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Couple opens Dalton pizzeria

Ben Freda Abington Journal Correspondent

DALTON - Pizza lovers in Dalton, no longer need to travel to Scranton or Clarks Summit to visit a pizza restaurant. Opened on Oct. 28 in the building on the corner of Main Street in downtown Dalton, Newsies Pizza, is owned and operated by Tony Warenzak and his wife Miriam, who both grew up in Dalton. They said they opened Newsies Pizza at 105 E. Main St. because they wanted a family-friendly place for the Dalton community to eat and hang out together.

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The logo at Newsies Pizza.

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The dining room of Newsies Pizza.

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For Newsies, Tony Warenzak moved into the same building in which his parents ran convenient store called Warenzak’s Market & Deli, which closed in 2001. Tony and Miriam based the title of their pizzeria on the New York newsboys of 1899, also called newsies, who stood together to raise awareness and make their voices heard. The Warenzaks offer a free monthly newsletter, found on the restaurant counter, called Newsies News, which discusses community events in Dalton and its surrounding areas. They said their purpose is to get involved in drawing the community together to make a difference. Newsies Pizza uses a special recipe for its pizza, which is made with fresh dough, fresh handmade tomato sauce and a special blend of high-quality, freshly grated cheeses. Unlike some pizzerias that rush and microwave their pizza, Newsies Pizza owners said they take their time to make sure it is of high quality. “We stand for quality, freshness and community,” said Miriam Warenzak. They offer many varieties of pizzas on the menu including specialty pizzas such as Grandma Style ‘Square,’ Brooklyn Style ‘Square’ and Hot Wing pizza. The menu also offers a list of Lovers Pizza, including Meat Eaters Delight and Veggie Lovers. Newsies Pizza also features side dishes including salads, breadsticks and garlic knots.

The inside decor has a Romanesque archway that leads to the dining room. The walls by the door feature vintage black-and-white postcards of Dalton from the late 19th century and early 20th century. Some of the other walls feature paintings by artist Jennifer Brandon, who currently lives in Waverly, but was raised in Dalton. There is a flat-screen TV elevated in a corner and two picture windows that display artwork of the night New York City skyline. Newsies Pizza offers free Wi-Fi to customers.

There are seven employees including Tony and Miriam and one cook, who are working to make Newsies Pizza high quality. “I really enjoy working here. I really enjoy the customers. They’re very laid back. It’s a great place to eat and great place to work that lends a comfortable atmosphere,” said Michelle Bailey, cashier and waitress.

Tony and Miriam Warenzak have one daughter, Madison, 22 months old. They are expecting a baby boy in February.

For details, visit during business hours on Mon., Wed. and Thurs. from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. or Fri. and Sat. from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., call 570.563.800, fax 570.563.8220 or visit www.newsiespizza.com