Delicious Wood-Fired Pizza in Honolulu, Hawaii

Wood-fired pizza has become a huge food trend and delicious options are popping up all over Oahu. If you’re wondering what the hype is about or would just like to learn more this article is for you! This type of pizza is baked in a wood-fired oven. This method of cooking pizza is known for creating a crispy crust and intense, smoky flavor. The high temperatures of a wood-fired oven allow the pizza to cook quickly, usually in less than 2 minutes.

In a traditional wood-fired pizza, the toppings are simple and minimal, allowing the flavor of the dough and the smoky taste of the wood to shine through. Some common toppings include fresh mozzarella cheese, tomatoes, basil, and olive oil.

Many pizzerias and restaurants now offer wood-fired pizza as a specialty, and it has become a popular choice among pizza lovers. Some people believe that the unique taste of wood-fired pizza can’t be replicated by conventional ovens, and that the heat from the wood gives the pizza a special texture and flavor. In fact, some folks love it so much they skip the conventional oven at home and cook their pizza on the grill at home. Even a frozen grocery store pizza takes on a new dimension when cooked over wood charcoal on the grill.

The difference between wood fire pizza and regular pizza

The main difference between wood-fired pizza and regular pizza is the cooking method and the resulting flavor and texture.

Wood-fired pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven, which is typically made of brick or stone and heated by burning wood. The high heat of the oven, combined with the smoky flavor of the wood, gives the pizza a unique taste and texture. The pizza cooks quickly in a wood-fired oven, usually in 90 seconds to 2 minutes, resulting in a crispy, charred crust.

On the other hand, regular pizza is typically cooked in a conventional oven at lower temperatures, which can result in a softer, chewier crust. The toppings on regular pizza tend to be more varied and often include more ingredients and sauce.

In terms of ingredients, wood-fired pizza usually uses high-quality, fresh ingredients and simple toppings, such as fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce, and basil. Regular pizza can have a wider variety of toppings and can include processed meats, such as pepperoni or sausage.

Overall, the main differences between wood-fired pizza and regular pizza are the cooking method, resulting flavor and texture, and the simplicity of the toppings used in wood-fired pizza

Where to Find Wood-fired pizza in Honolulu Hawaii

Here are several more places in Honolulu, Hawaii to try:

1. Floralia: The menu here specializes in wood-fired pizzas and have plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. The best part about eating here is the casual atmosphere of outdoor seating under the canopy of a large tree, lots of ambient lighting, and good music. The air is filled with smokey pizza flavors and its walking distance from Ala Moana Beach Park. Our first go-to spot!
2. Via Gelato: This Italian-inspired gelato shop serves wood-fired pizzas with fresh, high-quality ingredients. Their menu includes classic Margherita, Pepperoni, and Hawaiian pizzas, as well as creative options like the “Cajun Chicken” and “Bianca” (mozzarella, ricotta, and parmesan cheeses with garlic and olive oil). They also have a vegan pizza option.
3. JJ Dolan’s: This popular spot in the heart of Chinatown is known for their New York-style pizza, but they also have a wood-fired pizza oven for their “Neapolitan” pies. Their menu includes classics like the Margherita and Pepperoni, as well as more unique options like the “Fig & Pig” (figs, prosciutto, gorgonzola, and arugula).
4. Brick Fire Tavern: This local chain has several locations in Honolulu, and they specialize in wood-fired pizza made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Their menu includes classic Margherita and Pepperoni pizzas, as well as more unique options like the “Hawaiian Harvest” (with pineapple, bacon, and roasted veggies) and the “Smoky Pig” (with ham, bacon, and smoked gouda).
5. Flour & Barley: Located in Waikiki, this popular restaurant serves artisanal pizzas made in a wood-fired oven. Their menu includes classic Margherita, Pepperoni, and Hawaiian pizzas, as well as more creative options like the “Smoked Salmon” (with dill cream cheese, red onions, and capers) and the “Pork Love” (with pepperoni, sausage, and bacon).

by Erica McMillan