Virtuoso Pizzeria is a locally owned and operated gem. If you stroll down Maple Street in Benson, you might just catch a glimpse of a culinary virtuoso in action. David Losole, the man behind the culinary magic at Virtuoso Pizzeria, has created a slice of heaven in the heart of Nebraska.
If you're lucky, you'll spot Lo Sole himself, clad in his customary shorts, chef smock, hat, arm tats, and tossing pizza crust in the air like he has thousands of times before. Mesmerized by the rhythm at which he slings the pizza dough, it's like a beacon of light in the heart of historic Benson.
David's journey into the world of pizza started with a family legacy. His parents owned the esteemed and now closed Lo Sole Mio Italian Restaurant in South Omaha, igniting his passion for fine dining. But it was his graduation from Tony Gemignani's International School of Pizza in San Francisco that certified him as a Pizzaiolo, a title earned through rigorous training from world pizza champions, including his instructor, the legendary Tony Gemignani.
Image Credit: Virtuoso Pizzeria
A Taste of Virtuoso's Craftsmanship
Virtuoso Pizza isn't your run-of-the-mill pizzeria. Here, pizza is an art form. Each slice and pie is a masterpiece, individually handcrafted and stone-baked to perfection. The dedication to quality is evident in every bite, from the signature Italian sausage to the famous spicy giardiniera, meatballs, marinara, balsamic vinaigrette dressing, and even the delightful cannoli.
Losole's commitment to sourcing the finest ingredients shines through. Every item on the menu features fresh, locally grown ingredients when in season. Non-GMO Grande cheeses and the finest cured meats make their way onto your plate, ensuring that every bite at Virtuoso is a true culinary experience.
A Slice of Virtuoso's Menu:
- Cheese: $6 per slice
- Pepperoni: $7 per slice
- Meatball: $8 per slice
- Bianca: $8.50 per slice
- Slice of the Day: $8.50 - $9 per slice
The slices are generously served from a 20" New York-style pie, each one hand-tossed, stone-baked, and slightly charred. A finishing touch of garlic infused EVOO, oregano, and grated Pecorino Romano cheese elevates every slice to a heavenly level.
Christopher Slater, a seasoned connoisseur in the realm of gastronomy and one of Omaha Food Magazine's discerning food critics, possesses an innate knack for discerning the nuances of a char-cupped pepperoni pizza slice. In his culinary exploration across the Omaha metro area, he unequivocally asserts that no better slice of char-cup exists in the area.
While Virtuoso is famous for its 20-inch pies, it's not just about pizza. Losole and his team offer a variety of dishes that will tantalize your taste buds. Their dedication to the artisanal way extends beyond pizza, creating a dining experience that touches the heart.
The Chicago Cracker Thin: A Cult Favorite
On our most recent visit to Virtuoso Pizzeria, our favorite was the Chicago Cracker Thin pizza, which has a cult-like following in the Omaha metro area. This special creation stands out with its thin, crispy crust and unique flavor, setting it apart from the traditional New York-style pies. A delightful crunch in every bite. The Chicago Cracker Thin pizza is a canvas of flavors Losole's Chicago Cracker Thin pizza is a masterpiece that keeps Virtuoso's patrons coming back for more.
Beyond Pizza: Exploring Virtuoso's Culinary Delights
Beyond pizza, Virtuoso offers a Chicago Cracker Thin version with its own unique appeal. The Chicago Italian Beef sandwich is a masterpiece, showcasing David's culinary artistry. Thinly sliced beef, spicy giardiniera, and the perfect bread/jus combination make it an unforgettable experience.
In every dish at Virtuoso, you'll taste not only the skill but also the love that goes into creating each masterpiece. David Losole treats his customers like family, and that's the secret to Virtuoso's success.
Visit Virtuoso Pizzeria
Whether you're celebrating Cinco de Mayo with Italian beef nachos and taco pizza or indulging in their signature pies, Virtuoso offers a dining experience that's nothing short of virtuoso.
So, the next time you're on Maple Street, take a detour into Virtuoso Pizzeria. You might just find yourself savoring a slice of pizza perfection crafted by a true virtuoso of the culinary arts.
And, if you see David tell him we said hi.
Virtuoso Pizza: Where Passion and Craftsmanship Meet on Maple Street
6056 Maple Street, Benson, NE 68104 - 402-556-9090
Check out other articles about Omaha pizza joints.
