameritech PagesPlus Yellow Pages, Madison, 1995 edition, 'Pizza' classification, p. 640: display ads — Gino's, 540 State St. ('5 blocks from the Capital'; fettucine Alfredo, stuffed pizza, veal Romano, bar; free delivery …. ''Madison telephone directory''. p. 640.</ref>.		* "A Madison Institution since 1950", the 1995 Yellow Pages ad said, with "genuine Italian thin crust pizza" and award-winning homemade pasta<ref name="yp-1995-p640">(1995). Ameritech PagesPlus Yellow Pages, Madison, 1995 edition, 'Pizza' classification, p. 640: display ads — Gino's, 540 State St. ('5 blocks from the Capital'; fettucine Alfredo, stuffed pizza, veal Romano, bar; free delivery …. ''Madison telephone directory''. p. 640.</ref>.
	* The 2005 and 2006 papers gave the founding as December 31, 1949, 1950 and 1951, and counted the Wilson Street restaurant as the fifth home: Park Street between Johnson Street and University Avenue; University Avenue next to the former Choles Floral; the basement of Porta Bella; University Square; Wilson Street<ref name="mc-2005-05-22-madisons-menu" /><ref name="mc-2005-06-02-paisans-secret" /><ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review" />.		* The 2005 and 2006 papers gave the founding as December 31, 1949, 1950 and 1951, and counted the Wilson Street restaurant as the fifth home: Park Street between Johnson Street and University Avenue; University Avenue next to the former Choles Floral; the basement of Porta Bella; University Square; Wilson Street<ref name="mc-2005-05-22-madisons-menu" /><ref name="mc-2005-06-02-paisans-secret" /><ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review" />.
	* The founding date has ~~three~~ accounts: 1949 (Capital Times, 2026), 1950 (State Journal, 2023) and 1951 — a 2019 reprint of the paper's 1975 review says Paisan's "first opened in '51 where Vilas Hall is now on University Avenue"<ref name="mc-2019-06-21-paisans-1975">Campbell, G. (2019, June 21). [https://madison.com/article_c51f068c-9459-11e9-9210-07cd0fba6767.html "Paisan's: After all these years, still great."] ''madison.com''.</ref>. The restaurant's own advertisements in 2012 said "A Madison tradition since 1950"<ref name="ct-2012-05-03-p20">(2012, May 3). Paisan's advertisement: "A Madison tradition since 1950". ''The Capital Times''. p. 20. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/522584823/ 522584823].</ref>, and a 2014 feature placed the start "in 1950 in a little building at the corner of University Avenue and Park Street", with the marinara a recipe of Rose Troia McCormick, wife of the first owner, Roy McCormick<ref name="ct-2014-12-04-p4">(2014, December 4). Happy-hour feature on Paisan's: started in 1950 at University Avenue and Park Street by Roy McCormick. ''The Capital Times''. p. 4. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520705171/ 520705171].</ref>.		* The founding date has several accounts: 1949 (Capital Times, 2026), December 31, 1950 (Roy McCormick's obituary, 2017)<ref name="cress-2017-roy-mccormick" />, 1950 (State Journal, 2023) and 1951 — a 2019 reprint of the paper's 1975 review says Paisan's "first opened in '51 where Vilas Hall is now on University Avenue"<ref name="mc-2019-06-21-paisans-1975">Campbell, G. (2019, June 21). [https://madison.com/article_c51f068c-9459-11e9-9210-07cd0fba6767.html "Paisan's: After all these years, still great."] ''madison.com''.</ref>. The restaurant's own advertisements in 2012 said "A Madison tradition since 1950"<ref name="ct-2012-05-03-p20">(2012, May 3). Paisan's advertisement: "A Madison tradition since 1950". ''The Capital Times''. p. 20. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/522584823/ 522584823].</ref>, and a 2014 feature placed the start "in 1950 in a little building at the corner of University Avenue and Park Street", with the marinara a recipe of Rose Troia McCormick, wife of the first owner, Roy McCormick<ref name="ct-2014-12-04-p4">(2014, December 4). Happy-hour feature on Paisan's: started in 1950 at University Avenue and Park Street by Roy McCormick. ''The Capital Times''. p. 4. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520705171/ 520705171].</ref>.
	* The Super Hot pizza was one of the Capital Times' candidates for the area's best pizza in November 2013<ref name="ct-2013-11-20-p13">(2013, November 20). Best-pizza poll photo page: Porta Alba's Alpina, Greenbush Bar, Glass Nickel's Fetalicious, Grampa's Barberini, Paisan's Super Hot and Salvatore's Fig and Bacon. ''The Capital Times''. p. 13. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520984544/ 520984544].</ref>. Who sold the restaurants to the 1985 buyers is still to be checked in the papers of the 1980s.		* The Super Hot pizza was one of the Capital Times' candidates for the area's best pizza in November 2013<ref name="ct-2013-11-20-p13">(2013, November 20). Best-pizza poll photo page: Porta Alba's Alpina, Greenbush Bar, Glass Nickel's Fetalicious, Grampa's Barberini, Paisan's Super Hot and Salvatore's Fig and Bacon. ''The Capital Times''. p. 13. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520984544/ 520984544].</ref>. Who sold the restaurants to the 1985 buyers is still to be checked in the papers of the 1980s.

