Marco's Coal-Fired

The story

Marco's Coal-Fired Denver | Award-Winning Neapolitan Pizza in Colorado

Colorado's First VPN-Certified Pizzeria

Marco's Coal-Fired opened in Denver's Ballpark neighborhood in 2008 with a singular focus: bring the authentic pizza of Naples to Colorado. Founders Mark and Kristy Dym knew from experience that nothing compares to that first bite of a truly great pizza—the crunch and chew of the perfect crust, the sweetness of the sauce, the earthy aroma of basil, and the salty taste of fresh mozzarella.

That commitment to authenticity earned Marco's Coal-Fired the distinction of being Colorado's first pizzeria certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (VPN). Their pizzamakers were trained by the Associazione Pizzaiuoli Napolitani, regarded as the best in the world. In 2026, the restaurant received a Michelin Recommended award, cementing its place among Denver's essential dining destinations.

Ingredients and Technique

The kitchen uses Antico Molino Caputo '00' flour, San Marzano tomatoes, cheeses from the Italian countryside, and fresh Colorado produce. The Neapolitan-style pizza is cooked in 90 seconds in an 800-degree wood-fired oven, producing a thin crust with a slightly charred edge. The menu includes classic Margherita with fresh mozzarella and San Marzano tomato sauce, alongside specialty pies like the Toscana topped with arugula and Prosciutto di Parma, and the Vodka Pie with house-made vodka sauce and pancetta.

Beyond Pizza

While pizza is the star, the menu extends to starters like Jumbo Limoncello Chicken Wings and Calabrian Chicken Wings, fresh salads including the Nutty Goat with strawberries and candied walnuts, and house-made desserts such as tiramisu and Nutella pizza. Gluten-free and vegan options are available, with gluten-free pizzas made using Caputo Fiore Glut flour and cooked in dedicated equipment.

The Marco's Experience

The restaurant serves lunch and dinner with outdoor seating available. Private parties and catering are offered. The atmosphere is straightforward and welcoming—no pretense, just well-made pizza from people who have dedicated themselves to the craft. As the Dyms put it, the reward is in the results: a taste that might have you dreaming of warm Neapolitan nights, no passport required.