Patricia’s Pizza isn’t simply another spot slinging pies—it’s a full-on love letter to family, flavor, and the legacy of Arizona’s ever-growing food scene. The newest venture by Melissa Maggiore Meyer—yes, the same creative mind behind The Italian Daughter in north Scottsdale—opened its doors in early 2025. Patricia’s Pizza sits just fifteen minutes north of its sister restaurant and is already generating buzz with its bold menu, welcoming atmosphere, and deep family roots.
Named after Melissa’s mother, Patricia Valentino, this pizza joint carries a story that stretches back over half a century. The original Patricia’s Pizza first opened in Garnerville, New York, in 1969, when the Maggiore family began building a multi-generational culinary legacy. The Scottsdale edition doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel—it just makes that wheel from scratch, serves it piping hot, and loads it with personality.
From the moment you walk through the door, you feel like you’re stepping into something personal. The décor blends old-world warmth with modern charm, and features a stunning pizza oven and touches of Melissa’s signature blue-toned styling. The energy hits with a perfect balance between elevated and unfussy.
We kicked off our visit with the Sweet Calabrian Glazed Chicken Wings, which struck a perfect harmony of heat and sweet, especially when dipped in the creamy Gorgonzola dolce aioli. The Whipped Eggplant was another shareable standout—silky smooth, lemony, and layered with sun-dried tomato, tahini, and mascarpone. The dip was joined at the table by warm, pillowy pizza bread that could hold its own on any menu.
Next came Checco’s Calamari Fritti, lightly crisped and paired with zesty lemon, a bright marinara, and a clever miso aioli—a subtle yet unexpected touch which showcases the kitchen’s creativity. Another enticing appetizer is the Aranchini Nerano, coveted crispy rice balls with rich provolone del monico and vodka sauce for dipping. There are also several salads, pastas, and sandwiches on offer. All menu items are delicious in their own right, but much like the hand-tiled oven sending out smells of fresh pies, the pizza is the center of attention here.
The menu at Patricia’s Pizza features two distinct pizza styles. The first is a traditionally inspired Pizza Napolitana. We ordered the meatball, which satisfied with its rich vodka sauce, crispy shallots, and roasted peppers. The second pizza style is the Grandma Pie, influenced by the Sicilian-style square slices Melissa’s late father crafted. Opting for a Grandma Pie will bring major East Coast energy and flavor to your table, featuring a crunchy crust and a soft, airy center. Which to pick? The Savage. An absolute beast: meatballs, guanciale, gabagool (you heard that right), Golfetta salami, sausage, and more. It’s a pizza with presence. Or, pay homage to the homeland with the Italian Flag, a beautiful combination of San Marzano tomato sauce, mozzarella, and pesto.
Guests can complement their meal with a beverage program that offers a bit of everything. Choose from a selection of cocktails, ranging from traditional options to The Sorrento, which is completed by a scoop of lemon sorbetto. The wine list has over a dozen offerings by the glass, and the beer list is graced with a few local breweries. And what would dinner be without dessert to finish? Patrons can opt for a cannoli, tiramisu, chocolate cake, or the formidable Ultimate Gelato Sundae, loaded up with crushed brownie, white chocolate, whipped cream, toasted marshmallow, and brioche bread.
Beyond the food, there’s something undeniably special about Patricia’s vibe. The space is warm and welcoming, and the kind of place where you could bring your nonna or your crew for Friday night pizza. Melissa has a knack for blending elegance and neighborhood charm, and it shows in the team, the energy, and the care that goes into every plate. In a state quietly emerging as one of the nation’s premier pizza destinations, Patricia’s Pizza stands out with heart, heritage, and an unforgettable crust. Whether you’re a Scottsdale local or simply chasing your next great slice, this spot earns a well-deserved place on Arizona’s pizza map.
written by: steven larson | photographed by: luke irvin