Jacques: Add the 1951 Park Street restaurant and the Shrimp House & Pizzaria on University Avenue

2026-10-26T18:29:30Z

Add the 1951 Park Street restaurant and the Shrimp House & Pizzaria on University Avenue

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:29, 26 October 2026
Line 3:		Line 3:
	==History==		==History==
	Roy and Rose McCormick, who also founded Porta Bella in 1968, opened Paisan's with Rose's brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Bette Troia. Rose was a Troia, of an Italian family from the Greenbush neighborhood<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />. It was "a popular spot for University of Wisconsin-Madison students — and a young Dave Zweifel's introduction to pizza"<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />.		Roy and Rose McCormick, who also founded Porta Bella in 1968, opened Paisan's with Rose's brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Bette Troia. Rose was a Troia, of an Italian family from the Greenbush neighborhood<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />. It was "a popular spot for University of Wisconsin-Madison students — and a young Dave Zweifel's introduction to pizza"<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />.

			The earliest Paisan's advertisement found, in December 1951, reads "Madison's Newest Italian Restaurant — PAISAN'S — OPEN TILL 3 A.M. • 317 N. PARK", together with its new "Shrimp House & Pizzaria — 821 University Avenue — NOW OPEN FOR BUSINESS", featuring Italian and American food, pizza in a "Choice of 10 recipes", spaghetti with five sauces and shrimp, open from 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.<ref name="wsj-1951-12-09-p29">(1951, December 9). Paisan's, "Madison's Newest Italian Restaurant", 317 N. Park St., with its Shrimp House & Pizzaria, 821 University Ave., "now open for business". ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 29. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/400685379/ 400685379].</ref> By 1954 the University Avenue restaurant advertised as "Paisan's PIZZA — We invite you to compare ... we're sure you'll say ... 'the finest in Madison'!", with the same telephone number<ref name="ct-1954-10-19-p26">(1954, October 19). "Paisan's Pizza — We invite you to compare", 821 University Ave. ''The Capital Times''. p. 26. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/518348350/ 518348350].</ref>.

