Pompeii Pizza: A Journey Back in Time at La Locanda della Canonica Pizzeria

Anantara’s second property in Italy recently celebrated its grand opening, accompanied by the highly awaited launch of La Locanda della Canonica Pizzeria by the esteemed Chef Gino Sorbillo. Nestled on the Amalfi Coast, a renowned Italian getaway destination, Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel warmly welcomes its guests while Chef Gino works his magic, curating eight signature pizzas that proudly showcase the finest local produce from the region.

Having roots in Naples, Chef Gino comes from a long line of esteemed pizza makers in Italy. Back in 1935, his grandfather Luigi established one of the country’s most famous pizzerias, located on the historic Via dei Tribunali 32 in Naples. Building on generations of culinary expertise and passion, Gino has earned the title of Ambassador of Italian Pizza to the World. He also serves as the Secretary of the Neapolitan Pizza Makers Association and owns Sorbillo pizzerias across the globe, making his mark on the pizza scene.

Inspired by the recent discovery of a 2000-year-old fresco in Pompeii, which depicted a pizza-like dish, Chef Gino crafted an exclusive pizza for La Locanda della Canonica Pizzeria’s guests. Aptly named the ‘Pompeii Pizza,’ this unique creation combines traditional Neapolitan pizza-making techniques with ingredients reminiscent of ancient Roman times. It features a delightful blend of leafy vegetables, a contemporary twist on Garum (a fermented anchovy sauce used in ancient Rome), and a topping of walnuts, lemon zest, and olives. Chef Gino aims to transport diners back in time, offering a truly authentic experience that delights their taste buds.

At Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel, Chef Sorbillo dedicates himself to his core passion: crafting artful pizzas using the freshest local ingredients available. At La Locanda della Canonica Pizzeria, he skillfully designs a menu inspired by the delectable flavors of Amalfi and its surrounding areas.

The enticing menu features eight signature pizzas that proudly highlight the richness of the region’s local produce, including anchovies from Cetara, mozzarella and ricotta from Agerola, Provolone del Monaco, and an assortment of herbs sourced from the hotel’s on-site convent garden. Beyond the pizzas, diners can indulge in a selection of typical appetizers and desserts, completing their culinary journey through the region.

For those seeking an extraordinary experience, La Locanda della Canonica Pizzeria offers “A Journey through Campania” tasting menu. This delightful adventure begins in the Lattari Mountains in Agerola, home to Provolone del Monaco DOP, a central ingredient in the Margherita del Monaco. Continuing on, guests savor the Pizza del Casaro, featuring Caprino cheese, Bagnolese pecorino, and Fior di Latte—all made from Agerolese cows’ milk. The journey concludes by the sea, where the red mullet of Licosa brings rich flavor to the Favorita del Priore, and in Cetara, renowned for its anchovies that top the Montanara Amalfitana.

To ensure the utmost authenticity and quality in every pizza, La Locanda della Canonica Pizzeria boasts a top-of-the-line Neapolis 6 oven, meticulously crafted in Italy by Moretti Forni and handpicked by Chef Gino. The oven, flown to Anantara Convento di Amalfi by helicopter, artfully combines traditional cooking methods with contemporary design, resulting in the perfect Neapolitan pizza with consistent temperature and unmatched heat distribution.

Set into a picturesque cliffside overlooking the Tyrrhenian Sea, Anantara Convento di Amalfi Grand Hotel breathes new life into a 13th-century Capuchin convent. Accessible via the “Monks’ Walk,” a clifftop path that connects guests to the site’s unique history, La Locanda della Canonica Pizzeria offers an enchanting atmosphere for diners to savor their fine local flavors on an al fresco terrace, while taking in the breathtaking views of the sea below.

On June 12th, 2023, Pizzeria La Locanda della Canonica by Gino Sorbillo officially opened its doors, inviting guests to enjoy the delightful tasting menu, priced at $90 per person. It promises an unforgettable culinary journey that celebrates the essence of Italy’s finest ingredients and traditional pizza-making craft.

For additional information, please visit www.anantara.com/en/convento-di-amalfi.