Italian pizzaiolo Matteo Martinenghi is one of the key figures behind the success of Bæst, the acclaimed Copenhagen restaurant founded by chef Christian Puglisi. Thanks to his mastery of the art of pizza, Bæst has become one of the best pizza restaurants in Europe and was named the second best pizzeria in Europe in 2023 by the 50 Top Pizza guide. Martinenghi combines Neapolitan tradition with organic and local ingredients to create innovative pizzas that respect the authenticity of Italian taste and the ethos of sustainability.
Matteo Martinenghi was born and raised in Italy, where he learned the art of pizza following the Neapolitan tradition. After gaining experience in several pizzerias, Martinenghi brought his skills to Copenhagen, joining the team at Bæst, the restaurant founded by Christian Puglisi in 2014. Located in the lively neighborhood of Nørrebro, Bæst is known for its sourdough pizzas, which blend Italian tradition with Nordic innovation.
The restaurant stands out for its commitment to sustainability, using only organic and seasonal ingredients, many of which are produced locally. Martinenghi, along with his team, prepares mozzarella and stracciatella daily using biodynamic milk from Danish cows, and Bæst's in-house charcuterie shop produces artisanal cured meats such as salami and coppa, which enhance the restaurant's culinary creations.
One of the factors that make Martinenghi's pizzas unique is the use of biga, a pre-fermentation technique that gives the crust a complexity and slightly acidic flavor. This process, combined with the use of organic flour and attention to detail, has helped elevate Bæst on the international culinary scene, landing it on the list of the world's best pizzerias.
Bæst's pizzas are a tribute to the simplicity and purity of Mediterranean flavors. Among the most popular creations are the pizza with 'nduja, smoked mozzarella and red onions, and the pizza with pumpkin puree, sage and pumpkin seeds, which perfectly represent the fusion of tradition and modern creativity.
In 2023, Bæst was honored as the second best pizzeria in Europe in the 50 Top Pizza ranking, confirming its excellence in both quality and innovation. This recognition is the result of the tireless work of Martinenghi and the team, who continue to explore new ways to improve the dining experience without compromising the integrity of flavors and attention to sustainability.
