Bringing authentic Italian pizza traditions to Canada since 2005
Pizzaiolo began with a simple mission: to create authentic artisan pizzas that honor Italian traditions while showcasing the best of Canadian ingredients. Our founders, Marco and Sofia Rossi, brought their family recipes from Naples to Toronto, determined to share the true art of pizza making with Canadians.
What started as a single location in downtown Toronto has grown into a family of restaurants across Canada, each maintaining the same commitment to quality and tradition that defined our first pizzeria.
Today, Pizzaiolo stands as a testament to the belief that great pizza requires three things: exceptional ingredients, time-honored techniques, and passionate people. We've never compromised on these principles, even as we've grown.
We honor traditional methods, from our 72-hour fermented dough to our hand-stretched crusts.
We source the finest ingredients, from imported Italian tomatoes to local organic produce.
We believe in supporting local producers and creating gathering spaces for our communities.
Our connection to Italy runs deep. The Rossi family's roots trace back to Naples, the birthplace of pizza as we know it today. For generations, the art of pizza making was passed down through the family, preserving techniques that date back centuries.
Marco Rossi apprenticed under his grandfather, a renowned pizzaiolo in Naples, learning the subtle nuances that distinguish truly exceptional pizza—the precise kneading technique, the patient fermentation process, and the careful balance of toppings.
When the Rossis came to Canada, they brought not only recipes but also their grandfather's sourdough starter, which continues to be the foundation of our dough today. This living culture, over 150 years old, connects each Pizzaiolo pizza to generations of Italian tradition.
We maintain these traditions while embracing our Canadian home, creating a unique fusion that respects history while looking forward.
What makes our pizza exceptional? It starts with our commitment to quality at every step.
Our dough ferments for 72 hours, developing complex flavors and a perfect texture that can't be rushed. We use only flour, water, salt, and our century-old sourdough culture—no commercial yeast, no additives, no shortcuts.
We import Italian San Marzano tomatoes for our sauce and use only the finest cheeses. Our produce comes from local organic farms whenever possible, and our meats are free from antibiotics and hormones.
Each pizza is handmade to order. Our pizzaiolos stretch the dough by hand, apply toppings with precision, and monitor the baking process carefully. No conveyor belts, no pre-made crusts, no assembly lines.
Our custom ovens reach temperatures of 850°F (450°C), allowing pizzas to cook in just 90 seconds. This high-heat, quick-cooking method creates the perfect crust: crisp exterior with a tender, airy interior.
The passionate people behind Pizzaiolo who bring our vision to life every day.
Co-Founder & CEO
Sofia's passion for authentic Italian cuisine and business acumen has guided Pizzaiolo from a single restaurant to a beloved Canadian brand. Her commitment to quality and tradition remains at the heart of everything we do.
Executive Chef
With training in both classical Italian cuisine and modern culinary techniques, Isabella oversees menu development and quality control across all Pizzaiolo locations, ensuring each pizza meets our exacting standards.
Co-Founder & Head Pizzaiolo
Marco's dedication to authentic pizza techniques drives our approach to pizza making. Trained by his grandfather in Naples, he personally oversees our dough production and trains every pizzaiolo who joins our team.
Sustainability Director
Claire leads our sustainability initiatives, from sourcing eco-friendly packaging to building relationships with local organic farms. Her work ensures that Pizzaiolo continues to reduce our environmental footprint while supporting local communities.
Digital Experience Manager
David oversees our online ordering system, mobile app, and digital marketing efforts. His focus on creating seamless digital experiences has made enjoying Pizzaiolo more convenient while maintaining the personal touch our customers love.
Marco and Sofia Rossi open the first Pizzaiolo in downtown Toronto, featuring a wood-fired oven imported from Naples.
Following overwhelming success, Pizzaiolo opens two more locations in the Greater Toronto Area.
Pizzaiolo wins the prestigious National Pizza Championship, bringing national recognition to our authentic approach.
Expansion outside Ontario begins with new locations in Vancouver, Montreal, and Calgary.
Launch of our comprehensive sustainability program, including eco-friendly packaging and partnerships with local organic farms.
Introduction of our custom pizza builder app and enhanced online ordering system to better serve our customers.
With 25 locations across Canada, Pizzaiolo continues to grow while maintaining our commitment to quality, tradition, and community.
At Pizzaiolo, we believe in being more than just a restaurant—we strive to be a positive force in the communities we serve. Our commitment extends beyond making great pizza to making a meaningful difference.
We partner with over 30 local farms and producers across Canada, supporting sustainable agriculture and reducing food miles.
Our Pizza Forward program donates one meal to local food banks for every 10 pizzas sold, contributing over 50,000 meals annually.
Through our School Pizza Gardens initiative, we help establish vegetable gardens at local schools, teaching children about food production and nutrition.
We're committed to reducing our environmental footprint through sustainable packaging, energy-efficient equipment, and waste reduction programs.
We're always looking for passionate people who share our love for great food and exceptional service. Whether you're an experienced pizzaiolo or new to the restaurant industry, we offer a supportive environment where you can grow and thrive.
