malfi Pizza is a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria centered on two 6000-pound wood-burning brick ovens imported from Italy. Co-founder and operating partner, Greg Grant, developed an authentic Italian menu that will include Neapolitan-style pizzas and appetizers, salads, pasta dishes and original desserts. Besides traveling to Naples and throughout the entire region to find the best ingredients, both Stephen de Haan and Greg Grant studied with the Italian Pizzaiolo Maestros at Pizzeria Mattozzi, established in 1830, and Pizzeria Da Attilio. This apprenticeship, along with studying in the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, has allowed their passion for food to develop the skills to bring this historic, simple, and beautifully executed street food to Atlanta.
In the heart of Atlanta, off Peachtree Street next to the Peachtree Center, the place is easy to find with their big white sign. I went with my cousin, who was in town staying at the Ritz for a conference. Amalfi pizza is literally within walking distance or a short cab ride to downtown on Peachtree Street.
When you walk in, the Italian-inspired entryway has an open courtyard feel with brick exterior and water fountain, almost like you step into a different world. Upstairs, the large semicircular booth and table seating toward the wall is an open kitchen with two 6000-pound wood-burning brick ovens. I love their open kitchen and seeing their staff making each pizza with freshly made ingredients.
What I Had and Liked..
Appetizers
CALAMARI FRITTI consisted of Corn dusted, served with San Marzano marinara and lemon aioli.
POLPETTE (3-MEAT MEATBALL) House made with a blend of veal, ground beef, and pork, fresh fior di latte mozzarella, and San Marzano marinara.
Pizza.
MARGHERITA PIZZA consisted of House made San Marzano sauce, fior di latte mozzarella, fresh basil, and imported extra virgin olive oil. The classic Neapolitan cheese pizza.
PIZZA AMALFI (HOUSE SPECIALTY) Hand crushed San Marzano tomato sauce, spicy sausage, peppadew peppers, caramelized onion, house-made bacon jam, topped with fior di latte mozzarella.
The verdict.
Both pizzas were amazing. You can taste the fresh tomatoes and mozzarella complemented each other. I was impressed with the attentive staff and amazed how fast the pizza came in under a min. The ambiance is another plus with the Italian inspired entranceway and open kitchen with the two huge ovens. It is a must go for any occasion.
This article was originally published on Ask Kwame.