Pizza is one of the most popular foods in the world, known and consumed in almost every country. While there are countless variations, the true classic is Neapolitan pizza, which boasts centuries-old traditions and offers a unique gastronomic experience due to its special preparation methods.
Pizza is one of the most well-known and beloved dishes worldwide, with roots deeply embedded in Italian cuisine and culture. While ancient civilizations—such as the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans—made flatbreads with various toppings centuries ago, the cradle of modern pizza is undoubtedly Naples, Italy.
The origins of pizza
The pizza as we know it today emerged in 18th-19th century Naples, where it served as a quick and filling meal for the poorer classes. The first true pizzerias opened here and quickly gained popularity among locals. One of the most famous stories tells of the creation of the renowned Margherita pizza in 1889 when pizza maker Raffaele Esposito crafted a pizza that reflected the colors of the Italian flag: red tomatoes, white mozzarella, and green basil. This pizza was named in honor of Queen Margherita and has since remained one of the most famous pizza varieties in the world.
The most famous types of pizza
1. Margherita
The classic Neapolitan pizza, made with just three ingredients: tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Despite its simplicity, it is one of the most delicious and authentic pizza types.
2. Marinara
Also originating from Naples, this is one of the oldest pizza recipes. It consists of tomato sauce, garlic, oregano, and olive oil—no cheese, yet incredibly flavorful.
3. Quattro Formaggi (Four Cheese)
A dream for cheese lovers: Quattro Formaggi pizza is made with four different types of cheese, typically mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan, and pecorino or other local cheeses. The base can be either tomato-based or cream-based.
4. Capricciosa
This Italian pizza is topped with rich ingredients: tomato sauce, mozzarella, ham, mushrooms, artichokes, and black olives. It is a true classic and a staple in Italian pizzerias.
5. Prosciutto e Funghi (Ham and Mushroom)
A simple yet excellent pizza featuring tomato sauce, mozzarella, ham, and fresh mushrooms.
6. Quattro Stagioni (Four Seasons)
This pizza is divided into four sections, each representing a different season with a unique topping. It typically includes ham, mushrooms, artichokes, and olives.
7. Pepperoni
More popular in the United States than in Italy, the pepperoni pizza is globally recognized. Made with spicy, salami-like sausage, it is one of the top choices in American pizzerias.
8. Hawaiian Pizza
Perhaps the most controversial pizza in the world, topped with ham and pineapple. Interestingly, it did not originate in Italy but in Canada, where a Greek-born chef invented it in the 1960s.
9. Siciliana (Sicilian Pizza)
This thicker-crusted pizza comes from Sicily and is often topped with anchovies, olives, capers, and onions. Sometimes, the toppings are baked into the dough, making it a kind of stuffed pizza.
10. Calzone
Essentially a folded pizza, calzone contains its toppings inside, such as mozzarella, ricotta, ham, and vegetables. It is popular both in Italy and abroad.
The specialties of Neapolitan pizza
Neapolitan pizza is not just a simple dish but an art form prepared according to strict regulations. Its key characteristics include:
- Traditional ingredients: Authentic Neapolitan pizza is made using only natural, high-quality ingredients, such as San Marzano tomatoes, fresh mozzarella di bufala, and extra virgin olive oil.
- Special dough: The dough undergoes a long fermentation process, resulting in a light, airy, crispy yet soft texture.
- Wood-fired oven: True Neapolitan pizza is baked in a wood-fired oven at 450-500°C (840-930°F) for just 60-90 seconds, giving it a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside soft.
- Hand-stretched: The dough is stretched by hand—rolling pins are not allowed—to preserve its airy structure.
Where to taste authentic Neapolitan pizza in Budapest?
If you want to try real Neapolitan pizza, you don’t necessarily have to travel to Italy. In Budapest, there are several places where Italian traditions are faithfully followed. One such excellent spot is Oinos Bistro & Wine Bar, which offers not only authentic Neapolitan pizzas but also a unique selection of wines.
At Oinos, pizzas are prepared according to traditional Neapolitan recipes, using fresh ingredients and baked in a wood-fired oven to achieve the perfect texture and flavor. The restaurant places special emphasis on high-quality ingredients, ensuring that every bite delivers a true Italian experience. Oinos Bistro’s pizza selection satisfies every taste, but the most popular choices are the classic Margherita and Marinara, which create a perfect harmony of flavors despite their simplicity. It is also worth trying the Prosciutto e Rucola pizza, topped with fresh arugula and Italian ham, as well as the Diavola, which features spicy salami for an extra kick.
