'O Munaciello MiMo District Neapolitan Pizza — Restaurant in Miami

Cool atmosphere and I like the Diego Maradona idolatry, which unfortunately passes over most Americans' heads. But the pizza, like most American pizza and despite 'O Munaciello's insistence on Neapolitan "authenticity", is just too bready. Three bites of a slice, and it feels like you've eaten a whole bloody focaccia. What is it with America and bready pizza?

And that whole "we are authentically Italian and we make the best food in the world" macho chauvinism leaves an additional bad taste in the mouth. I asked if it was possible to add anchovies to my margherita pizza and the waiter had to tell me: "Of course it's possible, and we have the best anchovies in the world," fetching a can from the deli section to prove it. Smh. I mean, I didn't challenge the quality of the anchovies, why do you feel the need to insist they're the best. I mean, it's a small, very salty fish - how bad or how good can it be?

And the waiter rolled his eyes at cheapskate old me when I asked how much extra it would be? Way to go, customer service. (It was $5 for four measly little salty fish, the best in the world allegedly.)

But no matter how good the anchovies and the tomato sauce and the fresh basil, the base is just too much like bread, and unlike pizza. Thick, spongy bread.

They didn't appreciate it when I said that I had had better pizza in Cape Town, from an authentic Neapolitan eatery there. They didn't even know where Cape Town was.

Top ranked? Pull the other one...

Edit: From the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana: "The center should be 0.25 cm in height i.e. thickness". In other words, the thick, spongy bread served at this establishment in Miami does not pass as authentic or true Neapolitan pizza, as claimed on the...

Located in the vibrant MiMo district in Miami, 'O Munaciello presents itself as a corner of Naples in the heart of the city. Its convenient location offers customers the advantage of free parking, a pleasant surprise and rarity that makes visiting easier. Upon entering, one is greeted by a decoration that evokes the Neapolitan essence: homey details and numerous references to Diego Maradona and soccer, reflecting the passion and culture of its land of origin. This authentic environment creates a cozy and distinctive atmosphere. During our visit, we noticed a delay in service. However, we understood that this was because the chef prepares each dish from scratch, avoiding shortcuts and guaranteeing freshness and authenticity in every bite. This commitment to quality is evident and deserves recognition. The reputation of their pizzas is notable, having been awarded on multiple occasions. We opted for the Pizza Las Vegas, adorned with a sausage of exceptional flavor, which delighted our palate. Additionally, the Risotto al Funghi Porcini stood out for its creaminess and depth of flavor, demonstrating mastery in cooking rice dishes. To culminate, the Tiramisu pleasantly surprised us; its homemade cream, fluffy and light, offered a perfect sweet ending to our gastronomic experience. It's important to note that prices are in the medium-high range, in line with the quality offered. Also, 18% gratuity is included in the bill, a practice that is useful to keep in mind at the...

There are a lot of Italian Pizzerias in Miami with good and authentic pizzas, but this is just my favorite place.

The restaurant has such a high ceiling that you think you’re in a Cathedral Dome, also considering the flying angel and their permanent presepio… but then you see Maradona’s shirts hanging over the kitchen and you quickly come back to reality! The restaurant can be very packed and loud at night, but if you go on a Saturday for lunch, it’s all yours: if you are still wary because of Covid, at lunchtime you will feel very comfortable.

They also have a narrow patio with outdoor seating, basically sharing the noisy traffic with US1; but being Italian this reminds me of home, where outdoor seating of restaurants is very commonly directly on roads.

The parking is unfortunately extremely limited, therefore you have to park on the side street road and pay, but we don't mind the extra charge because their pizzas are AMAZING! Authentic Neapolitan style and at very good prices. And don’t get scared of their size: Italian pizzas are usually left for a couple of day to levitate and it is this extra step/time that makes the “big” pizza doughs very digestible. However, if you need more help with digestion, try their black “carbon” pizza: not very appealing to the eyes, but it is lighter on your stomach without changing the taste.

I have tried almost every pizza they have, and absolutely love them; that is why I never got to try their other dishes: their pizzas are...