Shop 225
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A small corner shop with world-class swagger — that’s the story of Shop 225 in Pascoe Vale South, the cult neighbourhood pizzeria founded by Lorenzo Tron.
Don’t be fooled by its modest “hole-in-the-wall” exterior: Shop 225 punches far above its weight. Crowned Best Pizza in Australia by 50 Top Pizza and ranked 5th in the entire Asia-Pacific, it’s the kind of place where locals rub shoulders with pilgrims who’ve crossed town just to try a slice.
What makes it even more remarkable is its pioneering spirit. Shop 225 is the first Australian pizzeria to be accredited by Coeliac Australia, meaning gluten-free diners can order with absolute confidence. Add to that a menu that’s vegan-friendly, halal-friendly and sustainability-driven, and you’ve got one of the most inclusive, progressive pizzerias in the country.
The wood-fired pizzas are the star — blistered crusts with just the right chew, toppings that walk the line between tradition and invention. Think classic Margherita elevated to pure art, or truffle-topped indulgence that feels like a luxury treat in a casual setting.
But it’s not just pizza that earns Shop 225 its cult following. Pastas are equally memorable — saucy, soulful plates that taste like they’ve been handed down through Nonna’s kitchen, yet plated with a modern touch. Whether it’s silky ribbons of tagliatelle tangled with ragu or a creamy vegan carbonara that surprises skeptics, every dish tells a story of care and craft.
Lorenzo Tron’s vision goes beyond the table. With the opening of Il Caminetto, the team’s expanded offering now includes masterclasses for kids and adults, spreading the joy of pizza-making and pasta-rolling to the next generation. It’s a natural extension of a venue that feels less like a restaurant and more like a community hub.
Shop 225 proves that world-class dining doesn’t need white tablecloths or a CBD postcode. It can live in a cosy Moonee Ponds shopfront, run by people obsessed with dough, fire, and flavour — and who are determined to make that magic accessible to everyone.
Because when the pizza is this good, the awards just feel like confirmation of what the locals already knew.
Location: 225 Melville Rd, Pascoe Vale South VIC 3044
Phone: (03) 9077 4904
