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Maximus Arena

Sale price$1,690.00

Color:
SKU: MAXR
Maximus Arena Red and Black Portable Pizza Ovens
The Maximus Arena series by Authentic Pizza Ovens is the premier choice for those seeking professional wood-fired performance in a mobile, lightweight design. Unlike the heavy masonry ovens, the Maximus is a portable powerhouse that delivers authentic wood-fired flavor with a significantly faster heat-up time. Available in a striking Red or a sleek Black finish, it serves as a high-performance focal point for tailgating, catering, or any backyard gathering.
Unique Characteristics of the Maximus Arena
What sets the Maximus Arena apart is its innovative double-walled stainless steel construction. While the interior is lined with authentic refractory fire bricks, the exterior dome is made of high-grade aluminum. This combination allows the oven to reach cooking temperatures of 600°F to 900°F in as little as 20 minutes. At only 130 lbs, it provides a level of portability and convenience that traditional brick ovens cannot match, all while maintaining the thermal mass needed for a perfect crust.
Model Comparison: Maximus Red vs. Maximus Black
The choice between the Red and Black models is purely aesthetic, allowing you to tailor the look of your outdoor cooking setup. Maximus Red Arena: This model features a vibrant, high-gloss red dome that commands attention. It provides a classic, energetic look that is synonymous with traditional Italian pizzerias and festive outdoor hosting. Maximus Black Arena: For a more modern, industrial aesthetic, the Black Arena offers a sophisticated matte-style finish. It blends seamlessly into contemporary outdoor kitchens with stainless steel appliances and dark stone countertops.
Specifications for Maximus Arena Ovens
  • Weight: Approximately 130 lbs (59 kg).
  • External Dimensions: 27.5 inches Wide x 27.5 inches Deep x 25.5 inches High.
  • Internal Dimensions: 23.5 inches Wide x 23.5 inches Deep.
  • Materials: Stainless steel interior wall, aluminum exterior dome, and a floor made of authentic refractory tiles.
  • Capacity: Cooks one 12-inch pizza at a time or fits two small baking dishes.
  • Included Features: Stainless steel chimney with flue and cap, built-in thermometer, decorative facade bricks, and a complimentary ceramic baking dish.

Installation and Setup Requirements
Surface and Support: Because the Maximus is significantly lighter than masonry models, it can be placed on a variety of surfaces. However, it still requires a level, non-combustible surface such as a dedicated metal stand, a stone countertop, or a heavy-duty outdoor table. Safety Clearances: Even with its efficient insulation, the oven produces significant heat. It must be used outdoors only. Maintain a minimum clearance of 3 feet from all combustible materials, including wooden railings, siding, and low-hanging branches. Curing Process: While the Maximus does not require the extensive week-long curing process of large brick ovens, it still benefits from a "break-in" fire. Run a small, low-heat fire for about 30 to 45 minutes before your first cook to ensure any manufacturing residues are burned off and the fire bricks are tempered. Maintenance and Weather: The Maximus is designed for outdoor use, but the lifespan of the finish and the internal bricks is greatly extended by using a weatherproof cover. When the oven is cool, always cover it or store it in a garage or shed to prevent moisture from settling into the refractory floor.
Pizza Oven Shipping Policy/Returns/Features/Instructions/Care/Videos
Shipping / Delivery

What is the charge for delivery?
Delivery is FREE of our pizza ovens to a commercial address within the continental USA. If you are in AK, HI, or islands (any ferry transport) off the US coast please contact us for a quote. There may be an added fee to the following states as they have excessive shipping costs: Maine, Vermont, Washington, and Oregon.  

What about sales tax?
There is no sales tax charged.

What is the expected delivery time?
We ship daily Monday - Friday! Depending upon where you live, you should receive it within 2-10 days but we can’t foresee any freight company delays. We will give you shipping information and instructions once the freight company has confirmed pick up. We usually arrange pick up within 2-4 business days of purchase!

Do you ship outside of the United States?

Just send us your address  in the contact page and we’ll provide you with a quote. Some countries will charge duty and what will be included in the quote.  

We can now ship Authentic Pizza Ovens nationwide in Australia

How will my oven arrive?
Our ovens are shipped in a secure custom wooden crate which sit on a pallet. Our standard traditional oven crates measure 43″ x 43″ x 39″. (some are a few inches bigger) If able, we will provide recommendations for installation but we only ship to curbside or driveway. We use various freight trucking companies with a lift gate and will provide you with these details after purchase. Someone will need to be home to receive shipment.  

Do I have to wait for inventory to be available.  

No, most Ovens have large inventories and containers are always inbound.  Any exceptions will be promptly communicated

Can I pick up the oven myself?
Absolutely.  . You are more than welcome to come and pick up from our fulfillment facility, In Houston.  If you just give us a call or contact us  we'll arrange it! Our traditional  ovens weigh between 1250-1800 lbs so make sure your truck has a lift gate. The portable ovens are 200-400. We are happy to load with our forklift, but you need to make arrangements for your end. 

Returns

Do you offer returns/exchanges?
Yes, we have a 14 day return policy. 

What if my oven or product arrives damaged?
All ovens are inspected and shipped without any damages so it is important that you inspect upon arrival PRIOR to the delivery truck leaving or Depot pick up.

Please note:  Crumbling around the base is NOT considered damage.  The base is essentially protection for our ovens.  This can be easily touched up with the Ultra-fire that is included with the oven or in some cases a small supply of pre-made mortar.

You MUST inspect your oven order entirely for ANY order discrepancies within 5 days of delivery. We will NOT be held responsible for order discrepancies, including missing items, after the 5-day grace period.

