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A Slice of History: The Legacy of Big Ed’s Pizza in Huntsville

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A Slice of History: The Legacy of Big Ed’s Pizza in Huntsville

by | Feb 28, 2025

A Journey through time with Huntsville’s very own culinary landmark, Big Ed’s Pizza. This beloved establishment, located in the heart of the community, is not just known for its delicious pizzas but also for its rich history and tradition that spans over five decades. Founded in 1961 by “Big Ed” Neusel, Big Ed’s Pizza quickly became a staple of Huntsville’s local culture. Ed Neusel’s vision was clear: to create pizzas that stood out. With the help of Steve Denton, who joined in 1963, the pizzeria began to take shape as a local favorite. The legacy took an interesting turn in 1969 when Ed moved away, passing the reins to Steve. Steve carried the business with passion and care until his passing in 2011, and today, the torch is carried by his three children—Renee, Darrell, and Dion—ensuring the family’s commitment to quality and community continues.

A Commitment to Authenticity and Freshness

What truly sets Big Ed’s Pizza apart is not only its cherished history but also its meticulous operations that have been passed down through generations. Each pizza is created from scratch with house-made sauces and doughs, ensuring that authenticity and freshness are the core ingredients in every dish. The care that goes into preparing each meal is evident in their hand-tossed pizzas and calzones, which are crafted with skill and passion. For Big Ed’s, the key to their success lies in maintaining these traditional practices, allowing the flavors to shine through in every bite.

The Secret Behind Big Ed’s Flavor

Another unique aspect of Big Ed’s Pizza is the original seasoned gas ovens from the 1960s, which provide a distinctive flavor that has become synonymous with the Big Ed’s experience. These vintage ovens impart a subtle smokiness that sets their pizzas apart from the rest. While the dedication to these time-honored processes means that customers may need to wait a little longer for their meal, as the saying goes, “good things come to those who wait.” This commitment to quality and tradition has kept patrons coming back for over 50 years, with many choosing Big Ed’s as their go-to pizzeria.

A Family Legacy Continues

Big Ed’s Pizza is more than just a place to eat; it’s a symbol of dedication to quality and local support. The Denton siblings—Renee, Darrell, and Dion—continue to welcome newcomers and cherish longtime customers alike, ensuring that their father and grandfather’s legacies are carried on with every slice served. Over the years, Big Ed’s has earned its place as a local favorite, not only for its mouthwatering pizza but also for its deep connection to the Huntsville community. With each passing year, the tradition lives on, and the community continues to support this culinary favorite that has stood the test of time.

Source: bigedspizza.com
Header Image Source: bigedspizza.com