Situated on a sunny corner opposite Rye’s main beach is Papi’s Pizza, offering the perfect harmony of a beautiful dining experience in a relaxed, funky atmosphere. By night, Papi’s crafts Napoli-style ‘bits and pizzas’ for dine-in and takeaway. There are beers and cocktails on tap, and a clever little wine list of local and international vinos. For breakfast on weekends and public holidays, the pizza oven churns out hot BLT piadinas, which are Italian breakfast sandwiches, as well as smoothies and Allpress coffee, and a boozy bottomless brunch.

The energy is high in the warmer months, with the sounds of remixed retro tunes floating through large open windows to the spacious outdoor dining area littered with umbrellas. In the cooler months, the warmth of the pizza oven, cosy interior and ocean-view booths welcome you.

Sourcing local fresh ingredients as much as possible, the pizzas are classic Napoli-style with produce as the hero. Stand-outs include the sopressa salami for those who like a bit of heat, and the simply perfect classic marg. No one misses out, with an extensive range of gluten-free options including Papi’s signature pancetta and parmesan arancini fried in the gluten-free fryer. For dessert, make sure you can find room for at least a spoonful of tiramisu dubbed the ‘tirami-spoon’.

With the co-owners operating restaurants in Melbourne, they were inspired to bring the energy of the metropolitan dining scene to the laid-back Mornington Peninsula. Their vision has come to life, and it’s the epitome of sophisticated beachside dining for the whole family.

For details on Papi’s rotating bits and pizzas and pasta specials, keep an eye on the Instagram page. For bookings, pick-up and delivery orders, visit the website.

Opening hours: Monday-Friday 4pm-late; Saturday-Sunday and public holidays 9am-late

Papi’s Pizza

2283 Point Nepean Rd, Rye

P: 5912 1010

www.papispizza.com.au

INSTA: papispizzapeninsula