In a city filled with food traditions and hometown pride, few places have made a lasting impact on Buffalo’s culinary scene like Imperial Pizza. What started as a humble South Buffalo pizza joint has grown into a pillar of the community, known for its authentic Buffalo-style pies, signature wings, and unwavering commitment to quality.
Let’s take a step back in time and explore the roots, rise, and reputation of this Buffalo pizza icon.
📍 Humble Beginnings in South Buffalo
Imperial Pizza first opened its doors in the late 1980s on Abbott Road, in the heart of South Buffalo. From the very beginning, it wasn’t just about food—it was about community, consistency, and comfort.
With a focus on:
- Handmade dough
- Rich, house-made sauce
- Locally sourced ingredients
- And generous toppings
Imperial quickly became a go-to for families, students, workers, and weekend crowds looking for real food made right.
🍕 Defining Buffalo-Style Pizza
While Chicago and New York are often spotlighted in pizza culture, Buffalo has its own style, and Imperial helped define it.
Key elements:
- Thick, airy crust with a golden, crisp bottom
- Sweet, tangy red sauce with a bold kick
- Plenty of cheese (a mozzarella-provolone blend)
- Cup-and-char pepperoni that crisps and curls at the edges
Imperial didn’t just serve pizza—they helped shape what Buffalo-style pizza means.
🏗️ Expansion, Renovation & Growth
Over the decades, Imperial Pizza grew—but stayed true to its roots.
🔹 Abbott Road Renovation
The original location received a full dining room remodel, giving guests a casual yet modern place to sit down and enjoy their favorites.
🔹 Main Street Location
To meet growing demand, Imperial opened a second location on Main Street, offering the same menu, faster access for UB students and city dwellers, and late-night hours (open until 3:45 a.m.).
Whether you’re in South Buffalo or near downtown, there’s now more ways to enjoy Imperial than ever before.
💙 Built by and for Buffalonians
Imperial Pizza has always been more than just a business—it’s been part of the South Buffalo lifestyle. Over the years, the team has supported local events, sponsored youth sports teams, and become a cornerstone for community pride.
Buffalonians have watched generations grow up with Imperial as a constant—from Friday night family dinners to post-game wing runs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: When was Imperial Pizza founded?
A: Imperial Pizza was founded in the late 1980s in South Buffalo.
Q: Is Imperial Pizza considered Buffalo-style pizza?
A: Absolutely. Imperial helped define the Buffalo-style with its thick crust, sweet sauce, and iconic cup-and-char pepperoni.
Q: Has Imperial Pizza changed over the years?
A: While they’ve expanded and renovated, the quality, portion sizes, and signature flavors remain the same.
Q: Does Imperial still operate at the original location?
A: Yes. The Abbott Road location is the original and remains a neighborhood favorite. A second location on Main Street was added for broader access.
Q: Is Imperial Pizza locally owned?
A: Yes. Imperial is a locally owned and operated business that has proudly served Buffalo for over 30 years.
From one location in South Buffalo to a citywide favorite, Imperial Pizza has become a true Buffalo tradition—and its story is still being written, one slice at a time.
👉 Experience the legacy yourself by ordering today at imperialpizzabuffalo.com