Pizza Religion

493 Tooronga Rd 

Hawthorn East, VIC 3123

www.pizzareligion.com.au

Now that the weather is as crisp as autumn apples, I’ve once again begun to crave the heartier things life has to offer. Pasta, curry, noodles, and of course, a good pizza. And that’s where Pizza Religion comes in. 

Ever since I got a recommendation from Sarah that pretty much went ‘OHMIGAWD MING HAVE YOU BEEN TO PIZZA RELIGION?’, I’ve wanted to go. Except it seemed like such a pain to get to, being in the middle of suburban Melbourne and not really close to any trains. Then I realised that there was a tram that goes right by, so I got on that (literally and metaphorically) in a jiffy.

Pizza Religion is a humble place. It’s a little bit cramped and gloomy in the outer section but then we walked through a narrow walkway and all of a sudden, we were in a beautiful courtyard. The heater was going, the rain was bouncing off the clear plastic sheets, and we could smell the pizzas in the oven – it was perfect. 

Chorizo Pizza ($18)

Chorizo, prawns, and jalapenos? Sold. Except Chris wasn’t so thrilled about the jalapenos, but I managed to convince him that he could just pick them off. The Chorizo Pizza ($18) was a vibrant take on a traditional sausage pizza, the sweet prawns and chunky, piquant chorizo melding together perfectly on a crispy base. It was also a little bit spicy thanks to the jalapenos and chipotle sauce but, it’s the kind of spicy that tingles the lips and makes you want to take another bite. 

Mushroom Pizza ($17)

I also had my eyes on the Mushroom Pizza ($17), which has already been raved about by many bloggers. I absolutely loved this; the mushrooms were dark and earthy, complemented by the sweetness of the onion and balsamic, and a faint underscore of musty Talleggio cheese. It was the perfect autumn pizza, heady with the flavours of a good harvest.

I really, really enjoyed Pizza Religion. The pizzas were wholesome, fresh and rather exciting, and the courtyard on a rainy afternoon was comfortable like sitting in your pyjamas with a cup of tea. I sincerely hope the people who live in the vicinity know just how lucky they are. 

Rating: 15/20 – church of the mushroom pizza.

The rating reflects my personal experience at the time of visit.