SHOP 225 Pascoe Vale: Why this Neighbourhood Pizzeria is Turning Heads Worldwide
Some of Melbourne’s best meals are hiding in plain sight. SHOP 225 in Pascoe Vale is one of them. From the outside, it’s modest and unassuming. Inside, it’s now officially home to Australia’s best pizza, and one of the best in the world.
Our contributor Kathy was invited to share a meal at SHOP 225, and like many locals before her, she left quietly impressed — and already planning a return visit.
A Small Space with Big Ideas
SHOP 225 is very much a neighbourhood restaurant. It’s compact, welcoming, and focused on doing one thing exceptionally well. That focus has paid off in a big way. In September 2025, the pizzeria was crowned Best Pizza in Australia at the global 50 Top Pizza World Awards in Naples, ranking 28th in the world out of more than 1,000 venues assessed.
What makes that achievement even more impressive is how the awards are judged. The restaurant never knows when the judge is visiting, who they are, or what they’ve ordered. It’s the ultimate test of consistency — and SHOP 225 passed with flying colours.
Kathy’s Review of SHOP225
Having found a treasure in the pizza and pasta at SHOP 225 in Melville Road, Coburg, my first instinct is to keep the news to myself for F.O.M.O. in the future! This is an extremely popular local gem for all of the right reasons: Authentic, seriously good Italian food, friendly atmosphere, excellent service.
Lorenzo, our host and co-owner, greeted us with such enthusiasm I momentarily thought that we must have previously met. He explained that he treats his customers as he would guests to his home and this warmth is reflected in the food as well, as the menu is genuinely inclusive.
This philosophy makes the restaurant stand out from others. Far too often when dining out with friends who have dietary needs, I have felt disappointed for them as they usually have had limited options available. Here the goal is inclusion with vegan, vegetarian, Halal and gluten-free dishes. Of particular significance is its accreditation from Coeliac Australia, which is actually no easy feat. Other dietary requirements may also be accommodated.
SHOP 225 pizzas have been recognised as the best in Australia and also earned 25th place in Italy. Being keen to experience an award-winning pizza, I opted for the Patate Salsicce which had a perfect base with a topping of pork, mushrooms, potato and cheese. My friend opted for the daily special of spagatini in ink. A beautifully balanced Insalata Rucola of rocket, parmigiano and seasonal sweet walnuts in honey completed our mains. All of our dishes were memorable for their clean, uncomplicated, genuine Italian flavours.
Such is the nature of being so successful and popular, one must plan ahead and make ample time to include dessert as sittings are typically for 1 – 1 1/2 hours only. Thankfully we managed to squeeze in some seriously enticing treats. The creme brulee did not disappoint: crunchy, silken and tangy. The home-made Cannoli Siciliani stood out with their soft shells and crumbed pistachios. In the interests of “Market Research” some extra desserts also managed to find a trip home … for later!
SHOP 225 definitely deserves the accolades that it has been receiving.
The food is memorable, the staff are engaging and the atmosphere is alive.
Parking is easy to negotiate but this time we did not see the rest of the venue to be able to comment on accessibility.
A Standout for Dietary Needs
One of the most important things to know about SHOP 225 is its commitment to inclusivity at the table.
SHOP 225 is the first pizzeria in Australia accredited by Coeliac Australia, and it’s recognised globally for its work in gluten-free pizza. Founder Lorenzo Tron has a simple philosophy: everyone should be able to sit at the same table, at the same time, and enjoy the same experience, regardless of dietary needs.
The restaurant regularly caters for gluten-free diners, alongside other dietary requirements, without compromising flavour or quality — something that has also been recognised internationally at competitions focused on innovation in pizza-making.
Traditional Italian cooking, done properly
SHOP 225’s approach is grounded in tradition, but it doesn’t feel old-fashioned. Along with its sister restaurant Il Caminetto in Moonee Ponds, the team is known for preserving authentic Italian and Sicilian recipes while making them accessible to modern diners.
That dedication has earned further global recognition, including awards from Italian pizza organisations and Sicilian culinary guides, acknowledging not just the food, but the way SHOP 225 promotes Italian culture through its menus and wine selections.
What to Know Before You Go
Location
SHOP 225 is located in Pascoe Vale South, in Melbourne’s inner north. It’s a local spot rather than a destination restaurant precinct, so it pays to plan your trip rather than expect to wander past it.
Bookings
This is a small, hole-in-the-wall style restaurant and tables are limited. Since the recent awards, bookings are strongly recommended, particularly on weekends and during peak dinner times.
Seating and Atmosphere
Seating is intimate and the space is cosy rather than spacious. It’s relaxed, friendly and unpretentious, making it well suited to couples, small groups, and anyone who prefers a quieter, neighbourhood-style dining experience. While there are some bench seats outdoors, most of the seating has back support. Request this upon booking if it’s something that would make your night easier.
Dietary Requirements
SHOP 225 is the first pizzeria in Australia accredited by Coeliac Australia and is widely recognised for its gluten-free pizza. Staff are confident and knowledgeable, which makes ordering feel reassuring rather than awkward. Other dietary needs are also handled with care — it’s a place where everyone can comfortably eat at the same table.
Menu Style
The focus is firmly on pizza made with traditional Italian techniques and high-quality ingredients. Expect classic combinations done well, rather than an overwhelming menu.
Getting There
Pascoe Vale is easily reached by car, and there is street parking nearby. Public transport users may need a short walk, depending on the route, so comfortable shoes are a good idea.
Is it Worth the Trip?
For locals, it’s a neighbourhood gem. For everyone else, it’s a reminder that some of Melbourne’s most celebrated dining experiences are happening well beyond the CBD.
SHOP 225
225 Melville Rd, Pascoe Vale South VIC 3044
(03) 9077 4904
View the menu here.
Mon – Thu 5.00 to 9.30 pm
Fri – Sun 12.00 to 9.30 pm
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The Seniors in Melbourne team were hosted by SHOP 225 for dinner. All opinions are the writers’ own.