Oven Installation

Do you install the oven or place it where it’s going to be?
We will recommend installation companies if we have contacts in your area but the freight drivers cannot do this. Installation is not difficult but you definitely need to have extra hands to assist. If you want to have your oven built-in, we urge you to consult with an outdoor kitchen contractor or landscaper. We also suggest contacting safe or piano movers- they know a thing or two about lifting heavy things. We do provide an easy diagram which will help assisting with the install.  

 

Oven Features

Is a wood-fired pizza oven worth it?
Yes! One of the best things about owning a wood-fired pizza oven is the experience of getting back to the basics and cooking your food in a truly authentic way. You don't have to limit yourself to just cooking pizzas either! The recipes are endless from bread, meats, vegetables, seafood, and even desserts! Not only will you get in touch with your inner-chef but you'll also find enjoyment in entertaining family and friends with this unique and authentic experience!

What do I need to know before buying a pizza oven?
That you will be the most popular neighbor on the block. So be prepared for more guests. Another important thing to think about is where you're going to put it. You want to have it in a space which is convenient but visible because it adds so much ambiance to your backyard or home.

 

Cooking Instructions

What else can I cook in this oven?
The list is long. Of course our ovens make the most delicious home made pizzas and you’ll be the Bell of the Block! That said, you can try your hand with breads, chicken, turkey, fish, steak, burgers, lamb, desserts and the list goes on. We include many recipes with your oven and email them to you with all your care instructions.


How long does an oven take to heat up?
When prepared correctly, the oven will take approximately 45 minutes to an hour and a half to get to the right temperature to bake your delicious pizzas. To get it closer to the 45 min mark, use a butane torch which you can get at a Home Depot type store- around $15-$25. Set up your ‘camp fire’ in a Lincoln log/tic tac toe fashion and use the torch on it for about 2-3 min. Saves heaps of time. Do not use paper- that just creates ash.

What kind of flour should I use?   
Since you’re buying a Pizza oven you know that excellent pizza is all about the crust. We recommend several kinds of flour- see below the products we suggest and we usually have them in stock and are happy to ship!  If in a hurry we also love Trader Joe’s pizza dough!  We carry the following.

  • Hayden Flour Mills
  • King Arthur Flour
  • Caputo’s 00 (low in gluten)

What tools do I need for my wood fire pizza oven?
You will definitely need a peel. In Pizza language, that’s what you use to turn the pizza in the oven and put in and pull it out when it’s done.  They look like a paddle with a long stick attached and come in wood or metal. We like the using the basic wood peel to put the pizza in the oven and take it out with the metal one- then we rest it back onto the wooden peel to serve/cut.

A perfect starter pack includes:

  • 2 pizza peels: One wood and one metal
  • Oven brush (need that)
  • Bubble popper which we use to turn the pizza…we love the bubbles.
  • Oven shovel

 

Oven Maintenance and Care

Do I need to keep my oven covered?If your oven is undercover, it isn't necessary, however if your oven is out in the open the answer is YES.  It is important to protect it from wet weather.  It's ok if it gets wet or a rained on occasionally- but it is very important that it doesn't sit in the wet, snow etc for extended periods of time.  We do covers offer pizza ovens 

Can you use a pizza oven in the winter?
Yes Absolutely! You can cook in your authentic pizza oven during any season! The biggest thing to remember is to keep your oven protected when you aren't using it, especially during extended periods of time and in inclement weather. Be prepared to take a little more time heating up the traditional ovens when its very cold outside!

What kind of wood should I use?
Only use hardwoods such as walnut, oak, mesquite, apple, maple, etc. Please stay away from softer woods like pine our spruce that are resinous. We do NOT recommend using coal in our ovens.

Are pizza ovens a fire hazard?
Yes, if not used properly. As with anything that requires fire to heat and/or cook, you want to follow your local city/county ordinance requirements and use proper precautions. We also highly recommend getting a chimney cap for your traditional ovens. Our modern/portable ones come with them. The caps are important because they have a built in spark arrestor for safety purposes.

How far should a pizza oven be from a house?
We recommend that you place your oven at least 3 feet away from your house or any building structure/wall to allow for proper ventilation. However, you need to check with your local city/county ordinance and ensure you follow their requirements. Adding a chimney pipe and cap is an important safety feature.

How do I clean the oven?
You don’t. Once the fire is out and cools you just sweep it out and it’s perfectly ready for next time!  I usually close the door after a session and simply shovel it out before the next burn.

Even though you cure your ovens it will still crack (realistically all wood fired brick or clay ovens will crack at varying degrees) they are usually thin but can get rather large especially when heated.  We do include a ‘patch’ kit with each brick oven but this is not necessary, as it does not affect the oven function in a noticeable way. It is best to apply Ultrafire when the oven is hot

What is curing and do I need to do this?
YES you need to do this! Curing simply means removing the moisture in the mortar. Curing will significantly help to protect the cooking ability and the life of your oven. So, yes you need to cure your traditional oven (1 day cure only).  You will be starting small fires and repeating daily for 5 days.

Start a small fire and let it burn throughout the day (4-5 hours) maintaining temperature:

Day1. 140F/60C

Day 2. Repeat 215F/100C 
Day 3. Repeat 300F/ 150C
Day 4. Repeat 400F/200C
Day 5. Repeat 480F/250C 

REMEMBER YOUR THERMOMETER IS IN CELSIUS!!  (because they are made in Europe)

Make sure that you close the oven door each night, which will keep in the heat and protect moisture from getting in until the curing process is complete. 

 

Videos