Our Story
A long-form narrative of heritage, craft, and philosophy. Discover the journey of La Fornara from Amalfi to Naples, Campania, and beyond.
Heritage
La Fornara was born in 1987 in Amalfi, a small coastal town in Campania, Italy. Our founder, inspired by generations of Italian pizza tradition, set out to create something authentic — a pizzeria that would honor the craft while pushing the boundaries of flavor.
The name "La Fornara" means "the oven keeper" — a nod to the heart of our craft. Our wood-fired oven, imported from Naples, has been the center of our operations since day one. The same fire that started in Amalfi in 1987 continues to burn today in Naples.
Our heritage is rooted in the traditions of Campania, where pizza was born. We honor the methods passed down through generations while embracing innovation that respects the craft.
Craft
Every pizza at La Fornara is crafted by hand. Our dough is hand-kneaded using traditional Neapolitan methods, slow-fermented for 48 hours to develop the perfect texture and flavor. We use only the finest ingredients from Campania — San Marzano tomatoes, fior di latte mozzarella, and fresh basil.
Our wood-fired oven reaches temperatures of 900°F (482°C), cooking our pizzas in just 90 seconds. This high heat creates the perfect char on the crust while keeping the center soft and airy — the hallmark of authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Our pizzaiolos train for years to master the art of pizza making. They learn the delicate balance of stretching the dough, applying the toppings, and managing the fire. It's a craft that cannot be rushed or automated.
Philosophy
At La Fornara, we believe that great pizza comes from great ingredients, great technique, and great care. We source our ingredients directly from trusted producers in Campania, ensuring the highest quality and supporting local agriculture.
Our philosophy is simple: respect the craft, honor the tradition, and never compromise on quality. Every pizza we serve is a reflection of our commitment to authenticity and excellence.
We believe that food is more than sustenance — it's a way to connect with culture, community, and the land. Every meal at La Fornara is an invitation to experience the heart of Italian culinary tradition.
From Amalfi to Naples
What started as a small pizzeria in Amalfi in 1987 has grown into a beloved institution in Naples. In 1995, we moved to Naples, the birthplace of pizza, to be closer to the heart of the tradition and to serve a larger community.
Today, La Fornara stands as a testament to the enduring power of tradition and craft. We've served thousands of customers over the years, each one experiencing the same authentic Italian pizza that started our journey.
Our commitment to quality and tradition remains unchanged. We continue to use the same methods, the same oven, and the same dedication to craft that defined us from the beginning.
Experience Our Story
Visit us in Naples, Campania, and experience the authentic Italian pizza tradition that has defined La Fornara since 1987.