50-Year-Old Secret

Regina-style pizza, a thick and square-shaped culinary delight, has become an official symbol of Saskatchewan's capital city. This beloved Canadian pizza style was first introduced by Greek immigrant brothers George, Gus, John, and Tony Kolitsas in 1970, when they opened their first Houston Pizza restaurant on Hill Avenue in Regina.

The Kolitsas brothers' creation is characterized by a thick crust, a base of fluffy dough, and a generous helping of tomato sauce, vegetables, and deli meat, all topped with a layer of cheese. According to Jim Baiton, owner of Tumblers Pizza, the pies should be baked until golden brown and served in square pieces to prevent the filling from falling out.

Baiton, who got his start in the pizza industry at the age of 14 working for Houston Pizza, has been perfecting the Regina-style pizza recipe for decades. He later became a franchisee of Western Pizza, another restaurant chain that has been serving Regina-style pizza for years, before opening his own shop, Tumblers Pizza, in 1979.

Tumblers Pizza ships hundreds of frozen Regina-style pizzas to grocery stores in the province each week, in addition to baking fresh pies for local delivery and pickup. The thickness of Regina-style pizza may be attributed to Greek culture and Saskatchewan's cold winters, which require hearty meals to keep people warm and fed.

## Why it matters The Regina-style pizza has become an integral part of the city's culinary identity, with its unique flavor and texture setting it apart from other pizza styles. As a symbol of Saskatchewan's capital city, it has also become a source of pride for locals and a favorite among visitors. With its rich history and cultural significance, the Regina-style pizza is a true Canadian treasure.

The Kolitsas brothers' legacy lives on through their pizza, with family ties still present in the industry. Spiro Bonis, president of Western Pizza, is a first cousin of the Kolitsas brothers, ensuring that the traditional recipe and cooking methods are preserved.

As a staple in Regina for over 50 years, the Regina-style pizza continues to delight locals and visitors alike, with its thick crust, generous toppings, and rich history making it a must-try for anyone visiting the city.