"Mission (as the locals call it) is actually an osteria masquerading as a pizzeria. Owner Peyton Smith builds a selection of unique entrees and pizza options, which puts this spot above the average pizza joint. For the ultimate experience, make reservations for the five-course prix fixe menu served family-style or the “pizzakase” experience, based on the Japanese custom of omakase with custom, personalized off-menu choices. To get the full picture of why this place was a James Beard Award semifinalist in 2022, make reservations for the five-course prix fixe menu or the “pizzakase” experience." - Nikki Miller-Ka
"I know Mission Pizza Napoletana from Winston-Salem; owner Peyton Smith is a James Beard–nominated chef known for his five-course prix fixe menu served family-style and the “pizzakase” experience—an omakase-like, personalized off-menu pizza approach—which may not be fully reproducible in the brewery setting but will inspire events and a pared-down regular menu when they serve pies in Asheville." - Erin Perkins
"Mission Pizza Napoletana is one of Winston-Salem’s top restaurants known for its five-course prix fixe menu served family-style or the 'pizzakase' experience. They are opening a second location in Asheville, partnering with Terra Nova Beer Co. The new location will offer a simplified menu with five pizzas, a few snacks, and a couple of desserts. The restaurant is inspired by pizza Napoletana but focuses on the quality of the food rather than strict adherence to pizza styles." - Erin Perkins
"I noted that Mission Pizza Napoletana, a Winston-Salem–based osteria, will be represented by chef Peyton Smith at the St. Vito’s collaboration on November 28, where Smith’s Neapolitan pies will be featured alongside St. Vito’s classics." - Jackie Gutierrez-Jones
Chef Peyton Smith’s cult-favorite pizzeria offers pizzas and Italian-leaning plates plus a reservation-only pizzakase. Recognized by national editors and ranked by 50 Top Pizza, local news confirmed its 2025 accolades—plan ahead for dinner service.