BY RUPALI DEAN

Whether it arrives at your doorstep or graces your table at a chic restaurant, it has an undeniable knack for spreading pure joy. Ready your taste buds as you dive into this delightful list of the capital's most exceptional pizza spots—try to keep the drool in check!

In the bustling streets of Delhi, where the aromas of street food mingle with the buzz of modern cafes, a tantalizing trend has taken hold—pizza mania! This Italian classic has become a quirky staple, seamlessly blending with Indian flavours and capturing the hearts (and stomachs) of Delhiites. Imagine tandoori chicken pizzas and butter chicken slices dancing on a cheesy crust! From cosy corner pizzerias to trendy hangouts, the city revels in a cornucopia of creative toppings that turn pizza into a canvas of culinary art. Who knew that a simple slice could spark such delicious delight and foster vibrant social gatherings across the capital? That said, in the vibrant pizza scene of Delhi, a few places stand out for their authentic Italian flair. Check out three of these spots that are a true celebration of Italian culinary art!

La Piazza

Hyatt Regency, New Delhi

Step into La Piazza, the capital’s charming Italian trattoria that boasts one of the first show kitchens around! Here, the aroma of pizzas wafts from a classic Renato wood-fired oven—one of the very first in India—infusing each slice with a signature flavour that’s simply unforgettable. Watch in awe as skilled chefs whip up culinary magic right before your eyes, transforming pizza-making into an art form that adds a dash of excitement to your dining experience. Every bite at La Piazza tells a story, crafted by Italian chefs from various regions, each bringing a sprinkle of their heritage and passion into the mix. With a steadfast commitment to authenticity and consistency, the legacy of La Piazza shines through as they uphold cherished family traditions, ensuring that every pizza not only meets but exceeds expectations. With fresh ingredients and time-honoured recipes, these pizzas aren’t just meals—they’re a delicious journey through the heart of Italy, solidifying La Piazza’s status as a beloved pizza haven over the years. Buon appetito!

Como Pizzeria & Café

32nd Avenue, Gurgaon

Welcome to Como, where every wall tells a story painted by the talented owners, Saniya and Arjun. With broken arches that harken back to ancient Roman architecture and a patio adorned with lush bougainvillea and a fragrant basil garden, this place oozes charm.  But hold on—let’s talk about the real showstopper: the pizza! Perfecting the Napoli is no small feat, and Arjun dedicated six months to mastering the art. Say hello to the iconic leopard crust and webbed dough, striking the perfect harmony between crispness and softness. With a dough recipe boasting a remarkable 70% water content, only true artisans can handle and stretch it to perfection. Weather shifts? No problem! The recipe evolves with the climate—a testament to the deep craft of bread-making that the team embraces. While the Como menu pays homage to traditional Margherita flavours, it also dares to be adventurous! Bold ingredients like hot honey, luscious ricotta mousse, and a fiery bhut jolokia drizzle elevate the pizzas to a new level of deliciousness. Get ready for a pizza experience that’s as unique and quirky as its surroundings!

Olly, Olive’s All-Day Café and Bar

Cyberhub, Gurgaon

Step into Olly, where every day favourites come alive with a dash of flair! Picture this: freshly brewed coffee, bespoke concoctions, and house-made cold-pressed juices—every sip and bite is a celebration. But let's talk about the real star: the pizzas! Crafted on a magically thin crust that dances between crispy and light, Olly’s pizzas let the toppings shine like the main act in a dazzling show. With a commitment to tradition, each masterpiece is hand-rolled and baked in a classic Italian wood-fired oven. Dive in and savour the flavour explosion—it’s a pizza party you won’t want to miss!

Awarded the ‘Best food writer in the country’ by the Indian culinary forum, WACS and the ministry of Tourism, Rupali Dean writes on food and travel.