About Punch pizza
We're a passionate team of pizza makers dedicated to bringing authentic Neapolitan punch pizza craftsmanship to St Louis Park, MN — one wood-fired pie at a time.
Our Story
Born From a Love of
Authentic Pizza
Punch pizza began in 2009 with a single wood-fired oven and an unwavering commitment to the traditions of Neapolitan pizza making. Our founder, Marco Valente, trained for years in Naples, Italy — learning the ancient art of crafting the perfect dough, selecting the finest San Marzano tomatoes, and mastering the delicate balance of heat and timing that makes authentic pizza extraordinary.
When Marco brought that knowledge to St Louis Park, MN, he wanted to share more than just great food — he wanted to share an experience. Punch pizza became the place where neighbors gathered, families celebrated, and pizza lovers finally found what they'd been searching for: the real thing.
Today, Punch pizza continues that tradition with the same passion, the same dedication to quality ingredients, and the same wood-fired craftsmanship that has made us a beloved fixture in the United States dining scene for over a decade.
Our Purpose
Mission, Vision & Promise
Everything we do at Punch pizza is guided by three core principles that have shaped our restaurant since day one.
Our Mission
To craft the finest authentic Neapolitan punch pizza using traditional techniques, premium imported ingredients, and our signature 900°F wood-fired oven — delivering an unmatched dining experience to every guest, every time.
Our Vision
To be the most beloved pizza destination in the United States — a place where authentic craft, community connection, and exceptional quality converge to create moments that bring people together around the table.
Our Promise
Every pizza that leaves our kitchen is made with love, care, and the highest-quality ingredients. We promise consistency, transparency, and a dining experience that respects both our guests and the Neapolitan traditions we honor.
What We Believe
The Values That
Drive Everything We Do
Quality Ingredients
We source only the finest ingredients — imported San Marzano tomatoes, 00 flour, fresh-pulled mozzarella, and locally grown produce whenever the seasons allow.
Crafted With Passion
Every pizza is hand-stretched, thoughtfully topped, and baked by artisans who take genuine pride in their work. There are no shortcuts in our kitchen — only craft.
Community First
We're proud to be part of the St Louis Park community. We hire local, source local where possible, and give back through charitable partnerships and neighborhood events.
Sustainable Practices
From compostable packaging to energy-efficient operations, we're committed to doing business in a way that respects our planet and preserves it for future generations.
Our Journey
The Punch Pizza Story
Through the Years
The Beginning
Marco Valente opens the first Punch pizza location in St Louis Park, MN with a single 900°F wood-fired oven imported from Naples. The first punch pizza is served and a legend is born.
Award-Winning Recognition
Punch pizza earns its first "Best Pizza in Minnesota" award, bringing national attention to our authentic Neapolitan craft. Weekend wait times reach two hours — a problem we happily solve by expanding our kitchen.
Growing the Team
We welcome our head chef Elena Russo from Rome, who introduces new seasonal specials and elevates our dessert menu. Staff grows to 35 passionate pizza lovers committed to excellence.
Catering & Events Launch
Punch pizza launches its catering division, bringing our wood-fired experience to weddings, corporate events, and private parties across the United States. Over 200 events served in our first year.
Sustainability Initiative
We launch our Green Crust initiative — switching to 100% compostable packaging, partnering with local farms for seasonal produce, and reducing our carbon footprint by 40% over two years.
50,000 Pizzas Milestone
We celebrate serving our 50,000th pizza — a Margherita, just like the very first one. The franchise program launches, inviting passionate entrepreneurs to share the Punch pizza experience across the United States.
The People Behind the Pizza
Meet Our Team
Our kitchen is only as great as the people in it. Meet the passionate individuals who pour their heart into every Punch pizza pie.
Marco Valente
Founder & Head Pizzaiolo
Trained in Naples for 7 years, Marco brings the soul of Neapolitan pizza-making to every pie. His passion for authentic ingredients and traditional technique is the heartbeat of Punch pizza.
Elena Russo
Head Chef
Elena joined Punch pizza in 2015 from Rome, bringing a refined culinary perspective that elevated our seasonal menu and artisanal dessert offerings. She's the creative force behind our signature specials.
James Carter
Operations Manager
With 12 years in restaurant management, James ensures that every guest experience at Punch pizza is seamless, consistent, and memorable — from the first greeting to the last bite.
Sofia Chen
Catering Director
Sofia leads our award-winning catering division, orchestrating wood-fired pizza experiences at events of every size — from intimate family gatherings to large corporate functions across the United States.
Passionate about pizza? We're always looking for talented people to join our team.
Join Our Team