The 11 best pizza restaurants in Durban

Are you looking for a pizza that will hit the spot? Doughed will not only satisfy your craving, but it could change your life! This cosy family-run spot has quickly become an instant classic for pizza lovers in KwaZulu-Natal. Their sourdough pizza is perfectly assembled to transport you to Naples. This artisanal pizza may be the most addictive and unique in Durban. The menu is limited and focused to pack a punch, with standouts including the iconic butter chicken pizza and imported Italian cheese. It’s a tastefully decorated and ambient space that offers both dine-in and takeaway, with candlelight dinners and gluten-free options available. This spot is the kind of place that locals can’t stop raving about. Windermere’s restaurant scene has a lot going for it, but if you’re after next-level Naples-style pizza, Doughed is where you need to be. Chef’s kiss!

If you didn’t have a nonna growing up, you missed out on bellissimo home cooking. Luckily, Mamma Luciana’s exists - making authentic Italian cuisine since 1999. This trattoria is a definite for a foodie and is the perfect spot for an intimate dinner with your other half. If you’re wanting a night out with your girls, Ladies Night is on Tuesdays and offers you 50% off main meals. Head there on an empty stomach, because the aroma from the kitchen will have you salivating. The al-fresco dining on the deck offers one of the finest views of the Glenashley beach. While the menu is heavily influenced by Mamma Luciana’s hometown of Modena in Italy, the bar is definitely built for a South African. If you’re looking to dine on a dime, this hotspot has half-price pizzas every Thursday from 5pm until close. Make sure to check out their website, say “cin-cin” with Mama Luciana.

This could be the most stylish Italian restaurant outside of the Mediterranean! Picture this – the bustling uMhlanga village, the sound of the waves breaking in the distance, the coolest people, and the most scrumptious Italian cuisine. Got it? You’re now picturing Marco’s Italian – the perfect post-work spot for a catch-up or to celebrate a milestone among friends. The star of the show is their thin-crust pizzas. They are hand made from Italian “00” flour and wild yeast, stone-baked to perfection in the wood fired pizza oven. On a Thursday, it’s pizza night. Take advantage of the 50% pizza special by ordering a drink. Tuesdays is Ladies Night, where the girls can gab on a budget with 50% off main meals. It’s always a full house at this gem in the Rocks, so make sure to book ahead. If you’re in the mood for a little bit of everything, try out their tasting menu. If you’re still unsure, just speak to Marco!

At Al-Firenze, you'll enter another culinary universe that will tantalise your taste buds and your camera roll. This ristorante, tucked away in the heart of suburban La Lucia, is a local favourite. This institution has been perfecting their recipes since 1990 and the proof - as they say - is in the pizza. With fan favourites of thin-based pizzas, fresh seafood and unique starters, Al-Firenze is a slice of la dolce vita. Anyone fortunate enough to visit this establishment will tell you that pairing their wood-fired pizzas with a cocktail and decadent dessert is a must. Be prepared - booking is crucial, because this is almost always a full house.

Texas American is a time machine in the middle of Glen Ashley. It’s a ‘50s styled diner: retro booths, vintage jukeboxes, giant milkshakes and jaw-dropping Chicago deep-dish pizzas. The moment of one of these delicious juggernauts is a spectacle - and all heads will turn your way as you begin the chowdown. One epic mozarella cheese pull later, you're witnessing a stretch so long it deserves its own standing ovation. In addition to the incredible food, there’s live music every weekend from 6pm. Insider tip: order the Dream Shake - it’s enough to make you believe in love again. Open every day from 11AM, just bring an appetite and maybe some stretchy pants (the portions run large).

For thousands of South Africans, Spiga IS Durban. This famed restaurant is as widely renowned as the beach, Mabhida Stadium and The Golden Mile. The quaint stylishness of Spiga obscures the cultural significance of the food. It’s Aperol Spritz brunch dates by day, and romantic pizza dates by night. Each menu item has been crafted and perfected over years, and you’ll soon understand why its reputation precedes it. Overlooking the famed Mitchell Park, and just around the corner from Florida Road, the location is truly in the heart of Durban. Stop by and begin your love affair with Spiga.

Just a little trek off the beaten path will lead you to the Fig Tree Farm. Embrace the escape toward country living – it could be a local market, a visit to the driving range, or birthday party. It’s also steeped in history, as the Fig Tree Farm was actually one of the original farmsteads when Hillcrest was founded and was used as a stopover between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. It is now home to one of our personal favourites - the pizza from Millflour Café. This family-friendly cafe is a hidden gem in the upper highway area. Check it out and let us know what you think.

Grimaldi’s at the Durban Country Club is what happens when the Amalfi Coast decides to pop by for a visit. Welcome to your new favourite spot that overlooks Durban’s Golden Mile. At Grimaldi’s Cucina & Sushi Bar, it’s all about celebrating flavour in a space that feels both elevated and warm. The menu honours traditional Italian flavours with a modern twist thanks to the various sushi options inspired by its acclaimed sister restaurant, Jack Salmon. They have all the classic pizzas with some signature additions. Our personal favourites are the Mykonos Lamb and Angry Beekeeper. These are the kinds of pizzas you daydream about so come hungry because once you see all on offer, you’ll wish you did. If you’re in the mood to take a stroll or play some golf, the Durban Country Club branch is the one to try.

A warm welcome to the new kid on the Italian pizza block - Old Town Italy Suncoast. Old Town Italy is a long-standing Durban gem with their flagship branch in uMhlanga Ridge. Their newest location is no different - except there is a breathtaking view of the Indian Ocean. Their pizzas are authentic, hand-stretched Neapolitan style with imported flour and a 48-hour fermentation process. It’s no wonder why this spot is a familiar family favourite. If you’re looking to dine on a dime, there is currently a R99 lunch special with dishes that will hit the spot. Head to @oldtownitalysuncoast on social media to stay up-to-date with their latest events such as the well-known pizza-making class.

Casa Nostra translates to ‘Our Home’ in Italian. We could not think of a better name for a place that makes you feel just that, at home. If home was an authentic Italian experience that is. This slice of Italy in the midst of uMdloti has recently made a move into Salta mall. As you walk into Casa Nostra you feel that old-school love for food. The staff are friendly and will make some great recommendations for first-timers. This hotspot has a long-standing reputation among locals for being a go-to date night spot. Their pizzas are spectacular, and if you have someone with whom to share, you’ll love a pizza and pasta combo.

If you find yourself on the North Coast, you have to try Al Pescatore. This restaurant is the oldest in Ballito, and you’ll soon understand why. In 1989, Trevor Wold set out to create this iconic restaurant with unique dishes and he has been doing it ever since. You know that there is love in the food when the owner too loves what he does. You can find Trevor working the front desk and offering recommendations at this institution. Their pizzas are great but what puts the cherry on top of the night out is the way they serve desserts. In true Italian fashion, you can find the friendly staff walking around with some tiramisu, cheesecake and whatever the sweet treat of the day is. They are also known for their seafood so if you’re adventurous, you have to try their seafood pizza masterpiece. Ciao, see you at dinner!