Though the modern pizza originated in Naples, its origins can be traced back to the time of Ancient Greece where bakers, since the time of Plato, had been dressing bread with oils, herbs, and cheese. The Romans refined the recipe, developing a delicacy known as placenta, which was a sheet of fine flour topped with cheese and honey; seasoned with bay leaves for added flavouring. Tomatoes were only added to the mix in the 16th century, at a time when the ‘New-World fruit’ was thought to be poisonous. But the daring citizens of Naples learnt that tomatoes were not only harmless but delectable too, especially when used on dough.
Finally the first cheese and tomato pizza was created in 1889 for reigning Queen Margarita. The Royal Palace commissioned the Neapolitan pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito to create a new delicacy in honour of the visiting monarch. He proposed three new pizzas; the winner was one that reflected the colours of the Italian flag: red (tomato), green (basil), and white (mozzarella).
Of course nowadays, with over 6 billion examples sold globally, there are toppings to suit everyone, adapted according to regions, cultures and personal preferences. Whatever sort you go for, the pizzerias below will not disappoint, so go on, grab a slice.
London - Made in Italy
This small and lively Italian restaurant is owned and run by Italians. Located on the King’s Road, the interior is cosy, with light brown brick walls and small wooden tables placed so closely together, that you can practically eat off your neighbour’s plate. The pizzas are cooked in a proper wood burning oven and they’re served on small wooden trestles which helps save room while encouraging people to share. In summer opt to enjoy your meal alfresco style out on the roof terrace.
Address: 249 King's Road, London
Jeddah – Gerbino’s
Gerbino’s is the realisation of a dream for the Saudi Arabian owner, Sahel Abdulmohsen Al Khodair. He even named the restaurant after his Sicilian mother’s family. At the heart of the experience is an Italian wood fired brick oven that took much research to perfect. Rumour has it, the owner ended up building it himself. The effort was worthwhile as the pizzas are delicious and paper thin, unless you pick the Sicilian, which comes slightly thicker. You’ll not find a better pizza in the entire Kingdom.
Address: Khalil baik Il Ajan St., behind Al Andalus School
Montreal – Napoli
With its amazing crust which is crispy yet surprisingly soft and buttery within you’d best be warned that Napoli’s pizza is highly addictive. Owned by an Italian family, who have an uncanny resemblance to some characters from The Godfather, this little joint is always full. It boasts 100 different kinds of pizza, all of which can be customised according to taste. The warm and friendly setting of the restaurant, reminiscent of an Italian small-town eatery, capably takes you away from the bustling city life.
Address: 1677 Saint-Denis Rue, Montreal
Beirut – Pinocchio
Hidden in Achrafieh, off the main road, down a little alley, is the ever popular Italian restaurant, Pinocchio. In clement times you can sit outside in the small courtyard but inside is an old-world décor akin to a homely mountain chalet, with timber beams, brick walls and outsized windows. The staying power of this restaurant, uncharacteristic in ever-changing Beirut, is due to its modest prices, wide varying Italian dishes, as well as the swift service. Try the fresh buffalo mozzarella pizza with basil leaves and cherry tomatoes.
Address: Trabaud Street, Achrafieh, Beirut
Muscat - Capri Court
Contemporary Italian ingredients blend together sumptuously in Capri Court. Though the celebrated chef of this restaurant, Jordi Servalls, is probably better known for his versatile yet specialised modern Italian cuisine, word has it that his pizza is mouth-watering. Capri Court is secluded from the city, set within the tranquil environs of Muscat’s Shangri-La beachfront. Only opening for dinner, this restaurant is probably the best of the few Italian restaurants in Oman. The views of the clear Gulf waters set ahead of the mountainous desert landscape are quite breathtaking.
Address: Shangri-La’s Barr al Jissah Resort and Spa
Dubai – Bussola (84)
The Middle East’s first Westin hotel opened in May 2008 located within the same grounds as Le Méridien. While the Westin is situated at the northern end of the beach, Le Méridien Mina Seyahi is located at the southern end next to the Dubai International Marine Club. The Westin’s Bussola restaurant has fast become a favourite amongst diners in Dubai. Its pizzas are excellent and you can savour every bite either upstairs in the casual alfresco pizza lounge or downstairs in the more elegant restaurant.
Address: Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach resort, Jumeirah
Naples - Antica Port’alba
When it comes to the birthplace of pizza it is hard to single out just one establishment. But the oldest Neapolitan pizzeria, still functioning today, is the Antica Port’alba. Incredibly it has been in business since 1738 when it was serving to peddlers. In 1830 they opened the restaurant and the rest they say is history. Although boasting a wide variety of pizzas, if you wish to follow in the more conservative Italian traditions, then opt for one of only two, the Marinara or the Margarita.
Address: Off of Piazza Dante, Naples
Paris - Pizza Pino
This one is a controversial one as it is probably not the best pizzeria in town. It is however the most frequented and it does stay open till late. So whether you have been touring the city on a sightseeing tour, or shopping on the Champs Elysees, stop by Pizza Pino for a worthy slice of Italy. This restaurant has done so well that there are currently twenty-two outlets in France and further franchises in Brazil, the United States, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom and other Western European Countries.
Address: 31-33 Avenue Champs Elysees, Paris
