Beloved by people of all ages and across cultures, pizza is a deceptively simple dish that delivers bold and punchy flavours. Versatile enough to star in high-end restaurants as well as a go-to comfort food, there’s no “right” time and place to dig into a perfect slice. For this month’s edition of Chef’s Table, we’re turning to one of the industry’s heavy hitters. We’re talking about Salvatore Fiata, the mastermind whose pizzeria in Soho has been ranked #3 in Asia and #22 in the world. Read on for his top picks for the best pizza places in Hong Kong.
The origins of pizza
Pizza, as we know it today, was born in 18th-century Naples, where hungry workers needed a quick, affordable meal. Flatbreads topped with tomatoes (then a controversial New World import) and olive oil became a street food sensation. But it wasn’t until 1889 that pizza got its royal upgrade. Legend says baker Raffaele Esposito created the Margherita for Queen Margherita, using tomato, mozzarella, and basil to mirror Italy’s flag. From its humble beginnings to global domination, pizza remains a symbol of simplicity and creativity. Whether wood-fired or New York-style, it’s hard to go wrong.
Salvatore Fiata, a chef who stays true to the roots
Hailing from Caserta, just 30 minutes from the birthplace of pizza, Chef Salvatore was born into a family of pizza chefs. His own journey began one summer while bartending at his uncle’s restaurant. When the head pizza chef resigned, Salvatore saw his chance and stepped up to the oven. It was there he discovered his innate gift for the craft. Today, he remains a purist. You won’t find unconventional toppings or experimental recipes here. His focus is singular: perfecting the humble pizza without the distraction of pastas or other dishes. This dedication has fuelled his rise to success, with Hong Kongers and tourists alike lining up for an authentic slice. In fact, in this year’s 50 Top Pizza in Asia Pacific, Fiata climbed the spot to #3, making it the best pizza in Hong Kong.
Chef Salvatore Fiata of Fiata lists his favourite pizza places in Hong Kong
Fiata
The dish: Provola e Pepe
Experience the true passion of Italian pizza at Fiata in Soho. Using only D.O.P. ingredients imported directly from Italy; this spot effortlessly transports you to Naples. Savour the soft crust and slightly molten centre of masterfully crafted pizzas like the Classica, Capricciosa, and Porcino. You’ll need more than one visit to try them all. Pro tip: check out the handy glossary on the back of the menu to become a pizza expert.
Chef says: “Of course I love my own pizza, especially the Provola e Pepe. It is very light and reminds me of my hometown, Caserta. The combination of the fresh tomato and the provola affumicata is very unique – it’s one of the pizzas I am most proud of.”
- Address G/F, 2 Staunton Street, Soho, Central, Hong Kong
- Website Visit here
- Phone +852 6032 6626
- Opening hours Monday to Sunday from 12 pm to 3:30 pm, and 6 pm to 10:30 pm
Bar Leone
The dish: Focaccia with Mortadella
Ranked the best bar in Asia and #2 in the world, Bar Leone might not be the first place you think of for a slice. But while it’s not a traditional pizza, their Focaccia with Mortadella, whipped ricotta, and pickled chilli is a massive hit. Think of it as a deconstructed pizza — all the iconic flavours in a brilliant new form. If you can get past the line and snag a table, you’ll want to sample everything this award-winning bar has to offer.
Chef says: “People wouldn’t typically think of Bar Leone as a place to go for pizza but the Foccacia with mortadella in a way is like a pizza to me. It’s crazy good! I love the crunch in the Foccacia. I always order two because it is too good.”
- Address 11-15 Bridges Street, Central, Hong Kong
- Website Visit here
- Opening hours Tuesday to Sunday from 5 pm to 12 am
Little Napoli
The dish: Marinara
Crafted by the acclaimed Chef Gavino Pilo, who’s a native from Naples, Little Napoli brings the true essence of the pizza capital with every slice. The humble eatery’s menu features ample vegetarian options (that’s not just Margherita) as well as some spicy and punchy bites like the Monaca, Dama, and Montana. Side tip, the Polpo Alla Luciana Rosticciato is a great way to start your meal here.
