Panko Pizza, a relatively new establishment in Middletown, Monmouth County, New Jersey, is making waves with its unique take on pizza. Despite its recent entry into the Central Jersey pizza scene, Panko Pizza is paying homage to a century-old tradition by offering one of the state’s most distinctive pies: the mustard pizza.
This unconventional pizza is a nod to Papa’s Tomato Pies in Robbinsville, which boasts a history of over 111 years. Owner Nick Azzaro claims it is the oldest continuously running pizzeria in the United States still owned by the same family. In tribute, Panko Pizza incorporates a layer of brown mustard beneath the cheese and sauce, creating a flavor profile that combines a spicy kick with the sweetness of the sauce.
Francis Panko, the owner of Panko Pizza, explains that the mustard spread is meant to be both visible and aromatic, offering a spicy aroma that precedes the first bite. “The mustard pie delivers a spicy kick that hits your nose before you even taste the pie, and one bite confirms its presence,” Panko said. He adds that while Panko Pizza uses more mustard than Papa’s, the result is a balanced blend of flavors that evokes the classic ketchup-and-mustard sensation of a cheeseburger on a pizza slice.
The pizzeria’s signature feature, aside from the mustard topping, is a layer of panko breadcrumbs at the bottom of the pie, adding an extra crunch to every bite. This innovative approach reflects Panko Pizza’s commitment to offering a unique and memorable