	In the 1960s Paisan's was at 821 University Ave., and it delivered by truck: in 1966 and 1968 it advertised for a "driver for pizza truck, 2 or 3 nights per week"<ref name="ct-1966-01-28-p22">(1966, January 28). Paisan's Restaurant, 821 University Ave., advertises for a pizza-truck driver. ''The Capital Times''. p. 22. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/519603222/ 519603222].</ref><ref name="wsj-1968-01-22-p14">(1968, January 22). Paisan's Restaurant, 821 University Ave., advertises for a pizza-truck driver. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 14. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/404570718/ 404570718].</ref>. In early 1975 it moved into University Square, the new shopping mall in the 700 block of University Avenue, where it was "near completion" in February<ref name="ct-1975-02-05-p25">(1975, February 5). "New Shopping Mall." ''The Capital Times''. p. 25. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520961437/ 520961437].</ref>; it was licensed at 80 University Square that May<ref name="wsj-1975-05-28-p35">(1975, May 28). City of Madison license list, May 1975. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 35.</ref>, and in August it applied to run an outdoor restaurant in the mall's courtyard<ref name="wsj-1975-08-15-p22">(1975, August 15). City Plan Commission hearing notice: outdoor restaurant permit for Paisan's, 80 University Square. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 22. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/405215388/ 405215388].</ref>. The State Journal described it in 1978 as "Italian dinners, sandwiches and pizza. Unusual, arty decor. Inexpensive. Patio dining ... Bustling business always"<ref name="wsj-1978-05-21-p86">Campbell, G. (1978, May 21). Diner's Scorecard (Grand Pagoda) with a "Recently reviewed" note on Paisan's. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 86. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/401220665/ 401220665].</ref>.		In the 1960s Paisan's was at 821 University Ave., and it delivered by truck: in 1966 and 1968 it advertised for a "driver for pizza truck, 2 or 3 nights per week"<ref name="ct-1966-01-28-p22">(1966, January 28). Paisan's Restaurant, 821 University Ave., advertises for a pizza-truck driver. ''The Capital Times''. p. 22. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/519603222/ 519603222].</ref><ref name="wsj-1968-01-22-p14">(1968, January 22). Paisan's Restaurant, 821 University Ave., advertises for a pizza-truck driver. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 14. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/404570718/ 404570718].</ref>. In early 1975 it moved into University Square, the new shopping mall in the 700 block of University Avenue, where it was "near completion" in February<ref name="ct-1975-02-05-p25">(1975, February 5). "New Shopping Mall." ''The Capital Times''. p. 25. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520961437/ 520961437].</ref>; it was licensed at 80 University Square that May<ref name="wsj-1975-05-28-p35">(1975, May 28). City of Madison license list, May 1975. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 35.</ref>, and in August it applied to run an outdoor restaurant in the mall's courtyard<ref name="wsj-1975-08-15-p22">(1975, August 15). City Plan Commission hearing notice: outdoor restaurant permit for Paisan's, 80 University Square. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 22. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/405215388/ 405215388].</ref>. The State Journal described it in 1978 as "Italian dinners, sandwiches and pizza. Unusual, arty decor. Inexpensive. Patio dining ... Bustling business always"<ref name="wsj-1978-05-21-p86">Campbell, G. (1978, May 21). Diner's Scorecard (Grand Pagoda) with a "Recently reviewed" note on Paisan's. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 86. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/401220665/ 401220665].</ref>.

Jacques: Add 821 University Ave. and the 1960s pizza truck

2026-10-25T18:06:37Z

Add 821 University Ave. and the 1960s pizza truck

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:06, 25 October 2026
Line 4:		Line 4:
	Roy and Rose McCormick, who also founded Porta Bella in 1968, opened Paisan's with Rose's brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Bette Troia. Rose was a Troia, of an Italian family from the Greenbush neighborhood<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />. It was "a popular spot for University of Wisconsin-Madison students — and a young Dave Zweifel's introduction to pizza"<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />.		Roy and Rose McCormick, who also founded Porta Bella in 1968, opened Paisan's with Rose's brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Bette Troia. Rose was a Troia, of an Italian family from the Greenbush neighborhood<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />. It was "a popular spot for University of Wisconsin-Madison students — and a young Dave Zweifel's introduction to pizza"<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />.

