Back in September, The World’s 50 Top Pizza Awards revealed their annual list of the best pizzerias and pizza chefs in the world. Alongside the list were several awards that recognised stand-out pizzas and pizza makers. And one of those awards singled out a London pizza chef for the ultimate praise.
Founder and head chef of Napoli On The Road, Michele Pascarella, was awarded the coveted Global Pizza Maker of the Year 2023 award. That’s right, that officially makes him the best pizza chef in the world! And the prize is no fluke either. The 50 Top Pizza Awards are awarded based on a rigorous selection process involving anonymous visits by experienced pizza critics. So, it’s a pretty big deal. Naturally, we had to go along and check it out for ourselves:
It’s not the first time Pascarella has been recognised for his pizzas, Earlier this year he was crowned the best pizza maker in Europe. Ever since then he just seems to go from strength to strength.
Michele Pascarella commented, “Winning Pizza Maker of the Year is a testament to pushing the boundaries of flavour and innovation within pizza. It’s not just about crafting the perfect dough or finding the finest ingredients; it’s about the artistry and passion that goes into every slice.”
Napoli On The Road
The flagship Chiswick site is well regarded for Pascarella’s innovative approach to toppings and techniques, and a willingness to experiment. They’re renowned for putting their unique twist on the much-loved dish and the ever-changing menu focuses on seasonality, ensuring that only the freshest ingredients are used. And the same approach has now been applied in Richmond, to ensure the best pizza experience for all guests.
Previous favourites have included the likes of the ‘Cheesewick‘ with buffalo mozzarella DOP, ricotta cheese, stracciatella di bufala, blue stilton, parmesan chip, and piennolo cherry tomato jam. Another much-loved pie was the ‘Ricordi D’infanzia’ (or ‘childhood memories’) topped with a slow-cooked ragu Napoletano, and 24-month parmigiano reggiano cream. They even made a ‘Carbonara‘ pizza topped with truffle! Fans of the classics can rest easy, though, as they still do serve up traditionally-topped pizzas like the ‘Margherita‘.
And if you’re not in the mood for pizza? Perhaps you were outvoted with where to have dinner? Fret not, because there are plenty of non-pizza options to choose from. We’ve got our eyes on their delicious-looking croquettes!
Napoli On The Road Richmond can be found at 12 Red Lion Street, Richmond, TW9 1RW. The nearest station is Richmond. Napoli On The Road can also be found in Chiswick at 9A Devonshire Road, Chiswick, W4 2EU. The nearest station is Turnham Green.