Spacca Napoli: Chicago’s Slice of Neapolitan Tradition

In a city known for its deep-dish pizza, Spacca Napoli stands out by offering a different kind of pie—one that is as authentic as it gets when it comes to the iconic flavors and traditions of Naples. Since its inception, Spacca Napoli has been serving pizzas that adhere to the true Neapolitan style, captivating the hearts and taste buds of Chicagoans and visitors alike. With its unique story, dedication to quality, and commitment to authenticity, Spacca Napoli has established itself as a must-visit destination for pizza lovers.

In this article, we delve into the fascinating history of Spacca Napoli, explore what makes it the best, and highlight how it has grown in popularity. We’ll uncover the story behind this beloved pizzeria, detail the must-try pizzas on the menu, and provide a comprehensive overview of pricing to ensure you know exactly what to expect when you visit.

How Spacca Napoli Started: A Dream Brought to Life by a Passionate Pizzaiolo

Spacca Napoli was founded in 2006 by Jonathan Goldsmith, a Chicago native with an unlikely but inspiring journey into the world of Neapolitan pizza-making. Unlike many restaurateurs who inherit family traditions or grow up in the food business, Jonathan’s career started far from the kitchen. He spent years working as a social worker and therapist, helping individuals and families navigate challenges and build stronger communities.

However, Jonathan’s love for Italian culture and cuisine began to flourish after a visit to Naples in the early 2000s. He was struck by the simplicity and depth of flavor of true Neapolitan pizza and became enamored with the process of creating it. His trip to Naples wasn’t just a vacation; it was the start of a new chapter in his life. Inspired by the pizzaiolos he met and the experiences he had, Jonathan returned to Chicago with a newfound passion and a dream to bring the authentic taste of Naples to his hometown.

Learning from the Masters

Determined to master the craft, Jonathan immersed himself in the world of pizza-making. He traveled back to Naples multiple times, working and learning alongside some of the city’s most revered pizzaiolos. He spent time in pizzerias such as Da Michele, Di Matteo, and Trianon, honing his skills and deepening his understanding of what makes Neapolitan pizza so special. These experiences gave him the foundation he needed to open Spacca Napoli and the confidence to introduce this style of pizza to a city that had long been dominated by its own distinct pizza traditions.

Finding the Perfect Location

Jonathan knew that if he wanted to bring a taste of Naples to Chicago, he needed a space that would reflect the spirit and warmth of a true Italian pizzeria. After an extensive search, he found a location in the Ravenswood neighborhood, a charming area known for its historic architecture and vibrant community. The space, which once housed a mechanic’s shop, was transformed into a welcoming pizzeria complete with an imported wood-fired oven from Naples, colorful tile work, and rustic decor that evokes the essence of southern Italy.

With the stage set, Spacca Napoli opened its doors in 2006, immediately capturing the attention of pizza enthusiasts and food critics alike.

Why Spacca Napoli is the Best: A Commitment to Authenticity and Quality

1. True Neapolitan Techniques and Traditions

One of the key factors that set Spacca Napoli apart is its unwavering commitment to authenticity. The pizzeria adheres to the strict guidelines set by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), an organization that certifies pizzerias that follow traditional Neapolitan pizza-making techniques. This means that every aspect of Spacca Napoli’s pizza—from the ingredients to the preparation to the cooking method—aligns with the standards that define true Neapolitan pizza.

The dough is made using Italian flour, water, sea salt, and a small amount of yeast. It is then left to ferment for up to 48 hours, allowing the flavors to develop and the dough to achieve the perfect texture. Once the dough is ready, it is shaped by hand and topped with high-quality ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes, fresh buffalo mozzarella, and extra-virgin olive oil.

2. The Art of the Wood-Fired Oven

Spacca Napoli’s pizzas are baked in a traditional wood-fired oven that reaches temperatures of up to 900°F (about 480°C). This intense heat cooks the pizzas in under 90 seconds, creating a crust that is soft and chewy on the inside, with just the right amount of charring on the outside. The oven, which was custom-built in Naples and shipped to Chicago, is the centerpiece of the pizzeria and a testament to Jonathan’s dedication to authenticity.

The quick baking process ensures that the ingredients maintain their fresh, vibrant flavors, while the high heat gives the pizza its distinctive texture. The result is a pizza that transports you straight to Naples with every bite.