	In the 1960s Paisan's was at 821 University Ave., and it delivered by truck: in 1966 and 1968 it advertised for a "driver for pizza truck, 2 or 3 nights per week"<ref name="ct-1966-01-28-p22">(1966, January 28). Paisan's Restaurant, 821 University Ave., advertises for a pizza-truck driver. ''The Capital Times''. p. 22. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/519603222/ 519603222].</ref><ref name="wsj-1968-01-22-p14">(1968, January 22). Paisan's Restaurant, 821 University Ave., advertises for a pizza-truck driver. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 14. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/404570718/ 404570718].</ref>. By 1975 it was licensed at 80 University Square<ref name="wsj-1975-05-28-p35">(1975, May 28). City of Madison license list, May 1975. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 35.</ref>. The State Journal described it in 1978 as "Italian dinners, sandwiches and pizza. Unusual, arty decor. Inexpensive. Patio dining ... Bustling business always"<ref name="wsj-1978-05-21-p86">Campbell, G. (1978, May 21). Diner's Scorecard (Grand Pagoda) with a "Recently reviewed" note on Paisan's. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 86. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/401220665/ 401220665].</ref>.		In the 1960s Paisan's was at 821 University Ave., and it delivered by truck: in 1966 and 1968 it advertised for a "driver for pizza truck, 2 or 3 nights per week"<ref name="ct-1966-01-28-p22">(1966, January 28). Paisan's Restaurant, 821 University Ave., advertises for a pizza-truck driver. ''The Capital Times''. p. 22. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/519603222/ 519603222].</ref><ref name="wsj-1968-01-22-p14">(1968, January 22). Paisan's Restaurant, 821 University Ave., advertises for a pizza-truck driver. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 14. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/404570718/ 404570718].</ref>. In early 1975 it moved into University Square, the new shopping mall in the 700 block of University Avenue, where it was "near completion" in February<ref name="ct-1975-02-05-p25">(1975, February 5). "New Shopping Mall." ''The Capital Times''. p. 25. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520961437/ 520961437].</ref>; it was licensed at 80 University Square that May<ref name="wsj-1975-05-28-p35">(1975, May 28). City of Madison license list, May 1975. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 35.</ref>, and in August it applied to run an outdoor restaurant in the mall's courtyard<ref name="wsj-1975-08-15-p22">(1975, August 15). City Plan Commission hearing notice: outdoor restaurant permit for Paisan's, 80 University Square. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 22. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/405215388/ 405215388].</ref>. The State Journal described it in 1978 as "Italian dinners, sandwiches and pizza. Unusual, arty decor. Inexpensive. Patio dining ... Bustling business always"<ref name="wsj-1978-05-21-p86">Campbell, G. (1978, May 21). Diner's Scorecard (Grand Pagoda) with a "Recently reviewed" note on Paisan's. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 86. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/401220665/ 401220665].</ref>.

	In September 2015 a grease fire in the pizza-oven ventilation system did about $100,000 of damage as the restaurant prepared to open for the day; no one was hurt, and Paisan's reopened on September 19<ref name="mc-2015-09-07-paisans-fire">(2015, September 7). [https://madison.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/article_867cb5f4-0fe5-58f3-b237-46011c498fa5.html "Fire closes Paisan's Downtown restaurant."] ''madison.com''.</ref>.		In September 2015 a grease fire in the pizza-oven ventilation system did about $100,000 of damage as the restaurant prepared to open for the day; no one was hurt, and Paisan's reopened on September 19<ref name="mc-2015-09-07-paisans-fire">(2015, September 7). [https://madison.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/article_867cb5f4-0fe5-58f3-b237-46011c498fa5.html "Fire closes Paisan's Downtown restaurant."] ''madison.com''.</ref>.

Jacques: Add 821 University Ave. and the 1960s pizza truck

2026-10-25T16:06:23Z

Add 821 University Ave. and the 1960s pizza truck

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:06, 25 October 2026
Line 3:		Line 3:
	==History==		==History==
	Roy and Rose McCormick, who also founded Porta Bella in 1968, opened Paisan's with Rose's brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Bette Troia. Rose was a Troia, of an Italian family from the Greenbush neighborhood<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />. It was "a popular spot for University of Wisconsin-Madison students — and a young Dave Zweifel's introduction to pizza"<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />.		Roy and Rose McCormick, who also founded Porta Bella in 1968, opened Paisan's with Rose's brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Bette Troia. Rose was a Troia, of an Italian family from the Greenbush neighborhood<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />. It was "a popular spot for University of Wisconsin-Madison students — and a young Dave Zweifel's introduction to pizza"<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />.

			In the 1960s Paisan's was at 821 University Ave., and it delivered by truck: in 1966 and 1968 it advertised for a "driver for pizza truck, 2 or 3 nights per week"<ref name="ct-1966-01-28-p22">(1966, January 28). Paisan's Restaurant, 821 University Ave., advertises for a pizza-truck driver. ''The Capital Times''. p. 22. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/519603222/ 519603222].</ref><ref name="wsj-1968-01-22-p14">(1968, January 22). Paisan's Restaurant, 821 University Ave., advertises for a pizza-truck driver. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 14. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/404570718/ 404570718].</ref>. By 1975 it was licensed at 80 University Square<ref name="wsj-1975-05-28-p35">(1975, May 28). City of Madison license list, May 1975. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 35.</ref>. The State Journal described it in 1978 as "Italian dinners, sandwiches and pizza. Unusual, arty decor. Inexpensive. Patio dining ... Bustling business always"<ref name="wsj-1978-05-21-p86">Campbell, G. (1978, May 21). Diner's Scorecard (Grand Pagoda) with a "Recently reviewed" note on Paisan's. ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 86. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/401220665/ 401220665].</ref>.

