The capital loves its Neapolitan pizzas and Pizza Bar by IOI is all about keeping the art of authentic slices from Napoli alive.
This is the second branch of the casual pizza spot, and it’s one of the newer editions to foodie destination As Sulimaniyah, with a quaint venue opposite titans like ROKA and COYA. If you’re less fussed about the glitz and glam that comes with eating at the trendiest spots in town, and are after proper pizzas, Pizza Bar IO should appeal.
The original branch in Ammariyah is a mixed space whereas this one is purely pizza. There are about 12 tables and a pizza oven as the focal point.
Given the name, authentic Neapolitan pizzas are the signature, but this is a spot where you can choose from Italy’s two favourite carbs: pizza and pasta. The menu doesn’t have any descriptors, although the names are pretty self-explanatory with truffle fries and lobster pizza.
Staff will also definitely sell you on something suitable, as they describe just how the pizzas are made. (Don’t drool.) A truffle pizza is a crowd pleaser, if you like things a bit fancy.
Watch the chefs stretch the dough and work the pizza peel, and try not to let your stomach growl too much because your pizza will be with you in minutes.
Pizzas are turned in the oven before getting licked with a final flame from the top of the oven. The leopard-spotted dough is sliced with showmanship from the staff, for anyone watching.
It’s clear that the team are friends and they work together in the open pizza oven kitchen with more chefs firing up dishes in the back.
If you cannot finish your cheesy pizza, or have been tempted to order another one after seeing another tables, takeaway is a popular option with a number of diners trotting out with pizza boxes.
We’re curious to see Pizza Bar continue to develop because its MO is sound. Who’s ready for another slice?
