When it comes to the humble pizza, Wollongong is cooking with gas – or, more likely, wood-fired ovens. Photo: Mia Benino.
You might not think we’re upper crust, but Wollongong has risen high in the national pizza rankings.
What’s that, gentle reader? You didn’t know Australia had national pizza rankings?
Outdoor pizza oven brand, Gozney, has taken it upon itself to create one. The list ranks cities by the number of pizza restaurants per capita, how highly rated those pizza restaurants are, and how many Google searches for pizza-related terms there are in the area each year.
Cheesy? Absolutely. But the humble Gong came in the top 10 at number nine, and we think that’s worth a celebratory slice.
Although, anyone around here could have told them it’s no surprise – Wollongong is packed with Italian heritage and passionate foodies.
From Kneading Ruby to Gourmet Pizza World, there’s something for every taste and budget – without resorting to national chain restaurants.
Whether you want your pizza with wine and pasta, or a side of kebab and chips after a big night out, the Gong’s got you covered.
Those who only accept wood-fired pizzas aren’t short on choice either, with Osteria Lume and Lupa Woodfired Pizzas in town.
Plenty of spots like Da Orlando have options for gluten-free, dairy-free or vegan pizza lovers.
And if you’re having the kind of day where nothing but a dirty Domino’s order will do, you’re in luck there too.
According to the ranking results, Wollongong itself has 40 pizza places, with 19 rated four stars or higher.
On average, there are 31,800 Google searches per year for pizza-related terms in the city, making humble Wollongong a “surprise” – to the organisers at least – top entrant, alongside Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.
Christian Pohio, Gozney Australia’s General Manager said street pizza had also been a huge catalyst in the Australian scene by making the dish more accessible.
That makes Wollongong’s ranking even more impressive, given the difficulty of operating a food truck under the current Wollongong City Council policy – one the outgoing councillors have fought to have changed.
“Good quality pizza is becoming more and more attainable, whether it’s going to your local pizza joint or making it at home,” Mr Pohio said.
“Gone are the days of only relying on your local pizza chain delivery service with a nine-dollar meal deal.
“There’s a range of restaurant-grade ovens built to the exact ratios as a traditional Neapolitan oven that allow aspiring pizzaiolos to recreate their favourite pizza.
“Access to restaurant-worthy pizza has never been easier.”
Overall Pizza Capital
Rankings
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Brisbane
- Gold Coast
- Adelaide
- Perth
- Canberra
- Geelong
- Wollongong
- Newcastle
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