There is nothing like walking down the long driveway to get to the side entrance of Santillo's pizza in Elizabeth on South Broad St. and just smelling the aromas coming from their pizzeria/home. They have been around since I was a kid. Take out and delivery only and I promise you that you cannot drive away without eating at least one slice in your car before getting to your destination. They have one of the largest brick ovens in NJ and the pies are crisp and very tasty. their Sicilian is the most famous of the many they make and the pie that my family ate once a week for almost 30 years when we lived nearby.
P.S. Jay Leno was a driver for them when he was just starting out as a comedian and they have stayed friends all these years. Pretty cool to know that he delivered to my house.

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Al Santillo's Brick Oven Pizza
639 S Broad St, Elizabeth, NJ 07202

Two faves growing up were Tree Tavern and Ellio's. Now I like one called Mama Rosa's.

The trick was to prick the middle with a fork so that they would cook evenly. The best part was the crispiness of the crust. I would break off a piece and scoop out the inside.

I am so sorry for your friends loss. My mom passed away from the same.

Here is a very good site that I have used before.

http://www.winecountrygiftbaskets.com/

I haven't been there yet but I have been to Massimo's on the Boulevard in Kenilworth. OMG, they make the best fresh mozz every day. Very comparable to Fiore's in Hoboken. Also have good deli meats, sausages, entrees, bread and huge subs.