	In September 2015 a grease fire in the pizza-oven ventilation system did about $100,000 of damage as the restaurant prepared to open for the day; no one was hurt, and Paisan's reopened on September 19<ref name="mc-2015-09-07-paisans-fire">(2015, September 7). [https://madison.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/article_867cb5f4-0fe5-58f3-b237-46011c498fa5.html "Fire closes Paisan's Downtown restaurant."] ''madison.com''.</ref>.		In September 2015 a grease fire in the pizza-oven ventilation system did about $100,000 of damage as the restaurant prepared to open for the day; no one was hurt, and Paisan's reopened on September 19<ref name="mc-2015-09-07-paisans-fire">(2015, September 7). [https://madison.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/article_867cb5f4-0fe5-58f3-b237-46011c498fa5.html "Fire closes Paisan's Downtown restaurant."] ''madison.com''.</ref>.

Jacques: Add the 1980s reviews, dining guides and license list

2026-10-25T02:26:28Z

Add the 1980s reviews, dining guides and license list

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:26, 25 October 2026
Line 7:		Line 7:

	In 1985 Wally Borowski, Ed Shinnick and Jerry Meier bought the restaurants from Roy McCormick; Meier retired about 2013<ref name="mc-2023-12-12-paisans" />. All three had worked for McCormick — Shinnick began as a busboy in the 1960s<ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review">Martell, C. (2006, October 8). [https://madison.com/entertainment/article_3720d091-f3fd-5198-bc62-7cc1b5b811e9.html "New Paisan's keeps traditional menu, lightens up decor."] ''madison.com''.</ref><ref name="mc-2008-05-28-through-thick-and-thin">Wegner, A. N. (2008, May 28). [https://madison.com/lifestyles/article_5dd95b69-95b3-518b-95aa-95dcb51fd35f.html "Through thick and thin: Madison's pizzerias have come a long way from their humble start on Spaghetti Corner."] ''madison.com''.</ref>.		In 1985 Wally Borowski, Ed Shinnick and Jerry Meier bought the restaurants from Roy McCormick; Meier retired about 2013<ref name="mc-2023-12-12-paisans" />. All three had worked for McCormick — Shinnick began as a busboy in the 1960s<ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review">Martell, C. (2006, October 8). [https://madison.com/entertainment/article_3720d091-f3fd-5198-bc62-7cc1b5b811e9.html "New Paisan's keeps traditional menu, lightens up decor."] ''madison.com''.</ref><ref name="mc-2008-05-28-through-thick-and-thin">Wegner, A. N. (2008, May 28). [https://madison.com/lifestyles/article_5dd95b69-95b3-518b-95aa-95dcb51fd35f.html "Through thick and thin: Madison's pizzerias have come a long way from their humble start on Spaghetti Corner."] ''madison.com''.</ref>.

			In the 1980s Paisan's was at 80 University Square. A 1984 advertisement called it the "Home of the Garibaldi Sandwich" with "Award Winning Pizza", import beers, carafes of wine and "Student Artwork on Display"<ref name="wsj-1984-10-07-p261">(1984, October 7). "Madison Area Dining Guide, Fall 1984." ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 261. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/402306059/ 402306059].</ref>, and the 1985 and 1986 dining guides a "Longtime local Italian favorite with extra outside cafe seating" and "Award-winning thin-crust pizza"<ref name="wsj-1985-10-06-p137">(1985, October 6). "Madison Area Dining Guide, Fall 1985." ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 137. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/401397462/ 401397462].</ref><ref name="wsj-1986-10-05-p168">(1986, October 5). "Madison Area Dining Guide, Fall 1986." ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 168. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/405302734/ 405302734].</ref>. Jay Rath told its history in the Capital Times when Roy McCormick retired in August 1985 after 36 years<ref name="ct-1985-08-24-p3">Rath, J. (1985, August 24). Paisan's, 80 University Square (257-3832): Roy McCormick retiring after 36 years; opened December 31, 1949 with brother-in-law Joseph Troia; moved to University Ave. after a year, then to the Porta Bella basement at 425 N. F…. ''The Capital Times''. p. 3. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520007722/ 520007722].</ref>; that June the paper had counted Paisan's, with Pino's and Gino's, among "the standards by which all other Madison pizzas are judged"<ref name="ct-1985-06-22-p14">Egerton, B. (1985, June 22). "Madison has right stuff for making — and eating! — pizza." ''The Capital Times''. p. 14. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/519961462/ 519961462].</ref>. The 1986 license was held by Paisan's Restaurant, Inc., with Gerald A. Meier as agent<ref name="wsj-1986-05-01-p30">(1986, May 1). "Legal notice: applications for the sale of beer and/or liquor (City of Madison, 1986–87)." ''Wisconsin State Journal''. p. 30. Newspapers.com images [https://www.newspapers.com/image/402295753/ 402295753], [https://www.newspapers.com/image/402295768/ 402295768].</ref>. Karen Prager reviewed it in May 1989<ref name="ct-1989-05-06-p10">Prager, K. and LaRose, M. (1989, May 6). Dining Out (Prager) on Paisan's: owners Roy McCormick and wife Rose Troia made 'Madison's first thin crust pizza' c. 1951 from Troia-homestead recipes; three moves and a shift to a team of four owners including McCormick's s…. ''The Capital Times''. p. 10. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/522566896/ 522566896].</ref>.

