Founder & Executive Chef
Marco Avena
Born in Naples and trained under legendary Maestro Enzo Coccia, Marco brings 25+ years of Neapolitan pizza mastery to every pie that leaves our kitchen.
Our Story
Crafted with Heart,
Served with Soul
From a small kitchen dream to West Hollywood's beloved pizzeria — discover the passion behind every slice.
2012
Founded
Our Story
From Naples to West Hollywood
Pizzana was born from a lifelong obsession with authentic Neapolitan pizza. Our founder, Chef Marco Avena, grew up watching his grandmother stretch dough in her Naples kitchen — folding in centuries of tradition with every turn of her wrist.
In 2012, Marco brought those memories and mastery to Los Angeles, opening a small 28-seat pizzeria on N Robertson Blvd in West Hollywood. The goal was simple: recreate the soul of Naples in the heart of California, using nothing but the finest imported ingredients and time-honored techniques.
"Pizza is not just food. It is memory, love, and the smell of wood fire. Every pie we make carries a piece of who we are."
Today, Pizzana has grown into one of Los Angeles' most celebrated destinations for authentic pizza — yet we still use the same 72-hour naturally-leavened dough, the same San Marzano tomatoes, and the same wood-fired ovens that Marco first brought from Italy over a decade ago.
What We Stand For
Our Core Values
Every decision we make — from sourcing ingredients to training our team — is guided by these principles.
Quality First
We source only the finest ingredients — San Marzano DOP tomatoes, 00 Caputo flour, and hand-pulled fior di latte from Campania. No shortcuts, ever.
Authentic Craft
Our dough undergoes a 72-hour natural fermentation process. Our pizzas are baked in wood-fired ovens at 900°F — exactly as tradition demands.
Community Love
West Hollywood is our home. We partner with local farms, support neighborhood events, and give back to the community that has embraced us so warmly.
Sustainability
From biodegradable packaging to responsibly sourced wood, we strive to minimize our environmental impact while delivering maximum flavor.
Our Journey
Milestones That Made Us
A decade of dedication, growth, and some very delicious pizza.
2012
Pizzana Opens Its Doors
Chef Marco Avena debuts Pizzana at 460 N Robertson Blvd in West Hollywood with a modest 28-seat dining room and a single wood-fired oven imported from Naples. Lines form immediately.
2014
LA Times "Best Pizza" Award
The Los Angeles Times names Pizzana the Best Neapolitan Pizza in Southern California — just two years after opening. The recognition puts us on the national map and fuels massive growth.
2016
Catering Program Launches
We expand beyond the restaurant walls, launching our full-service catering program for weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations throughout Los Angeles County.
2018
Second Location Opens
Due to overwhelming demand, Pizzana opens a second location in Brentwood, CA. The new space features an expanded menu, a curated Italian wine bar, and a dedicated pasta section.
2021
Online Ordering & Delivery
We launch our own digital ordering platform, bringing the Pizzana experience directly to your door with insulated delivery packaging designed to preserve the perfect crust and temperature.
2023
Franchise Program Announced
Pizzana introduces its franchise program, inviting passionate entrepreneurs to bring authentic Neapolitan pizza craftsmanship to communities across the United States.
The People Behind the Pizza
Meet Our Team
Passionate professionals who pour their heart into every dish, every day.
Head Pastry Chef
Sofia Ricci
A graduate of the Culinary Institute of Rome, Sofia crafts our legendary desserts and manages all sweet offerings — from cannoli to our signature tiramisu.
Beverage Director
Luca Mancini
A certified sommelier with expertise in Southern Italian wines, Luca curates our award-winning cellar and pairs each pizza with the perfect Campanian or Sicilian pour.
General Manager
Elena Park
With 15 years in hospitality, Elena ensures every guest experience at Pizzana exceeds expectations — from first reservation to last bite. She is the heart of our front-of-house.
Want to be part of the Pizzana family?
Get in Touch
