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Have you ever heard of Alice Mae Redmond? If not, you’re not alone. This Black woman from Mississippi is a hidden figure in culinary history, and her story might just change the way we think about one of America’s most iconic dishes: Chicago’s deep-dish pizza. While pizza’s origins trace back to Italy and its popularity in America is often credited to Italian immigrants, the creation of deep-dish pizza—a thick, hearty variation—could have been influenced by someone entirely unexpected: Alice Mae Redmond. Though her name is absent from most food history books, her Southern roots and culinary skills suggest she may have played a role in shaping this beloved dish. Let’s uncover the untold story of Alice Mae Redmond and explore how her legacy might have left a lasting mark on American cuisine.
The Origins of Pizza in America

Pizza, as we know it today, was brought to the United States by Italian immigrants in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These immigrants settled in cities like New York and Chicago, bringing with them the flavors and traditions of their homeland. Over time, pizza evolved to suit American tastes, giving rise to regional variations. New York-style pizza became famous for its thin, crispy crust, while Chicago took a different approach with its deep-dish creation.
But how did deep-dish pizza come to be? The popular narrative credits Ike Sewell and Ric Riccardo, who opened Pizzeria Uno in Chicago in 1943, as the inventors of deep-dish pizza. However, there’s a lesser-known story that suggests the dish’s origins might be more complex—and more inclusive—than we’ve been led to believe.
Who Was Alice Mae Redmond?
Alice Mae Redmond was a Black woman from Mississippi who moved to Chicago during the Great Migration, a period when millions of African Americans relocated from the rural South to urban centers in the North. Like many women of her time, Alice worked as a domestic cook, honing her skills in the kitchens of wealthy families and restaurants.
While there’s no definitive proof that Alice Mae Redmond invented deep-dish pizza, some food historians and culinary enthusiasts have speculated that she may have played a role in its creation. The theory goes that Alice, with her Southern roots and culinary expertise, could have introduced the concept of a thicker, more substantial crust—a hallmark of deep-dish pizza—to the Italian-American chefs who popularized the dish.
The Southern Influence on Deep-Dish Pizza
What makes this theory compelling is the potential influence of Southern cooking on Alice’s culinary style. Southern cuisine is known for its hearty, comforting dishes, often featuring rich flavors and dense textures. It’s not hard to imagine how Alice’s background might have inspired her to experiment with a thicker, more filling pizza crust, especially in a city like Chicago, where hearty meals were in high demand.
Additionally, the Great Migration brought together diverse culinary traditions, creating a melting pot of flavors and techniques. African American cooks like Alice Mae Redmond were often at the forefront of this culinary innovation, blending their Southern heritage with the tastes and ingredients of their new urban environments.

Why Alice Mae Redmond’s Story Matters
The story of Alice Mae Redmond is more than just a fascinating footnote in the history of pizza. It’s a reminder of the often-overlooked contributions of Black women to American cuisine. For too long, the narratives surrounding food history have centered on white, male figures, while the roles of women and people of color have been marginalized or erased entirely.
By exploring the possibility that Alice Mae Redmond influenced the creation of deep-dish pizza, we not only honor her legacy but also challenge the dominant narratives that shape our understanding of food history. It’s a call to dig deeper, to ask questions, and to celebrate the diverse voices that have shaped the way we eat.
How to Honor Alice Mae Redmond’s Legacy
While we may never know for sure whether Alice Mae Redmond played a role in the invention of deep-dish pizza, her story is a powerful reminder of the importance of recognizing and celebrating the contributions of marginalized communities. Here are a few ways you can honor her legacy:
- Support Black-Owned Pizzerias: Seek out and support Black-owned pizza restaurants in your area. These businesses often bring unique flavors and perspectives to the table, enriching the culinary landscape.
- Learn About Food History: Take the time to explore the stories behind your favorite dishes. You might be surprised by the diverse influences that have shaped them.
- Share Her Story: Spread the word about Alice Mae Redmond and other unsung heroes of food history. By sharing these stories, we can ensure that their contributions are not forgotten.
Conclusion
The story of deep-dish pizza is a testament to the power of cultural exchange and innovation. While the dish may have been popularized by Italian-American chefs, it’s possible that its roots extend even further, to the kitchens of African American cooks like Alice Mae Redmond. By acknowledging her potential role in this culinary creation, we not only enrich our understanding of food history but also pay tribute to the countless women and people of color who have shaped the way we eat.
So, the next time you bite into a slice of deep-dish pizza, take a moment to reflect on the untold stories behind it. Who knows? You might just be tasting a piece of Alice Mae Redmond’s legacy.