Address: 4336 Monroe St, Toledo, OH 43606, United States

Phone: +1 419 473 1223

Price Range: $$$$

Website: https://www.jojosoriginalpizzeriamenu.com

Jo-Jo's Original Pizzeria

When it comes to classic Italian-American eateries in Toledo, Jo-Jo's Original Pizzeria holds a special place. Established in 1957 by Marie and Joseph (Jo-Jo) Hashim, this spot brings nostalgia and good-old-fashioned pizza to the forefront. It's an informal chain serving up favorite pizzas, salads, sandwiches, and traditional meals, enveloped in a welcoming yet modest decor.

The star of the show here, without a doubt, is the pizza. Their thin crust, New York-style pizza is a must-try. The cheese pizza stands out with its perfectly crispy crust and gooey, stringy cheese. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous, give the BBQ Chicken Pizza a go—the combination of BBQ sauce, chicken, and bacon creates a smoky, savory symphony of flavors. Another interesting pick is the Taco Pizza, which, with its unique toppings of seasoned ground beef, lettuce, diced tomatoes, and side servings of salsa and sour cream, brings a fun twist to the traditional pizza experience.

Beyond pizzas, Jo-Jo’s has an extensive menu with diverse options. The Antipasto Salad is a delightful starter, loaded with fresh lettuce, provolone cheese, hard salami, celery, carrots, and olives, delivering a burst of flavors. On the pasta front, the Lasagna stands tall, featuring layers of noodles, ricotta cheese, Italian sausage, and their special blend of cheeses topped with the house-made sauce—comfort food at its finest.

For something hearty, the Chicken Parmesan dinner is a solid choice. The breaded chicken breast topped with provolone and homemade sauce over spaghetti checks all the boxes for a satisfying meal. Their menu even dives into meatier offerings like the New York Strip Steak, offering a char-broiled experience served with a side of spaghetti. Best part? The satisfying portions make it worth every penny.

Although Jo-Jo's excels in its culinary offerings, the service can be hit or miss. Some diners have praised the friendly approach of certain waitstaff, while others have cited experiences with rude service and long wait times. It’s recommended to visit during less busy hours to avoid any potential service hiccups and to enjoy a more relaxed dining experience.

Jo-Jo's also has a decent selection of appetizers to kickstart your meal. The Fried Ravioli, stuffed with three cheeses and served with their homemade marinara sauce, is a delightful treat. For those who enjoy a bit of everything, the Sampler Platter, featuring onion rings, jalapeno poppers, chicken wings, and mozzarella cheese sticks, served with ranch and marinara, is a great way to get the best of their finger foods.

Another noteworthy point is the affordability factor. Jo-Jo’s runs half-off deals on Mondays and Wednesdays, making it a great budget-friendly option for pizza lovers. Parking can be tricky, so plan ahead if you’re visiting during peak hours.

Jo-Jo's Original Pizzeria is a slice of local history mixed with decent Italian food offerings. It might not be the epitome of fine dining, but it definitely hits the spot with its homely charm and array of classic dishes. Despite some service issues, the food alone makes it a place worth visiting.