Manuel Maiorano, now considered an international authority for his professionalism and research in the world of pizza, was honored at the historic Teatro Mercadante in Naples, in the 50 Top Pizza World 2025, and today ranks 46th in the world, climbing 23 positions compared to last year.
This result confirms his growth and adds to another prestigious achievement this year: in the 50 Top Pizza Italia 2025 ranking, Maiorano has moved up from 30th to 21st place. This double climb definitively confirms his contemporary vision of pizza, capable of combining research, technique, and taste.
It has definitely been a golden year for the talented pizza chef, pictured here on stage with his partner Cristiano Tridico.
“This result is a source of great excitement and immense pride for me,” says Manuel Maiorano, “because it represents not only personal satisfaction, but also recognition of the work of my entire team and the trust that our customers show us every day. Climbing so many positions in the 50 Top Pizza rankings is proof that the path we have taken, one of study, dedication, and passion, is the right one. Now I can’t wait to start a new adventure with Crunch and bring my idea of crispy pizza to an even wider audience, with the aim of continuing to grow and succeed, and why not, aspire to be among the winners with Crunch too.”
2025 has truly been a golden year for Maiorano, sealed by his participation in the prestigious Masters of Pizza – Mandarin Oriental Como and ready to reach its peak with a new entrepreneurial adventure: on September 16 in Pistoia, he will open “Crunch – Pizza di Strada,” his second restaurant, which will complement the already highly acclaimed La Fenice Pizzeria Contemporanea.
“The idea was born precisely to recall the Neapolitan tradition, where pizza (but not only) is often eaten on the street, meaning that even in a hurry or for a snack, you can eat well and enjoy good food…” says Maiorano.
These achievements are part of a series of accolades that have consistently distinguished Maiorano in recent years. In 2022, he was awarded Due Spicchi del Gambero Rosso (Two Slices of Red Prawn), and in the same year he was named Best Pizzeria in Tuscany at the Forchettiere Awards and won the Sky Pizza Challenge. In 2023, he was named one of the 100 Best by Forbes, while in 2024, he received the Pasta Frittata of the Year award from 50 Top Pizza. Finally, in 2025, he was featured in the prestigious guide Pizza & Cocktail d’Autore by Identità Golose, further confirmation of his ability to innovate without ever betraying his identity.
