Pupatella in Columbia (Howard County) proudly holds the distinction of being the only establishment in the entire state certified by the prestigious Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN). Pupatella was established in 2007, originating from the vision of Enzo Algarme, who relocated from Italy to the United States to pursue medical studies. What began as a small food truck in the Ballston neighborhood of Arlington, Virginia, quickly became a massive success and has since become a beloved destination for enthusiasts of authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Founded on the principles of using only the finest ingredients and adhering strictly to the AVPN’s rigorous guidelines, Pupatella quickly gained a loyal following. It has since grown to eight Virginia stores, two in DC, and its newest location in Columbia, MD. The AVPN certification ensures that every pizza crafted at Pupatella meets specific criteria, from the type of tomatoes and mozzarella used to the dough preparation, cooking temperature (around 900°F), and even the precise thickness and appearance of the final product. This dedication guarantees a pizza experience that transports diners straight to the bustling pizzerias of Naples.
Pupatella’s commitment to excellence has not gone unnoticed on the international stage. The esteemed Italy-based 50 Top Pizza recognized Pupatella’s quality and consistency by including it in their list of “excellent pizza chains.” This acknowledgment places Pupatella among some of the best pizza operations worldwide, further solidifying its reputation as a purveyor of exceptional Neapolitan pizza…