205 Monticello RdIt may seem unreasonable to wait an hour just to get a seat at this tiny 21-seater for the pizza that only takes 90 seconds to cook, but you won’t be disappointed. Lampo boasts truly Neopolitan pizza -- and there’s an Italian organization with very strict rules, noted by a “Denomination of Control” seal of approval -- for what is considered to be officially Neopolitan. Not trying to argue with the Pizza Illuminati, so saddle up at the bar to wait it out and see what its take on the classic margherita D.O.C is all about.

Lampo, a repeat winner, continues its young but strong tradition of excellence by hewing to a formula of not-too-fancy but consistently fine wood-fired Neapolitan pizza and rustic Italian fare. It would be unfair to give all of the credit to former chef Ian Redshaw—our 2018 Best Chef winner and a 2019 James Beard Rising Chef of the Year semi-finalist—but his ethos has carried over to the current Lampo team, headed by chef Mitch Bereens. Consistently mobbed since its opening in 2014, the restaurant is still a tough table, but getting a seat inside the charming little brick box feels just as special as ever.

Lampo, without a doubt, serves the highest quality pizza in Charlottesville, with a wood burning oven that makes pies that taste like they came straight from Italy. The restaurant itself is about the size of any first-year dorm room, but seating doubles during the warmer months when they have outdoor tables and rumor has it the restaurant is expanding. This extra seating is definitely necessary, as the wait to get a table can sometimes be longer than an hour, but I promise the wait is most definitely worth it.

Nothing says romance like sharing a freshly-baked pizza pie, straight from a piping hot wood-fired oven. For a uniquely romantic experience in a cozy, charming space, head to Lampo Neapolitan Pizzeria in downtown Charlottesville. Located a few blocks east of the Downtown Mall in the Belmont neighborhood, this pizza joint cranks out pies that are sure to please, in an authentic, rustic way.

If you are Lampo, and you’ve somehow been imbued with consciousness, and are reading this, please know it wasn’t an easy decision and that you are a close second. Lampo is Italian for “lightning,” probably one of the more appropriate descriptions of a place that churns out a pie in 90 seconds. But “churns” make it sound like fast food, which it certainly is not.

These include Red Pump Kitchen for Italian and Mediterranean specialties, Public Fish & Oyster for great seafood, and Lampo Neapolitan Pizzeria for pizza. First opening its doors in 1923, The Virginian is Charlottesville’s oldest restaurant. Their menu includes burgers and sandwiches, fresh salads, signature crab cakes, and their famous mac ‘n cheese.

For something a little more casual (but no less delicious), we suggest Lampo, the Neapolitan pizza spot that specializes in authentic pies—often with the restaurant’s own creative twist. Don’t forget to load up your order with sides (like the shaved Brussels sprouts salad), dessert (you’ll need some zeppole, aka fried ricotta donuts), and beers.

A delicious homage to authentic Neapolitan-style pizza, Lampo cooks in a way that’s refreshingly transparent and free of fuss. In true Naples fashion, the restaurant is a stickler for ingredients (think “00” flour and San Marzano tomatoes), and all the pies are quickly fired in a Neapolitan wood oven and properly speckled with leopard spotting.

Located in Belmont neighborhood (southeast of downtown), Lampo has become a beloved spot for those who want an authentic Neapolitan pizza experience. Enjoy delicious crafted pies made in a wood-fired oven imported directly from Italy. a few favorite dishes include the classic Margherita and the Prosciutto Arugula.

**Lampo was that year, Public Fish and Oyster, Alley Light, Oakhart Social, MarieBette — that’s like a greatest hits list for Charlottesville. I’ve always said it goes in cycles, and usually if there’s a big opening year, the next year there won’t be many. It happens every few years.

The classic Margherita is always a great option, although you can’t go wrong with any of the choices. Lampo offers a really interesting scissor pizza cutter, which I have not seen anywhere else before, and cutting my own delicious slice of pizza always makes me feel accomplished.

Lampo is owned by a friend and has a very loyal local following. Typically there is a wait around mealtime, and now I know why. The Neapolitan pizzeria brings together a sweet blend of a rustic dining experience, high-quality ingredients, and the essence of casual Italian dining.

Monday through Saturday, Lampo provides the opportunity for you to prolong a date going particularly well. After all, the wine selection of classic Italians makes it easy to stay and enjoy the rustic interior and good company. “Lampo is great for an intimate environment.

Learn where to find hidden restaurants, like Vu Noodles or Lampo, to delight your palate. Climb a keelboat at Darden Towe Park or a giant salamander sculpture at Wildrock. Explore art from far-flung regions and experience the joy of sports teams with unique challenges.

Offering delicious, homemade pasta and plenty of antipasti options, Lampo is a favorite among locals. It’s located in Charlottesville’s Belmont neighborhood and has a nice patio for outdoor dining. There are several indoor tables as well but they can fill up quickly.

Even in a town known for its culinary wonders (we're looking at you, Lampo, and C&O Restaurant), MarieBette holds a special place in our hearts. Consider yourself warned, though, because you'll want to sample one of everything -- we are speaking from experience here!

Oh, there's also a CalMex restaurant/takeout spot called Barbie's Barn that's near Lampo. It's decent but CalMex isn't really my thing. There's also Al Carbon for rotisserie chicken similar to Peruvian rotisserie chicken restaurants but they also do Elotes and tacos.

For a delicious dive into a culinary tradition this Neapolitan Pizza is a must-try. Highly specialized, this pizza is certified and made with a particular style of crust and specific ingredients baked in a very hot brick oven. Cuisine: Traditional Tableservice

is a locally owned pizza restaurant in Belmont that offers authentic small 12-inch Neapolitan-style pizzas mixed by hand. Lampo Neapolitan Pizzeria also offers a selection of buffalo style pizzas that are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

205 Monticello Rd, Charlottesville, Virginia Facebook | Website | Photo: Lampo FB Lampo Neapolitan Pizzeria has a wonderful cheese selection and pizza toppings like buffalo mozzarella, sea salt, n’duja and lemon.

For other choices, hit one of Ix’s restaurants, like the takeout wood-fired pizza at Lampo, or perhaps a flight at North American Sake Brewery, or pretzel bites and a beer at Three Notch’d Brewing Company.

Lampo is a Neapolitan-style eatery located next to the Belmont Bridge. Executive Chefs Loren Mendosa and Mitch Beerens have quickly transformed Lampo’s menu into possibly the best pizza option in CVille.

Lampo – Fancy shmancy pizzas that are so divine and lovely that’s a step up from casual night. Limited seating, so call ahead if you plan on dining there, or order for take-out to your local Air B&B

Lampo: This trendy restaurant hosts themed nights throughout the week, such as “Pasta Night” and “Wine Wednesday.” The menu features a mix of traditional and contemporary Italian dishes.

We always get the same things: the orangey olives, the small but mighty kale salad, the Hellboy pizza (if they have it!) and the Prosciutto pizza with preserved lemon and arugula.

- Rating: 4.4/5 (490 reviews)- Price level: $$- Address: 205 Monticello Road Charlottesville, Virginia - Categories: italian, pizza, beer, wine & spirits- Read more on Yelp

Although Governor Ralph Northam gave restaurants the green light to partially reopen outdoor seating on May 15, Lampo and Mas Tapas made the tough decision to hold off.

Lampo | 205 Monticello Rd. – Traditional Neapolitan pizza & more that leaves you questioning how something so simple can taste so good.