McLaren Vale has long been renowned for its world-class wines and vineyard views, but now, it’s also home to the best pizza in the state, according to South Australia’s delicious 100 list for 2023. Pizzateca, a local gem and foodie favourite found in the heart of the Fleurieu, has clinched the top spot thanks to 12,000 foodies who voted from across the state, with its exceptional Neapolitan-style pizzas setting the benchmark for pizza perfection.
The runners-up in the pizza category were Russell’s Pizza in Willunga, coming in at 2nd place; Etica in Adelaide in 3rd; Bandit Pizza in Hyde Park, awarded 4th place; and completing the top 5 in the pizza category was ES Pizza at Tilbrook Estate in Lenswood.
This win for Pizzatecca is a celebration of authentic Italian cuisine that’s been tailored with a South Aussie touch, with the Mitolo family’s commitment to quality and tradition translating into an unbeatable pizza experience.
From their long-proved, hand-stretched dough to the blisteringly quick cook in a 400-degree Stefano Ferrara wood-fired oven straight from Napoli, each pizza is a masterpiece of one mouth-watering bite after another. Notably, the Diablo pizza has garnered acclaim for its spicy kick, featuring house-made sauce, salami, asiago cheese, and the family’s own chilli sauce.
The secret to Pizzateca’s success lies in its unwavering dedication to authenticity and quality, and by using techniques passed down through generations and locally sourced ingredients like the Virginia-grown Roma tomatoes for their sugo, they’ve managed to create a slice of Italy in South Australia.
Their Neapolitan-style pizzas are notable for their thin bases and soft, airy crusts, all made by hand in the traditional way, sans rolling pins. This respect for tradition has not gone unnoticed, with pizza aficionados and casual diners alike singing their praises.
And, whilst the pizza is clearly the standout at Pizateca, the Mitolo family, with roots in Italy’s Abruzzo region, have brought much more than just pizza to the table. Their arrosticini—skewers of succulent lamb cooked over charcoal – pay homage to their heritage and are a must-try for any meat lover.
In Australia, quality pizza has evolved from the days of Pizza Hut and is now considered more than just a fast-food option—it’s a part of our culture, and enjoying a slice with a glass of vino or a beer is a tradition that transcends seasons. Pizzateca’s setting in McLaren Vale, with its Instagrammable walls and party vibes, enhances the experience whether on a warm summer’s day, cozy winter night or as the perfect setting for your next function or special occasion.
The recognition of Pizzateca and its peers on 2023’s delicious 100 list is a testament to the vibrant food scene in South Australia, where authenticity and quality are not just appreciated but celebrated. Pizzateca’s success is a story of a family’s journey from Abruzzo to Australia, carrying with them the legacy of Italian culinary excellence, which is now recognised as the best in South Australia.
What: Pizzateca.
Where: 319 Chalk Hill Rd, McLaren Vale, SA 5171.
When: Friday-Saturday, 12-9 pm, Sunday, 12-3:45 pm, Monday, 12-2:45 pm.
For further info, click here.
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