Italy’s pizza mastery remains unshaken at the pinnacle of global rankings, yet one Manhattan pizzeria is making serious moves up the international leaderboard. The Best Pizza Awards 2025, determined by 512 culinary experts from 60 countries, placed all five top spots firmly in Italian hands—but Una Pizza Napoletana in New York’s Lower East Side surged to #17, jumping an impressive 11 positions from the previous year to become America’s highest-ranked entry.
A Manhattan Success Story Rooted in Italian Tradition
Anthony Mangieri‘s rise through the rankings reflects more than culinary skill—it represents the successful marriage of Old World tradition with New York ambition. The Salerno-born pizzaiolo operates with monastic dedication at his Orchard Street location, personally crafting every pizza that emerges from his wood-fired oven. Events like the great nosh, NYC’s new food festival celebrate this artisanal dedication, showcasing how traditional craftsmanship attracts food enthusiasts seeking authentic experiences. This hands-on approach, rare among internationally acclaimed restaurants, has become central to Una Pizza Napoletana’s identity and success.
The ceremony in Milan highlighted what organizers call “authentic craftsmanship, bold innovation, and diverse voices” in pizza-making worldwide. This philosophy captures exactly what’s happening in New York’s pizza scene:
• Lucali (#25) – Known for thin-crust pies in Carroll Gardens
• Stretch Pizza (#27) – Modern approach to traditional techniques
• L’Industrie Pizza (#34) – Innovative toppings meet classic preparation
• Don Antonio (#52) – Authentic Neapolitan style in Midtown
• Mama’s TOO! (#95) – Square pies that push creative boundaries
“Powered by The Best Chef Awards, The Best Pizza Awards is the only accreditation platform that remains purely aligned with culinary standards, independent of business influence.,” according to The Best Pizza Awards statement.
Mangieri’s journey from New Jersey origins to Manhattan acclaim illustrates the broader story of American pizzaiolos honoring Italian culinary heritage while adapting techniques for local palates. His restaurant operates with premium pricing—individual pies range from $20-$30—but the consistent climb in global rankings validates both his approach and New York’s position as a serious pizza destination. Meanwhile, culinary creativity extends beyond traditional boundaries as innovations like Pizza Vodka demonstrate how Italian-American fusion continues evolving in unexpected directions.
The rankings underscore a friendly rivalry between Italian masters and their international peers, with cities like New York proving that exceptional pizza transcends borders. For travelers planning culinary adventures, these results offer a roadmap to authentic experiences on both sides of the Atlantic.
