Ah, the famous half-and-half pizza in Marseille, a source of heated debates and unanimous agreements! Among the die-hard fans of merguez and those who advocate for mushroom, the choices are plentiful. Discover without further delay the five pizzas that tantalize the taste buds of Marseillais and leave them all in agreement.
Origins of the Marseille half-and-half pizza
In Marseille, pizza is a true institution. The city, steeped in Italian culture thanks to the Neapolitan immigration of the 19th century, has managed to make the pizza its own by transforming it in its own image. This is how the “half-half” was born, a local version featuring a topping divided into two distinct sections. On one side, there is a generous portion of melted emmental, while the other half is crowned with tomato sauce and anchovies marinated in salt, sometimes enhanced with thin slices of garlic, capers, or oregano.
The cultural duality in every bite
As Ezéchiel Zérah points out in “Marseille. A day without hunger”, the “half-half” perfectly represents the cultural dualities of the Phocean city. The cheese side symbolizes the sweetness of life and conviviality, while the anchovy side evokes the strong character and resilience of Marseillais. This culinary division also reflects the city, often perceived as split between its northern and southern neighborhoods.
Our five must-visit addresses to enjoy a “half-half”
Want to taste the best half-and-half pizzas in Marseille? Here are five iconic places where this specialty is elevated to the rank of culinary art.
Pizzeria Chez Étienne
Located in the Panier neighborhood, this pizzeria is an institution. At Étienne, the “half-half” is prepared according to tradition, with melting emmental and flavorful anchovies. A must for any fan of good Marseille cuisine.
Pizzeria Le Mavrommatis
This pizzeria, located near the Old Port, is famous for its welcoming atmosphere and its thin-crust pizzas. Here, the half-and-half pizza is served with Kalamata black olives, further enhancing the Mediterranean flavors.
Pizz’a Gogo
Not far from the Calanques, this mobile pizzeria offers an exquisite version of the “half-half”. To be enjoyed on the beach or while strolling, with a crispy crust and generous toppings.
Pizzeria La Vieille Garde
In the La Vieille Garde neighborhood, this pizzeria is renowned for its authentic and tasty pizzas. The half-and-half is prepared with fresh, quality ingredients for maximum tasting experience.
Pizzeria Le Grain de Sel
Located in the heart of Marseille, this pizzeria offers a revamped “half-half” with subtle touches like capers and dried oregano. An address that brings together tradition and culinary innovation.
Marseille is full of culinary treasures, and the “half-half” is an excellent example. These five addresses will allow you to discover the richness and diversity of this local specialty. Bon appétit!
Source: www.lemonde.fr
