An iconic Italian restaurant, Toto’s Pizza House, is right in the middle of Melbourne’s thriving food scene. With a long history dating back to 1961, Toto’s Pizza House proudly claims the honour of being Melbourne’s oldest pizza business. Melburnians were first introduced to the genuine flavours of traditional Italian pizza at this beloved eatery, which was nestled in the bustling Lygon Street in Carlton.

In addition to starting a culinary revolution, Toto solidified its position in the cultural fabric of the city. Come explore the past and present with us as we learn about this innovative pizzeria’s heritage of providing historical slices to customers for over 60 years.

What Is The Oldest Pizza Restaurant In Melbourne?

In Melbourne, Toto’s Pizza House has been around longer than any other pizza joint. Famous for bringing classic Italian pizza to Melbourne, it debuted in 1961 and is generally considered the city’s first pizzeria. Lygon Street, Carlton is home to Toto’s, a restaurant that has become a legend in Melbourne’s culinary world.

Where To Find The Best Pizza In Melbourne?

Finding the best pizza in Melbourne can be a delightful journey through the city’s diverse and vibrant food scene. Here are some top spots where you can enjoy some of the best pizzas Melbourne has to offer:

400 Gradi

• Located in Brunswick, 400 Gradi is famous for its award-winning Margherita pizza, which won the World Pizza Championship in 2014. Chef Johnny Di Francesco follows the traditional Neapolitan method, ensuring an authentic taste.

DOC Pizza & Mozzarella Bar

• With locations in Carlton, Mornington, and Southbank, DOC is renowned for its high-quality ingredients and classic Italian flavours. The San Daniele pizza, topped with prosciutto, mozzarella, and fresh rocket, is a crowd favourite.

Tipo 00

• A pasta bar in the heart of the city that also serves an exceptional selection of pizzas. Known for its wood-fired pizzas, Tipo 00 combines traditional techniques with innovative toppings.

A25 Pizzeria

• With locations in South Yarra, Docklands, and the CBD, A25 Pizzeria offers a modern twist on traditional pizzas. Their creative toppings and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular choice among locals and visitors alike.

Leonardo’s Pizza Palace

• Located in Carlton, Leonardo’s is known for its retro vibes and delicious pizzas. The Americana, with pepperoni, mozzarella, and tomato, is a standout on their menu.

Ladro

• With locations in Fitzroy and Prahran, Ladro is famous for its wood-fired pizzas and sustainable practices. The Prawn & Zucchini pizza is a unique and flavorful option that shouldn’t be missed.

Baby Pizza

• Situated in Richmond, Baby Pizza offers a cozy atmosphere and a variety of pizzas made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The Diavola, with spicy salami, is a favourite among spicy pizza lovers.

D.O.C Espresso

• A sibling to DOC Pizza & Mozzarella Bar, D.O.C Espresso in Carlton offers a more casual dining experience with the same high-quality pizzas. The Napoli pizza, with anchovies and capers, is a must-try.

Mr. Wolf

• Located in St Kilda, Mr Wolf is known for its thin-crust pizzas and laid-back atmosphere. The Funghi pizza, topped with mixed mushrooms, is a standout.

+39 Pizzeria

• With a central location on Little Bourke Street, +39 Pizzeria is perfect for a quick yet delicious pizza experience. Their Capricciosa, with artichokes, ham, and mushrooms, is a popular choice.

Exploring these top pizzerias will give you a taste of Melbourne’s rich pizza culture, showcasing everything from traditional Neapolitan styles to innovative modern creations.

What Place Is Best Known For Pizza?

When it comes to places best known for pizza, several cities and regions stand out globally:

Naples, Italy

• Often regarded as the birthplace of pizza, Naples is renowned for its authentic Neapolitan pizza. This city is famous for its traditional Margherita and Marinara pizzas, characterized by a thin, soft crust and simple, high-quality toppings. The Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (AVPN) ensures that pizzerias follow the traditional methods of making Neapolitan pizza.

