Andrew Bellucci's Pizzeria Hosts Classic NYC Pizza Class

Restaurateur Matthew Katakis invites guests to learn Bellucci's signature pizza styles

Published on Mar. 7, 2026

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In the wake of Andrew Bellucci's passing, Restaurateur Matthew Katakis is hosting a hands-on pizza-making class at Bellucci's namesake pizzeria. Guests will learn to hand-stretch 12-inch pizzas, create signature sauces and toppings, and hear Bellucci's story as the "Don of Dough." The class includes wine, pasta, and two styles of Bellucci's renowned pizza, as well as a take-home pizza dough.

Why it matters

This class ensures Bellucci's pizza legacy lives on by teaching his unique techniques and recipes to a new generation of pizza enthusiasts. As a beloved local institution, Bellucci's Pizzeria has been a fixture in the Queens community for decades, and this event celebrates the enduring appeal of classic New York-style pizza.

The details

Throughout the 2-hour class, guests will learn the fundamentals of making great NYC-style pizza, including how to properly stretch and shape the dough, create the perfect pizza sauce, select the right cheese, and master topping combinations. They'll then get hands-on experience designing and baking their own 12-inch personal pizzas using Bellucci's signature methods. In addition to the pizza-making, the class will also feature Bellucci's famous vodka rigatoni and zeppoles.

  • The class will take place on March 7, 2026.

The players

Andrew Bellucci

The late, renowned pizzaiolo known as the "Don of Dough" who perfected classic New York-style pizza at his namesake restaurant in Queens.

Matthew Katakis

The restaurateur who is hosting the pizza-making class to honor Bellucci's legacy and share his signature techniques with a new generation of pizza enthusiasts.

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What they’re saying

“As his namesake restaurant lives on, this experience will ensure that his legacy does too.”

— Matthew Katakis, Restaurateur (cityguideny.com)

What’s next

The class is a one-time event, but Bellucci's Pizzeria continues to serve his renowned pizza to the local community.

The takeaway

This pizza-making class is a unique opportunity to learn the secrets behind classic New York-style pizza directly from the renowned "Don of Dough" himself, ensuring Bellucci's culinary legacy lives on for a new generation of pizza enthusiasts.