Chef says: “Chef Gavino is from Naples too! I like the Marinara – just tomato, garlic, and oregano. So simple, so good and reminds me of Napoli.”
- Website Visit here
- Opening hours Tuesday to Sunday from 12 pm to 3 pm, and 6 pm to 10 pm
Motorino
The dish: La Stella
Founded in 2008 by Chef Mathieu Palombino, Motorino was swiftly crowned “New York’s best pizza” by The New York Times. Faithful to stringent Neapolitan standards (La Vera Pizza Napoletana DOC), that award-winning process is now the heart of its Hong Kong locations. Indulge in soft, gooey, and perfectly charred pizzas with classic, bold flavours. You can even learn the craft yourself at their pizza-making parties every Saturday in Wan Chai and Sunday in Soho at 3 pm.
Chef says: “I’ve known Chef Roberta for a long time; she is always smiling and energetic. I love La Stella, their pizza with burrata and mortadella. It’s super nice.”
- Address Two locations including 15 Ship Street, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
- Website Visit here
- Phone +852 2520 0690
- Opening hours Monday to Thursday, and Sunday from 12 pm to 10 pm, Friday and Saturday from 12 pm to 11 pm
Vesu Pizza Bar
The dish: Speciality pizzas
For a truly adventurous pizza experience, head to Vesu Pizza Bar. This funky, elevated spot crowns One Peking (formerly aqua) with a wild menu. Discover everything from Mala Chicken and Char Siu pizza to the “I’ll Be Bok” (featuring bok choy cream and crispy pork). Don’t miss their tasty cocktails, which are the perfect accompaniment.
Chef says: “I like their specialty pizzas, they have a very well curated menu.”
- Address 30/F, One Peking, 1 Peking Road, Tsim Sha Tsui, Hong Kong
- Website Visit here
- Phone +852 3427 2018
- Opening hours Monday to Thursday, and Sunday from 11:30 am to 12 am, Friday and Saturday from 11:30 am to 1 am
Mother of Pizzas
The dish: Queen Margherita
With an aim to eradicate Hongkoner’s belief of pizza as a “fast-food delivery option”, the team at Mother of Pizzas are experts at their craft. The hand-rolled dough is fermented for 48 hours before it’s stretched and topped with fresh ingredients. Then in the oven it goes at 800 degrees Fahrenheit (426 degree Celsius) to achieve that beautiful leopard-spots in the crust — chewy and delicious.
Chef says: “I love how big and generous their pizzas are! Their classic Margherita is very good.”
- Address G/F, 13-19 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
- Website Visit here
- Phone +852 2891 2221
- Opening hours Daily from 11:30 am to 9:30 pm
Alice Pizza
The dish: Margherita pizza
After its first store opening, Alice Pizza has now expanded to three locations across Hong Kong. The authentic rectangular Roman-style thin-crust pizzas are great to have on-the-go and you can customise your order. Simply douse as many toppings as you like, and you’ll be charged according to the weight of the pizza. On the menu, you’ll find a handful of classic Italian flavours along with more modern (and sweet) renditions like Nutella Delight.
Chef says: “This is the perfect ‘snack’ pizza when you are only a little hungry maybe. I like the way you can choose the size you want and how much toppings you like. Their Margherita is excellent (can you tell Margherita is my favourite pizza?), a perfect small bite with a nice crunchy base.”
- Address Various locations including G/F, 92 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
- Website Visit here
- Phone +852 2518 3502
- Opening hours Monday to Thursday, and Sunday from 11 am to 9:30 pm, Friday and Saturday from 11 am to 10:30 pm
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
Written By
Fashila Kanakka
Born in India and raised in Hong Kong, Fashila’s always down to explore a new neighbourhood and tick ..Read More
