In a world where food trends come and go, pizza remains a timeless favorite. The quest for the perfect slice reverberates through culinary communities globally. Recent recognition bestowed upon Una Pizza Napoletana—crowned as the best pizzeria not only in the United States but also in the world by 50 Top Pizza—is a testament to the enduring appeal of quality ingredients and dedication to craft. This accolade was awarded to the establishment in September 2023, following an exceptional summer where it also secured the title of Best Pizza in the US for the third consecutive year.
Meet Anthony Mangieri: The Culinary Artisan
At the helm of this pizza institution is Anthony Mangieri, a name synonymous with authentic pizza artistry. His journey began in the cultural melting pot of New Jersey, where a strong Italian-American upbringing ignited his passion for pizza as a child. This early enthusiasm laid the foundation for a professional odyssey, resulting in the establishment of Una Pizza Napoletana in New York City’s Lower East Side. Remarkably, this location marks the sixth iteration of Mangieri’s vision, showcasing his commitment to evolving yet remaining true to the soul of pizza-making.
Mangieri’s approach emphasizes simplicity and purity. He seeks to create not just a meal, but an experience that pays homage to traditional techniques while skillfully incorporating contemporary sensibilities. The essence of his pizzas revolves around a naturally-leavened crust, crafted from a meticulously curated mix of Italian flours, unrefined Sicilian sea salt, and New York City water. This attention to detail culminates in a wood-fired oven that delivers a tantalizing crispness, essential for achieving the perfect pie.
One clear differentiator for Una Pizza Napoletana is its philosophy of minimalist toppings. In a culinary landscape often marked by the addition of extravagant and mismatched ingredients, Mangieri champions the beauty of traditional, high-quality toppings. His menu features classics such as Marinara and Margherita, each meticulously prepared with extraordinary ingredients like grated Vacche Rosse Parmigiano Reggiano and fresh Calabrian long hot peppers. A daily special keeps patrons on their toes, as Mangieri believes in allowing seasonal and market-driven ingredients to inspire creativity.
The award-winning pizzeria has garnered acclaim not just for its pizzas but for its commitment to quality. Reviewers often note the aromatic and delicious notes that resonate from every bite, reinforcing the quality-driven approach that defines Mangieri’s philosophy. There’s an authenticity to each slice, a narrative of tradition and craftsmanship interwoven into the very fabric of the dish.
Yet, a visit to Una Pizza Napoletana extends beyond the sumptuous pizzas. The pizzeria elevates the dining experience with a selection of desserts that have received well-deserved praise. Guests can indulge in handcrafted gelatos and refreshing fruit sorbettos—perfect complements to a flavorful meal. This culinary romance of savory and sweet encapsulates Mangieri’s overarching vision: a destination where each dish is a celebration of Italian culinary heritage.
Bringing the Experience Home: Genio Della Pizza
With pizza culture thriving beyond the urban landscape of New York City, Mangieri has ensured that fans across the United States can still savor his creations from the comfort of their homes. He recently launched Genio Della Pizza, a line of frozen pizzas that provides convenient access to high-caliber styles. Featuring varieties such as classic Margherita and unique offerings like broccoli rabe topped with buffalo mozzarella, this venture showcases Mangieri’s adaptability without compromising on quality.
In a landscape littered with pizzerias striving for popularity, Una Pizza Napoletana stands apart—a bastion of tradition, quality, and passion. Anthony Mangieri’s relentless pursuit of perfection has positioned his establishment not merely as a dining spot but as a symbol of pizza excellence globally. It serves as a reminder that sometimes, the simplest ingredients and the most profound dedication can lead to extraordinary culinary achievements—a slice above the rest.
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