	===The move to Wilson Street, 2005–2006===		===The move to Wilson Street, 2005–2006===

Jacques: Add the 1980 Yellow Pages 'Pizza' pages (Andy's copy)

2026-10-24T04:36:55Z

Add the 1980 Yellow Pages 'Pizza' pages (Andy's copy)

← Older revision		Revision as of 04:36, 24 October 2026
Line 24:		Line 24:

	==Trivia==		==Trivia==
			* The 1980 Yellow Pages ad, drawn with the restaurant's arches, offered "custom made pizza", spaghetti and lasagne, called Paisan's the "Home of the Garibaldi Sandwich", and promised imported beer on draught, wine carafes, student art "displayed — sold" and carry-outs until midnight, at 80 University Square<ref name="yp-1980-p447">(1980). Madison Yellow Pages, 1980 edition (Wisconsin Telephone Co.), 'Pizza' classification, p. 447: listings Barnaby's Family Inn (4802 E. Washington Ave. 241-2131; 6613 Mineral Point Rd. 833-1671), Brat und Brau (1421 Regent; …. ''Madison telephone directory''. p. 447.</ref><ref name="yp-1980-p448">(1980). Madison Yellow Pages, 1980 edition (Wisconsin Telephone Co.), 'Pizza' classification, p. 448: listings Pizza Hut (811 Fern Dr. 238-7361; 4709 Verona Rd. 271-7151; 3059 E. Washington Ave. 249-6439; 2405 S. Park 257-8621) a…. ''Madison telephone directory''. p. 448.</ref>.
	* "A Madison Institution since 1950", the 1995 Yellow Pages ad said, with "genuine Italian thin crust pizza" and award-winning homemade pasta<ref name="yp-1995-p640">(1995). Ameritech PagesPlus Yellow Pages, Madison, 1995 edition, 'Pizza' classification, p. 640: display ads — Gino's, 540 State St. ('5 blocks from the Capital'; fettucine Alfredo, stuffed pizza, veal Romano, bar; free delivery …. ''Madison telephone directory''. p. 640.</ref>.		* "A Madison Institution since 1950", the 1995 Yellow Pages ad said, with "genuine Italian thin crust pizza" and award-winning homemade pasta<ref name="yp-1995-p640">(1995). Ameritech PagesPlus Yellow Pages, Madison, 1995 edition, 'Pizza' classification, p. 640: display ads — Gino's, 540 State St. ('5 blocks from the Capital'; fettucine Alfredo, stuffed pizza, veal Romano, bar; free delivery …. ''Madison telephone directory''. p. 640.</ref>.
	* The 2005 and 2006 papers gave the founding as December 31, 1949, 1950 and 1951, and counted the Wilson Street restaurant as the fifth home: Park Street between Johnson Street and University Avenue; University Avenue next to the former Choles Floral; the basement of Porta Bella; University Square; Wilson Street<ref name="mc-2005-05-22-madisons-menu" /><ref name="mc-2005-06-02-paisans-secret" /><ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review" />.		* The 2005 and 2006 papers gave the founding as December 31, 1949, 1950 and 1951, and counted the Wilson Street restaurant as the fifth home: Park Street between Johnson Street and University Avenue; University Avenue next to the former Choles Floral; the basement of Porta Bella; University Square; Wilson Street<ref name="mc-2005-05-22-madisons-menu" /><ref name="mc-2005-06-02-paisans-secret" /><ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review" />.

