August 2016 – A FAMILY PIZZA TRADITION
Although the recipes are a secret this place is not! Al’s Pizza in Warrenville sits beside the DuPage River and has been serving up pizzas since 1959. Al Kreminski was done delivering pizzas and decided to make his own. The secret dough and sauce recipes he created are his legacy. His Granddaughter, Katie Hoppenrath shared with us, “These same recipes have never been written down and only three people that are living know them.” Katie, a paramedic drives in from the city to keep the tradition going. She refers to her employees as family and reminisces of the times with her Grandfather who was her favorite person on Earth.
So what makes this pizza so great? First it’s the secret recipes passed down from Al to his daughter, Lynn Hoppenrath and now his Granddaughter, Katie. Then it’s the people like Justin Mason the “head pizza guy”. Lastly but not least it’s the pizza. The crispy thin crust smeared with the tangy yet sweet sauce then topped with great cheese that slightly browns on top makes for the perfect pizza. Sausage seems to be a favorite topping by all including our family! Not on the menu is the secret BBQ pizza. The base made up of half BBQ and half pizza sauce is then topped with pineapple, Canadian bacon or the hot version topped with giardiniera makes this pizza a taste bud tingler. Whatever toppings you enjoy this casual cozy pizzeria is perfect for families.
Al’s has been a family favorite of ours for years.
Our father, Ron Schmoker, has been coming to Al’s for over 50 years with his Dad. He describes a perfect day, “Imagine going fishing with your Dad then knowing you are going to have the best pizza after”. As we were waiting for our pizzas we met several other families that have shared Al’s as a tradition. The Melton’s and Kremer’s from Lisle make this a popular destination. Coming since 1966 with her family, Joan Kremer Melton of Lisle now residing in Texas always makes time for Al’s when she is in town.
When asked what her favorite part about Al’s pizza was our niece Elly simply said, “The man!” Why yes the man that brings out your hot delicious pizza is a welcomed sight!
Al’s Pizza
28W241 Warrenville Rd, Warrenville
(630) 393-9630 • alspizzainc.com
Secret Recipe Keeper/Owner: Katie Hoppenrath
