Picture a small Idaho town where wood-fired pizza dreams became reality through determination and authentic Italian craftsmanship.
When Mike and Sandi Johnson launched their all-organic, sourdough pizza pop-up at a local wine bar in 2020, they had no idea how dramatically their venture would transform downtown Sandpoint’s dining scene.
Operating under the name Panhandle Pizza Kitchen, the Johnsons served their unique creations to wine enthusiasts who quickly became devoted fans.
The couple’s dedication to sourcing premium ingredients from Italy—including flour from a small family-run mill between Rome and Naples—set their pizzas apart from anything else available in northern Idaho.
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How They Won Locals’ Hearts
The journey from pop-up sensation to brick-and-mortar success wasn’t instantaneous, but the demand spoke volumes.
As word spread about these exceptional sourdough pizzas cooked in an authentic style, crowds grew larger with each event.
The Johnsons recognized that their community was hungry for something special—pizza that honored traditional Italian methods while embracing local organic ingredients.
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After years of careful planning and months of intensive renovation work, they opened The Forge Artisan Pizza at 306 Pine Street in May 2024.
The centerpiece of their restaurant is a genuine Acunto oven imported directly from Naples, Italy—a wood-burning masterpiece from a family that’s been crafting pizza ovens for generations.
This wasn’t just about opening another pizza restaurant; it was about bringing an authentic taste of Italy to the Idaho panhandle. 🔥
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The dedication to quality resonated immediately with locals who appreciated that every pizza and bread is naturally leavened sourdough, made with organic Italian flour.
Customers consistently praise the restaurant for achieving something remarkable: pizza that rivals what they’ve tasted in Italy itself.
One diner declared it “the best pizza I have ever had in my life,” comparing it favorably to pies enjoyed on Italian soil.
The combination of pasture-raised meats (when available), hormone-free proteins, and organic produce demonstrates the Johnsons’ unwavering commitment to excellence.
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Reviews highlight not just the exceptional food but the warm service and inviting atmosphere that makes every visit memorable.
Travelers going out of their way to stop in Sandpoint specifically mention The Forge as a must-visit destination, with some calling it “one of the best pizza spots in the country.”
The restaurant’s success stems from authenticity—from the imported Italian oven to the carefully sourced ingredients, nothing is compromised for convenience.
Food Highlights
Traditional Margherita: This classic Neapolitan pie showcases fresh mozzarella (mozz fresca) instead of shredded cheese, with carefully placed basil leaves atop the red sauce, all baked to perfection with a beautifully charred, crispy crust that’s nicely toasted underneath, delivering authentic Italian flavors in every bite that transport diners straight to Naples. 🍕
Bacon Bomb: A crowd favorite that lives up to its explosive name, this pizza features generous portions of bacon combined with complementary toppings that create a rich, savory experience perfect for meat lovers seeking bold flavors and satisfying textures in every slice.
Sticky Nicki (also seen as Sticky Niki): Repeatedly mentioned by enthusiastic reviewers as a standout choice, this specialty pizza delivers unique flavor combinations that keep customers coming back, earning its place as one of the restaurant’s most popular and talked-about menu items.
Hot Rod Pizza: This Detroit-style masterpiece showcases thick, airy sourdough crust made with local organic whole wheat flour, featuring the signature crispy caramelized cheese edges that Detroit-style pizza lovers crave, with one reviewer calling it “absolutely incredible” and praising how the quality flour makes all the difference.
Meatball Pizza: Featuring house-made meatballs as the star topping, this pizza combines savory Italian-style meatballs with melted cheese and sauce, creating a hearty and satisfying option that showcases the restaurant’s commitment to crafting everything from scratch with premium ingredients.
Large Marge: Another specialty pizza that appears on the menu alongside the restaurant’s creative offerings, contributing to the diverse selection of both Neapolitan and Detroit-style options that give customers plenty of choices beyond traditional pizzeria fare.
Atmosphere
The moment you walk into The Forge, the intoxicating aroma of wood-fired pizza fills the air, immediately signaling something special is happening here.
The open kitchen design allows diners to watch skilled pizzaiolos at work, stretching dough and sliding pizzas into the glowing Acunto oven—an interactive element that adds excitement to the dining experience.
The interior feels cozy and inviting with a laid-back yet energetic vibe that’s described as fun and fast-paced, perfect for families, friends, or couples seeking a memorable meal.
Outdoor patio seating provides a lovely spot to enjoy your pizza on beautiful Idaho evenings, adding a relaxed alfresco element that enhances the overall experience. ☀️
The restaurant strikes a balance between casual comfort and culinary sophistication, where you can watch the magic happen while savoring beer, wine, or canned cocktails alongside your meal.
Servers are attentive and knowledgeable, often sharing details about the Italian flour and imported oven that demonstrate the restaurant’s dedication to authenticity.
The ambiance is warm and welcoming without being pretentious—exactly what you’d hope for in a community-focused artisan pizzeria where quality and hospitality take center stage.
Bottom Line
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Authentic Italian craftsmanship with a genuine Acunto oven imported directly from Naples and flour from a family mill near Rome
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Exceptional sourdough pizzas in both Neapolitan and Detroit styles, all naturally leavened and made with organic ingredients
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Outstanding ingredient quality featuring pasture-raised meats, hormone-free proteins, and organic produce whenever possible
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Welcoming atmosphere with open kitchen viewing, indoor dining, and a charming outdoor patio for al fresco meals
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Local favorite that evolved from a beloved pop-up to a brick-and-mortar destination earning comparisons to pizzerias in Italy itself
Address: 306 Pine Street, Sandpoint, ID 83864
📞 (208) 252-9433
🕔 Open Mon, Thu-Sun, 11 AM–9 PM (closed Tue-Wed)