There's perhaps nothing quite like savoring pizza by the beach, especially when the sun sets, and the ocean waves crash gently nearby. That's the experience awaiting beachgoers and food lovers alike this December as Pizzateca, one of South Australia’s favorite pop-up pizza spots, returns to Aldinga for another thrilling summer season.
From December 27 to 30, Pizzateca will take over Silver Sands Beach, inviting guests to indulge in their much-loved Neapolitan-style pizzas starting at 4 PM until sundown. This special pop-up won’t just offer the same traditional fare available at their permanent establishment in McLaren Vale, which was awarded best pizza on South Australia’s Delicious 100 list last year, but also create unique beachside dining memories.
Past menus have included fan favorites like Rosso, Rita, Salami, and Bianca — classic combinations of sumptuous ingredients promising to transport diners straight to Italy with each bite. Alongside their pizzas, they will serve refreshing drinks from their licensed bar, offering cold beers, wines, and cocktails perfectly paired for sunset sipping. And don’t forget dessert: their gelati bar will also be open, promising to delight patrons with authentic southern Italian-style gelati.
Pizzateca’s story is rich—starting out as just another pop-up back in 2016 at Alpha Box and Dice, it quickly garnered fame and established itself as a local gem after moving to McLaren Vale. Committed to authentic, traditional techniques and locally sourced ingredients, Pizzateca provides something special for every pizza lover.
If you miss this pop-up, no need to fret; the team will return once again for the full month of January 2025, operating from Wednesdays to Sundays, including the Australia Day public holiday, making it easier for everyone to catch them after the holidays.
While South Australia revels in Pizzateca’s offerings, let's not forget about the burgeoning pizza scene abroad, particularly at FiftyFifty Pizza Coffee located in Taman Melawati, Malaysia. This hidden gem specializes in Neapolitan-style pizza, gaining attention through both word-of-mouth and its distinctive operational style.
Initially, diners had to secure pre-orders, but now, there's good news—FiftyFifty Pizza Coffee has opened its doors to walk-ins (though only via QR payment). This change marks a significant step toward creating a more accessible dining experience, encouraging more pizza enthusiasts to try their creations.
Their menu features plenty of affordable options, including the much-lauded wagyu pizza, affectionately dubbed FaGyu, priced at RM55. For those seeking something classic, their Margherita remains popular at RM25, but it’s the Truffle Funghi pizza priced at RM35 that's turning heads!
Made with signature dough fermented for 48 hours, topped with cream sauce, sautéed mushrooms, feta cheese, arugula, and cherry tomatoes, it promises indulgence. One critic comments on the “flavor explosion” after taking the first bite—describing how the crispy exterior of the crust contrasts beautifully with the soft interior. Even the truffle flavors explode onto the palate, leaving diners captivated.
While the pizza may not be the most car-friendly meal (as it tends to fall apart), those who dine at FiftyFifty can appreciate the artistry behind creating such uniquely delectable flavors. Reviews highlight how the combination of rich cream sauce alongside the salty feta ties the dish together, proving its worthy reputation.
Both Pizzateca and FiftyFifty Pizza Coffee are defining the current pizza trends, focusing on quality ingredients and distinctive cooking styles. Consumers are increasingly moving toward experiential dining — whether it’s enjoying pizza by the beach or seeking out hidden culinary gems. This summer season or anytime throughout the year, there’s no shortage of delightful pizzas to enjoy!
Food enthusiasts are sure to appreciate these trends and innovations, and with each pizza creation, both Pizzateca and FiftyFifty Pizza Coffee remind us why pizza remains one of the world’s most loved dishes.
