When you talk about famous chefs from North Carolina, at the top of the list you’re likely to find Chef Vivian Howard! Known for her long-running PBS series “A Chef’s Life” and the fabulously popular restaurant, the Chef and the Farmer, Chef Vivian has expanded her restaurant group to Charleston, SC and also (thankfully), Wilmington, NC. And if you’re into Neapolitan pizza, you should definitely check out Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria if you’re visiting the area. It’s a refreshed take on the classic neighborhood pizza joint and much more!
Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria, Wilmington – Location, Interior
Head on over 206 Greenfield Street and you’ll find a small entertainment district just south of downtown Wilmington. Around the corner from Benny’s Big Time are Satellite Bar (live music), and South Front Tavern so you’ve got some other fun options within walking distance. Benny’s Big Time sits in a large brick building with a painted mural of a large slice of pizza above the front doorway, so you can’t miss it!
Inside Benny’s you’ll find a large, high-ceiling space. Marble-topped bar to your left, dining room to your right with red leather seating and wood tables. The decor at Benny’s is nicely thought out with a multitude of pictures hung on bare brick walls, retro antique glass lighting overhead working well with the rustic wooden floor planks underfoot. Chef Vivian always does a nice job with her dining spaces and interior design, Benny’s is no different.
Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria, Wilmington – Menu, Food
The menu at Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria is very manageable! Not too few choices, not too many, it covers not only Neapolitan pies (wood-fired) but also a standard NY pizza, grandma pizza, gluten free Detroit-style pizza along with a handful of salads and Italian-American pastas. A small selection of appetizers and desserts rounds off the menu, there’s plenty to choose from without being overwhelming!
The burnt pork belly ends is a tasty starter playing off a traditional beef brisket burnt ends! Dusted with some parmesan cheese and barbeque sauce makes for a juicy, flavor-filled meat nugget. But let’s face it, it’s all about the pizza here. What’s cool about Benny’s Big Time is that they offer multiple types but I’ll suggest going with the classic Neapolitan pie. Cooked in a wood-fired oven with 00 flour and bright San Marzano tomatoes, you can really taste the quality of ingredients with this pizza style. Benny’s offers up 10 or so house pizzas along with a build your own option. But I can’t resist the Corleone which is covered with thin slices of pancetta and garlic!
The pizza looks lovely. A peek underneath shows off a nicely spotted crust which has some structural heft even though it’s thin. The pancetta, garlic, and tomato sauce make for a delicious bite, the pizza is large enough to be shared if you’re getting an appetizer or salad. And to finish my meal, an affogato (gelato with espresso) is the perfect pick-me-up before heading out.
Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria, Wilmington – Service, Conclusion
Given the reputation of Chef Vivian’s restaurants, the service at Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria is excellent as expected. The staff is dressed casually but they know their stuff, clearing plates and utensils quickly and keeping your water filled. It’s a team service here and they are constantly buzzing around the dining room.
So all in all if you like Neapolitan pizza and are in the Wilmington area, Benny’s Big Time Pizzeria is a totally worthwhile foodie stop. While it’s not a formal dining experience like Vivian Howard’s other offerings, it’s a great way to get a taste of her culinary style and skills, buon appetito!
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