Our Story
At Moderna, the passion is in the dough, the pride is in the pie. Led by Chef Leo, one of the world’s foremost pizza masters, our kitchen blends classic Italian tradition with the fearless spirit of Austin. From scratch-made pastas to modern riffs on timeless dishes, every plate tells a story.
A modern evolution of Italian tradition born in Austin, Texas
Moderna Bar & Pizzeria is not just a pizzeria—it is an elevated Italian dining experience, offering a full Italian menu alongside a thoughtfully crafted cocktail program. At its foundation is Post-Heritage Neapolitan, a new category of pizza making created by Maestro Leo Spizzirri and the DNA of the Moderna pizza. Rooted in the centuries-old traditions of Napoli—long-fermented dough, balance, and the instinct of the pizzaiolo—it honors heritage while evolving forward through modern fermentation, regional Italian ingredients, artisan American craftsmanship, and custom Italian ovens. The result is not rebellion, but reverence: classic simplicity meeting bold, seasonal creativity, expressed through innovation.
Meet The Team
Master Pizzaoilo /
Executive Chef
Master Pizzaoilo/Executive ChefMaestro Pizzaiolo Leo Spizzirri isn’t just a chef. He’s obsessed with all things pizza. His expertise is in dough rheology and America’s ambassador of authentic Italian Pizza and Pasta products. Co-founder of North American Pizza & Culinary Academy.
Renowned Restaurauteur /
Serial Entrepreneur
Serial entrepreneur, renowned restaurateur and branding genius with decades of recorded success in launching award-winning restaurant concepts.
Bar & Restaurant Entreprenuer /
Serial Entrepreneur
With more than 40 years experience creating bars and nightclubs, Chris was responsible for the creation of Pete’s Peanut Bar and Piano Emporium, Momo’s, Six Lounge, and Hangar Lounge, to name a few, which have all become institutions and part of Austin’s history.
The Oven
Our custom golden Marra Forni oven isn’t just equipment — it’s the heart of Moderna. Built to be a showpiece and a workhorse, it burns with the fire of Naples while anchoring Austin’s most ambitious Italian kitchen. Where there’s smoke, there’s gold.
The Dough Lab
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Food, Pizza, & Cocktails
Hand-cut pastas rolled fresh each day.
Neapolitan-inspired pizzas baked at 700 degrees in 2.5 minutes
Italian-Texan cocktails and a wine list built for both purists and explorers.
Experience
Moderna lives on West 6th — the crossroads of Austin energy. Dinner with friends, late-night drinks, or a celebratory feast, this is a place where the lights are warm, the oven glows, and every night feels like an occasion.
