Mangia & Bevi Pizzeria Napoletana on the Cocoa Beach Causeway has become a destination for foodies willing to drive hours for its Neapolitan pizza. The small storefront at 218 W Cocoa Beach Causeway has built a reputation so strong that travelers adjust cruise itineraries and rocket launch schedules to eat here. Locals and visitors alike praise the wood-fired crust, which some say rivals the quality of pies in Naples, Italy. The pizzeria’s owner, Giuseppe Russo, and his team use traditional methods passed down through generations.
Tucked along a busy stretch of the causeway, the spot is easy to miss—its unassuming size and location among other businesses make it a challenge to find. But once inside, the scent of fresh dough and tomatoes fills the air. Regulars say the pizzas are worth the search, with a menu featuring classic toppings like buffalo mozzarella and San Marzano tomatoes. The location’s proximity to the beach, cruise terminals, and Kennedy Space Center explains why out-of-town visitors often make it a priority stop.
Russo, who moved to Florida from Naples in 2018, insists on using imported flour and olive oil to replicate the flavors of his hometown. His pizzaiolo, Marco Ferrara, spends hours perfecting the dough’s texture before sliding it into a wood-fired oven. The result is a crisp, chewy crust that some customers say they’ve never tasted outside of Italy.
The pizzeria’s popularity has grown steadily since opening in 2021, with tables often booked weeks in advance. Regulars include families from New York, couples from California, and even astronauts who work at the space center. The menu includes vegetarian options and a few local twists, like a pizza with key lime and mango. Despite its fame, the spot remains humble, with Russo often seen behind the counter on busy nights. The wait for a table is a small price to pay, he says, for the chance to taste pizza made the old-fashioned way.