Back to the Future, Pepe in Grani, Caiazzo (Ce)

Sunday afternoon.  And I decided to head to Caiazzo to try a pizza or three made by Franco Pepe  A familiar pilgrimage that I've made who knows how many times over the last 6 years.  During those years a lot has changed for my amico pizzaiolo.  He opened up Pepe in Grani...then added a bed and pizza so visitors could have a place to stay-right in the pizzeria!  Then he added a tasting room for those looking for something extra.  He added a second pizza oven. Deepened his wine list. Oh, and did I mention, became one, if not the top, pizza makers in the world.

One thing that I love about Pepe, besides the pizza, is his desire to evolve.  To continue to look for ways to make Pepe in Grani not just a pizza place...but a pizza experience.  

An authentic experience.  

. 

I arrived in Franco's little viale right before the crowds. I entered, found Franco, took off my jacket - then Franco said - Karen, vieni con me.  Come with me...

I followed Pepe up the stairs to the third floor - to Authentica- his latest project.

Authentica- authentic.  

A state of the art stereo system playing soft jazz greeted us as Franco opened the door to a small room.  A simple room featuring a bookshelf full of pizza books.  A new generation pizza oven in the corner embraced by a simple counter and stools for a maximum of 8 guests.  

Guests, participants, pizza enthusiasts who could reserve a special front row pizza experience with Franco Pepe himself. A chance to participate in an intimate pizza making/eating experience in a cozy environment. 

Photographs or words cannot convey the intimacy, coziness and emotions that I felt listening to my friend Franco as he took another step on his journey. 

Auguri, Franco...

Dal cuore!