Pepe in Grani: Bridging the Past and Present with Culinary Artistry.
Where: Vicolo S. Giovanni Battista, 3, 81013 Caiazzo CE, Italy
In the heart of Caiazzo, Italy, a small town with big culinary ambitions, lies a pizzeria that has taken the world by storm. Pepe in Grani, under the guidance of the visionary chef Franco Pepe, has not only redefined the art of pizza-making but has also earned its place as one of the finest pizzerias globally. This is the story of how Franco Pepe became the maestro behind the world's best pizza.
A Slice of Heaven in Caiazzo
Caiazzo, a picturesque town in the Campania region of Italy, may not be on the typical tourist map, but it holds a secret that gourmands worldwide have uncovered. Nestled amid the cobblestone streets and historic buildings of this charming town is Pepe in Grani. The unassuming exterior hides a culinary treasure trove within.
The restaurant's name, Pepe in Grani, translates to "Pepe in Grain," a nod to Franco Pepe's unwavering commitment to using only the finest grains in his pizza dough. The grains are meticulously sourced, and the dough is allowed to ferment for hours, resulting in a crust that's simultaneously light and crispy.
The Philosophy of Franco Pepe: Tradition and Innovation
At the heart of Pepe in Grani is Franco Pepe's culinary philosophy, which marries tradition with innovation. He understands the rich heritage of Neapolitan pizza-making but isn't afraid to push boundaries and experiment with new flavours and ingredients. He aims to create a memorable dining experience that honours the roots of pizza while delighting the palate with unexpected twists.
The Journey of a Maestro: Franco Pepe's Story
Franco Pepe's journey to becoming a pizza maestro is one of passion and dedication. Raised in a family with a deep appreciation for food, he was exposed to the art of pizza-making from a young age. His father, who ran a pizzeria, instilled in him the importance of using the freshest ingredients and respecting traditional techniques.
After honing his skills and expanding his culinary knowledge, Franco Pepe returned to his hometown of Caiazzo to open his own pizzeria. Pepe in Grani was born, and the rest is history. With boundless creativity and an unwavering commitment to excellence, he started crafting pizzas that would soon be recognized as some of the world's best.
Signature Pizzas: A Culinary Symphony
Pepe in Grani's menu is a testament to Franco Pepe's culinary prowess. While he offers a range of delectable options, it's his signature pizzas that truly shine:
- Margherita Perini: A classic Margherita pizza with a twist, featuring tomatoes from the Perini farm, known for their intense flavour.
- Montanara: A deep-fried pizza with a delightful crunch, topped with San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil.
- Fior di Latte with Lemon Zest: A refreshing and tangy pizza that combines creamy Fior di Latte cheese with the zing of lemon zest.
- The Bosco: A celebration of forest flavours with a mix of wild mushrooms and truffle oil, all atop a perfectly baked crust.
Each pizza is a symphony of flavours, a testament to Franco Pepe's commitment to quality, and a reflection of the region's culinary heritage.
The Best Pizza in the World
Franco Pepe's relentless pursuit of pizza perfection has not gone unnoticed. Pepe in Grani has received accolades and awards from prestigious culinary organizations worldwide. In 2019, it was ranked as the best pizzeria in the world by 50 Top Pizza, a renowned guide to the world's best pizza places.
But beyond the awards, what truly sets Pepe in Grani apart is the experience it offers—a journey through the rich history of pizza-making, a celebration of the finest ingredients, and a masterclass in culinary innovation.
Pepe in Grani, under the visionary leadership of Franco Pepe, continues to be a beacon of excellence in the world of pizza. It's a place where tradition and innovation dance harmoniously on your plate, creating a culinary experience that will linger in your memory long after the last slice is savoured. If you're a pizza lover with a craving for the extraordinary, Caiazzo is calling your name.
