Born in Minneapolis, inspired by Naples. Since 2006, Punch Pizza has been crafting authentic Neapolitan pies using wood-fired ovens, premium Italian ingredients, and a deep love for the craft.
Our Story
It all started with a journey to Naples, Italy. Our founder John Soranno returned home to Minneapolis with one burning mission: to bring the true taste of Neapolitan pizza to the American Midwest. In 2006, Punch Pizza opened its first doors on Grand Avenue in St. Paul.
We built our first wood-fired oven from scratch, sourced Caputo tipo 00 flour directly from Naples, and imported San Marzano tomatoes from the volcanic slopes of Mount Vesuvius. Every detail was deliberate — because great pizza demands great ingredients and even greater passion.
Today, Punch operates six locations across the Twin Cities metro, each carrying the same soul as that original St. Paul pizzeria: a crackling wood fire, hand-stretched dough, and toppings that honor Italian tradition while celebrating Minnesota's vibrant food community.
What Drives Us
Everything we do flows from a simple belief: that great food made with integrity can bring people together and make life richer.
We honor centuries-old Neapolitan techniques — hand-stretched dough, 90-second bakes, and nothing artificial. Tradition is our recipe.
From imported Italian flour to locally grown herbs, every ingredient is chosen for its flavor, freshness, and provenance. No compromises.
We're proud Minnesotans. We source locally whenever possible, support neighborhood events, and invest in the communities that welcomed us.
Every guest deserves a warm welcome and an unforgettable meal. We believe hospitality isn't a job — it's who we are at Punch Pizza.
Our Journey
From a single wood-fired oven to a beloved Twin Cities institution — here are the chapters of our story.
Punch Pizza opens on Grand Avenue, St. Paul — one wood-fired oven, two employees, and an unstoppable dream to bring authentic Neapolitan pizza to Minnesota.
Minneapolis–St. Paul Magazine names Punch Pizza the Best Pizza in the Twin Cities — the first of many recognitions validating our commitment to the craft.
With demand outgrowing our single location, we open two new restaurants in the metro area, bringing the wood-fire experience closer to more communities.
We forge an official partnership with a historic Neapolitan bakery, securing direct import of certified authentic ingredients and exchange of artisan knowledge.
Punch commits to 100% compostable packaging, introduces a local farm sourcing program, and reduces food waste by 40% across all locations.
Our newest and largest location opens at 3226 W Lake St, Minneapolis — a modern showcase of our craft featuring an open kitchen, expanded menu, and community event space.
The Faces Behind the Fire
Our people are what make Punch special. Every pizza is a collaboration — from the farmers who grow our ingredients to the pizzaioli who craft each pie.
After his life-changing trip to Naples, John returned to Minneapolis on a mission to share the true art of Neapolitan pizza with his hometown. He oversees every aspect of Punch with passion and precision.
Trained in Naples at the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, Maria brings 15 years of artisan expertise to Punch. Her dough fermentation technique is the backbone of our crust's legendary flavor.
David brings creative energy to our seasonal specials and antipasti menu, blending Italian tradition with Minnesota's finest local produce. He leads our culinary innovation team across all six locations.
Sarah ensures that every Punch location runs with the same warmth and precision as the first. With a background in hospitality management, she champions the guest experience above everything else.
Want to be part of our team?
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Visit us at our West Lake Street location or order online. Every pizza is handcrafted just for you, fresh from the fire.