Roseland Apizza

If you're looking for a taste of true tradition, then Roseland Apizza is a place you simply cannot miss. This legendary family-run restaurant, located in Shelton, USA, is a true icon of Connecticut's pizza culture. Founded back in 1935, it has remained faithful to its roots for decades, offering guests classic New Haven-style pizza.

The establishment is famous for its incredibly thin and crispy crust, prepared according to old Italian recipes. Unlike chain restaurants, it boasts a wonderful atmosphere of home comfort: you'll be greeted with casual service and a charming interior where you might even see mismatched plates on the tables, which only highlights the place's authenticity.

Roseland Apizza attracts not only locals but also tourists from all over the country eager to try "that" legendary pizza. With a high rating and thousands of positive reviews, this restaurant is rightfully considered a must-visit for any foodie visiting Connecticut.

For more details before your visit or to order takeout, you can use the following contact information:

Please note that the restaurant is located in the Derby area, which is closely adjacent to Shelton, so getting there from the center is quite easy.

The main reason to visit Roseland Apizza is, of course, to taste the famous pizza. Be sure to try the signature Roseland Special with homemade sausage or the seafood options—they are considered some of the best in the region. The thin crispy crust and rich sauce create that gold-standard flavor often compared to the best pizzerias in the world.

In addition to pizza, the menu features classic Italian dishes: homemade lasagna, pasta, chicken parmesan, and even exquisite lobster ravioli. To fully immerse yourself in the local vibe, order a regional Foxon Park soda with your meal or choose something from the wine and beer list.

The restaurant's atmosphere is perfect for warm family gatherings or meeting up with friends. Keep an eye on the large chalkboard with daily specials—you can often find unique seasonal dishes there. The establishment's informal charm, with its "mismatched" plates and friendly staff, will make you feel like a welcome guest in a large Italian home.

Roseland Apizza is located at 350 Hawthorne Ave, Derby. If you are in downtown Shelton, the trip by car or taxi will take only about 5–10 minutes. Free parking is provided for guests, which is very convenient for those traveling through the state by car.

If you prefer public transport, you can use local bus routes passing through Derby and Shelton; however, it's worth checking the schedule in advance as it may change on weekends. It is also convenient to take a taxi or use Uber and Lyft services from the nearest Metro-North train stations.

The history of this place began back in 1935. The establishment was founded by Italian immigrant Giovanni "John" Scatolini. It was originally a small bakery and grocery store in neighboring Ansonia, but over time the focus shifted to authentic pizza, and the business moved to its current location.

Roseland Apizza is a true family business. For many decades, the restaurant was managed by the founder's daughter, Lina S. Lucarelli, who carefully preserved the original recipes and cooking methods. Thanks to this dedication to tradition, the establishment has maintained its old-fashioned charm and a unique flavor that is impossible to mistake for anything else.

Over the decades of its existence, the restaurant has become an important part of local culture and has even been mentioned in national publications, such as the famous book Roadfood. Today, it is one of the oldest pizzerias in the state, a symbol of the culinary heritage of Italian immigration in Connecticut.

Usually, you should set aside 1 to 2 hours for a visit to Roseland Apizza. This is plenty of time to enjoy your main course and dessert without rushing. Keep in mind that the pizza here is prepared with great attention to detail, so your order may take some time, especially during popular evening hours.

If you plan to visit with a large group on a weekend, your stay may be longer due to the kitchen's high workload. In any case, the cozy, homey atmosphere encourages you to spend a little more time here enjoying pleasant conversation.

At the moment, official opening hours for Roseland Apizza are not provided in open sources. To ensure your visit goes perfectly, we recommend checking the current schedule on the establishment's official website or contacting them by phone before your trip.

Typically, such family restaurants are open for lunch and dinner, but the schedule may change significantly on holidays.

A visit to this legendary pizzeria can be perfectly combined with a walk around the area. The Shelton and Derby area is rich in historical locations and cozy spots for relaxation that will help make your day even more fulfilling.