While many think of pizza as a modern fast-food staple, its roots are deeply intertwined with Italian history and the “Cucina Povera” (cooking of the poor) tradition.
The Early Days
The concept of flatbread with toppings dates back to antiquity, but the pizza we recognise today truly found its heart in Naples during the 18th and 19th centuries. Originally sold by street vendors to the city’s working class, it was a simple, affordable, and delicious meal.
The Royal Connection
The most famous moment in pizza history occurred in 1889, when Queen Margherita of Savoy visited Naples. To honour her, chef Raffaele Esposito created a pizza representing the colours of the Italian flag:
Red: Tomato Sauce
White: Mozzarella
Green: Fresh Basil
This “Pizza Margherita” remains a cornerstone of our menu at 51 Italian, where we stay true to these traditional roots using stone-baked methods for that authentic, smoky finish.
Modern Innovation: The Gluten-Free Revolution
While history focused on wheat, 51 Italian is writing the next chapter. We have pioneered the Gluten-Free Pizza, ensuring that the centuries-old tradition of the Italian pizzeria is accessible to everyone, regardless of dietary requirements. Using specialised techniques, we achieve the same crisp base and airy crust that has made pizza a global icon.
