You might be wondering what’s behind the recent surge in pizza places popping up around the city. It’s as if the dining scene has struck a balance, offsetting the wave of new sushi spots with an avalanche of pizzas.
Whatever the reason, food enthusiasts are thrilled. Pizza has become the trending food category, with acclaimed chefs and international brands establishing their presence. This guide will take you through the most renowned restaurants, showcasing both traditional and innovative approaches to this beloved dish.
From authentic Neapolitan traditions to Tokyo-influenced creations and gourmet interpretations, the options are vast. You’re about to embark on a culinary journey that will capture your heart and stay with you as the latest news in the food scene.
The Pizza Renaissance in Singapore
A pizza renaissance is underway in Singapore, characterized by a blend of traditional Italian techniques and local flavours. You are witnessing a culinary shift where pizza has become a staple, captivating the hearts of food enthusiasts.
Why Pizza is Trending in Singapore
The recent surge in pizza’s popularity can be attributed to the influx of international pizza chefs bringing with them authentic techniques. Singapore’s diverse population appreciates the shareable nature, comfort food status, and versatility of pizza, making it a trending choice. Over the past year, months have seen a significant transformation in the pizza landscape, with establishments focusing on authenticity and quality ingredients like fresh tomato sauce and mozzarella.
What Makes a Great Pizza
A great pizza is defined by several key elements, including the quality of the dough, the flavour of the sauce, and the type of cheese used. The fermentation time for the dough is crucial, as it develops the crust’s texture and flavour. The use of high-quality ingredients such as San Marzano tomatoes for the sauce and fresh mozzarella cheese enhances the overall taste. The balance of these elements, along with the cooking technique, results in a pizza that is both authentic and delicious, offering a variety of flavours that appeal to a wide range of palates.
Beyond the Dough: Tokyo-Neapolitan Excellence
In the heart of Singapore, a culinary gem is redefining the pizza landscape with its unique Tokyo-Neapolitan fusion. Beyond the Dough, located in the Bugis area, has become a hotspot for pizza enthusiasts. You can experience the art of pizza-making elevated to new heights here.
The Artistry of Eddie Murakami
Eddie Murakami, the pizzaiolo behind Beyond the Dough, brings with him a wealth of experience from Tokyo’s Michelin-recognized Pizza Strada and Pizza Studio Tamaki. His meticulous techniques, including a 30-hour dough aging process and the use of imported Japanese flour, set the foundation for exceptional pizzas. You can taste the difference in every slice that comes out of the woodfire oven.
Murakami’s signature addition of Okinawan sea salt adds a unique dimension to the pizzas, making each bite a sensory experience. The care and attention to detail he brings to every pizza are evident in the organic, sculpturally shaped crusts.
Signature Pizzas and Flavors
The Margherita at Beyond the Dough is a masterpiece, with its perfectly balanced tomato sauce, mozzarella, and fresh basil. Drizzled with high-quality olive oil, it’s a simple yet sublime creation. You can savor the flavors, appreciating the harmony of ingredients.
For those looking to try something different, the Singapore Rampage with its 20-hour prawn-based sauce is a must-try. Alternatively, the 5 Formaggi, with its medley of cheeses complemented by Italian honey, offers a rich and satisfying experience. Each pizza is a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of Eddie Murakami and his team at Beyond the Dough.
Despite its small 28-seat capacity, Beyond the Dough has garnered a cult following, making reservations highly sought after among Singapore’s pizza aficionados. You should plan ahead to secure a spot at this restaurant that’s redefining the pizza scene.
L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele: Authentic Neapolitan Tradition
In the heart of Singapore, a taste of Naples awaits at L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele. This iconic pizzeria, established in 1870, is renowned for bringing authentic Neapolitan tradition to the Asian culinary scene. Singapore-based restaurateur Marcello Mazzotta spent a year negotiating a partnership with the family-run establishment, marking its first venture in Asia.
Naples Heritage in Singapore
L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele is one of Naples’ oldest and most revered eateries, now transplanting its rich heritage to Singapore. The strict conditions imposed by Da Michele to maintain authenticity included importing a custom-built woodfire oven from Italy and adhering to traditional dough preparation methods. Even in Singapore’s humid climate, the pizzeria ensures that its dough is prepared according to time-honored techniques.
The commitment to authenticity extends to the use of DOP (Protected Designation of Origin) ingredients from Campania, including San Marzano tomatoes and Fior di Latte mozzarella. This dedication to quality ingredients is what sets Da Michele apart, offering a genuinely Neapolitan pizza experience.
The Classic Margherita and Marinara Experience
Da Michele’s menu is characterized by its simplicity, offering only the classic Margherita and Marinara pizzas. This minimalist approach focuses on perfecting these traditional varieties rather than diversifying the menu. The result is a pizza that boasts a melting center, a crusty outer cornicione, and clean flavors derived from the simplicity and quality of the ingredients.
