Don Antonio exploded onto New York’s pizza scene when award-winning master pizzaiola Giorgia Caporuscio took over the Hell’s Kitchen institution, transforming it into what many consider the “Mecca” of Neapolitan pizza.
This isn’t your typical slice joint – it’s a destination where wood-fired ovens imported from Italy create magic daily. 🔥
How Don Antonio won local’s hearts
Don Antonio secured its place in New Yorkers’ hearts through a powerful combination of authentic Italian heritage and relentless innovation.
The restaurant’s foundation was built in 2012 when legendary Neapolitan pizza chef Roberto Caporuscio partnered with his mentor, Antonio Starita – the third-generation owner of Naples’ famous Starita a Materdei pizzeria.
However, the real breakthrough came when Roberto’s daughter Giorgia Caporuscio took the reins and elevated the restaurant to new heights.
Giorgia’s rise to fame reads like a pizza fairy tale. She moved to New York at age 19, initially facing ridicule from male Italian colleagues who mocked her abilities.
But she proved them spectacularly wrong by winning the prestigious Caputo Cup at just 22 years old – becoming the youngest winner ever.
Her dedication to perfection and innovative approach to traditional Neapolitan techniques quickly earned the restaurant critical acclaim and a devoted following among locals who appreciated her fresh take on classic recipes. 🏆
In 2024, she became the first woman ever to receive the “Pizza Maker of the Year” award from 50 Top Pizza USA, while Don Antonio ranked #7 in the entire United States.
Food Highlights
- Montanara Classica: Lightly fried pizza dough topped with signature tomato sauce, imported smoked buffalo mozzarella, pecorino cheese, and basil, finished in their wood-fired oven – this signature creation represents the perfect marriage of traditional Neapolitan techniques with innovative preparation methods
- Regina Margarita Pizza: Classic Neapolitan simplicity at its finest, featuring fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh basil on perfectly charred thin crust that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to authentic Italian ingredients
- Pistachio Pesto Pizza: A creative masterpiece combining house-made pistachio pesto with sausage, pecorino, mozzarella, and extra virgin olive oil, demonstrating Giorgia’s ability to honor tradition while embracing bold flavor combinations
- Montanara Truffle: The restaurant’s indulgent showstopper featuring lightly fried pizza dough topped with fresh mozzarella, rich truffle cream, and basil, then finished in the wood-fired oven for an unforgettable luxury experience
- Prosciutto and Arugula Pizza: Fresh mozzarella base topped with premium Prosciutto di Parma and peppery arugula, drizzled with extra virgin olive oil for a perfectly balanced blend of salty, creamy, and fresh flavors
Atmosphere
Don Antonio delivers an authentic Italian pizzeria experience in the heart of Manhattan’s bustling Theater District.
The restaurant features a modern yet cozy interior with an open kitchen design that allows diners to witness the artistry of pizza-making in action.
The space buzzes with energy from both tourists exploring Hell’s Kitchen and locals who’ve made this their go-to pizza destination.
While it can get quite lively and conversations carry throughout the dining room, this animated atmosphere perfectly captures the spirit of a traditional Neapolitan pizzeria. 🍕
The restaurant also features a welcoming bar area and seasonal garden dining space with century-old trees, creating multiple dining experiences within one location.
Bottom Line
- Home to the only female pizza chef featured in the Michelin Guide and 2024 Pizza Maker of the Year winner
- Features over 30 types of authentic Neapolitan pizzas, all available gluten-free
- Guy Fieri approved on Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives and ranked among the world’s top 30 pizzerias
- Perfect location for pre or post-theater dining in Hell’s Kitchen
- Offers unique pizza fritta (fried pizza) varieties you won’t find elsewhere in NYC 🎭
Address: 309 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019
📞 (646) 719-1043
🕔 Open Daily, 11:30 AM–10:00 PM