Jacques: Use American spelling (license, favorite, neighborhood and the like)

2026-10-24T03:30:31Z

Use American spelling (license, favorite, neighborhood and the like)

← Older revision		Revision as of 03:30, 24 October 2026
Line 2:		Line 2:

	==History==		==History==
	Roy and Rose McCormick, who also founded Porta Bella in 1968, opened Paisan's with Rose's brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Bette Troia. Rose was a Troia, of an Italian family from the Greenbush ~~neighbourhood~~<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />. It was "a popular spot for University of Wisconsin-Madison students — and a young Dave Zweifel's introduction to pizza"<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />.		Roy and Rose McCormick, who also founded Porta Bella in 1968, opened Paisan's with Rose's brother and sister-in-law, Joe and Bette Troia. Rose was a Troia, of an Italian family from the Greenbush neighborhood<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />. It was "a popular spot for University of Wisconsin-Madison students — and a young Dave Zweifel's introduction to pizza"<ref name="ct-2026-03-11-pO26" />.

	In September 2015 a grease fire in the pizza-oven ventilation system did about $100,000 of damage as the restaurant prepared to open for the day; no one was hurt, and Paisan's reopened on September 19<ref name="mc-2015-09-07-paisans-fire">(2015, September 7). [https://madison.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/article_867cb5f4-0fe5-58f3-b237-46011c498fa5.html "Fire closes Paisan's Downtown restaurant."] ''madison.com''.</ref>.		In September 2015 a grease fire in the pizza-oven ventilation system did about $100,000 of damage as the restaurant prepared to open for the day; no one was hurt, and Paisan's reopened on September 19<ref name="mc-2015-09-07-paisans-fire">(2015, September 7). [https://madison.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/article_867cb5f4-0fe5-58f3-b237-46011c498fa5.html "Fire closes Paisan's Downtown restaurant."] ''madison.com''.</ref>.
Line 20:		Line 20:
	==Pizza==		==Pizza==
	* "The only pizza served here is thin crust and very crisp," the State Journal wrote in 2006; the 2008 history feature noted the owners had never done pan or deep dish — "we're not out for style, we're just doing what we do best"<ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review" /><ref name="mc-2008-05-28-through-thick-and-thin" />.		* "The only pizza served here is thin crust and very crisp," the State Journal wrote in 2006; the 2008 history feature noted the owners had never done pan or deep dish — "we're not out for style, we're just doing what we do best"<ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review" /><ref name="mc-2008-05-28-through-thick-and-thin" />.
	* The vegetarian pesto pizza, with a gritty basil-walnut pesto, tomatoes, mushrooms, black olives and mozzarella, was the Capital Times reviewer's ~~favourite~~ in 2007; the Salerno (pepperoni, mushrooms, black olives) and the Bella, with a thick meat sauce, were other specialties. A 12-inch pizza was $16.75<ref name="mc-2007-11-29-paisans-56-years" /><ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review" />.		* The vegetarian pesto pizza, with a gritty basil-walnut pesto, tomatoes, mushrooms, black olives and mozzarella, was the Capital Times reviewer's favorite in 2007; the Salerno (pepperoni, mushrooms, black olives) and the Bella, with a thick meat sauce, were other specialties. A 12-inch pizza was $16.75<ref name="mc-2007-11-29-paisans-56-years" /><ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review" />.
	* The trademarked Garibaldi sandwich — ham, salami, spicy cheese, tomatoes and peppers on toasted French bread — was dated 1957 by the menu and 1971 by a 2005 feature; the Porta salad is also trademarked<ref name="mc-2007-11-29-paisans-56-years" /><ref name="mc-2005-05-22-madisons-menu">Rath, J. (2005, May 22). [https://madison.com/lifestyles/article_7e2882d3-b59d-5db0-ae72-4a0b05b06055.html "What's on Madison's menu."] ''madison.com''.</ref>.		* The trademarked Garibaldi sandwich — ham, salami, spicy cheese, tomatoes and peppers on toasted French bread — was dated 1957 by the menu and 1971 by a 2005 feature; the Porta salad is also trademarked<ref name="mc-2007-11-29-paisans-56-years" /><ref name="mc-2005-05-22-madisons-menu">Rath, J. (2005, May 22). [https://madison.com/lifestyles/article_7e2882d3-b59d-5db0-ae72-4a0b05b06055.html "What's on Madison's menu."] ''madison.com''.</ref>.

