Slice of Naples in the Netherlands: The Story of Pizza Beppe
Pizza Beppe, with its numerous locations across Dutch cities including Amsterdam and Utrecht, has become a prominent name by promising and delivering authentic Neapolitan pizza. The restaurant chain distinguishes itself as the very first in the Netherlands to be officially accredited by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN), a non-profit organization from Naples that preserves the traditional craft of pizza making. This accreditation means that every pizza is prepared following strict guidelines, using specific ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes and fior di latte mozzarella, and baked in a unique stone oven at high temperatures to achieve the signature light and airy crust.
The Concept and Atmosphere
The restaurant’s philosophy is simple: to offer “real food” and bring a piece of the Italian “dolce vita” to the Netherlands. The founders were so captivated by the taste of authentic pizza during a trip to Naples that they were inspired to recreate the experience back home. Each Pizza Beppe location functions as a social hub, a place for family, friends, and neighbors to come together and enjoy great food in an informal, friendly atmosphere. The interior design, as seen in locations like Utrecht Lombok (pictured) or Arnhem, often features a modern, artistic, and welcoming aesthetic with an open kitchen, allowing diners to watch the pizzaioli at work. The atmosphere is often described as casual, trendy, and cozy, making reservations advisable during peak hours.
Menu Highlights
The menu at Pizza Beppe focuses almost exclusively on Neapolitan pizza, deliberately avoiding pasta dishes to keep the spotlight on their specialty. Classic offerings include the Margherita and Marinara, while more unique options feature the popular Tartufo (truffle cream) and the spicy Burrata Piccante with ‘nduja chuan fu sausage. Vegetarian and vegan options, as well as gluten-free crusts, are available to accommodate various dietary preferences. Beyond pizzas, patrons consistently praise the homemade tiramisu as a must-try dessert.