Dreaming of wood-fired pizza in your own backyard?
Imagine this: It’s a crisp New Hampshire evening. Your friends are laughing around the patio table, a bottle of red is breathing nearby, and the unmistakable aroma of smoky, bubbling mozzarella wafts through the air.
But instead of ordering out, the star of tonight’s dinner is your own homemade pie straight from your outdoor pizza oven.
Now that vision is more achievable than ever. Outdoor pizza ovens are no longer a niche luxury. They’ve become the centerpiece of backyard kitchens, turning regular get-togethers into unforgettable experiences.
But with so many styles, features, and fuels to choose from, how do you make the right decision — especially for a New Hampshire home?
Let’s break it down. These 12 expert-approved tips will help you choose the perfect outdoor pizza oven, whether you’re grilling in Litchfield, baking bread in Hampton, or building a pizza night tradition in Salem.
1. Why More New Hampshire Homeowners Are Buying Outdoor Pizza Ovens
Outdoor pizza ovens aren’t just about pizza — they’re about experience. With Bemister’s offering premium outdoor pizza ovens like Alfa Forni and top-tier accessories, locals are elevating their entire cooking game.
- Wood-fired flavor at home: There’s nothing like the crisp crust and smoky essence you get from a live flame.
- A reason to get outside: They make the most of New Hampshire’s seasonal outdoor lifestyle, from spring dinners to late fall fire pit nights.
- Backyard showpiece: These outdoor pizza ovens are as beautiful as they are functional adding style and value to your patio or kitchen space.
2. Choose the Right Fuel for Your Cooking Style
Before you fall for a sleek stainless steel model, decide what kind of fire works best for your routine and recipes.
Wood, Gas or Both?
Some outdoor pizza ovens run on hardwood or charcoal, while others fire up instantly with propane or natural gas.
| Fuel Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Wood | Signature flavor, traditional style, high heat | Slower start-up, more cleanup |
| Gas (Propane/Natural) | Quick ignition, easy to control | Less smoky flavor |
| Hybrid | Best of both worlds | More expensive |
Gas ovens like the Alfa Nano or Brio are perfect for those who want weeknight convenience. But if you’re chasing that wood fired Naples feel, go for models like the Alfa 5 Minuti a local favorite at Bemister’s.
3. How to Pick the Right Size for Your Family and Space
Your oven’s size will shape everything — from how many pies you can bake at once to where it fits on your patio.
- Small & Mighty (1–2 pizzas): Great for couples or tight patios. Portable options like the Alfa Portable deliver high heat without hogging space.
- Mid-sized for Entertainers (2–3 pizzas): Ideal for families or Friday-night regulars.
- Party-Ready (5 pizzas or more): Think big with the Alfa Moderno 5 Pizze a staple for large families or frequent hosts.
Also factor in prep zones, countertop height, and tool storage nearby.
4. Construction Quality Matters — Here’s What to Look For
Outdoor pizza ovens need to withstand wild New England winters and blazing summer heat.
Key Build Features:
- Dome design: Efficient heat circulation means evenly baked crust.
- Steel or refractory brick: Stainless steel looks sleek and resists rust; brick retains more heat for slower, even baking.
- Insulation: Look for double-wall or ceramic insulation for long-lasting performance.
- Chimney with damper: Controls air flow and smoke for better cooking and ventilation.
Every Alfa Forni outdoor pizza oven at Bemister’s is engineered for year-round durability whether you live by the coast or in the White Mountains.
5. Don’t Underestimate Heat Management
When it comes to cooking the perfect Neapolitan pizza, heat is everything.
- Target 900°F: That’s the golden zone for a leopard-spotted, 90-second crust.
- Infrared thermometer: Essential for checking stone surface temperature.
- Heat Genius™ tech: Exclusive to Alfa Forni — it separates floor and dome temps so your dough cooks evenly without burning the toppings.
