Celebrating Recipes with Roots: Grandma Gloria's Marinara Sauce

Recipes with Roots 🌿


At Spinato's, we're more than just a pizzeria—we're a family with deep roots in the culinary world. As we celebrate our 50th anniversary, we're thrilled to share with our community a special aspect of our heritage: Recipes with Roots.


Our journey to this milestone has been filled with countless memories, milestones, and, of course, delicious dishes. While our staff and team have played integral roles in shaping Spinato's into what it is today, we also owe a debt of gratitude to our recipes.


Some of these recipes have been passed down through generations, while others have been crafted by members of our own team, each one infused with creativity and passion. Among these culinary treasures, one recipe holds a special place in our hearts: Grandma Gloria's Marinara Sauce, which was passed down by Grandma Josephine and built upon by Grandma Gloria.


Made at our McDowell location by the matriarch of our family, Grandma Gloria, or Great Grandma, as she's affectionately known, this marinara sauce is more than just a recipe—it's a legacy. Born and raised in Chicago as one of 10 children, Grandma Gloria embodies strength, humility, and a remarkable zest for life.


Grandma Gloria


At 102 years young (and truly young), Grandma Gloria continues to inspire us all with her positivity and grace. Despite life's challenges, she approaches each day eager to radiate joy and happiness, a trait reflected in every batch of marinara sauce she lovingly prepared for our guests.


I've fondly heard stories of Grandma Gloria standing over a steaming pot of marinara sauce, carefully adding a pinch of this and a dash of that to achieve the perfect balance of flavors. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to excellence have made her marinara sauce a beloved staple within our restaurants.


Today, we proudly make over 10,000 gallons of Grandma Gloria's marinara sauce each year, ensuring that her legacy lives on with every bite. Although Grandma Gloria doesn't make the sauce anymore, it is a testament to her unwavering commitment to delighting our guests, which has been passed down throughout the years. 


As we reflect on our journey and celebrate this milestone, we're reminded of the importance of honoring our roots. Grandma Gloria's marinara sauce is more than just a recipe—it symbolizes family, tradition, and the enduring power of love.


So, here's to Grandma Gloria, her timeless marinara sauce, and the beautiful legacy she has created for us all. May her spirit continue to inspire us for generations to come. 🥂


~Jaime Spinato