Crosta Pizzeria
Crosta Pizzeria has put Manila on the global pizza map, earning the prestigious 12th position on the 50 Top Pizza World 2024 ranking--the only Philippine pizzeria to make the list. This achievement recognizes Crosta among the world's finest pizzerias, validating their commitment to authentic Neapolitan technique and premium ingredients. The restaurant features both classic Neapolitan pizzas and creative variations, all prepared in their wood-fired oven with carefully sourced ingredients including imported Italian flour, San Marzano tomatoes, and premium mozzarella. Standout pizzas include their Margherita with buffalo mozzarella, the Bismarck with egg and truffle, and seasonal specials that showcase Chef's creativity. Beyond pizza, the menu includes antipasti, pasta dishes, and Italian desserts. The intimate Salcedo Village location offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere perfect for date nights or gatherings with friends. They also operate Alt.Crosta in BGC for those working or living in Bonifacio Global City.
Duck and Bouvette
Duck and Bouvette brings artisanal pizza and French-inspired cuisine to Shangri-La Plaza's Main Wing, offering a sophisticated dining experience in Ortigas Center. The restaurant specializes in wood-fired pizzas featuring creative topping combinations that blend Italian tradition with contemporary flair. Beyond pizza, the menu showcases French bistro classics and Mediterranean-inspired dishes, with their duck dishes being particular standouts (as the name suggests). The stylish interior and attentive service create an upscale yet comfortable atmosphere perfect for both business lunches and evening dining. Their bar program features craft cocktails and an excellent wine selection to pair with your meal. While some recent reports suggest the restaurant may be undergoing renovations or temporary closure, it has been a beloved destination for quality pizza and elevated dining in the Ortigas area.
a mano
Already celebrated for earning 7th place on the 50 Top Pizza Asia-Pacific 2025 ranking and winning the 2024 Pastificio di Martino Award for Best Pasta Proposal globally, a mano excels at both pizza and pasta with equal mastery. The restaurant's name, meaning "handmade," reflects their commitment to crafting everything by hand using authentic Italian techniques. Their wood-fired pizzas feature perfectly charred, airy crusts topped with premium ingredients, while the pasta program showcases fresh, handmade varieties that earned international recognition. The open kitchen allows diners to watch skilled pizzaioli stretch dough and work the wood-fired oven, creating pizzas with the ideal balance of crispy char and tender center. Signature pizzas include creative combinations that honor Italian tradition while incorporating seasonal ingredients. With locations at Powerplant Mall Rockwell and in BGC, a mano delivers consistently exceptional pizza that has earned them a spot among Asia-Pacific's finest pizzerias.
Understanding Authentic Neapolitan Pizza
Authentic Neapolitan pizza, recognized by UNESCO as an intangible cultural heritage, adheres to strict standards: 00 flour milled from soft wheat, San Marzano tomatoes (or tomatoes from the Campania region), fresh buffalo mozzarella, sea salt, and extra virgin olive oil. The dough must ferment for 48-72 hours at room temperature. The pizza is cooked in a wood-fired oven at 500°C for 60-90 seconds until the crust achieves a perfect balance -- crispy exterior with the signature leopard-spotted char, yet the interior remains soft, airy, and slightly charred. The best Manila pizzerias honor these traditions while sometimes introducing creative variations.
Pizza Sisters
Pizza Sisters has become a Manila favorite for artisanal Neapolitan-style pizza, with locations in both BGC and Salcedo Village serving consistently excellent pies. The restaurant focuses on authentic Neapolitan technique with imported Italian ingredients including 00 flour, San Marzano tomatoes, and premium mozzarella, all cooked in a high-temperature wood-fired oven. Their menu features classic Neapolitan pizzas like Margherita and Marinara alongside creative signature combinations. The crust achieves the ideal Neapolitan characteristics--leopard-spotted char, soft and chewy center, and proper cornicione (the puffy edge). Beyond pizza, they offer Italian appetizers, salads, and desserts. The BGC location at Shangri-La The Fort provides a casual, welcoming atmosphere perfect for families and groups, while the Salcedo branch offers a more intimate setting. Both locations maintain the same high standards for quality and authenticity that have made Pizza Sisters a reliable choice for excellent pizza in Metro Manila.
Pizza represents a philosophy: taking simple, quality ingredients and elevating them through technique. When crust, sauce, and cheese are in perfect harmony, no toppings are needed.
