The Origins of Pizza
Pizza, as we know it today, has its roots in Naples, Italy, dating back to the 18th century. The word "pizza" first appeared in a Latin text from the town of Gaeta in 997 AD, but the modern pizza we recognize originated when tomatoes were brought to Europe from the Americas in the 16th century.
Initially, pizza was food for the poor, sold in the streets and not considered a kitchen dish. It was only after Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples in 1889 that pizza gained royal approval. The famous Pizza Margherita was created in her honor, featuring the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil.
Pizza in the Modern World
The late 19th century saw Italian immigrants bringing pizza to the United States, where it underwent significant evolution. Today, pizza has become one of the most popular foods worldwide, with countless regional variations and styles, from the thin, crispy Neapolitan pizza to the thick, doughy Chicago deep-dish.
The traditional Neapolitan pizza-making technique was even inscribed on UNESCO's Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity in 2017, recognizing it as an art form that has been passed down through generations.
The Pizza-Making Tradition
Authentic Italian pizza is characterized by its simple ingredients and traditional preparation methods. The dough is made from just four ingredients: flour, water, salt, and yeast. It must be hand-kneaded and stretched, never rolled with a pin. The pizza is then baked at extremely high temperatures in a wood-fired oven for just 60-90 seconds. Reserve a table to watch our pizzaiolos in action.
The art of pizza-making, known as "pizzaiolo," requires years of practice to master. The skill lies not just in preparing the dough, but in understanding how to work with it, how to balance toppings, and how to achieve that perfect combination of crispy crust and tender center. Want to enjoy our authentic pizza at home? Order online now.