800 Degrees: Revolutionizing Neapolitan Pizza in Los Angeles, USA

Los Angeles, a city known for its vibrant food scene, is home to some of the most innovative and diverse dining experiences in the world. Amidst a sea of taco joints, sushi bars, and vegan cafés, 800 Degrees stands out as a beacon for pizza lovers, delivering a unique twist on the traditional Neapolitan-style pizza. Founded with the idea of elevating fast-casual dining without compromising on quality, 800 Degrees has carved a niche for itself as a pioneer in the world of artisanal pizza.

This article delves deep into the story of 800 Degrees, exploring its origins, the factors that make it one of the best pizzerias in Los Angeles, and the journey that has led it to become a popular destination for both locals and visitors. From its inception to its meteoric rise in popularity, we’ll uncover the details behind its success, the must-try menu items, and what sets it apart from other pizzerias. By the end of this article, you’ll understand why 800 Degrees is a must-visit spot for anyone seeking an exceptional pizza experience in Los Angeles.

How 800 Degrees Started: The Birth of a Pizza Revolution

800 Degrees was founded in 2012 by Chef Anthony Carron, a culinary visionary with a passion for reinventing traditional dishes. After years of working as the Corporate Executive Chef for renowned chef Michael Mina’s restaurant group, Carron wanted to break away from the fine dining scene and focus on something more accessible, without sacrificing quality or authenticity.

The inspiration for 800 Degrees came from Carron’s travels through Italy, where he experienced firsthand the art and simplicity of traditional Neapolitan pizza. He was particularly drawn to the idea of creating a pizza that was both fast and affordable, yet made with the same attention to detail and quality ingredients as the pizzas he tasted in Naples. Carron envisioned a place where customers could enjoy a world-class pizza in a casual setting, and the concept of 800 Degrees was born.

The name “800 Degrees” is a nod to the wood-fired ovens used in Neapolitan pizzerias, which reach temperatures of up to 800 degrees Fahrenheit. This high heat cooks the pizzas in just 60-90 seconds, resulting in a perfectly crisp crust with a tender, airy interior. By using these ovens and adhering to traditional techniques, Carron aimed to recreate the authentic Neapolitan pizza experience, right in the heart of Los Angeles.

Establishing the First Location: Westwood Village, Los Angeles

The first 800 Degrees Pizzeria opened its doors in Westwood Village, a bustling neighborhood near UCLA, in January 2012. The location was chosen for its proximity to the university, ensuring a steady stream of foot traffic and a diverse customer base. The interior of the pizzeria was designed to reflect a modern take on a classic Italian pizzeria, with marble counters, exposed brick walls, and an open kitchen where customers could watch the pizzas being made.

From the very beginning, 800 Degrees set itself apart by offering a build-your-own-pizza concept. Customers could choose from a variety of fresh, high-quality toppings, including house-made mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and a selection of vegetables, meats, and cheeses. Each pizza was assembled to order and cooked in the wood-fired oven within minutes, allowing diners to enjoy a hot, freshly made pizza in a matter of minutes.

Why 800 Degrees is the Best: A Winning Formula of Quality, Customization, and Speed

1. Commitment to Authenticity and Quality

One of the key factors that sets 800 Degrees apart is its commitment to authenticity. While many pizzerias offer their own version of Neapolitan pizza, few adhere as strictly to the traditional methods as 800 Degrees. The dough is made using a special blend of flours imported from Italy and undergoes a long fermentation process, which gives it a unique texture and flavor. The sauce is made from San Marzano tomatoes, known for their sweetness and low acidity, and the mozzarella is made in-house daily to ensure freshness.

The high-temperature wood-fired ovens, which are the hallmark of Neapolitan pizza-making, are a central feature of the restaurant. These ovens cook the pizzas in just 60-90 seconds, resulting in a crust that is crisp on the outside, soft and airy on the inside, and dotted with beautiful charred spots that add a subtle smokiness to the flavor.

2. The Build-Your-Own Pizza Concept: A Customized Experience

800 Degrees took the traditional Neapolitan pizza model and added a modern twist by allowing customers to build their own pizzas. The build-your-own concept empowers diners to choose exactly what they want on their pizza, from the type of sauce and cheese to the toppings and drizzles. This level of customization is rare in the world of artisanal pizza and has been a major draw for customers.

In addition to the build-your-own option, 800 Degrees also offers a curated menu of signature pizzas, such as the Margherita, Bianca, and Prosciutto & Arugula. These options showcase the restaurant’s expertise in flavor combinations and highlight the quality of the ingredients used.

3. Affordable Luxury: High-Quality Pizza at a Reasonable Price

While many artisanal pizzerias charge a premium for their pizzas, 800 Degrees has managed to keep its prices accessible without compromising on quality. By streamlining the menu and focusing on efficient operations, the pizzeria offers a high-quality product at a price point that appeals to a broad audience. This affordability, combined with the speed and customization options, has made 800 Degrees a popular choice for students, families, and professionals alike.

4. A Fast-Casual Model with a Gourmet Twist

800 Degrees pioneered the concept of “fine-fast” dining, where customers can enjoy the quality and craftsmanship of a gourmet meal in a fast-casual setting. This approach revolutionized the way people think about pizza, proving that you don’t have to sacrifice quality or authenticity for speed and convenience. The open-kitchen layout, where customers can watch their pizzas being assembled and cooked, adds to the overall experience and creates a sense of transparency and trust.

