Overview

Italian Pizzeria III, or IP3 as it is called by locals, is a casual pizzeria located on West Franklin Street in Chapel Hill. The restaurant is a favorite among students at UNC-Chapel Hill, and is frequented by members of the UNC men's basketball team. Brothers Angelo and Vincenzo Marrone have run the restaurant since its 1980 opening, and they pride themselves on their freshly made pizzas.

Italian Pizzeria III is a hotspot for watching local and international sports. Owners Angelo and Vincenzo Marrone show their support for UNC before a 2014 men's basketball game against longtime rival Duke. (Photo from @Ip3_Chapel_Hill)

Atmosphere

The restaurant is known as a haven for both local and international sports fans. Indy Week has named IP3 the Best Place to Watch Televised International Soccer every year from 2006-2013. Upon entering the pizzeria, patrons are greeted by a large flat-screen TV that perpetually broadcasts sports across the restaurant.

Italian native and owner Angelo Marrone is a lifelong basketball fan, and has adorned the walls of IP3 with UNC basketball photos and memorabilia. Angelo is a major Michael Jordan fan, and was ecstatic when he discovered he moved to the town of Jordan's alma mater. For two decades, Angelo has curated what he calls the "IP3 museum," which consists of the autographed jerseys and athletic posters that line the walls. On any night of the week, you can find college students eating along side little league baseball teams and sports fanatics of all ages.

IP3 is open for lunch and dinner every day of the week, and offers a selection of pizzas, pastas, salads and sandwiches. In 2011 the pizzeria was received the Best Steak and Cheese Award from Indy Week. Their fresh-dough pizza is topped with a sauce from a family recipe, and they offer a $4 lunch special that includes two slices of pizza and a drink.