New York City, USA

• New York is famous for its iconic New York-style pizza, which features a large, foldable slice with a crispy, yet chewy crust. The city’s pizza culture is diverse, with many pizzerias offering everything from classic cheese and pepperoni to creative and gourmet toppings.

Chicago, USA

• Chicago is renowned for its deep-dish pizza, which is a hearty, pie-like pizza with a thick, buttery crust and layers of cheese, toppings, and tomato sauce. The city’s unique style of pizza has garnered a significant following and is a must-try for pizza enthusiasts.

Rome, Italy

• Rome is known for its pizza al taglio (pizza by the slice) and pizza romana. The crust is typically thin and crispy, and the pizza is often served in large rectangular slices. Rome’s pizzerias offer a wide range of toppings and flavours.

São Paulo, Brazil

• São Paulo boasts a vibrant pizza scene, influenced by Italian immigrants. The city’s pizzerias often serve a variety of inventive toppings and unique flavour combinations, reflecting Brazil’s diverse culinary influences.

Tokyo, Japan

• Tokyo has become a notable player in the global pizza scene, with many pizzerias offering high-quality pizzas that blend traditional Italian techniques with local Japanese ingredients. The city is home to some acclaimed pizzerias that have earned international recognition.

Each of these places offers a distinct pizza experience, reflecting their unique cultural and culinary traditions. Whether you’re craving traditional Neapolitan pizza or a deep-dish slice, these cities are renowned for their exceptional pizza.

What’s Special About Pizza?

Pizza is a beloved dish for many reasons, making it special in various ways:

Versatility

• Pizza’s adaptability is one of its greatest strengths. It can be customized with a wide range of toppings, sauces, and cheeses, catering to diverse tastes and dietary preferences. From classic combinations like Margherita and pepperoni to creative options like barbecue chicken or vegan cheese, there’s a pizza for everyone.

Cultural Significance

• Originating from Italy, pizza has become a global phenomenon, deeply ingrained in various cultures. Its evolution and local adaptations reflect regional tastes and culinary traditions. In Italy, it’s often enjoyed as a simple, traditional meal, while in the U.S. and other countries, it has inspired countless variations and innovations.

Social Experience

• Pizza is often associated with social gatherings and celebrations. Its shared nature makes it a perfect food for parties, family dinners, and casual get-togethers. The experience of ordering or making pizza with friends and family enhances its enjoyment.

Convenience

• Pizza is both convenient and comforting. It can be easily ordered, delivered, or made at home, and it works well as a quick meal or a hearty feast. Its ability to be enjoyed hot or cold adds to its practicality.

Sensory Appeal

• The combination of a crispy or chewy crust, melted cheese, and a variety of flavorful toppings creates a satisfying sensory experience. The aroma of baking pizza, the visual appeal of a beautifully topped pie, and the taste of perfectly balanced ingredients all contribute to its special nature.

Tradition and Craftsmanship

• In many places, making pizza is considered an art form. Traditional techniques, such as hand-tossing the dough or using a wood-fired oven, are revered and preserved. The craftsmanship involved in creating a great pizza is celebrated by chefs and home cooks alike.

Emotional Connection

• Pizza often evokes nostalgic and comforting feelings. It might remind people of family gatherings, childhood memories, or special occasions. This emotional connection adds to its special status.

Innovation

• Pizza continually evolves with new trends and innovations, such as gourmet toppings, fusion flavours, and unique crusts. This ongoing creativity keeps pizza exciting and relevant, allowing it to adapt to modern tastes and preferences.

Pizza’s special appeal lies in its combination of versatility, cultural significance, social value, and sensory enjoyment, making it a universally cherished dish.

Conclusion

Because of its extraordinary adaptability, deep cultural relevance, and powerful social allure, pizza stands out as a unique and beloved food. Its ease, its function in uniting people, and its ability to satisfy various tastes with countless topping possibilities have made it a favoured option globally.

The heritage and artistry of pizza preparation, coupled with its ever-changing style and new ingredients, add to its irresistible charm. The versatility and international appeal of pizza make it a beloved dish across countries and generations, whether eaten as a comforting tradition or as an innovative gourmet innovation.

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