Mother Pizza - Newport, RI - Review

I didn't want to like Mother. No one in the history of Newport or the history of pizza who lives north of Middletown has ever said, "Let's go to Newport for pizza tonight." It's the kind of upscale spot that seems more focused on ambiance than authenticity - usually a red flag when you're hunting for great pizza.

The space strikes that modern restaurant balance—clean lines, geometric tile patterns, warm wood accents, and green upholstery soften what could otherwise feel too stark. Their outdoor seating gives you that classic Thames Street people-watching experience, with branded umbrellas that scream “proper Newport” when it’s warm outside.

Here's the thing about Mother - they do exactly one pizza. One style, one size, 12 inches of Neapolitan pie. Take it or leave it. That kind of limitation either means they've nailed it or they're trying too hard.

We kicked things off with garlic knots and meatballs. Save yourself the disappointment and skip the knots - they're greasy, soggy, and just not there yet. The meatballs though? That's another story. Three perfect-sized meatballs swimming in this killer sauce had me reaching for the bread to soak up every last bit. And that bread - wowza. A perfectly seasoned chunk of sourdough that honestly stole the show.

When the pizza landed, things got interesting. While they start with a classic Margherita, you can add toppings - their pepperoni version shows off what they're really capable of. They call it sourdough crust; but don't expect that tangy bite or complex texture you get at spots like Blue Square.

Still, you can spot the hallmarks of proper Neapolitan pizza - that signature leoparding, those pools of melted fresh mozzarella, the simple tomato sauce. The sauce walks the line between sweet and tangy, though it could use an extra kick. The cheese melts exactly right, creating perfect gooey spots across the pie, while the crust shows off some nice char around the edges, even if the bottom needs more consistent cooking. Sure, it's floppy - that classic Neapolitan droop - but each bite gives you this fantastic chewy resistance that makes you slow down and appreciate it.

Would I make a special trip to Newport just for this pizza? Nah. Is it a top 20 pie in the state? Maybe. But if you're already wandering around Thames Street and want something better than tourist trap fare, Mother's got you covered. Get those meatballs, ask for extra bread, and enjoy a solid Neapolitan pie in between mansion tours.