Jacques: Add the 1995 Ameritech Yellow Pages listings from the newspaper and directory research recorded in the database

2026-10-24T00:57:53Z

Add the 1995 Ameritech Yellow Pages listings from the newspaper and directory research recorded in the database

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:57, 24 October 2026
Line 24:		Line 24:

	==Trivia==		==Trivia==
			* "A Madison Institution since 1950", the 1995 Yellow Pages ad said, with "genuine Italian thin crust pizza" and award-winning homemade pasta<ref name="yp-1995-p640">(1995). Ameritech PagesPlus Yellow Pages, Madison, 1995 edition, 'Pizza' classification, p. 640: display ads — Gino's, 540 State St. ('5 blocks from the Capital'; fettucine Alfredo, stuffed pizza, veal Romano, bar; free delivery …. ''Madison telephone directory''. p. 640.</ref>.
	* The 2005 and 2006 papers gave the founding as December 31, 1949, 1950 and 1951, and counted the Wilson Street restaurant as the fifth home: Park Street between Johnson Street and University Avenue; University Avenue next to the former Choles Floral; the basement of Porta Bella; University Square; Wilson Street<ref name="mc-2005-05-22-madisons-menu" /><ref name="mc-2005-06-02-paisans-secret" /><ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review" />.		* The 2005 and 2006 papers gave the founding as December 31, 1949, 1950 and 1951, and counted the Wilson Street restaurant as the fifth home: Park Street between Johnson Street and University Avenue; University Avenue next to the former Choles Floral; the basement of Porta Bella; University Square; Wilson Street<ref name="mc-2005-05-22-madisons-menu" /><ref name="mc-2005-06-02-paisans-secret" /><ref name="mc-2006-10-08-paisans-review" />.
	* The founding date has three accounts: 1949 (Capital Times, 2026), 1950 (State Journal, 2023) and 1951 — a 2019 reprint of the paper's 1975 review says Paisan's "first opened in '51 where Vilas Hall is now on University Avenue"<ref name="mc-2019-06-21-paisans-1975">Campbell, G. (2019, June 21). [https://madison.com/article_c51f068c-9459-11e9-9210-07cd0fba6767.html "Paisan's: After all these years, still great."] ''madison.com''.</ref>. The restaurant's own advertisements in 2012 said "A Madison tradition since 1950"<ref name="ct-2012-05-03-p20">(2012, May 3). Paisan's advertisement: "A Madison tradition since 1950". ''The Capital Times''. p. 20. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/522584823/ 522584823].</ref>, and a 2014 feature placed the start "in 1950 in a little building at the corner of University Avenue and Park Street", with the marinara a recipe of Rose Troia McCormick, wife of the first owner, Roy McCormick<ref name="ct-2014-12-04-p4">(2014, December 4). Happy-hour feature on Paisan's: started in 1950 at University Avenue and Park Street by Roy McCormick. ''The Capital Times''. p. 4. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520705171/ 520705171].</ref>.		* The founding date has three accounts: 1949 (Capital Times, 2026), 1950 (State Journal, 2023) and 1951 — a 2019 reprint of the paper's 1975 review says Paisan's "first opened in '51 where Vilas Hall is now on University Avenue"<ref name="mc-2019-06-21-paisans-1975">Campbell, G. (2019, June 21). [https://madison.com/article_c51f068c-9459-11e9-9210-07cd0fba6767.html "Paisan's: After all these years, still great."] ''madison.com''.</ref>. The restaurant's own advertisements in 2012 said "A Madison tradition since 1950"<ref name="ct-2012-05-03-p20">(2012, May 3). Paisan's advertisement: "A Madison tradition since 1950". ''The Capital Times''. p. 20. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/522584823/ 522584823].</ref>, and a 2014 feature placed the start "in 1950 in a little building at the corner of University Avenue and Park Street", with the marinara a recipe of Rose Troia McCormick, wife of the first owner, Roy McCormick<ref name="ct-2014-12-04-p4">(2014, December 4). Happy-hour feature on Paisan's: started in 1950 at University Avenue and Park Street by Roy McCormick. ''The Capital Times''. p. 4. Newspapers.com image [https://www.newspapers.com/image/520705171/ 520705171].</ref>.