The Italian Who Brought The World’s Oldest Pizzeria To Singapore

Key Concepts:

1. Introduction and Background

Marcello, an Italian expatriate, has been living in Singapore for 10 years, after stints in the Czech Republic (Prague) and Italy.
He felt an immediate connection with Singapore upon arrival in 2015, describing it as "love at first impression" and feeling like he belonged there.
He identified a gap in Singapore's culinary scene: the absence of truly authentic Italian food, like the kind his grandmother used to cook.

2. Bringing Authentic Neapolitan Pizza to Singapore

Marcello decided to franchise L'antica Pizzeria Da Michele, the oldest pizza restaurant in the world from Naples, to Singapore.
He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and replicating the original Neapolitan pizza experience.
"In pizza, there is only one name. L'antica Pizzeria Da Michele."

3. The Oven and the Pizza-Making Process

The custom-made oven from Naples is crucial for achieving the authentic Neapolitan pizza.
The oven can cook a pizza in just 45 seconds.
The pizza dough is stretched by hand to be as large as possible, following the original Neapolitan tradition of making food accessible to the poor.

4. Community and Customer Interaction

Marcello takes pride in bringing his culture and food to Singapore.
He actively engages with customers, offering recommendations and creating a welcoming atmosphere.
He appreciates the openness of Singaporeans to try new restaurants and support local businesses.
"Singaporean people are fantastic. They give you a chance all the time."

5. Personal Life and Relationships

Marcello met his girlfriend, Andrea, in Singapore and describes her as the "female version" of himself, emphasizing their shared enjoyment of life.
He values his friendships in Singapore, considering his friends as his "family" due to the shared experiences far from home.
He met one of his close friends, whose name is not mentioned, at a boxing gym.

6. Embracing New Experiences and Taking Risks

Marcello's friends encourage him to try new experiences, such as bungee jumping.
Despite his initial fear, he finds the experience worthwhile, emphasizing the importance of taking risks in life.
"In life, even when you are scared, you have to take a risk. That's the meaning of everything."

7. Integration and Appreciation of Singaporean Culture

Marcello enjoys spending time at Tanjong Beach Club, feeling at home and enjoying Italian wine and friendship.
He considers Singapore his "real home" and only visits Italy for holidays.
He acknowledges that Singapore has shaped him, instilling a strong work ethic and energetic approach to life.
"Singapore shaped me in many ways... Here you have to run, you have to work, you have to be energetic."

8. Olive Oil and Ingredients

The olive oil used in the restaurant comes from Marcello's family land in Puglia, Italy.
He emphasizes that many of the ingredients are sourced from the Mediterranean region.

9. One Year Anniversary

The video culminates in the celebration of the one-year anniversary of Pizzeria Da Michele in Singapore.
The anniversary cake features both Italian and Singaporean elements, symbolizing the fusion of cultures.

10. Conclusion

Marcello's story highlights the successful integration of an Italian expatriate into Singaporean society.
He has not only brought authentic Neapolitan pizza to Singapore but has also built a strong community around his restaurant.
He emphasizes the importance of taking risks, embracing new experiences, and finding a home away from home.

The Italian Who Brought The World’s Oldest Pizzeria To Singapore | Singapore Hour