La Natural in Miami Named One of the Best Pizzerias in the World

Miami’s La Natural Named One of the Best Pizzerias in the World
Miami’s pizza scene has officially gone global. La Natural, the laid-back Little River gem known for its naturally fermented pies and effortlessly cool vibe, just ranked No. 35 on the 2025 Best Pizza Awards—making it the only Florida pizzeria to land in the top 50 worldwide.The honor comes just five years after Javier Ramirez, a Venezuelan-born former finance executive, decided to swap spreadsheets for sourdough. What began as an experimental backyard pizza ritual evolved into a full-blown culinary obsession—one that would eventually turn into a Michelin-recognized neighborhood favorite.
From Backyard Project to Global Recognition
“I started in my backyard,” Ramirez told Resy. “Every week I’d try a different flour ratio, a different method, until I came up with what we have today.”That experimentation gave birth to La Natural’s signature 48-hour fermented dough, a crust that’s equal parts chewy and charred. Toppings range from minimalist—like a simple basil and tomato—to creative combos like wild mushroom with parsley or burrata finished with chili oil.
Ramirez describes sourdough as “equal parts art, science and animal husbandry. You gotta pet it, feed it at the right time… it’s like a science fair project.”
A Space That Feels Like Home
Designed by Ramirez’s wife and creative partner Andreina Matos, La Natural's space channels the warmth of a Mediterranean villa, complete with roll-up windows, breezy ceiling fans and vinyl spinning Afrobeat and reggae.And while the pizza is the obvious draw, seasonal small plates from chef Diego Moya (of New York’s Racines and Margot) and a curated list of natural wines make every visit feel elevated yet effortlessly casual.
Recognition Beyond Naples
The 2025 Best Pizza Awards were held in Milan, Italy on June 25 and featured top pizzerias from over 30 countries. While legends like Francesco Martucci and Franco Pepe topped the list, La Natural’s inclusion signals something bigger: world-class pizza isn’t just found in Naples anymore. Sometimes, it rises from a sourdough starter in Miami’s backyard.As the only Florida spot on the list—and one of just a few U.S. entries—La Natural has solidified its reputation as one of the top pizza destinations in the world.