In a move that marks both tradition and innovation, Pizzeria Don Antonio, renowned for bringing authentic Neapolitan pizza to the United States, has appointed Giorgia Caporuscio, a highly acclaimed pizzaiola, as its new owner. Taking over from her father, Roberto Caporuscio, and his mentor, maestro Antonio Starita, Giorgia steps into a role rich with heritage and culinary prowess.
The roots of Don Antonio trace back to Naples’ oldest pizzeria, Starita a Materdei, founded in 1901 by the Starita family. Immortalized in the 1954 film “L’Oro di Napoli,” which features Sophia Loren as a pizza vendor, the pizzeria remains a family-run establishment, now in its third generation under Starita’s stewardship. Collaborating with Roberto Caporuscio of Kestè fame, Starita expanded his legacy to New York City, co-founding Don Antonio in Hell’s Kitchen in 2012. Since then, the pizzeria has flourished, becoming a beloved destination synonymous with Neapolitan tradition.
Giorgia Caporuscio, recognized as one of the few prominent female pizza makers in both Italy and New York, began her journey under the tutelage of her father and Antonio Starita. Through extensive internships across Italy, she honed her craft, culminating in her victory in the World Championships Classic Pizza Category, a remarkable feat considering the competition’s scale and the industry’s male-dominated landscape. Reflecting on her early days in the profession, Giorgia remarks, “When I started this career 13 years ago, I’d often be the only woman in the kitchen or at events.”
Despite facing challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, Giorgia’s ascension to leadership at Don Antonio has finally come to fruition. With a passion for preserving Neapolitan culinary traditions, she remains committed to offering an authentic experience to patrons, emphasizing the pizzeria’s signature dish, Pizza Montanara. Fried to perfection using high-quality Italian ingredients, this dish exemplifies Giorgia’s dedication to her craft and familial heritage.
Beyond the Montanara, Don Antonio’s menu boasts an array of Neapolitan pizzas, each crafted with a meticulous 48-hour fermentation process and baked in a wood-burning oven for a mere minute. From classics like the Macellaio to innovative creations like the Pistacchio & Salsiccia, Giorgia’s offerings showcase her culinary prowess and commitment to excellence.
Partnering with Matteo Bassani, who oversees the beverage program, Giorgia aims to create a welcoming atmosphere that celebrates both Italian tradition and New York’s vibrant culinary scene. Together, they introduce new elements to the menu, including amaro tasting flights, highlighting Italy’s rich cocktail culture.
As she takes the helm at Don Antonio, Giorgia not only upholds her family’s legacy but also aspires to inspire other women in the pizza industry. Serving as the Ambassador of “Women in Pizza,” she seeks to empower aspiring female pizzaiolas, encouraging them to pursue their passion and make their mark in a historically male-dominated field.
Located at 309 W 50th St, New York, NY 10019, Don Antonio invites patrons to experience the rich flavors and traditions of Neapolitan cuisine under Giorgia Caporuscio’s leadership.
