Nestled amidst the natural grandeur of one of Guatemala's most famous active volcanoes, Pacaya, lies an extraordinary culinary venture, "Pizza Pacaya," helmed by chef Mario David Garcia Mansilla. This pizzeria offers a one-of-a-kind experience that draws adventuresome tourists from around the globe. Unlike any traditional kitchen, the heat necessary to bake the pizzas comes directly from the smoldering volcanic landscape that surrounds the area.
Chef Mario's innovative approach involves preparing the pizza nearby and then utilizing the intense heat from the surface of the cooling lava flows to cook the pizzas to perfection. Although the actual lava is, of course, a forbidden and dangerous zone, Chef Mario has mastered the art of using the volcanic environment to cook his dishes safely. The visitors do not come in direct contact with the lava for safety reasons but can watch the fascinating process from a safe distance.
This unique cooking method not only provides a delicious meal but also a thrilling experience for those who make the hike up the slopes of Pacaya. The journey itself is an integral part of the experience, offering panoramic views and the thrill of walking on an active volcano. Upon reaching the cooking site, tourists find a setup unlike any other, where fresh dough and a variety of toppings are transformed into a delicious, crisply charred pizza by nature's own furnace.
Over time, "Pizza Pacaya" has not only become a must-visit spot for those traveling to Guatemala but has also significantly impacted local tourism. Enhanced by the novelty of its cooking technique and the sublime flavors that result from this volcanic bake, Mario's pizzeria continues to attract culinary enthusiasts eager to enjoy a slice of pizza coupled with an adventurous tale to tell. The pizzeria stands as a testament to the creativity and resilience often seen in the culinary world, adapting the forces of nature into an extraordinary dining experience.
