Our Story
With a fervent dedication to genuine Italian pizza-making since 1985
From Naples to Your Neighborhood
'OpenExploration' originated from a vision of delivering true Neapolitan pizza to Via San Marco 23. Established by the Rossi lineage in 1985, our pizza shop was a quaint, family-oriented venture, cherishing recipes passed from one generation to the next.
Marco Rossi, the visionary of our brand, honed her pizza-crafting skills on her journeys across Italy, particularly by learning from expert pizzaiolos in Naples, the pizza's hometown. Once back in the UK, her mission was to replicate that authentic Italian pizza experience, using age-old techniques and the most exquisite ingredients.
Starting as a humble venue with just twelve seats, we've become a fixture in the neighborhood. Despite our growth, the dedication to excellence and originality remains firm. We continue traditional wood-fired oven baking, prepare our dough daily, and seek out top-tier ingredients.
To this day, 'OpenExploration' is still nurtured by the Rossi family's second generation, who direct our enthusiastic team. While we've integrated certain modern amenities, the essence of our business—creating delectable, true pizzas that unify folks—persists unwavering.
Our Values
Quality Ingredients
We go for the most prime, fresh ingredients, allying with regional growers and Italian vendors to secure genuine tastes.
Traditional Methods
Our pizzas are produced with respect for longstanding traditions, fermenting our dough for 48 hours and baking it in genuine wood-burning ovens.
Community Focus
We commit ourselves to be more than a mere eatery—we're a significant part of the local fabric, enhancing neighborhood ventures and fostering a place of hospitality for everyone.
Sustainability
Our dedication to eco-friendliness is evident in our actions, from minimizing food leftovers to choosing sustainable packaging and advocating for enduring agriculture practices.
Meet Our Team
The ardent individuals crafting our delectable pizzas
Marco Rossi
Owner & Head Chef
A second-generation proprietor trained in Naples, refining our cherished recipes for more than fifteen years.
Alexandra Martinez
Executive Chef
An Italian-trained maestro with a twelve-year record of culinary mastery, focusing on rotating seasonal offerings.
Luca Bianchi
Master Pizzaiolo
A Neapolitan native, Luca has spent over two decades perfecting pizzas and is responsible for instructing our pizza-making staff.
Emma Thompson
Restaurant Manager
Makes certain every patron enjoys a stellar dining event and manages our customer-facing crew with kindness and proficiency.
Michael Chen
Sommelier & Beverage Director
Oversees our selection of beverages, specializing in Italian sodas and excellent pizza combinations.
What Our Customers Say
This is the closest you can get to traditional Neapolitan pizza outside of Italy. The crust offers the ideal bite – chewy with those alluring, charred spots only a wood-fueled oven can achieve.
James Smith
I'm impressed that 'OpenExploration' opts for local produce and responsible practices. It's apparent in the flavor with every slice. Their regular fresh specials are always a culinary delight to anticipate!
Sarah Lee
I've frequented this place for a long time and the caliber has consistently been top-tier. The staff greets you as if you're part of the family, and the pizza is pure bliss. The Truffle Mushroom variant is not to be missed!
Michael Anderson
Awards & Recognition
Premier Pizzeria in Metroville
Local Culinary Awards, 2019-2023
Top 50 Pizza Establishments in the UK
Countrywide Dining Guide, 2021-2023
Certified Neapolitan Pizza
True Neapolitan Pizza Association, 2018
Eco-Friendly Company Recognition
Local Sustainability Organization, 2022
Come Visit Us
Discover the genuine taste of Italian pizza within a cozy, inviting environment