Saint Petersburg is known for its rich cultural history, impressive architecture, and vibrant arts scene, but it also offers a fantastic culinary experience, especially when it comes to Italian cuisine. Pizza is one of the most beloved dishes in the world, and the city’s growing food scene is home to several restaurants that serve authentic Italian pies, crafted with the finest ingredients and techniques. Whether you’re craving a classic Neapolitan pizza or a more creative take on this timeless dish, here’s your guide to the best pizza restaurants in Saint Petersburg that offer authentic Italian pizza.
1. Pesto Cafe
Pesto Cafe is one of the top spots in Saint Petersburg for authentic Italian pizza. With a reputation for high-quality ingredients, a cozy atmosphere, and exceptional service, this restaurant delivers a genuine Italian experience in the heart of the city.
What to Expect:
- Authentic Neapolitan Pizza: Pesto Cafe specializes in traditional Neapolitan pizza, with a soft, chewy crust and fresh, high-quality toppings. Their margherita and diavola pizzas are particularly popular.
- Italian Ingredients: The restaurant imports key ingredients from Italy, including San Marzano tomatoes, mozzarella di bufala, and extra virgin olive oil, ensuring a true taste of Italy in every bite.
- Cozy Atmosphere: The warm, welcoming ambiance makes it a great spot for both casual dinners and special occasions.
Insider Tip:
If you’re in the mood for a unique pizza, try their Truffle Pizza—a luxurious combination of truffle oil, mushrooms, and fresh mozzarella.
2. Sicilia
Located in the historical center of Saint Petersburg, Sicilia brings the flavors of southern Italy to the city with its authentic Sicilian-style pizza. Known for its relaxed vibe and consistently delicious dishes, Sicilia is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
What to Expect:
- Sicilian-Style Pizza: Sicilia’s Sicilian pizza is famous for its thicker, square crust, topped with a variety of ingredients such as caponata, sausage, and seafood.
- Wood-Fired Oven: The pizzas are baked in a traditional wood-fired oven, which gives the crust a crispy yet chewy texture that’s hard to beat.
- Italian Comfort Food: In addition to pizza, Sicilia offers a variety of Italian antipasti, pasta dishes, and desserts, making it the perfect spot for a full Italian meal.
Insider Tip:
Order their seafood pizza or the classic Sicilian pizza with anchovies for a truly authentic taste of Southern Italy.
3. Osteria Italiana
Osteria Italiana is a charming, family-friendly restaurant offering a wide variety of classic Italian pizzas, made with fresh, imported ingredients. Known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent service, it provides a perfect setting for a casual yet authentic Italian dining experience.
What to Expect:
- Wood-Fired Pizza: Osteria Italiana’s pizzas are made in a traditional wood-fired oven, which results in a deliciously crispy crust and perfectly melted cheese.
- Classic Italian Recipes: From the classic Margherita and Quattro Stagioni to more inventive options, Osteria Italiana stays true to traditional Italian flavors while also offering some modern twists.
- Extensive Wine List: Pair your pizza with a selection from their well-curated Italian wine list for the complete dining experience.
Insider Tip:
Try their Pizza Bresaola—with thinly sliced cured beef, rocket, and Parmesan, this pizza offers a delightful combination of flavors that showcase the best of Italy’s culinary traditions.
4. Pizzeria 22
Pizzeria 22 is a cozy spot where you can enjoy a genuine Italian pizza experience. With a focus on simple ingredients and traditional methods, this pizzeria is known for serving up some of the best wood-fired pizzas in the city.
What to Expect:
- Authentic Wood-Fired Pizzas: Pizzeria 22 uses a traditional wood-fired oven, ensuring that each pizza has a perfectly crispy and chewy crust, with a slight smokiness that enhances the flavors.
- High-Quality Ingredients: The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, local ingredients alongside authentic Italian products like Parmigiano Reggiano and mozzarella di bufala.
- Classic and Specialty Pizzas: In addition to traditional pizzas like Margherita and Capricciosa, Pizzeria 22 offers specialty options like Pizza alla Truffa (with truffle oil) and Pizza Prosciutto e Funghi.
Insider Tip:
Their Pizza alla Diavola (spicy salami, mozzarella, and chili) is perfect for those who enjoy a little heat with their pizza. Pair it with an Italian red wine from their selection.
5. La Casa del Formaggio
If you’re a fan of cheese, La Casa del Formaggio is the place to visit. This restaurant offers a delightful menu that showcases Italy’s best cheeses, combined with flavorful Italian pizzas that highlight fresh, high-quality ingredients.
What to Expect:
- Cheese-Lover’s Paradise: La Casa del Formaggio specializes in pizzas that feature a variety of delicious cheeses like gorgonzola, mozzarella di bufala, and pecorino.
- Traditional Neapolitan Pizza: The menu features classic Neapolitan-style pizzas, with a thin, soft crust that’s baked to perfection in a wood-fired oven.
- Fresh Ingredients: With a focus on seasonal ingredients and imported Italian products, the restaurant offers pizzas topped with the finest meats, vegetables, and cheeses.
Insider Tip:
Try their Pizza Quattro Formaggi for a rich, creamy, and flavorful experience. The blend of four Italian cheeses will delight any cheese enthusiast.
6. Dodo Pizza
Although Dodo Pizza has grown into a global chain, it still maintains a commitment to quality and authenticity when it comes to its Italian-inspired pizzas. With multiple locations throughout Saint Petersburg, it offers an accessible and delicious option for pizza lovers.
What to Expect:
- Italian-Style Pizzas: Dodo Pizza’s menu is filled with classic Italian-style pizzas, including Margherita, Pepperoni, and Hawaiian, all made with fresh ingredients.
- Innovative Crust Options: Dodo Pizza offers different crust options, from the traditional thin crust to a thicker cheesy crust for those seeking something more indulgent.
- Delivery Service: Known for its fast and reliable delivery, Dodo Pizza is perfect for enjoying Italian pizza in the comfort of your hotel room or home.
Insider Tip:
If you’re craving a pizza at home, Dodo Pizza offers a convenient online ordering system and great deals for delivery or takeout.
7. Da Vinci Pizzeria
Located in the heart of Saint Petersburg, Da Vinci Pizzeria offers an authentic Italian pizza experience with a focus on traditional wood-fired methods and high-quality, fresh ingredients.
What to Expect:
- Authentic Italian Pizza: Da Vinci offers a range of pizzas from classic Margherita to more inventive options, all cooked in a wood-fired oven to give that signature crispy yet chewy crust.
- Italian Dishes Beyond Pizza: In addition to pizza, Da Vinci serves up other delicious Italian dishes, such as pasta and risotto, making it a great spot for a full Italian meal.
- Casual and Cozy: The pizzeria has a welcoming atmosphere that’s perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.
Insider Tip:
For something different, try their Pizza Prosciutto e Rucola, which pairs fresh rocket leaves with prosciutto and mozzarella for a refreshing twist.
Conclusion
Saint Petersburg offers an impressive selection of restaurants and pizzerias that bring authentic Italian pizza to the city. From the classic Neapolitan pies at Pesto Cafe and Vinoteka to the wood-fired creations at Pizzeria 22 and La Casa del Formaggio, there’s no shortage of options for pizza lovers. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Italian pizza experience or something with a creative twist, Saint Petersburg’s best pizza restaurants promise a satisfying meal that will transport you straight to the heart of Italy.
