The pizzeria Zielona Górka from Pabianice, Poland, has achieved international acclaim by winning the title of the best Neapolitan pizzeria globally, surpassing more than 11,000 competitors. This prestigious honor was awarded at the Sigep World fair held at the end of January 2023, organized by the Association of True Neapolitan Pizza (AVPN).
Owner Jędrzej Lewandowski expressed his elation, stating, "To co wydarzyło się w tym tygodniu jest absolutnym spełnieniem wszelkich marzeń! Zaczynaliśmy w garażu na małych piecykach, a pierwszego dnia mieliśmy przygotowane może 8 kulek Pizzy czekających na Gości, czyli Was!" This recognition is the result of years of dedication and hard work, beginning with making pizzas from his garage.
Jędrzej, who previously worked as an architect, decided to abandon his career to pursue his passion for pizza-making alongside his wife. For two years, he experimented with various recipes, facing unexpected challenges without even having proper windows in his garage. His persistent efforts paid off as his restaurant transformed from humble beginnings to gaining widespread recognition.
Receiving this award is not only personal for Lewandowski but also holds significance for the entire region of Pabianice. He remarked, "Na świecie są dziesiątki tysięcy pizzerii i blisko 1100 lokali stowarzyszonych w AVPN. W życiu nie liczyłem na takie wyróżnienie. To promocja dla restauracji, którą prowadzę z żoną, ale też ogromna promocja dla Pabianic i dla całego kraju." This recognition will promote Pabianice as it attracts pizza lovers from around the world.
Lewandowski highlighted the impact of the award on their customer base, noting, "Sukces w rankingu dał nam rozpoznawalność, mamy gości z całej Polski i z zagranicy. Niedawno był u nas Amerykanin z Nowego Jorku. Mieszkał w Krakowie, ale dwa razy przyjechał do Pabianic pociągiem, żeby zjeść naszą pizzę." Such stories reflect the growing interest and appreciation for authentic Neapolitan pizza, which is now more accessible to global diners.
Looking back, Zielona Górka has also been featured three times in the annual Top 50 Pizza World rankings, heightening its profile among pizza enthusiasts. The next edition of this ranking is expected to be released later this year, adding to the competition and motivation for maintaining high standards.
With this accolade under their belt, Zielona Górka is not only celebrating its 10th anniversary but also preparing for greater responsibility as they uphold the traditions of authentic Neapolitan pizza. Lewandowski recognizes the importance of local businesses, emphasizing their role in the economy. "Małe firmy takie jak moja pizzeria są podstawą funkcjonowania państwa. Branża gastronomiczna generuje ogromne przychody, a zatem jest też źródłem pokaźnych wpływów podatkowych do budżetu," he said. His commitment to the craft extends beyond personal achievement, as it creates job opportunities for local youth and supports fellow local businesses.
The success of Zielona Górka not only reflects personal triumph for Lewandowski but resonates as a piece of the larger narrative illustrating Poland's growing culinary reputation on the world stage. Despite being up against significant competition from Neapolitan establishments, it exemplifies how passion and hard work can break through boundaries and lead to landmark achievements.