Ray Liotta Used To Work At This Pizzeria In Cranford

CRANFORD, NJ — New Jersey native and famous actor Ray Liotta, who died Thursday at the age of 67, had ties to a certain Cranford pizzeria.

TMZ reported Thursday that Liotta died in his sleep while in the Dominican Republic. He was in the middle of shooting a movie called "Dangerous Waters" on the island.

Read more: Ray Liotta, Known For Role In 'Goodfellas,' Dies At 67: Reports

Most known for playing Henry Hill in Martin Scorcese's film "Goodfellas," Liotta also used to work at Pizza House/Pizza Chef in downtown Cranford during his teen years.

Ray Liotta is friends with the family who opened the pizzeria in Newark back in the 1950s. In fact, on a photo of the actor hanging on the wall, Liotta has written, "I miss the best pizza on the East Coast!"

Liotta was born in Newark in 1954 and was adopted by Alfred and Mary Liotta when he was a baby. He graduated from Union High School in 1973 and later studied acting at the University of Miami before moving to New York.

The pizza shop where Liotta used to work recently celebrated its 50th anniversary serving pies to Cranford residents. According to the Downtown Cranford organization, the pizza shop has changed locations over the years but still serves a variety of classic Italian specialities.

The site notes, "When Pizza House started in Newark, a slice of pizza cost 35 cents and the restaurant also sold Italian hot dogs. The move to Cranford led to a menu change and the restaurant's focus turned to Italian specialties. The recipes have remained the same for years, with chicken dishes and thin crust pie being the most popular. Pizza House also offers catering and parties can be hosted in the space."

Ronnie Preziosi, who was one of the original owners of the restaurant, said Liotta was a "great employee." On the wall of the restaurant you can find an autographed photograph of Ray Liotta that he signed for the Preziosi family.

Pizza House/Pizza Chef is located at 123 North Union Ave. Grab a slice in honor of Liotta!

This article features reporting from Patch editor Caren Lissner.