Have you ever walked into a restaurant where the wood pizza oven is prominently displayed as the heartbeat of the restaurant? As you enter, your spirit is soothed with a feeling of warmth and joy from the fire and radiant heat. The same fire that has warmed the soul of humans since the dawn of civilization. 

For many restaurateurs and food aficionados, wood pizza ovens are revered as a sacred object in the culinary arts. Today, both professional and amateur chefs are bringing this piece of ambiance to their homes. But the wood burning oven is much more than a centerpiece of conversation. It is a way of life.

A Brief History of Wood Pizza Ovens

These dome-shaped ovens have graced some of the most well-known pizzerias in New York and Chicago, as well as some of the trendiest spots to eat in the restaurant industry. But the wood pizza oven’s history is as rich as the artisan breads and pizza pies that come from its hearth.

The first wood ovens were developed in Egypt and by the Turks--unbeknownst to each other. The Romans perfected the method of the wood burning oven.

Archaeologists have recovered wood burning ovens that could pass for the same dome-shaped objects that are popular today. In fact, the wood burning brick ovens that were excavated in Pompeii from 3,000 years ago could be used today without any major renovations.

Now You Can Have a Wood Pizza Oven at Home

While using a wood-fired pizza oven is different than using a standard modern oven, you can easily learn the art of wood burning ovens just like thousands of generations before have enjoyed.

All it takes is a little bit of patience as you get the coals heated. Once you get to know your wood burning oven, you will never want to cook in any other kind!

Imagine sitting around the stove with a glass of red wine in the company of family and friends that are relaxed and happy. Sit back and enjoy the finer things in life such as good food, great company, and a new way to enjoy life that is as ancient as the birth of civilization.