In the late 1970s, Eleanor and Joe Spina decided to retire in Tucson, Arizona. Their sons, Joe Jr. and Vinnie, soon followed—leaving behind the family’s aluminum siding business on Long Island, New York. With encouragement from Eleanor, a proud Italian matriarch who preserved the family’s recipes and traditions, the Spinas found their true calling: opening a family-owned pizzeria.

The first Mama’s Pizza shop was built in Long Island, where the family perfected their dough, sauces, and New York–style pizza crust—crispy, light, and full of flavor. From day one, guests were welcomed like family. Kathryn worked the register, Joe and Vinnie tossed pizzas, Joe Sr. stocked the line, and Eleanor stirred the meatballs while watching over simmering sauces.

When Vinnie scouted Tucson for the perfect location, he knew it had to be near the University of Arizona. After months of searching, the ideal spot opened across from the U of A main gate. The Spinas brought their pizza pans, authentic Italian recipes, and family traditions west, closing the New York shop to open Mama’s Famous Pizza & Italian Eats in Tucson in 1981.

Locals and students quickly fell in love with Mama’s welcoming atmosphere, hearty Italian food, and generous portions. Eleanor and Joe, affectionately called “Mama and Pop,” became a surrogate family for many students far from home. People didn’t just come for the food—they stayed for the laughter, connection, and community.

And always, there was music.

With the family’s deep love for R&B and soul, Joe Jr. curated a playlist that became known as “Mama’s Music,” creating a soulful atmosphere as unforgettable as the food.

Though Mama and Pop have since passed, their legacy lives on in every slice, every melody, and every warm welcome. Today, Mama’s Famous Pizza & Italian Eats remains proudly family-owned, serving authentic East Coast–style pizza, pasta, wings, calzones, and our signature New York–style cheesecake. With two Tucson locations, Mama’s continues to be a local favorite for Italian food, tradition, and community.

Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, there’s always room at the table—and the music never stops.