Silver Dollar Pizza- A Brief History:
This unique American Pizza restaurant was opened on this site in 1959. It was originally owned by a Major Patterson (a female, major in the US military nursing core), who claimed to be the sister of Floyd Patterson the twice, world heavyweight champion boxer (1956-59, 1960-62).
She caused something of a stir in Rayners Lane as she kept her shotgun under the pizza bench, and if she didn’t like the look of you – you were not served - no argument! During her ownership, the Silver Dollar, was frequented by celebrity customers, including Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis Junior and many members of famous 60’s bands such as ‘The Who’ and ‘The Searchers’ (and they still eat here today). Along with her can- tankerous character she brought her famous secret pizza recipe from the States, and she guarded it fiercely.
In 1970, Mr Nick (who had been a chef in top London hotels) bought the Silver Dollar and introduced new toppings and dishes to the menu. Our celebrity status continued with visits from the likes of Jack Nicholson, Norman Wisdom and Harry Stoneman, (who headed the BBC band on the ‘Parkinson’ show). We have been told that our famous pizzas have been referred to by Mick Jagger, who it is claimed said that it was the only restaurant he has been ejected from! (probably, during Major’s ownership knowing her unique customer policy).
The Silver Dollar is still run by Mr Nick’s family today and we still make our pizzas to the original recipe.
We’d like to thank all our customers for their loyalty as it’s great that we are now serving the children and grand children of past customers. If it’s your first time – WELCOME we hope you enjoy our unique pizzas and become a member of the Silver Dollar family.
Mr. Nick, Tony, Chris and the gang.
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