From the Lower East Side to Astoria
Nonna's started on the Lower East Side in 1977 with a recipe nobody could replicate — and Leon made sure nobody ever lost it.
Nonnas 1977 | Our Story
Born on the Lower East Side
In 1977, Momma Leone's recipe gave the Lower East Side its square. Italian-style slices for the immigrant community that called the neighborhood home -- the kind of place that becomes part of a neighborhood's DNA.
Leon Carries the Torch
Leon earned best-pizza-on-the-Lower-East-Side recognition and became the go-to caterer for NYC corporations. When rising rents threatened it all, he brought Nonna's home to Astoria -- the neighborhood where he grew up.
The Craft Behind Every Square
Three plum tomatoes, slow-cooked by hand every day. Mozzarella pulled fresh every morning, squares baked in heavy pans, and every pie finished with Pecorino Romano, Grana Padano, fresh basil, and olive oil.
Pies Named After Legends
The menu reads like a classic rock playlist -- Proud Mary, Rhiannon, Roxanne, Layla, Sweet Caroline. Guitars on the walls, music always on, and recognition as one of NYC's top spots for live music.
Astoria Is Home Now
This corner of Astoria is where Leon grew up, and bringing Nonna's here wasn't just a business move — it was personal. Walk in, grab a square, and say what's up to Leon.
