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When it comes to pizza, New York City is a battleground of styles, techniques, and flavors. Among the countless pizza joints dotting the city’s streets, one name has consistently risen above the rest for its commitment to authenticity, simplicity, and perfection — Una Pizza Napoletana. This pizzeria, nestled in the heart of Manhattan, has redefined what it means to make a great Neapolitan pizza in the United States. But how did Una Pizza Napoletana come to be, and why is it considered one of the best pizza spots in the world?
How It All Started: The Journey of Anthony Mangieri
The story of Una Pizza Napoletana begins with a man named Anthony Mangieri, a name now synonymous with the art of pizza-making. Mangieri, a New Jersey native, grew up with a deep appreciation for food, particularly bread and pizza, rooted in his Italian heritage. By the time he was a teenager, Mangieri had already fallen in love with the idea of creating traditional, rustic pizzas.
His passion for baking bread naturally led him to experiment with pizza dough. What started as a hobby soon became an obsession. Mangieri spent years studying the craft, traveling to Italy to learn from masters in Naples, the birthplace of pizza. He wasn’t just interested in making pizza; he wanted to perfect the age-old techniques that made Neapolitan pizza a globally revered dish.
In 1996, Mangieri opened the first Una Pizza Napoletana in Point Pleasant Beach, New Jersey, marking the beginning of a pizza revolution. It was a small operation, but his commitment to authenticity, from hand-made dough to the wood-fired oven, set the pizzeria apart from others.
In 2004, Mangieri relocated to New York City, bringing with him the same ethos of uncompromising quality that had won him a loyal following. However, his journey didn’t end there. Una Pizza Napoletana later found itself in San Francisco for several years before Mangieri returned to his roots in New York in 2018, reopening on the Lower East Side. Each relocation only solidified its status as a pizza institution.
Why Is It Considered the Best?
What makes Una Pizza Napoletana stand out from other pizzerias is Mangieri’s singular focus on quality over quantity. The menu is simple, featuring only a handful of pizzas — no frills, no extraneous toppings, just pizza as it was meant to be. Mangieri’s philosophy centers on using the highest-quality ingredients and traditional methods to create the perfect pie.
Here are some reasons why Una Pizza Napoletana is considered one of the best:
- The Dough: At the heart of every pizza is the dough, and Mangieri’s dough is legendary. Made fresh daily, the dough is allowed to ferment slowly, developing complex flavors and a chewy, airy texture. It’s a far cry from the dense, overcooked crusts often found in other pizza joints.
- Wood-Fired Oven: True to Neapolitan tradition, the pizzas at Una Pizza Napoletana are cooked in a wood-fired oven, reaching temperatures of up to 900 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures a quick cook time, giving the pizza a perfectly charred crust while keeping the interior soft and flavorful.
- Simplicity: Mangieri doesn’t believe in overloading his pizzas with toppings. Instead, each pizza is made with just a few carefully chosen ingredients, allowing the flavors of the dough, sauce, and cheese to shine through. The simplicity of the pizzas is a testament to Mangieri’s confidence in his craft.
- Authenticity: Mangieri’s dedication to preserving the traditions of Neapolitan pizza-making is unwavering. From the use of imported Italian ingredients to the precise techniques he employs, every pizza at Una Pizza Napoletana is a love letter to Naples.
- Consistency: One of the hallmarks of Una Pizza Napoletana is its consistency. Each pizza is made by Mangieri himself, ensuring that every pie meets his exacting standards. This level of hands-on dedication is rare in the restaurant industry, especially in a city as fast-paced as New York.
How It Became Popular: Word of Mouth and Culinary Recognition
Una Pizza Napoletana’s rise to fame can be attributed to two things: word of mouth and critical acclaim. From the beginning, Anthony Mangieri’s pizzas garnered attention for their authenticity and craftsmanship. Food critics, bloggers, and pizza aficionados quickly took notice of the pizzeria’s dedication to quality.
Over the years, Una Pizza Napoletana has received numerous accolades from some of the most respected voices in the culinary world. It has consistently been listed as one of the best pizzerias in the United States, and in 2022, it was awarded a Michelin star — a rare honor for a pizzeria.
In addition to critical acclaim, the pizzeria has gained a loyal following of customers who appreciate Mangieri’s no-compromise approach to pizza-making. In a city where trends come and go, Una Pizza Napoletana has remained a steadfast favorite, thanks to its timeless appeal and unmatched quality.
The Story Behind the Success: A Singular Vision
The success of Una Pizza Napoletana can be traced back to Anthony Mangieri’s singular vision. While many restaurateurs are tempted to expand, adding new locations or branching out into different types of cuisine, Mangieri has remained laser-focused on one thing: making the best pizza possible.
This focus has allowed Mangieri to hone his craft over the years, continually refining his techniques and ensuring that every pizza that comes out of the oven is a masterpiece. Mangieri’s dedication to his craft is evident in every aspect of Una Pizza Napoletana, from the sourcing of ingredients to the meticulous care he takes in preparing each pizza.
Unlike many chefs who delegate responsibilities as their restaurants grow, Mangieri continues to make each pizza himself. This hands-on approach ensures that every customer experiences the same level of quality that has made Una Pizza Napoletana famous.
The Best Pizza to Try at Una Pizza Napoletana
While every pizza at Una Pizza Napoletana is exceptional, there are a few standout options that are not to be missed:
- Margherita: The Margherita is the quintessential Neapolitan pizza, and Mangieri’s version is flawless. Made with San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, extra virgin olive oil, and basil, this pizza is a celebration of simplicity and balance.
- Filetti: For something a little different, try the Filetti, which is made with fresh cherry tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, and basil. The sweet acidity of the cherry tomatoes pairs perfectly with the creamy mozzarella.
- Marinara: A classic Neapolitan pizza without cheese, the Marinara is a simple yet flavorful option. Made with San Marzano tomatoes, garlic, oregano, and extra virgin olive oil, this pizza is a perfect example of how Mangieri lets the quality of his ingredients shine.
- Specialty Pizzas: Mangieri occasionally offers seasonal or specialty pizzas, depending on the availability of ingredients. These pizzas are often experimental and reflect Mangieri’s creativity while staying true to the Neapolitan tradition.
What Are the Prices at Una Pizza Napoletana?
While Una Pizza Napoletana is often described as one of the best pizzerias in the world, it is also known for its relatively high prices. Each pizza ranges from $30 to $50, which may seem steep compared to other pizzerias. However, the price reflects the premium ingredients and the labor-intensive process that goes into each pie.
The limited menu and minimalist approach are intentional, as Mangieri prefers to focus on quality over quantity. Given the level of craftsmanship and the Michelin star recognition, most customers feel that the price is justified for the experience of enjoying one of the best pizzas in the world.
Conclusion: A Must-Visit for Pizza Lovers
Una Pizza Napoletana isn’t just a pizzeria; it’s a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and authenticity. Anthony Mangieri’s commitment to perfecting the art of Neapolitan pizza has earned him a loyal following and widespread acclaim. Whether you’re a pizza enthusiast or someone looking for an unforgettable dining experience in New York City, Una Pizza Napoletana should be at the top of your list.
From the meticulously crafted dough to the wood-fired perfection, every aspect of Una Pizza Napoletana is designed to deliver a pizza experience unlike any other. So, the next time you find yourself in New York, make sure to stop by this iconic pizzeria and savor a slice of pizza history.
Location: 175 Orchard St, New York, NY 10002, USA
Hours: Wednesday to Saturday, 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Contact: +1 646-476-4457
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