February 28th 2025.
In the bustling city of North Philadelphia, there is a pizza shop that stands out among the rest. Down North Pizza, with its larger-than-life slices and mission-driven purpose, has become a beacon of hope in the community. Founded by Muhammad Abdul-Hadi in December 2020, this for-profit restaurant is more than just a place to grab a quick bite. It is a symbol of resilience and second chances.
Abdul-Hadi, a West Philly native, wanted to make a positive impact in the predominantly Black neighborhood of Strawberry Mansion. This area has faced many challenges over the years, from redlining and poverty to a drug crisis and lack of resources. But Abdul-Hadi saw potential and wanted to be a part of the neighborhood's transformation.
And so, Down North Pizza was born. But it's not just about the delicious pies on the menu. Abdul-Hadi's vision for the shop goes beyond serving up tasty food. His ultimate goal is to provide hope and opportunities for those who have been marginalized and forgotten.
Along with opening the pizza shop, Abdul-Hadi also released a cookbook titled "We the Pizza: Slangin' Pies and Savin' Lives." He describes it as a memoir with recipes, filled with stories and photos that capture the essence of the neighborhood and the people who call it home. But it's not just a cookbook; it's also a journey through the history of the carceral system and its connection to slavery and the evolution of society.
Abdul-Hadi's passion for giving back to the community is evident in every aspect of Down North Pizza. From the unique pizza names, like "No Betta Love" and "Break You Off," to the ingredients used in each pie, everything is carefully crafted to represent the neighborhood and its people. And what's even more remarkable is that a portion of every purchase - whether it's from the pizza shop or the cookbook - goes back into the community through Abdul-Hadi's foundation, Down North Foundation.
One of the foundation's initiatives, "Protect Your Crib," helps individuals in danger of losing their homes due to delinquent property taxes. Thanks to the support of Down North Pizza, nearly a dozen people were able to keep their homes, and many others have been enrolled in a program that prevents property tax increases for 10 years.
For Abdul-Hadi, the impact he is making in the community is what matters most. He wants to show the world that people who have been incarcerated are more than their mistakes, and with the right support and opportunities, they can thrive. And through his pizza shop and foundation, he is doing just that.
If you're in the mood for some delicious pizza and want to make a positive impact in the community, be sure to stop by Down North Pizza and grab a copy of "We the Pizza" cookbook. Because at the end of the day, it's not just about the food; it's about making a difference, one slice at a time.
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