When it comes to the debate over the best pizza in the world, New Yorkers have long been vocal champions of their city’s culinary scene. This debate has gained fresh fuel with the recent announcement of the 2024 50 Top Pizza Awards. The honor of the best pizzeria globally has gone to Una Pizza Napoletana, a Lower East Side establishment run by the talented Anthony Mangieri. This victory not only elevates New York’s status in the global pizza hierarchy but positions Mangieri as a notable innovator who has become synonymous with quality in a city that prides itself on excellence.
The recognition from the Italy-based 50 Top Pizza Awards represents a significant achievement, especially considering the fierce competition. New York City’s pizza culture is nuanced and rich, and winning against renowned pizzerias from Naples—the birthplace of pizza—adds a layer of prestige. Mangieri expressed his gratitude with an insightful statement to CNN Travel, noting the honor in being acknowledged after three decades in the industry, particularly within a culture that cherishes its pizza craft.
In the 2024 awards, Una Pizza Napoletana stood out among a list of 101 pizzerias, which although titled “50 Top,” included entries that encapsulate a worldwide spectrum of culinary excellence. While Italy dominated the overall roster with 41 pizzerias, the United States captured 15 spots, underscoring the growing prowess of the U.S. pizza scene. Alongside Una Pizza Napoletana, places such as Ribalta, Don Antonio, and L’Industrie Pizzeria represented New York’s rich pizza landscape but were inevitably eclipsed by the former’s extraordinary recognition.
What is remarkable is not merely New York’s success but the expanding global pizza community. The awards featured establishments from places not renowned for their pizza, including South Korea, Bolivia, and India, showcasing a culinary trend that transcends borders and merges diverse cultural influences into the beloved staple that is pizza.
So, what makes Una Pizza Napoletana so special? According to the awards committee, it’s the dedication to purism and quality. Mangieri emphasizes traditional toppings while sourcing top-tier ingredients, such as San Marzano tomatoes and buffalo mozzarella, which are integral to crafting authentic Neapolitan pies. His approach is grounded in simplicity—serving only a handful of options, allowing for meticulous focus on each pizza crafted in his wood-fired oven. This philosophy is not merely about pizza but mirrors movements like “slow food,” within culinary practices that prioritize quality over quantity.
The process of creating the dough is where Mangieri’s expertise shines. Rather than a rigid recipe, he approaches the dough-making process as an art, considering hydration and the ambient environment. This artisanal craft takes precedence in every pizza that leaves the oven, reflecting a commitment to perfection that discerning pizza lovers can taste.
While the accolades for the pizzas may steal the spotlight, Una Pizza Napoletana also delights dessert aficionados with its homemade ice cream and seasonal sorbets. This consideration for a fulfilling dining experience adds another dimension to the restaurant’s appeal, creating a rounded meal that caters to various tastes.
Mangieri’s culinary journey has not just been about pursuing accolades. In his words, the acclaim is secondary to the craft itself. It is this dedication to quality and authenticity that drives him to make every ball of dough with love and precision day after day. His personal preferences also reflect a deeper culinary appreciation, where he indulges in pasta and his fiancée’s Mexican dishes, displaying a multifaceted relationship with food beyond his professional focus.
New Beginnings and Future Prospects
For those eager to sample the award-winning pies, there’s a brief wait ahead. Una Pizza Napoletana will be closing briefly for a trip to Italy, further soaking in the inspiration from where pizza culture originated. As the culinary landscape continues to evolve, Mangieri’s singular vision—rooted in tradition yet open to innovation—positions Una Pizza Napoletana as not just a pizzeria but a culinary institution likely to influence many future chefs and pizzaiolos.
The notable victory of Una Pizza Napoletana at the 50 Top Pizza Awards serves as a testament to New York’s vibrant pizza community. As cities worldwide continually innovate and elevate their pizza offerings, this triumph is a reminder of the art and cultural significance of crafting the perfect pie. The world of pizza is not only expansive and colorful but also full of stories, reflecting the passion of those who create it.