Pizza lovers, you know what time of year it is. Once again, that Italian judging panel that determines the 50 Top Pizza list has decided which pizzerias from around the world are the best in the business. And the 2024 results for the greatest pizzas in the Asia-Pacific region have just dropped, and we're excited to see a handful of our local dough masters make the list.
Coming in at fifth, we have 48h Pizza e Gnocchi Bar (also voted best in Australia). As 2021's numero uno in Oceania (and fourth last year), it's slipped down a few slots globally, but is still managing to impress the most discerning of pizza judges. Back in 2019, it was also recognised as having the best pizza in Australia at the World Pizza Championships in Parma, Italy.
A beloved Italian restaurant in Moonee Ponds also made the cut, with Il Caminetto coming in at number 31 on the list. One judge had these glowing words for the menu: "You will find the Siciliana and the Piemontese, the former with spinach, pancetta, and potatoes, the latter with mushrooms, ricotta, and lemon thyme, both worth trying".
"We want to say thanks to all our customers and our team for being able to achieve this incredible result once more," said Il Caminetto's executive chef, Andrea Santinelli "Becoming the second-best pizza in Melbourne, I would like to thank Giuseppe Santoro from the F.I.P. (Italian Federation of Pizza Chefs) for his help and support.”
Other pizzerias in Melbourne that made the top 50 list in Asia-Pacific this year include Shop225 and +39 Pizzeria, which came in at 32nd and 33rd, respectively. Shop225 isn't just an award-winning venue, it's also the first pizza shop to receive gluten-free accreditation from Coeliac Australia. Here, you can grab one of the tastiest slices in Oceania, and have all your dietary requirements (including halal) catered for.
It's safe to say we're spoiled for choice, and we couldn't be happier. To see the full list (and get some solid pizza recs for each winning restaurant), head to the website.