Earlier this year I had the wonderful opportunity to spend a month in Europe and enjoy it’s many culinary delights. That included tasting the most amazing Margherita pizza ever, at Pizzeria Da Michele in Napoli, Italy. Since then I’ve been on the hunt for something similar here in Sydney.

Now comparing local Sydney pizza, to what is quite possibly the best pizza in Italy, is a big ask I know. But what’s the harm in seeking the best regardless of where you are, right? So far on my quest for the perfect Margherita pizza, nothing has come even remotely close what I had in Italy. Until now.

Lucio Pizzeria, tucked away in a small courtyard in Darlinghurst (close to Oxford Street) is a gem of an Italian restaurant. I had heard the name pop up in a number of ‘best pizza in Sydney’ conversations over the years, so I was very keen to try it out. Oh and a couple of years ago, Sydney Morning Herald had listed Lucio as their number 1 pick for pizza in Sydney. Because it’s such a popular restaurant, they don’t take bookings, instead you leave your details upon visiting and they call you when a table is ready. This works out great because you can head over to the many bars and pubs around the corner for a drink as you wait.

On the night of my visit, my mates and I had to wait only 20mins before a table was found, which was perfect because I was so very hungry at this stage. Once seated inside the rather small, yet cosy, restaurant, we perused the menu and ordered the following:

Margherita Pizza ($17)
Tomato, mozzarella and basil. 

This selection is a given. No matter where I am, I will try the Margherita pizza. When cooked right, it’s simplicity and authentic taste is undeniably mouthwatering. That was the case with Lucio’s Margherita pizza. It tasted absolutely delicious.

Most pizza’s are let down not just by their toppings, but also the base. The bases on Lucio’s pizzas are perfect. Incredibly thin, yet soft at the same time (not like those  biscuity bases you see with some pizzas). Topped with a rich tomato sauce, some basil and an abundance of delicious, warm, melting mozzarella, the Margherita at Lucio’s is divine. If you have to get just one pizza here, get the Margherita!

Campagnola Pizza ($22)
Mozzarella, Stracchino, mushroom and sausages. 

This pizza was also delicious. Having two types of cheese meant that it was quite creamy, however, the addition of the sausages and mushrooms made for a very nice flavour. Along with the Margherita, this was one of our two favourite pizzas on the night – which is why we ordered another serving of each! :)

Filetto Pizza ($21)
Mozzarella, cherry tomato, rocket, prosciutto and shaved parmesan. 

Although my mates liked this pizza, it didn’t really do much for me. I think it’s because I’m not a big fan of rocket on pizza.

Diavola Pizza ($18)
Tomato, mozzarella and hot salami. 

The Diavola pizza was excellent. It’s has the simplicity and beautiful flavours of a Margherita pizza, plus a spicy, meaty kick as well. Definitely worth getting.

Castiglione Chianti (2010)

What better way to enjoy pizza than accompanied by a bottle of nice Chianti!

After the pizza’s I couldn’t help but order my beloved affogato – which much to my delight was delicious. Great espresso coffee with a dollop of rich creamy vanilla bean ice cream. Yum!

All in all it was an amazing night of eating. Lucio Pizzeria more than lived up to the hype and expectation. So much so that I can’t wait to go back and order half a dozen Margherita pizza’s all for myself! :)

• Food 9/10
• Ambience 7/10
• Service 8/10
• Value 7/10

• Name: Lucio Pizzeria
• Website: http://www.luciopizzeria.com.au/
• Phone: (02) 9332 3766
• Location: 1/248 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst NSW 2010
• Opening Hours: Wed - Mon: 6pm – 10pm
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