La Familia Pizzeria and Trattoria: A Tribute to Italy from Antigua Guatemala
Located on one of the most picturesque streets in Antigua Guatemala, a glance upward reveals the imposing silhouette of Volcán de Agua, the silent guardian that frames the city’s beauty. A few steps later, the distant rumble of Volcán de Fuego accompanies us as we enter a space filled with the aromas of Italian cooking—rosemary, garlic, and basil—where a waiter warmly welcomes us to our table.
At its heart lies a cozy interior courtyard where greenery does more than decorate; it reflects the restaurant’s essence. Herbs growing among the plants often make their way into the kitchen, reinforcing a fresh, farm-to-table spirit.
The menu, created by founders Leo and Esme, expresses their deep respect for Italian culinary tradition. Each dish invites diners on a journey where flavor and culture meet around the table. In Italy, the table is more than a place to eat—it is where people share stories, celebrate everyday life, and pass recipes from one generation to the next. Cooking becomes a language of affection, identity, and memory, values recognized when UNESCO declared Italian cuisine Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2025.
That philosophy comes alive at La Familia Pizzeria y Trattoria, from its Neapolitan pizzas and carefully crafted pastas to its desserts and specialties. The experience continues next door at La Familia Coffee Shop y Panadería, where the aroma of coffee and attention to detail extend the same sense of warmth.
In 2024, Leo earned first place at the championship organized by the Cámara de Comercio Italiana en Guatemala, leading to his participation in the Campeonato Mundial de la Pizza in Parma in 2025—an experience that further deepened his knowledge and vision.
Located on the corner of 5th Avenue and 9th Street, La Familia welcomes guests like old friends, inviting them to slow down and savor Italian gastronomy made with genuine love.
By Jose Sánchez
Address: 5a avenida norte #4, Antigua Guatemala
Tel: 3510-4663
La Familia Pizzeria Antigua’s Taste of Italy
Leonel Sánchez, owner and chef of La Familia Pizzeria, is serious about pizza. He learned from the best, working in restaurants in Little Italy, New York, and at the famous PJ’s Pizza in New Jersey. Although he later became a lawyer back in Guatemala, pizza and sourdough were always close to his heart. So much so, in fact, that he entered — and won — the prestigious Cámara de Comercio Industria Italiano Guatemalteco award for “Best Italian Pizza in Guatemala”.
In 2022, he left law behind and opened La Familia Pizzeria on the “street of restaurants” on 5a Avenida Sur, preparing freshly baked bread and pizza, kneading sourdough, and rolling out fresh pasta.
Step into the bakery and you’ll find more than just sourdough heaven — almond croissants, fruit strudels, handkerchief pastries, and much more await.
With sixteen original pizzas, there’s something for everyone. Of course, you’ll find the classics, such as the Margherita and the Capricciosa, but also highly original creations like the Kebab pizza with Greek yoghurt dressing and Huehuetenango lamb. Leonel’s own recommendation is the Pizza Maradona, featuring pepperoni, Calabrian chilli, red onion, anchovies, and a touch of limoncello zest.
For mains, consider Ossobuco alla Milanese or, for seafood lovers, La Frutti di Mare. And if you still have room for dessert, don’t miss the freshly made tiramisù, cannoli, and cheesecake.
The restaurant is spacious enough for groups, with a pretty garden perfect for al fresco dining.
At La Familia Pizzeria, every bite tells a story of tradition, creativity, and heart. Come hungry, leave happy — and always ready to return.
Address: 5a avenida norte #4, Antigua Guatemala
Tel: 3510-4663
