On the hot and sunny streets of St. Pete, Florida, a unique pizza story unfolds with every slice served by Josh Anson of Cipolla Rossa. This mobile pizzeria is not just about pizza; it’s a tale of passion, tradition, and the relentless pursuit of perfection. Join us as we delve into the journey of Cipolla Rossa, where every pizza tells a story.
Josh Anson’s love affair with pizza began in 2013 at Posto restaurant in Washington, DC, under the mentorship of Matteo Vanini. Matteo, hailing from Northern Italy, imparted his knowledge of Italian cuisine, igniting Josh’s passion for pizza. Initially planning an Italian food truck, Josh’s path took a turn when he was asked to work the pizza oven. The experience was transformative, leading him to embrace the art of pizza-making wholeheartedly.
Cipolla Rossa is Born
The name “Cipolla Rossa,” meaning red onion in Italian, was chosen to reflect Josh’s deep appreciation for Italian culture and cuisine. With the help of friends and mentors, including an Argentine friend who designed the logo, Cipolla Rossa came to life. The journey was not without its challenges, as Josh navigated the complexities of mobile pizza catering, learning from seasoned experts like Jonathan from Ghibellina and Jay Clement from Pizzeria Moto.
Cipolla Rossa’s pizzas are a testament to Josh’s dedication to quality and innovation. The dough, a hybrid between Neapolitan and New York styles, undergoes a meticulous three-day fermentation process. Using a mix of King Arthur flours and a touch of sourdough, Josh creates a dough that balances flavor and texture. Each pizza, whether a classic margherita or a pepperoni with garlic oil and oregano, is crafted with the finest ingredients, including Grande Cheese and Stanislaus Tomatoes.
The Mobile Pizza Experience
Operating a mobile pizzeria is no small feat. Josh describes the challenges of setting up and breaking down equipment, often working late into the night to ensure everything is perfect. Despite the hard work, the mobile aspect allows Cipolla Rossa to bring their delicious pizzas to various locations, from the Mezzo Market to pop-ups at local bars. The flexibility and community engagement make the effort worthwhile.
As Cipolla Rossa continues to grow, Josh envisioned a future with more consistency and accessibility. He just launched a permanent location outside Hawthorne Bottle Shop in St. Pete. This space offers his fans an amazing brick-and-mortar store to enjoy their favorite pizzas. Still, Cipolla Rossa remains a beloved fixture in St. Petersbueg, with a loyal following eager to savor each slice.
Cipolla Rossa is more than just a pizzeria; it’s a celebration of tradition, innovation, and the love of pizza. Josh Anson’s journey from a budding pizza enthusiast to a seasoned mobile pizzeria owner is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a slice from Cipolla Rossa is a taste of dedication and culinary artistry.
Find them on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cipollarossapizza/
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