In a town where Italian food reigns supreme with endless pizza and pasta restauarants, whole streets dedicated almost exclusively to the cuisine, old-school eateries that have been serving regulars for decades and new modern spots showcasing refined culinary options, it is hard for a pizzeria to stand out. Lucky for 400 Gradi, winning the title of the best pizza in the world went a far way to making it one of Melbourne's most beloved Italian joints.
Back in 2014, Johnny Di Francesco of 400 Gradi took out the World Pizza Championships in Parma, putting Melbourne's love of a good slice on the world stage. And the restaurant has only gone from strength to strength since then. Branching out of its original Brunswick East location, 400 Gradi has since opened at both the Crown Casino complex and in Essendon, and has expanded on its signature staple by launching several gelato stores.
The Gradi empire may have grown, but Di Francesco has maintained his devotion and dedication to creating truly traditional Neopolitan pizza. 400 Gradi was the first Australian pizza restaurant to be certified by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana (the True Neapolitan Pizza Association) and Johnny is also the principal of Australasia for the association.
While 400 Gradi may be known for its classic margherita pizza, which took out the award for the best pizza in the world in 2014, it also has more adventurous options such as the Vulcano, a white pizza base with fior di latte, hot salami, onion, crispy bacon and spiced honey, and the Amalfi with fior di latte, prawns, fresh zucchini, cherry tomatoes and spicy mayonnaise.
400 Gradi has continued to add many awards to its list of achievements over the years, but it somehow remains a humble and authentic dining experience. Most recently at the 50 Top Pizza Award Night in Madrid, 400 Gradi was ranked number six in the world in the 50 Top World Artisan Pizza Chains 2022 list for its signature Neapolitan pizza. 400 Gradi also won the Made in Italy 2022 Latter Sorrentina Award for its authentic pizzas and handmade pasta.
It seems there is no slowing down for 400 Gradi, and we can't wait to see what's next.