3. Sourcing the Best Ingredients

Another aspect that makes Spacca Napoli stand out is its commitment to using only the finest ingredients, many of which are imported directly from Italy. The tomatoes used in the sauce are San Marzano DOP, grown in the volcanic soil of the Sarno River Valley, and known for their sweet, tangy flavor. The mozzarella is either fresh buffalo mozzarella or fior di latte, both of which add a creamy, slightly tangy note to the pizzas.

Even the flour used for the dough is imported from one of Italy’s oldest mills, ensuring that the texture and flavor of the crust are as authentic as possible. This attention to detail and dedication to quality are what make Spacca Napoli’s pizzas truly exceptional.

4. A Menu that Balances Tradition and Creativity

While Spacca Napoli remains faithful to traditional recipes, it also offers a menu that celebrates the diversity and creativity of Italian cuisine. The pizzeria’s offerings range from classic Neapolitan pizzas like the Margherita and Marinara to more inventive options that showcase seasonal ingredients and unique flavor combinations.

For example, the Prosciutto e Rucola features a base of fresh mozzarella topped with thinly sliced prosciutto and a generous handful of peppery arugula, finished with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. The Diavola, on the other hand, is perfect for those who like a bit of heat, with spicy salami and a hint of chili oil.

The menu also includes a variety of antipasti, salads, and desserts, all made with the same level of care and attention as the pizzas.

5. A Community-Focused Dining Experience

At Spacca Napoli, the focus isn’t just on the food—it’s on the overall experience. The restaurant’s layout, with its open kitchen and communal seating, encourages conversation and interaction. The staff are knowledgeable and passionate about what they do, always willing to share the story behind each dish or recommend a wine pairing.

Jonathan’s background in social work has also influenced the restaurant’s approach to hospitality. Spacca Napoli regularly hosts events like pizza-making classes, wine dinners, and charity fundraisers, fostering a sense of community and making the pizzeria a beloved gathering place for Chicagoans.

How Spacca Napoli Became Popular: A Journey of Dedication and Excellence

1. Word-of-Mouth and Critical Acclaim

From the day it opened, Spacca Napoli began to attract attention with its authentic flavors and warm atmosphere. Word quickly spread among locals and food enthusiasts, who praised the pizzeria for its dedication to quality and authenticity. Positive reviews on platforms like Yelp, Google Reviews, and TripAdvisor helped generate buzz, and before long, Spacca Napoli was being mentioned in local and national food publications.

2. Recognition from the Pizza Community

Spacca Napoli’s commitment to authenticity and excellence didn’t go unnoticed by the global pizza community either. In 2008, just two years after opening, the pizzeria received certification from the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), solidifying its status as an authentic Neapolitan pizzeria. This recognition brought Spacca Napoli into the spotlight, earning it a place on the list of must-visit pizzerias in the United States.

3. Media Coverage and Awards

Over the years, Spacca Napoli has been featured in numerous publications, including Bon Appétit, The Chicago Tribune, Eater, and The Wall Street Journal. It has been named one of the best pizzerias in Chicago by multiple sources and continues to receive accolades for its exceptional pizzas and overall dining experience.

4. A Loyal Customer Base

Perhaps the most significant factor in Spacca Napoli’s popularity is its loyal customer base. Many of the restaurant’s patrons have been coming since it first opened and continue to return for the consistently high-quality food and welcoming atmosphere. This strong community support has helped Spacca Napoli thrive, even in the face of challenges like the COVID-19 pandemic.

During the pandemic, Spacca Napoli adapted by offering takeout and delivery options, ensuring that customers could still enjoy their favorite pizzas at home. The pizzeria also introduced DIY pizza kits, which became a hit among families looking for a fun, interactive way to enjoy Spacca Napoli’s flavors in their own kitchens.

The Story Behind Spacca Napoli: A Passionate Pursuit of Culinary Excellence

The story of Spacca Napoli is, at its core, a story of passion. Jonathan Goldsmith’s journey from social worker to pizzaiolo is a testament to the power of following one’s passion and dedication to mastering a craft. His commitment to bringing the true flavors of Naples to Chicago is evident in every aspect of the restaurant, from the ingredients to the service to the atmosphere.

But Spacca Napoli is more than just a pizzeria—it’s a celebration of the rich culinary traditions of

Naples and the joy of sharing great food with great company. Through his pizzeria, Jonathan has created a space where people can come together, connect, and experience the magic of true Neapolitan pizza.

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