From Brooklyn to South Beach: The Story of Lucali, America's Best Pizza
In the heart of Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn, Mark Iacono never set out to become one of America's most celebrated pizzaiolos. His journey began with a simple mission: to save the neighborhood candy store of his youth from disappearing into history.
What started as a labor of love has become a culinary legend spanning two coasts.
The Brooklyn Original
Lucali opened its doors in Brooklyn with Iacono at the helm, teaching himself the art of pizza-making through dedication and countless hours perfecting his craft. His wood-fired brick oven became the centerpiece of what many consider New York's finest pizza—a bold claim in a city famous for its pies.
The secret? An unwavering commitment to authenticity. Iacono sources farm-fresh, locally grown ingredients, hand-stretches every dough, and tends to each pizza with meticulous care. The result is a thin, crispy crust with just the right amount of char, topped with San Marzano tomatoes and creamy mozzarella that melts into perfection.
Bringing Brooklyn to Miami Beach
The success of the Brooklyn location sparked demand beyond the borough's borders. Recognizing an opportunity to share his passion with a new community, Iacono expanded to South Beach, bringing his Brooklyn authenticity to Miami's vibrant food scene.
The Miami Beach location maintains the same exacting standards that made the original legendary. The same wood-fired brick oven technique, the same commitment to quality ingredients, and the same hands-on approach that has earned Lucali a devoted following on both coasts.
A Masterclass in Pizza-Making
Watching Iacono work is witnessing a master craftsman at his trade. Each pizza is a performance—dough stretched by hand, sauce applied with precision, cheese distributed with practiced expertise. It's this dedication to the craft that has earned Lucali recognition as arguably the best pizza in both Brooklyn and Miami.
For locals in both cities, Lucali represents more than just exceptional pizza. It's a testament to what happens when passion meets dedication, when a neighborhood candy store transforms into a destination that draws food lovers from around the world.
Whether you're in Carroll Gardens or South Beach, Lucali offers the same promise: an authentic, unforgettable pizza experience rooted in tradition, elevated by craftsmanship, and delivered with the kind of love that started this journey in the first place.