In the vibrant culinary scene of Miami, where flavors from around the globe collide, one local pizzamaker has risen to international acclaim. Javier Ramirez, the talented owner and chef behind La Natural in Little River, has just been honored as one of the world’s top 100 pizza chefs. This prestigious recognition comes from the 2025 The Best Pizza Awards held in Milan on June 25, where Ramirez secured the impressive 35th spot on the list of top pizzaioli – and he’s the only one from Florida to make the cut.
For pizza enthusiasts searching for the best pizza in Miami, La Natural is no stranger to accolades. The restaurant has proudly held a Michelin Guide Bib Gourmand designation for four consecutive years, celebrating its commitment to high-quality food at affordable prices. Opened in December 2020 by Ramirez and his then-wife Andreina Matos, La Natural has become a beloved spot in the unassuming Little River neighborhood, drawing in crowds with its innovative approach to classic Italian pies.
A Boost for Business in a Challenging Summer
This latest award couldn’t have come at a better time for Ramirez and his team. Miami’s dining scene has faced a tough summer, with reservations dipping and tables sitting empty more often than usual. However, the international nod has sparked a surge in customers, doubling business compared to last year at this time. Ramirez describes it as a “blessing in disguise,” especially after a dismal start to June. While the Michelin recognition brings in a steady trickle of visitors, this global honor has truly put La Natural on the map for pizza lovers worldwide.
From Behind the Scenes to Pizza Mastery
Ramirez’s journey to becoming one of the **top pizza makers in the world** is as inspiring as his creations are delicious. Before stepping into the spotlight at La Natural, he was a key player in Miami’s restaurant world, co-founding innovative spots like Wynwood’s Alter and Palmar, and partnering with renowned pastry chef Antonio Bachour to launch Bachour in Coral Gables. Yet, Ramirez had always stayed on the operational side, handling finances and logistics rather than leading in the kitchen.
That changed when he decided to master the art of pizza-making. Self-taught through books, videos, and endless experimentation in his home’s wood-burning oven, Ramirez honed his skills by hosting backyard tastings for friends. When he and Matos (now divorced) felt ready, they launched La Natural, which quickly became a hit.
The Secret to La Natural’s Irresistible Sourdough Crust
What sets La Natural apart in the crowded field of **Miami pizza restaurants**? It’s all in the crust. Frustrated by diners who leave crusts uneaten, Ramirez developed a signature 48-hour cold-fermented sourdough crust that’s so flavorful, it’s even offered as a standalone small plate. This innovative dough, paired with fresh toppings and cooked in a wood-fired oven, has guests raving – and finishing every bite.
The menu also features vegetable-based small plates, keeping things light and balanced. Ramirez’s personal favorite? A pizza topped with Calabrian chili, provolone, and oregano – a nod to his love for bold flavors, so much so that he has Calabrian chilis tattooed on his arm. As he explains, it hits all the key notes: salt, fat, acid, and heat, inspired by chef Samin Nosrat’s famous cookbook.
Little River: Miami’s Emerging Foodie Hotspot
Choosing Little River was a gamble back in 2020, when the area lacked foot traffic and even basic amenities like a coffee shop. But Ramirez’s vision paid off. Today, the neighborhood buzzes with top-tier eateries, including Michelin-starred Boia De, its sibling Walrus Rodeo, the wildly popular Sunny’s Steakhouse, and Bar Bucce from the Macchialina team. With spots like Imperial Mojo nearby and Fouk’s set to reopen, Little River is solidifying its status as a must-visit for anyone exploring restaurants in Little River Miami.
Why This Matters for Pizza Lovers Everywhere
For those on the hunt for Michelin-recognized pizza in Miami or simply the best sourdough pizza in Florida, Javier Ramirez’s achievement at La Natural is a testament to passion, innovation, and perseverance. It’s not just about the awards – it’s about creating pizzas that bring people together and elevate the everyday meal.
If you’re in Miami, make a reservation at La Natural and taste the difference for yourself. Who knows? You might just be dining at the table of one of the world’s finest pizzaioli.