Our Story
Creating genuine Italian pizza with a dedication that dates back to 1985
From Naples to Your Neighborhood
'ExploringThePast' started with an ambition: to introduce true Neapolitan pizza to Rome. The Rossi family established this pizzeria in 1985 as a humble, family-owned business carrying family heritage recipes across generations.
Marco Rossi, the initiator, mastered the craft of pizza making while exploring Italy, learning from the expert pizzaiolos of Naples—the origin of pizza. After returning to the UK, the mission was to replicate the essence of genuine Italian pizza, keeping to time-honored preparation and the finest materials.
Initially a quaint 12-seat pizza place, we've evolved into a cherished neighborhood fixture. Nonetheless, our dedication to excellence and genuineness is steadfast. Our wood-fired ovens remain in use, our dough is still made from scratch daily, and we seek out the very best produce available.
Currently, 'ExploringThePast' is still in the care of the Rossi lineage, with the second generation continuing to lead our enthusiastic team. Despite adopting modern updates, our core focus—delivering delightful, legitimate pizza that unites people—persists unchanged.
Our Values
Quality Ingredients
We engage with local growers and Italian suppliers to bring the most pristine, top-tier ingredients that promise true flavors.
Traditional Methods
The pizzas we make are shaped by heritage methods, including a 48-hour dough fermentation and baking in genuine wood-fired ovens.
Community Focus
Our restaurant aims to be a dynamic member of the community, engaging in local causes and offering a warm gathering place for everyone.
Sustainability
Commitment to eco-friendly practices is part of our ethos—from lessening food waste, using sustainable packaging, to backing responsible farming.
Meet Our Team
The dedicated individuals who make our pizzeria special
Marco Rossi
Owner & Head Chef
A second-generation proprietor trained in Naples, refining our authentic recipes for more than a decade and a half.
Alice Smith
Executive Chef
Trained in Italy, Alice wields a wealth of 12 years of culinary knowledge, infusing our menu with innovative seasonal creations.
Luca Brown
Master Pizzaiolo
A native of Naples, Luca has been producing perfect pizzas for over 20 years and mentors our aspiring pizza chefs.
Emma Johnson
Restaurant Manager
Emma ensures guests have an unmatched experience and orchestrates our front-house team with graciousness and proficiency.
William Lee
Sommelier & Beverage Director
William oversees our selection of drinks, focusing on Italian sodas and the ideal complements to our pizzas.
What Our Customers Say
The finest Neapolitan pizza you'll find beyond Italy's borders. The base is ideally chewy with the signature charred marks you can only get from a wood-fired oven.
David Miller
Admiring 'ExploringThePast' for using local produce and upholding eco-conscious practices. Every morsel reflects their quality standards. Their rotating specials are always eagerly anticipated!
Marie Anderson
I've frequented this place for ages, and the consistency is remarkable. The atmosphere here is inviting as if you're extended family, and the pizza is divine—the Truffle Mushroom is a must-try!
Robert Harris
Awards & Recognition
Leading Pizzeria in Karlport
Local Food Awards, 2019-2023
UK's Top 50 Pizzerias
National Restaurant Guide, 2021-2023
Certified Traditional Neapolitan Pizza
Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, 2018
Award for Sustainable Business Practices
Regional Green Business Association, 2022
Come Visit Us
Discover authentic Italian pizza in a cordial and inviting environment