ABOUT US
THE CRESCI STORY
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THE CRESCI STORY
In April 2020, lifelong friends Armando Imparato and Berardo Caggiano opened Cresci Pizzeria in the heart of York city centre, at 20 Piccadilly. Their dream was simple — to bring the warmth, flavour, and tradition of Southern Italy to the people of York through authentic Neapolitan pizza.
Armando’s journey began on the Amalfi Coast, where his love for food was born during his years at cookery school. His path soon led him beyond Italy — first to York in 2005, where he met Berardo, and then across the United States, where he trained as a pizza chef in a true Neapolitan pizzeria. It was there that he perfected his craft and fell in love with the artistry of real Neapolitan dough.
After returning home, Armando trained under master pizzaiolos before taking his skills around the world as a pizzeria manager on luxury cruise ships. Yet, after years at sea, he longed for home — and for a place to build something lasting.
That decision brought him back to York, and back to his friend Berardo.
Berardo’s story began in Puglia, a small region in Southern Italy known for its rich culinary heritage. When he moved to York at 29, his experience in food was limited — but his passion was not. Working in hospitality and experimenting in his own kitchen, he developed a deep appreciation for Italian cooking and the joy of sharing great food with others.
Together, Armando and Berardo brought their shared vision to life: an authentic Italian pizzeria in York that celebrates tradition, quality ingredients, and the true taste of Naples. Their friendship, passion, and dedication are the heart of everything at Cresci — where every pizza tells a story of home, heritage, and heart.
Berardo & Armando
WHAT PEOPLE SAY
"In a city that’s brimming with history, charm, and a whole lot of tea shops, Cresci Pizzeria is a refreshing reminder that sometimes, all you need is a really great pizza. So, next time you’re wandering the lovely streets of York, be sure to pop by and let them work their pizza magic. You’ll be glad you did – and so will your taste buds."
TRADITION
At Cresci Pizzeria, our mission was always clear: to bring authentic Neapolitan pizza to York, and make it feel like home.
With decades of industry experience between us — and a deep love for traditional Italian produce — Armando and Berardo combined their passion, knowledge and character to launch something truly special. That authenticity resonated deeply with York’s Italian community from day one, helping us to gain invaluable support during the most challenging times.
Within just five months, Cresci Pizzeria earned official certification from the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, becoming pizzeria number 846 globally and #8 in the UK.
And soon after, York locals voted us the best pizzeria in York in an online survey. That achievement so soon after launch makes us immensely proud — proof that dedication, heritage, and genuine passion will always leave their mark.
Whether you’re searching for York’s best pizza, Neapolitan style pizzeria in York, or simply craving an authentic Italian pizza experience in York city centre, we’d love to welcome you.