Una Pizza Napoletana Crowned Best Pizzeria in the World 2024

The world of pizza is vast and varied, with countless styles and flavors that delight food lovers everywhere. Traditionally, Naples, Italy, has been hailed as the birthplace of pizza, a city where the art of pizza-making has been perfected over centuries. However, in a surprising twist, the latest 50 Top Pizza Awards for 2024 have crowned a New York City establishment as the best pizzeria in the world. This recognition has sparked conversations about the evolving landscape of pizza and the culinary creativity that can be found beyond its traditional roots.

Una Pizza Napoletana, located in the Lower East Side of New York, has taken the top spot in this prestigious ranking. Opened by pizza expert Anthony Mangieri in March 2022, the restaurant has quickly gained a reputation for its dedication to quality and authenticity. Mangieri, who has spent over 30 years honing his craft, expressed his gratitude for the recognition, stating, "It’s inspiring to be recognized for this 30 years into my career, especially in Naples where pizza originated." This statement reflects the pride and passion that Mangieri pours into every pizza he creates.

New Yorkers are known for their strong opinions about pizza, and this award adds to their culinary bragging rights. Alongside Una Pizza Napoletana, three other New York pizzerias made it onto the 2024 list, showcasing the city's vibrant pizza scene. Ribalta ranked at No. 19, Don Antonio at No. 30, and L’industrie Pizzeria at No. 80. While Italy still dominated the overall list with 41 entries, the United States secured a respectable 15 spots, proving that the love for pizza extends far beyond its Italian origins.

The 50 Top Pizza Awards highlighted the unique approach of Una Pizza Napoletana, emphasizing its commitment to traditional toppings and high-quality ingredients. The restaurant offers a limited menu featuring classics like Marinara and Margherita, along with a daily special that showcases seasonal ingredients. Mangieri’s philosophy centers around using the best possible components, including San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella, to create a pizza that is both simple and extraordinary.

What sets Una Pizza Napoletana apart is not just the ingredients but also the meticulous process behind each pizza. Mangieri focuses on naturally leavened, wood-fired pizzas, ensuring that every detail is attended to. He believes that the key to a great pizza lies in the dough, stating, "What makes a really good pizza is first the dough. It’s not a specific recipe, but it’s about hydration and understanding how to work the dough and being able to adapt to all the variables involved." This dedication to craftsmanship is evident in every bite.

For those who appreciate a slower dining experience, Una Pizza Napoletana bakes only three pizzas at a time in its wood-fired ovens, allowing for a focused and intimate atmosphere. The restaurant's location at 175 Orchard Street is the sixth iteration of Mangieri's vision, and it has quickly become a must-visit destination for pizza enthusiasts.

In addition to its acclaimed pizzas, Una Pizza Napoletana also offers homemade ice cream and seasonal sorbets, appealing to those with a sweet tooth. Mangieri’s passion for food extends beyond pizza, as he enjoys indulging in pasta and his fiancée’s Mexican cooking. This personal touch adds a layer of warmth to the dining experience.

As the pizza world continues to evolve, the recognition of Una Pizza Napoletana as the best pizzeria in the world serves as a reminder that culinary excellence can be found in unexpected places. Whether you are a pizza purist or an adventurous eater, the journey of discovering new flavors and styles is what makes the world of food so exciting. So, the next time you find yourself in New York City, consider stopping by Una Pizza Napoletana to experience firsthand what has captured the attention of pizza lovers around the globe.