Hong Kong asserted its position as a leading culinary hub for Italian cuisine, securing four spots on the prestigious 50 Top Pizza Asia-Pacific 2025 ranking, considered the “Michelin Guide for pizza.” The results, released by the respected Italian website, witnessed Central’s Fiata by Salvatore Fiata clinch a remarkable third place overall, outperforming strong contenders from regional rivals including South Korea and Singapore. This achievement underscores the city’s rapidly expanding influence in the global pizza scene, offering locals and visitors world-class, authentic Neapolitan experiences.
The annual 50 Top Pizza list is compiled through rigorous inspections by anonymous “Pizza Inspectors” who travel globally to evaluate venues based on criteria encompassing dough quality, ingredient sourcing, cooking methods, and overall dining experience. Hong Kong’s strong presence highlights a shift towards high-quality, authentic Italian artisanship in the region.
The Four Hong Kong Pizzerias Honored
Beyond the top-three success of Fiata by Salvatore Fiata (Central), three other establishments earned recognition, proving that quality Neapolitan pizza can be found across key districts in Hong Kong:
- Fiata by Salvatore Fiata (Central): Ranked 3rd (and 22nd globally), this Soho restaurant, led by Italian chef Salvatore Fiata, is lauded for its dedication to traditional methods, using fresh yeast and the autolysis method for dough preparation. The menu is frequently updated with seasonal ingredients, demonstrating a commitment to freshness and variety. Remarkably, authentic artisan pizza here is accessible, with prices starting around HK$200.
- BACI Trattoria · Bar (Central): Securing the 23rd spot, this cozy Lan Kwai Fong establishment has been consistently recognized, making the list for four consecutive years (2022-2025). Helmed by Italian Head Pizzaiolo Roberto, BACI uses two powerful ovens reaching 400°C to ensure its pies are crisp on the outside and chewy within.
- Little Napoli (Wan Chai): Ranked 32nd, Little Napoli recently relocated from Happy Valley to a new location in Wan Chai. Owner and chef Gavino Pilo, hailing from Naples, employs a dedicated, custom-made 400°C imported stone oven to produce highly authentic, classic Neapolitan pizzas, known for their perfect blend of crispy crusts and soft interiors.
- Vesu Pizza Bar (Tsim Sha Tsui): At 44th place, Vesu Pizza Bar achieved success within less than a year of opening. Located above Tsim Sha Tsui with stunning views of Victoria Harbour, the venue specializes in authentic kiln-baked pizzas, paired with a curated selection of cocktails. To celebrate their recognition, Vesu introduced five new pizza options, including the “Mortazza” with pistachio cream and Italian sausage.
Dedication to Neapolitan Authenticity
The success of these pizzerias is deeply rooted in adherence to stringent Neapolitan principles. For instance, Little Napoli’s dedication to traditional craftsmanship is evident in its use of a high-temperature, imported stone kiln—a crucial factor in achieving the signature tender, slightly charred crust of true Neapolitan pizza. The venue recently expanded its menu to include a Pizza Portafoglio (Wallet Pizza) series, a nod to the street-food origins of Neapolitan pizza, designed to be folded and eaten on the go.
For diners looking to fully embrace the Italian experience, true Neapolitan pizza is distinctively soupy in the center. Experts recommend cutting the pizza into four sections and gently folding each piece over—a technique Little Napoli thoughtfully illustrates on its takeaway packaging—which prevents toppings from sliding off and concentrates the flavour of the slow-fermented dough.
Hong Kong’s strong showing in the 50 Top Pizza rankings reinforces its status as a sophisticated destination for food lovers seeking genuine international dining experiences, proving that the city’s culinary scene is thriving and internationally competitive, particularly in the realm of artisan pizza. Diners can easily explore these highly-rated venues across Central, Wan Chai, and Tsim Sha Tsui.