With so many amazing pizza restaurants in our proximity, it can be hard to pick one that stands out. However, South Jersey Magazine has chosen their favorite spot, Luigi’s Pizza Fresca. Located in Marlton, Luigi’s Pizza Fresca has been serving a classic taste of Italy in our area for decades, and it’s finally getting the recognition it deserves.
“It’s crazy because we’ve always had so many flavors of slice pies, so knowing that it’s now being noted by the magazine has been really cool,” says AJ Gangewere (‘25) an employee at Luigi’s Pizza Fresca as well as a rising senior at Cherry Hill East.
Every year, South Jersey Magazine compiles a list of the “Best of the Best” local businesses and restaurants. In its latest June issue, it listed Luigi’s Pizza Fresca as the winner of the best pizza by the slice, highlighting Luigi’s Pizza Fresca’s endless variety, delicious taste, and positive ambiance.
Although winning this title was exciting for Luigi’s Pizza Fresca’s dedicated customers and employees, it didn’t feel the same celebrating without Luigi. Earlier this year, Luigi passed away, leaving a gaping hole in the hearts of his family and friends.
“Everybody knew of him,” said Gangewere. “So it was almost like losing a family member to many of the older customers that saw him around for the past few decades.”
Claire, his wife, and Genaro, his son, have taken over the restaurant, working their hardest to ensure that Luigi’s legacy lives on. Claire makes an appearance at the cashier and occasionally in the kitchen on weekends, while Genaro comes in every day. Together, they continue to honor Luigi’s memory in everything they do.
“They started to run it the same way Luigi had,” said Gangewere. “So getting noticed meant a lot to them.”
From traditional pizzas such as pepperoni, plain, and white, to specialty pies like Fresca Garden, chicken parmesan, and their famous Grande Blue, Luigi’s Pizza Fresca offers a wide variety of mouthwatering flavors. This extensive selection captivates not only the attention, but also the hearts of locals.
“With customization, you can make literally any pizza combo,” said Gangwere.
Personally, the Fresca Garden slice and barbecue chicken slice were calling my name. Fresca Garden’s wide selection of perfectly seasoned vegetables over thin and crispy dough covered in mozzarella cheese and garlic was the only vegetable slice I would buy time after time. From tomatoes, broccoli, and spinach to peppers, onions, and black olives, this slice certainly does not lack veggies. As for the barbecue chicken slice, nothing can beat its perfect mix of sweet and savory flavors with salty cheese, flavorful chicken, and tangy barbecue sauce.
However, if pizza is not your forte, do not worry. Luigi’s Pizza Fresca offers an assortment of Italian and Italian American dishes, including appetizers, pastas, sandwiches, salads, and desserts.
So next time you’re craving a classic slice of pizza or something out of the ordinary, visit Luigi’s Pizza Fresca in Marlton for a delicious taste of Italy and a glimpse into the never-ending warm welcome of Luigi’s lineage.
