Apizza!: Distinctive Coal-Fired Pizza Creations In New Paltz

Apizza! is a popular pizzeria in the lively town of New Paltz, New York. It has earned a reputation for its authentic coal-fired pizzas, known for their smoky flavor and crispy crust, along with a variety of other delicious Italian dishes. Making authentic coal-fired pizza is considered one of the most challenging types because it requires precise temperature control and skill. Many pizza lovers and experts believe that this traditional method delivers some of the finest and most flavorful pizzas around, providing a unique taste experience that’s hard to find elsewhere.

The pizzaiolo (pizza maker) and owner of Apizza! is Adam Monteverde, a talented chef originally from the Hudson Valley. He graduated from the renowned Culinary Institute of America, where he sharpened his skills and grew his passion for cooking. Adam’s love for pizza-making has been a lifelong pursuit, and he has dedicated a lot of time and effort to mastering the art of making delicious, authentic pizzas.

Besides offering a distinctive pizza experience, Apizza! (pronounced “ah-beetz”) also expands its menu to include many other Italian classics, many of which are cooked in their coal-fired oven. This lively restaurant functions both as a full Italian restaurant and a pizzeria.

The restaurant features an open kitchen where diners can watch the chefs making pizzas and other dishes from scratch, including the popular practice of tossing dough in the air. The finished pizzas are baked in a striking coal-fired brick oven that acts as a centerpiece, adding to the restaurant’s charm and enhancing the unique flavor of the pizzas. The atmosphere is described as clean and thoughtfully designed with a modern touch. Despite its contemporary style, the vibe remains cozy and inviting, with intimate tables and plenty of space for guests to move around comfortably.

The service matches the quality of the pizza—friendly, attentive, and efficient, without being overwhelming.