5. Expanding the Brand: From Los Angeles to the World

The success of the first 800 Degrees location in Westwood Village quickly led to the opening of additional locations throughout Los Angeles, including Hollywood, Santa Monica, and LAX Airport. As word spread about the unique concept and exceptional quality of 800 Degrees, the brand began to expand beyond California, with locations opening in cities across the United States and even internationally.

By 2016, 800 Degrees had established a presence in cities like Las Vegas, Dubai, and Tokyo, bringing its signature Neapolitan pizzas to a global audience. Each location was designed to reflect the local culture and tastes while maintaining the core principles that made 800 Degrees a success—authenticity, quality, and customization.

How 800 Degrees Became Popular: A Success Story Rooted in Innovation and Customer Experience

1. Innovative Marketing and Word-of-Mouth Buzz

From the moment it opened its doors, 800 Degrees generated a buzz in the local food scene. The combination of authentic Neapolitan pizza, a build-your-own concept, and a fast-casual setting was a novel idea that quickly captured the attention of food enthusiasts and the media. Positive reviews in publications like Los Angeles Times, Eater LA, and LA Weekly helped put 800 Degrees on the map, while social media posts showcasing the beautifully charred pizzas attracted a younger, tech-savvy audience.

2. Celebrity Endorsements and High-Profile Guests

Located in the heart of Los Angeles, 800 Degrees soon became a favorite spot for celebrities and influencers. High-profile guests like Justin Timberlake, Jessica Biel, and Kendall Jenner were spotted enjoying pizzas at 800 Degrees, adding to the restaurant’s allure and attracting fans eager to experience what their favorite stars were raving about. These celebrity endorsements, combined with the pizzeria’s presence on social media, helped solidify its reputation as a trendy, must-visit destination.

3. Embracing Innovation and Adaptation

800 Degrees has also embraced innovation in other aspects of its business. In response to customer demand for healthier options, the pizzeria introduced gluten-free and vegan pizzas, as well as a selection of fresh salads and side dishes. The restaurant has also experimented with new technologies, such as self-order kiosks and mobile apps for online ordering, to enhance the customer experience and streamline operations.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, 800 Degrees adapted by offering takeaway, delivery, and even pizza kits that allowed customers to recreate the 800 Degrees experience at home. These adaptations not only helped the brand weather the challenges of the pandemic but also expanded its reach and introduced it to a new audience.

The Story Behind 800 Degrees: Passion, Innovation, and a Love for Pizza

The story of 800 Degrees is one of passion and innovation. Founder Anthony Carron’s love for Neapolitan pizza and his desire to share it with the world led him to create a restaurant that blends tradition with modernity. By combining authentic techniques and ingredients with a build-your-own concept and a fast-casual model, Carron revolutionized the way people think about pizza and created a brand that resonates with diners across the globe.

Must-Try Pizzas at 800 Degrees

While every pizza at 800 Degrees is worth trying, there are a few standout options that showcase the restaurant’s dedication to quality and creativity:

1. Margherita

The quintessential Neapolitan pizza, the Margherita features San Marzano tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil, topped with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. It’s a perfect representation of the simplicity and elegance of traditional Ne

apolitan pizza.

2. Bianca

For those who prefer a pizza without tomato sauce, the Bianca is a delicious option. Topped with mozzarella, ricotta, garlic, and fresh arugula, it’s creamy, garlicky, and full of flavor.

3. Prosciutto & Arugula

A favorite among regulars, the Prosciutto & Arugula pizza is topped with paper-thin slices of prosciutto, fresh arugula, and shaved Parmesan. The combination of salty, savory prosciutto and peppery arugula is a true delight.

4. Truffle Mushroom

This decadent pizza features a blend of wild mushrooms, mozzarella, and truffle oil, resulting in a rich and earthy flavor profile that’s perfect for mushroom lovers.

5. BBQ Chicken

For a non-traditional option, the BBQ Chicken pizza is a must-try. Topped with grilled chicken, barbecue sauce, red onions, and cilantro, it’s a bold and flavorful take on pizza that’s sure to satisfy.

Prices at 800 Degrees: Affordable Artisanal Pizza

Despite its artisanal approach and premium ingredients, 800 Degrees manages to keep its prices accessible. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing for some of the popular items on the menu:

• Build-Your-Own Pizza: Starting at $8-12, depending on the toppings
• Signature Pizzas: $10-16
• Salads and Side Dishes: $6-12
• Desserts: $5-8
• Beverages: $3-6

Conclusion: 800 Degrees – A True Game-Changer in the World of Pizza

From its humble beginnings in Westwood Village to its expansion across the globe, 800 Degrees has redefined what it means to enjoy a high-quality, authentic Neapolitan pizza in a fast-casual setting. With its focus on quality ingredients, traditional techniques, and a modern twist on the build-your-own concept, 800 Degrees has become a beloved institution for pizza lovers everywhere.

Whether you’re in Los Angeles or visiting one of its international locations, a visit to 800 Degrees is a must for anyone seeking an unforgettable pizza experience. So the next time you’re craving a slice of perfection, head over to 800 Degrees and discover why it’s considered one of the best pizzerias in the world.

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