Natives from Naples have praised Da Michele for its authentic taste, a testament to the pizzeria’s reputation as a “temple of pizza.” The experience of savoring a Da Michele pizza is a culinary journey to the heart of Naples, now accessible in Singapore.
Torno Subito: Massimo Bottura’s Pizza Masterpieces
Torno Subito, the Singapore outpost of globally acclaimed chef Massimo Bottura, is a must-visit destination for pizza enthusiasts. Led by executive chef Alessio Pirozzi, this culinary gem offers an unparalleled pizza experience that showcases the perfect blend of traditional Italian flavors and innovative techniques.
Chef Alessio Pirozzi’s Culinary Direction
Chef Alessio Pirozzi, hailing from Abruzzo, Italy, brings his extensive culinary expertise to Torno Subito. Having previously led the culinary direction at Torno Subito in Dubai, Pirozzi is well-versed in crafting exceptional pizzas that highlight the best of Italian cuisine. At Torno Subito in Singapore, he continues to uphold the restaurant’s reputation for culinary excellence.
The pizzas at Torno Subito are made using Italian Petra flour, a ingredient not found in any other pizzeria in Singapore. The dough is allowed to ferment for 48 hours, resulting in crusts that are light, firm, and fluffy, with beautiful air bubbles and a lovely char.
Must-Try Gourmet Pizza Creations
Torno Subito’s menu boasts an array of gourmet pizzas that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. The “Upside-down Margherita” is a playful twist on the classic, featuring a green pesto base topped with fresh tomatoes. Other standout creations include the “Made In Sicily” with pistachio, provola, and Mazara del Vallo red shrimp tartare, and the “Fichi E Culatello” with figs, fior di latte, walnuts, and culatello ham.
These pizzas not only showcase Massimo Bottura’s innovative approach to culinary arts but also highlight the use of premium ingredients and artistic presentation. Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or just looking to try something new, Torno Subito is sure to impress with its gourmet pizza offerings.
More Singapore, Singapore: Acclaimed Pizza Restaurants to Explore
Beyond the familiar favorites, Singapore is home to a diverse array of pizza restaurants that are worth exploring. You’ll discover unique flavor profiles, expertly crafted dough, and a passion for delivering exceptional dining experiences.
IL Clay: Ciro Sorrentino’s Neapolitan Artistry
IL Clay at Clarke Quay is a culinary gem, thanks to Italian chef Ciro Sorrentino’s expertise. With a background that includes bringing authentic Neapolitan pizza to Vietnam, Sorrentino’s credentials are impressive. His pizzas are served on pedestals, showcasing the generous puffy crusts made possible by 48-hour proofed dough. The Regina Margherita, with buffalo cheese, pesto, and colorful tomatoes, is a standout, as is the Napoli, featuring anchovies, black olives, and fermented garlic.
The Long Weekend Pizza: Homestyle Charm
The Long Weekend Pizza is a charming home business run by a former restaurant pizza chef. Operating from his driveway, the chef uses a professional woodfire oven to craft no-frills, honest pizzas. The menu is straightforward, with seven classic pizzas available for weekend pickup, creating a neighborhood community atmosphere.
L’Arte Pizza & Focaccia: Award-Winning Innovation
L’Arte Pizza & Focaccia is led by award-winning chef Radostin Kiryazov, known as the “god of pizza” in his native Bulgaria. Kiryazov’s innovative approach is evident in pizzas like the Tropicana, featuring caramelized pineapple and a four-cheese combination. The restaurant’s technical expertise includes using 85% hydration dough fermented for 48 hours, resulting in lighter, more digestible pizzas with unique flavor combinations.
These acclaimed pizza restaurants in Singapore offer a wealth of exciting culinary experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for traditional Neapolitan-style pizzas or innovative creations, there’s something for every pizza enthusiast.
Conclusion: Singapore’s Thriving Pizza Scene
Singapore’s pizza renaissance is a story of passion, innovation, and a shared love for great food that’s captivating the hearts of locals and visitors alike. The city-state has transformed into a world-class pizza destination, boasting a diverse array of artisanal pizzerias that serve everything from authentic Neapolitan to innovative fusion creations.
The influx of international pizza talent from Italy, Japan, Bulgaria, and beyond has elevated Singapore’s pizza scene to new heights. These acclaimed establishments share a common thread – a commitment to quality ingredients, meticulous dough preparation, and respect for tradition even when innovating.
As a result, Singaporeans can now enjoy previously hard-to-find authentic experiences, from San Marzano DOP tomatoes to specialized techniques. This pizza renaissance reflects Singapore’s evolving culinary landscape, where appreciation for artisanal processes and authentic flavors continues to grow. We encourage you to explore beyond your usual pizza preferences and try new styles, from Tokyo-Neapolitan hybrids to contemporary interpretations with local influences.
With a thriving pizza scene that’s here to stay, Singapore’s culinary tapestry has been enriched, offering a wealth of exciting experiences that will continue to evolve and thrive.
