Worlds best pizza chef runs Chiswick restaurant

Not using too many toppings and avoiding overworking the dough is the secret to a perfect pizza, according to the best pizza maker in the world. Michele Pascarella, who runs Napoli on the Road in Chiswick, was named the best pizza maker in the world by the 'Michelin guide for pizzas'.

The 50 Top Pizza Awards is an annual event that recognizes the best pizzerias and chefs worldwide, based on a rigorous selection process involving anonymous visits by experienced pizza critics.

The Special Award for Pizza Maker of the Year has been conferred upon the Devonshire Road, Chiswick-based chef for his Culatello pizza - Black Tasmanian Cherries marinated in Marsala, Gorgonzola cream, Mozzarella and Balsamic Vinegar.

PIONEER OF CONTEMPORARY PIZZA

Pascarella, as his name suggests, is Italian, but moved to the UK at the age of 19 and brought his dough-slinging skills with him. He began making the dish at age 11, learning in his birthplace Caserta, near Naples. and has previously been named the best pizza in Europe outside of Italy.

The chef started his business by wandering around with his three-wheeler Ape Piaggio making wood fire pizzas all over London.

His menu evolves every three months to respect the environment and what nature offers. He has now been dubbed the ‘pioneer of contemporary pizza,’ with signature toppings including Genovese ragu, crispy parmigiano reggiano chips, courgette cream, and beef fillet tartare.

Napoli on the Road menu (pdf)