6. Is It Easy to Use and Clean?
Not everyone has time to babysit a fire. If convenience is your goal, look for smart design touches that save effort.
- Gas ignition and quick preheat: Especially with propane or natural gas hookups.
- Removable baking stone or ash trays: Speeds up cleaning.
- Protective cover included? New Hampshire snow and salt air demand it.
7. Don’t Forget Safety – Especially in Smaller Yards
Even small outdoor pizza ovens get hot enough to start fires. Keep your space smart.
- Install on heat-safe, level surfaces like stone or ceramic.
- Use proper clearances: At least 3 feet from walls or patio furniture.
- Keep tools handy — long-handled peels, gloves, and metal brushes are a must.
Bemister’s team can help with placement suggestions and safety setup based on your property layout.
8. Upgrade Your Game with Tools and Accessories
An oven’s just the beginning the right accessories take you from pizza novice to backyard chef.
Must-Haves:
- Peels (metal & wood)
- Pizza turner & brush
- Baking stone
- Rolling base with storage
- Infrared thermometer
Also, consider a countertop wine chiller, prep station, or side burner to complete your outdoor kitchen.
9. What Will It Cost? Factor in More Than Just the Oven
Outdoor pizza ovens range widely in price depending on size, build, and fuel type.
- Starting point: Alfa ovens begin around $1,000
- Add-ons: Rolling bases, covers, and tools add $200–$800
- Ongoing fuel: Wood, propane tanks, or natural gas lines
Bemister’s offers flexible options and often has seasonal packages and local delivery to make your investment easier.
10. Try Before You Buy: Local Showrooms Make a Big Difference
One of the biggest advantages of shopping at Bemister’s? You don’t have to guess.
- Visit the Salem, Litchfield, or Hampton showrooms
- See models side-by-side
- Get personalized guidance from a team that’s been doing this for 80+ years
You won’t get that from an Amazon cart.
11. Comparing Popular Models from Alfa at Bemister’s
Let’s compare some fan-favorites side-by-side:
- Alfa 5 Minuti – Compact, traditional wood-fired oven. Fast heat-up, great for 1-2 pizzas.
- Moderno 2/3/5 Pizze – Scales with your crowd. Multiple fuel options. Premium finish.
- Alfa Portable – Compact and mobile. Great for balconies, RVs, or seasonal use.
12. Ready to Build Your Pizza Paradise?
When you’re ready to bring the flavor home, trust a local team that knows the climate, the products, and the people. Bemister’s Pool & Patio has been helping New Hampshire families upgrade their backyards since 1942.
Whether it’s a propane pizza oven on your deck or a full outdoor kitchen, they’ll guide you from dream to delivery.
FAQs About Outdoor Pizza Ovens
How long does it take to preheat an outdoor pizza oven?
Most Alfa ovens reach 900°F in just 15–30 minutes, depending on the model and fuel. Gas tends to be faster than wood.
Can I use my pizza oven year-round in New Hampshire?
Yes! With a quality cover and proper placement, these ovens are built to handle snow, rain, and freezing temps. Many customers keep them in use well into December.
What else can I cook in an outdoor pizza oven?
Beyond pizza, try bread, roasted vegetables, cast iron meat dishes, baked desserts, or even homemade flatbreads and pies.
Do I need a chimney or vent?
Most models come with integrated chimneys for airflow and smoke management. Be sure to place it in a well-ventilated area away from overhangs.
How do I clean a pizza oven?
Use a metal brush after each session to remove ash or crumbs. Clean out the stone once cool, and cover the unit when not in use.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best outdoor pizza oven in New Hampshire doesn’t have to be complicated. It comes down to knowing your cooking style, planning for your space, and working with a trusted local source.
At Bemister’s Pool & Patio, we don’t just sell ovens we help you create memories around them.
Contact us online today or stop by one of our New Hampshire showrooms and ask about current promotions on Alfa Forni ovens and accessories.
Let’s build your perfect pizza night one slice at a time.
