Philadelphia Mourns the Sudden Loss of Beloved Pizzaiolo and Entrepreneur Davide Lubrano

PHILADELPHIA, PA — July 29, 2025
The city of Philadelphia is reeling from the sudden and heartbreaking loss of Davide Lubrano, a cherished local entrepreneur, master pizzaiolo, and co-founder of Pizzata Pizzeria, whose influence on the city’s culinary scene went far beyond pizza.

According to early reports circulating online, Davide passed away unexpectedly on July 28, 2025. While the circumstances surrounding his death have not been officially confirmed by family or local authorities, an outpouring of grief and remembrance is already resonating across the food industry and the broader Philadelphia community.

🇮🇹 A Culinary Legacy Born in Naples, Perfected in Philly

A third-generation pizza maker born in Naples, Italy, Davide carried on his family’s rich culinary traditions with pride. After honing his skills at the Roman Pizza Academy, he brought his passion to the United States, co-founding Pizzata Pizzeria alongside his business partner. Their goal was simple but profound: to serve honest, authentic Roman- and Neapolitan-style pizzas using top-quality ingredients—and to do so with love.

What began as a modest pizzeria quickly became a local phenomenon. With two thriving locations in Philadelphia, Pizzata became known not only for its thin, crisp Roman pies but also for being a welcoming neighborhood hub that drew in food lovers, friends, and families alike.

A Rising Star, Gone Too Soon

Davide’s talent didn’t go unnoticed on the national stage. In June 2025, he was recognized by Pizza Today as a Rising Star, and just months earlier he had earned top international honors at the International Pizza Challenge in Las Vegas, winning the Roman-style category and placing second in the Pan division.

Colleagues described him as “relentlessly passionate,” “deeply kind,” and “committed to excellence in every dough he touched.”

“He was more than a chef,” said one industry peer. “He was an ambassador of Italian culture. He made you feel like family the moment you walked into his restaurant.” A Community in Mourning

Tributes have poured in from customers, fellow restaurateurs, and local figures. Many took to social media to express their sorrow, sharing stories of Davide’s generosity, warm smile, and dedication to community outreach.

“He remembered your name, your order, and always asked about your day,” one frequent guest posted. “Pizzata wasn’t just a pizzeria—it was his heart. And now a piece of Philly’s heart is missing.”

 Remembering Davide

While official statements from his family or the Pizzata team have yet to be released, the emotional weight of Davide’s reported passing is already being felt citywide. Plans for a public memorial or tribute event are expected, and many in the restaurant world have expressed a desire to honor his legacy with charitable acts and culinary celebrations.

Davide Lubrano leaves behind a grieving community, a proud culinary legacy, and a lasting imprint on the city he loved. He will be remembered not just as a talented chef and business owner, but as a kind-hearted soul who brought people together—one pizza at a time.

Editor’s Note: At the time of publication, official confirmation of Davide Lubrano’s passing has not yet been released by family or local authorities. This story will be updated as more verified information becomes available.