Papa Gino's

Lygon Street has its share of flashy newcomers, but those craving a slice of genuine la dolce vita make a beeline for Papa Gino's. A true Carlton institution. Nostalgia hits the second you walk in—that unmistakable, intoxicating aroma of baked dough and rich tomato sugo. Patrons who’ve been grabbing tables here for decades will point you straight to the traditional thin-crust pizzas. Crispy edges. Soft, perfectly balanced centers. The portion sizes are absolutely mammoth. Order the 15-inch Seafood Marinara and watch a massive metal tray arrive loaded with giant prawns, easily feeding a hungry crew. Uni students and pizza purists alike congregate here for the staggering value. Think twenty bucks for a massive four-flavor pie, beautifully light spaghetti alle vongole, crispy calamari, and zero weekend surcharges. Fast, hyper-welcoming service seals the deal. Unpretentious, vibrant, and utterly delicious.