Pizza is one of the most popular foods consumed in the entire country. In 2023, Americans consumed approximately 3 billion pizzas, the equivalent of 100 acres worth each day!
Somewhere across history, the century-old recipe for authentic pizza has given way to fast-food imitations that pale in comparison. So, this week we are visiting a local pizzeria committed to the tradition of genuine, Italian pizza. Opened in March of 2014 in St. Joseph, Missouri, Il Lazzarone, a unique and authentic pizzeria is keeping the Neapolitan pizza tradition alive, and St. Joe natives love it.
Il Lazzarone (pronounced “lazza’roni) is located at 1628 Frederick Ave and represents rich Neapolitan culinary history. In fact, the name Lazzarone referred to the poorer class in the city of Naples back in the 1600s. This class of Italians invented the authentic brand of pizza that Il Lazzarone masterfully creates today. Using 800-degree wood-fired ovens and simple yet tasty ingredients, the Lazzarone pizza tradition was born. The history of pizza in Naples set the stage for the beautiful, handcrafted pies at Il lazzarone.
What’s so different about this pizza? Il Lazzarone uses only the finest and best-quality ingredients and boasts some of the simplest and tastiest pizza dough in the world. Using only yeast, flour, water, and salt, which are given time to leaven, then shaped by hand, Chefs Erik and Lesley Borger create the perfect vessel by which rich, Neapolitan history will be transported to your taste buds. The handmade and authentic wood-fired oven was transported from Naples. Offering fresh, traditional, and unique pizza toppings and flavors, Il Lazzarone offers a pizza experience you can’t get anywhere else around.
So, when the pizza craving hits but you want to try something with a bit more flair and personality, enjoy a trip to Il Lazzarone. With excellent service, delectable pizzas made from the finest ingredients, a full bar, fancy décor, vibrant and stylish outdoor seating and an unparalleled dining experience, Il Lazzarone is a must-visit for all pizza connoisseurs and restaurant enthusiasts alike. You didn’t hear it from us but it’s also Patrick Mahomes’ favorite spot to eat in St. Joe…