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Our local writers have long known that Jozi’s food scene punches way above its weight, but the world just caught up. In Time Out’s freshly baked global roundup of The 18 Best Pizzas in the World Right Now, Johannesburg’s very own Little Kitchener’s Pizzeria has snagged the number six spot.
That’s right, nestled between Tokyo’s umami-rich fusion and Edinburgh's New Haven-style slices, Braamfontein is representing South Africa on the ultimate pizza stage.
Nestled in the heart of the student district, Kitchener’s Carvery is a place of legend. By day, it’s a quiet, historic pub (the second oldest in the city, in fact) where you can nurse a pint in a velvet booth. By night, it transforms into a legendary, sweat-slicked dance floor.
But the most exciting part of its recent evolution under the Play Braam umbrella is the addition of Little Kitchener’s. While the atmosphere of this little Italian-inspired restaurant retains that signature Johannesburg grit and glamour, the pizza technique is strictly traditional. The menu honours Neapolitan roots while leaning into the bold flavours Jozi craves.
The Slice to order: Pepperoni & Hot Honey
The standout that caught the global editors' attention? The Pepperoni & Hot Honey Pizza.
Described as a messy, glorious masterclass in balance by the Johannesburg City editor, the Pepperoni & Hot Honey Pizza is a simple combination on paper: San Marzano tomato base, fior di latte, and spicy pepperoni, but it’s the generous drizzle of local, home-made hot honey that elevates it to world-class status.
Why this win matters
This isn’t just a win for Braamfontein; it’s a win for the city. Following Johannesburg's 2024 ranking as the second-best city in the world for food by Time Out, this ranking proves that our culinary glow-up is no fluke.
Whether you’re a purist who swears by a Margherita or an enthusiast looking for that sweet-and-spicy kick, Little Kitchener’s is proof that you don't need to fly to Italy for a world-class slice. You just need to head to De Beer Street.
Also read: The 15 best pizza restaurants in Johannesburg
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