Michael’s Pizzeria

Specialties

Blending an authentic Napoli-​style with a flair for flavor and perfection, we opened the first Michael’s Pizzeria in 2010. It’s casual style, eclecticism, and taste that simply could not be found anywhere else turned first-​time diners into fanatics, and prompted us to open another location in Rancho Mirage in 2012 and a third location in Downtown Long Beach in 2013.

History

Established in 2013.

When Michael Dene decided to open his restaurant in December 2007, he was told that it wasn’t in his best interest. Statistics, location and timing were all stacked against him — it was a risky undertaking where very few others had seen success. However, when the doors opened to Michael’s on Naples, the Brooklyn-​born businessman and lifetime food enthusiast proved that quality and taste have no bounds. Today Michael’s on Naples is rated the #1 Italian restaurant in all of Los Angeles, making it one of the highest Zagat-​rated Italian restaurants in Southern California.

Michael’s Pizzeria is the latest brainchild of Michael Dene and it all began when he wanted a pizza-​and not your typical delivery pizza, either. Michael wanted pizza as it was meant to be. He wanted a pie with paper-​thin crust, whose edges bubbled up into soft, crisp pockets of salty air. With sauce so flavorful it could stand as a topping all on its own and cheese so fresh it simply had to be made by hand each morning.

Meet the Business Owner

Michael D.

Business Owner

You could say Michael Dene, founding partner of Michael’s Restaurant Group, is very much a renaissance man. His Italian lineage coupled with his Brooklyn-​born sensibilities has resulted in a multi-​faceted career that has taken him from the boardroom to behind the kitchen door.

Dene enjoyed an illuminating career as the owner of a successful lighting manufacturing business. But a penchant for good food has always been his real passion. In his younger days he was known around his New York neighborhood for whisking, blending, mixing and muddling fresh ingredients that he would make into savory sauces offering up his handcrafted, bottled condiments as gifts for birthdays, holidays and special occasions. For many years Dene’s Sunday ritual included donning an apron and preparing an incredible feast, which quickly became the most coveted dinner invitation in town.

Michael’s Pizzeria also recommends

Michael’s On Naples

463

reviews

Italian

Michael D. says,

«Michael’s on Naples is the flagship restaurant of the Michael’s Restaurant Group and was voted by Zagat as the #1 Italian Restaurant in all of LA.»

Michael’s Pizzeria

429

reviews

Italian

,

Pizza

,

Sandwiches

Michael D. says,

«As the first location for Michael’s Pizzeria, it was recognized by Zagat at the #1 Pizza in all of Los Angeles.»

Michael’s Pizzeria — CLOSED

132

reviews

Pizza

Michael D. says,

«Want authentic-​Napoli style pizza in the desert? Visit our location in Rancho Mirage at The River.»