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Forno Buono Napoli Pizza Oven

3.9/5.0
By Robert Parsons February 24, 2023
Looks / Appearance 3.8 / 5.0
Functionality 4.0 / 5.0
Ease of use 4.1 / 5.0

Pros

  • – Portable and Easy to Move
  • – Good Heat Retention
  • – Quick to Heat
  • – Low Priced
  • – Additional Smoker

Cons

  • – Smaller Cooking Area
  • – Can Be Hard To Keep Temperature Constant
  • – Lower Level – Not Great For Children

On the lighter side of pizza ovens, we have the Napoli model. The wonderful people at Forno Buono make this stellar model – I also reviewed their Almalfi Pro model. Forno has placed their signature badge of honour on this smaller oven. Upon further research, I’m happy to say that I also approve of this classic Neapolitan rendition.

Who Is this Pizza Oven For?

In my opinion, this model is for the creative pizza soul. The inclusion of the smoker and grill allows for a wide variety of possible dinner options. Its lightness and portability allow the Napoli to be transferred rather easily. This is also a less pricey model, which is great for the frugal shopper.

Specifications

As I stated earlier, this is a less dominating model. The oven itself only weighs about 30 kg. The cooking area is also on the smaller side: the hearth is about 49.5 cm x 36. 8 cm. Fitted with easy glide wheels, the entire apparatus can be easily moved from place to place.

Although you may be tempted to use the Napoli’s smaller stature indoors, I would not recommend it. This is a wood-fired oven that can quickly reach temperatures above 260 C. Paired with excessive smoke this intense heat can become dangerous when used inside.

From what I’ve seen, the Napoli model is only available in the classic black. This makes sense when you factor in the cost of the machine. In my experience, lower price points are always going to have less customisation. So, if the colour is truly that important to you, this model might not be the best choice.

Where Can I Use This Oven?

This Napoli is great for smaller backyard spaces. As stated earlier, its low weight means it can be easily manoeuvred to wherever you see fit. Just be careful about your placement: some reviewers complain about the Napoli becoming so hot that it caused nearby paint to bubble and burn. Its lower stature can also pose a possible threat to children and small animals.

To combat these possible hazards, approach the apparatus with care. Make certain the Napoli is placed in an area that is flame retardant, has a non-combustible base, and is not purely made of wood. Keep animals separate, and let your children know the Napoli is not to be tampered with.

What Makes This Oven Special?

What truly makes this model special is the inclusion of the grill and smoker. While many other models serve one purpose, the Napoli can accommodate many. The entire apparatus is equipped with a flue damper and air vents for optimal cooking temperatures. This allows the oven to retain heat that can almost compete with a brick oven!

I really appreciate the smoker because it opens the possibilities for future delicious meals. The Napoli cannot be contained by simply just pizza; you can smoke ribs, grill steak, and create a delicious Neapolitan pizza – all with the same cooking tool!

Our Verdict

If you value manoeuvrability, versatility and cost efficiency, this might be the oven for you. The Napoli’s small design is great for the creative and casual pizza lover. It can be moved, altered, and transformed to work with you and your needs.

Although this doesn’t come with the added features of some higher models, this is still a quality pizza oven. Yet, if customisation or a larger cooking area is important to you, I would recommend looking elsewhere.

Pros

  • – Portable and Easy to Move
  • – Good Heat Retention
  • – Quick to Heat
  • – Low Priced
  • – Additional Smoker

Cons

  • – Smaller Cooking Area
  • – Can Be Hard To Keep Temperature Constant
  • – Lower Level – Not Great For Children