Capri's Pizzeria of Berea: Wood-Fired Pizza and Italian Classics in the Mountains

A neighborhood pizzeria with Neapolitan roots in downtown Berea

Capri's Pizzeria sits on the main street of Berea, a mountain town in Transylvania County known for its arts community and outdoor access. The restaurant specializes in wood-fired Neapolitan pizza—the style from Naples, Italy, made with a thin, charred crust and minimal toppings—alongside traditional Italian pasta dishes and appetizers. The dining room has a casual, warm feel with exposed brick and wood accents that match the rustic character of downtown Berea.

The pizzeria draws both locals and visitors passing through on the way to hiking trails, waterfalls, and the Blue Ridge Parkway. It's a place to sit down for a full meal rather than grab a quick slice, with wine and beer available to pair with your order. The kitchen sources ingredients thoughtfully and keeps the menu focused on what they do well rather than trying to cover every Italian dish at once.

Key Takeaways

• Capri's makes Neapolitan-style pizza in a wood-fired oven, with a thin, blistered crust and traditional toppings like San Marzano tomatoes and fresh mozzarella.
• The menu includes pasta dishes, risotto, and Italian appetizers alongside pizza, so you can order a full Italian meal rather than pizza alone.
• The restaurant is located in downtown Berea on the main commercial street, within walking distance of galleries, shops, and other dining options.
• Berea is a 30-minute drive from Asheville and sits near popular hiking destinations like Looking Glass Falls and the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance.

What to order: Pizza and pasta standouts

The pizza menu rotates seasonally but always includes a Margherita—the classic combination of tomato, fresh mozzarella, basil, and olive oil on a thin crust. Capri's versions of this pizza reflect the Neapolitan tradition: the crust is soft and slightly charred, the cheese is creamy, and the tomato sauce is simple and bright. Other pizzas feature seasonal vegetables, cured meats like prosciutto and pancetta, and sometimes seafood depending on what's available.

Beyond pizza, the kitchen prepares pasta dishes that change with the season. Risotto appears regularly, often paired with mushrooms, seafood, or seasonal vegetables. Appetizers might include burrata cheese with tomatoes and basil, fried calamari, or cured meats and cheeses. The wine list leans toward Italian bottles at a range of price points, and the beer selection includes both local and imported options.

The wood-fired oven and how it shapes the food

The wood-fired oven is the centerpiece of Capri's kitchen. These ovens reach temperatures around 800 to 900 degrees Fahrenheit, which means a pizza cooks in roughly 90 seconds. That high heat creates the characteristic blistered, slightly charred crust that defines Neapolitan pizza, while the interior stays soft and slightly chewy. The oven also imparts a subtle smoky flavor that you don't get from a conventional electric or gas oven.

Wood-fired ovens also shape what the kitchen can do with other dishes. Some appetizers and vegetables are roasted in the oven's cooler zones, and the overall approach to cooking emphasizes high heat and quick cooking times. This style of cooking is part of what makes the food taste different from a typical Italian-American restaurant.

Berea's location and what else is nearby

Berea sits in the Blue Ridge Mountains about 30 minutes south of Asheville, North Carolina, and roughly 45 minutes north of Brevard. The town has become known for its artist community, galleries, and outdoor recreation. Downtown Berea is walkable, with shops, galleries, and other restaurants clustered along the main street where Capri's is located.

If you're visiting the area for hiking or outdoor activities, Berea is a convenient base. Looking Glass Falls is about 20 minutes away by car, and the Blue Ridge Parkway entrance is roughly 15 minutes north. The town also hosts events throughout the year, including art walks and seasonal festivals. Many visitors combine a meal at Capri's with time browsing galleries or exploring nearby trails.

Hours, reservations, and what to expect when you arrive

Capri's operates year-round but hours vary by season—they typically close one or two days per week, often Monday or Tuesday. During peak summer and fall foliage season, the restaurant is busier, especially on weekends. Calling ahead or checking their social media for current hours is a good idea, particularly if you're driving from out of town.

The restaurant takes reservations, which is helpful on busy nights or if you're dining with a larger group. Walk-ins are welcome when space is available. The dining room is casual and family-friendly, though the focus on quality ingredients and technique means the atmosphere feels more like a neighborhood restaurant than a casual pizza chain. Expect to spend an hour to an hour and a half for a full meal, including appetizers or a salad.

Dietary considerations and menu flexibility

Capri's can accommodate vegetarian diners with ease—the Margherita pizza and many pasta dishes are naturally vegetarian, and the kitchen can build custom pizzas with vegetables. If you have a gluten sensitivity, ask the staff about options; some pizzerias offer gluten-free crusts, though availability varies. The kitchen is generally willing to work with dietary requests if you mention them when ordering.

The wine and beer list includes options at different price points, and non-alcoholic beverages are available as well. If you're unsure what to order, the staff can offer recommendations based on what's fresh that day or what pairs well with your meal.

Getting there and parking

Capri's is located on the main street of downtown Berea, which is easy to find and navigate. Street parking is available along the main commercial area, and there are small parking lots nearby. If you're coming from Asheville, take US-276 south toward Brevard, then follow signs into downtown Berea. GPS will get you to the right location reliably.

The downtown area is compact enough that you can park once and walk to multiple shops, galleries, and restaurants. If you're visiting during a busy season or event, arrive early or call ahead to confirm parking availability and restaurant hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation to eat at Capri's?

Reservations are not required but are recommended, especially on weekends or during peak season. Walk-ins are welcome when tables are available. Calling ahead is the safest approach if you're traveling from out of town or dining with a group.

Is Capri's good for families with children?

Yes. The restaurant is casual and family-friendly, and pizza is a familiar option for most children. The menu includes other dishes beyond pizza if someone in your group prefers pasta or other Italian food. The staff is accustomed to families dining in.

What makes Neapolitan pizza different from regular pizza?

Neapolitan pizza has a thinner, softer crust than American-style pizza, with a charred, blistered edge from cooking in a very hot wood-fired oven. The toppings are minimal and high-quality—usually just tomato, cheese, and a few other ingredients—rather than heavily loaded. The crust is the star, not the toppings.

Can I get pizza to go?

Many wood-fired pizzerias offer takeout, though pizza travels better when eaten within a short time. Call ahead to confirm whether Capri's has takeout available and what their current policy is, as this can vary by day or season.

What's the best time to visit Berea for outdoor activities?

Spring through fall offers the most reliable weather for hiking and exploring. Fall foliage (September through October) draws the most visitors, so expect busier restaurants and more traffic. Summer is warm and green, and spring brings wildflowers. Winter is quieter but some trails and attractions have reduced hours.