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Cambia-Menti di Ciccio Vitiello: A New Era of Neapolitan Pizza in Caserta, Italy
Located in the charming town of Caserta, Italy, Cambia-Menti di Ciccio Vitiello is one of the most celebrated pizzerias in the region. The name “Cambia-Menti,” meaning “change of mind,” reflects the visionary approach of Ciccio Vitiello, the pizzaiolo who founded this establishment. This isn’t your typical Neapolitan pizzeria; it is a place where tradition meets innovation, where the art of pizza-making is constantly evolving, and where every bite tells a story of passion, craftsmanship, and the finest ingredients.
In this article, we will explore the origins of Cambia-Menti, its rise to fame, the story behind its success, the best pizzas you can try, and the price range, so that you can experience the magic of Ciccio Vitiello’s pizza yourself.
How Cambia-Menti di Ciccio Vitiello Started
The story of Cambia-Menti di Ciccio Vitiello is one rooted in family, tradition, and a deep respect for the art of pizza-making. Ciccio Vitiello, born and raised in Caserta, was surrounded by the rich food culture of the Campania region from a young age. His family had a long history of working with food, and pizza, in particular, was a staple in their household. However, Ciccio wasn’t satisfied with merely following the traditions of his forefathers—he wanted to push the boundaries and redefine what Neapolitan pizza could be.
Vitiello started his culinary journey at a young age, training under master pizzaiolos in Naples, the birthplace of pizza. During his early years, he absorbed the classic techniques of dough fermentation, topping combinations, and cooking in wood-fired ovens. But he soon realized that he wanted to create something that would set him apart in the world of pizza. With this ambition in mind, he founded Cambia-Menti in 2016, a name that symbolized his desire to bring about a change in how people viewed pizza—not as street food, but as a gourmet experience.
Why Cambia-Menti is the Best: Innovation Meets Tradition
Cambia-Menti quickly gained a reputation for being one of the most innovative pizzerias in the region. But what exactly makes this pizzeria stand out in a country already overflowing with world-class pizza?
1. A Master of Dough
At the core of Vitiello’s success is his mastery over the pizza dough. Unlike traditional pizzerias that stick to a single dough recipe, Vitiello experiments with different flours, fermentation times, and hydration levels to create the perfect base for his pizzas. His dough is light, airy, and highly digestible, thanks to a long fermentation process that allows the yeast to work slowly and develop complex flavors. The result is a crust that is both crispy and soft, with a slight chew that adds to the overall experience.
2. Top-Quality Ingredients
While many pizzerias in Italy pride themselves on using fresh ingredients, Cambia-Menti takes it a step further by sourcing from small, local producers who are equally passionate about quality. The tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil used in the pizzas are all hand-selected for their flavor and freshness. Vitiello is particularly known for his use of organic and sustainable ingredients, ensuring that every pizza is not only delicious but also environmentally conscious.
The toppings at Cambia-Menti are simple yet luxurious, featuring ingredients like buffalo mozzarella from Campania, San Marzano tomatoes, and extra virgin olive oil. However, Vitiello is not afraid to experiment, often introducing seasonal and exotic ingredients such as truffle, smoked burrata, and even international influences like Japanese miso or Argentine beef.
3. The Art of Balance
One of the reasons Cambia-Menti’s pizzas are so special is the way Ciccio Vitiello balances the flavors and textures of each pizza. He avoids overwhelming his pizzas with too many toppings, opting instead for a minimalist approach that allows each ingredient to shine. Whether it’s the classic Margherita or one of his more experimental creations, every pizza is a masterclass in balance, with the dough, sauce, and toppings working in harmony to create a memorable bite.
4. Innovative Creations
What truly sets Cambia-Menti apart from other pizzerias is Vitiello’s willingness to innovate. He doesn’t shy away from trying new things, whether it’s adding a touch of molecular gastronomy to his pizzas or playing around with unexpected flavor combinations. This creative spirit is embodied in pizzas like the “Viaggio Napoletano,” which features ingredients sourced from various regions of Italy, or the “Sakura,” a pizza inspired by Japanese flavors with toppings like smoked salmon, wasabi, and nori seaweed.
Ciccio Vitiello also places a strong emphasis on the visual presentation of his pizzas. Each one is plated like a work of art, with toppings carefully arranged to create a visually stunning dish.
How Cambia-Menti Became Popular
The rise of Cambia-Menti in the competitive world of Neapolitan pizza can be attributed to a combination of Vitiello’s skill, his unique approach to pizza, and the word-of-mouth praise from both locals and tourists.
1. Recognition from Food Critics
One of the key turning points for Cambia-Menti’s rise to fame was the recognition it received from Gambero Rosso, one of Italy’s most prestigious food guides. In 2018, Cambia-Menti was awarded high marks for its innovation and commitment to quality, putting it on the map as one of Italy’s top pizzerias. Since then, the restaurant has been featured in numerous national and international publications, including Michelin and 50 Top Pizza, further boosting its reputation.
