L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele

This is not New York thin crust. This is not drunken Domino's delight. This is not bizarro Japanese pizza with corn, tuna and mayo. This is da Michele. And they've been making it this way in Napoli for 149 years. They do not mess around, and you can't have it your way. It's their way or the highway.... Having said that, I've eaten at the original in Napoli and was served by the septuagenarian owner himself. When I was there, he kicked an older American lady out of the restaurant because she asked for it crispy! There are only two pies on the menu: Margherita and Marinara. You can have either one, and only the way they make it. So, I can't believe he allows this branch in Fukuoka to serve pizzas with toppings. But there they are on the menu. Times change, and you have to please people to stay in business. So thank goodness he's been flexible enough to allow the satellite branches some flexibility to stay in business. Because this pizza is THE business! Pure simplicity and perfection. (of course, I like a good NY crispy slice too... but that's a different thing) There are only 6 ingredients used to make a whole Margherita here. There is no 'sauce'... it's just crushed tomatoes. Great staff, great salumi plate, great cocktails (but not much choice). I recommend you ask for a little salt to sprinkle on the pizza, it really makes it pop (IMHO)

Visited December 2019

Since the shop name includes the word pizzeria, one may be in for a bit of a shock when first eyeing the menu. Am going to assume that true Napoli pizza lovers only indulge in Marinara or Margherita. If that's OK with you, you're going to be fine, since those are the choices. Since we couldn't dress... up the large 35cm pizza with any kind of wild toppings, we tried the calamari which was crispy and delicious. The salad greens with tomato and balsamic vinegar were also nice. A bit pricey when the bill came after a few drinks, but the authentic food and stylish, modern decor make L'Antica Pizzeria da Michele a great spot for dates or a special upscale evening in Fukuoka.

Visited June 2016