2. Local Popularity
Caserta, though not as globally famous as Naples, has a strong local food scene, and Cambia-Menti quickly became a favorite among the residents. The combination of Vitiello’s use of local ingredients and his friendly, welcoming personality helped create a loyal following. People flocked to the pizzeria to taste his unique creations and experience the art of pizza-making from a master pizzaiolo.
3. Social Media and International Attention
Like many modern restaurants, Cambia-Menti has leveraged the power of social media to grow its popularity. Vitiello and his team regularly post photos of their stunning pizzas on Instagram, showcasing their creative toppings and impeccable presentation. This has helped attract a global audience, with food bloggers and influencers frequently visiting the pizzeria and sharing their experiences online.
Cambia-Menti’s international appeal has also been bolstered by the growing trend of food tourism. Visitors from all over the world come to Caserta specifically to try Vitiello’s pizzas, often inspired by glowing reviews and recommendations from online communities.
The Story Behind Cambia-Menti: Ciccio Vitiello’s Philosophy
Ciccio Vitiello’s philosophy when it comes to pizza is simple: respect tradition but never stop innovating. He believes that while pizza has deep roots in Italian culture, there is always room for improvement and creativity. This mindset is reflected in the name of his restaurant, Cambia-Menti, which encourages people to change their mindset about what pizza can be.
Vitiello’s journey hasn’t always been easy. Opening a pizzeria in a country where pizza is practically a religion comes with its challenges, especially when you’re trying to break away from the norm. But Vitiello has always been confident in his vision, and he has never been afraid to take risks. Whether it’s experimenting with new flavors or rethinking the presentation of his pizzas, he has stayed true to his belief that pizza should constantly evolve.
Another key aspect of Vitiello’s philosophy is sustainability. He is committed to using ingredients that are not only of the highest quality but are also sourced responsibly. This includes working with local farmers and producers who share his commitment to sustainability and ensuring that his kitchen produces as little waste as possible.
Must-Try Pizzas at Cambia-Menti
If you’re planning a visit to Cambia-Menti di Ciccio Vitiello, here are some of the must-try pizzas that showcase the best of Vitiello’s creativity and skill:
1. Margherita
While it may seem simple, the Margherita at Cambia-Menti is anything but ordinary. Made with San Marzano tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and fresh basil, this pizza is a testament to the power of high-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship. The dough is perfectly crisp on the outside, while the toppings are bursting with flavor.
2. “Viaggio Napoletano”
One of Vitiello’s signature creations, the “Viaggio Napoletano” takes you on a journey through Italy with toppings that represent different regions of the country. From buffalo mozzarella in Campania to truffle from Umbria, each ingredient is carefully selected to create a pizza that is both diverse and harmonious.
3. Sakura
For something a little more unconventional, the Sakura pizza is a must-try. Inspired by Japanese flavors, this pizza features smoked salmon, wasabi, nori seaweed, and a drizzle of soy sauce, creating a fusion of Italian and Japanese cuisines that is both surprising and delightful.
4. Truffle and Burrata
If you’re in the mood for something
luxurious, the Truffle and Burrata pizza is a must-try. The combination of rich, earthy truffle and creamy burrata cheese is nothing short of indulgent, and the light, airy dough provides the perfect base for these decadent toppings.
Pricing at Cambia-Menti di Ciccio Vitiello
Given its high-quality ingredients and innovative approach, the prices at Cambia-Menti are surprisingly reasonable. Here’s a general idea of the pricing:
- Classic Pizzas (Margherita, Marinara): €8 – €10
- Specialty Pizzas (Viaggio Napoletano, Truffle and Burrata): €12 – €18
- Premium Pizzas (Sakura, International Creations): €20 – €25
Wine and beer are available at the restaurant, with prices ranging from €4 for a glass of local wine to €25 for a premium bottle.
Conclusion: Why Cambia-Menti di Ciccio Vitiello is a Must-Visit
If you’re a pizza lover and find yourself in Caserta, Cambia-Menti di Ciccio Vitiello is a pizzeria you simply cannot miss. From its perfectly crafted dough to its innovative toppings, this restaurant offers a pizza experience that is truly one of a kind. Whether you’re drawn in by the promise of a classic Margherita or intrigued by the unique fusion of Italian and Japanese flavors in the Sakura pizza, every bite at Cambia-Menti will leave you wanting more.
Ciccio Vitiello has not only redefined what pizza can be but has also created a space where tradition and innovation coexist in perfect harmony. So, the next time you’re in Caserta, make sure to stop by Cambia-Menti and experience the future of Neapolitan pizza for yourself.
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