400 Gradi introduces pizza with chips on top

A NEW pizza taking Melbourne by storm has purists divided — but the renowned team behind it insist it’s an Italian staple that’s been around for 30 years.

“WOULD you like fries with that?” is a term you often wouldn’t often hear in a pizzeria.

But 400 Gradi has taken food-mashups to another level with its Pizza Viennese — a traditional Neapolitan-style wood-fired pizza topped with fior di latte, sausage and thick-cut fries.

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Owner Johnny Di Francesco said the pizza had been around in Italy for more than 30 years.

“It’s so popular in areas like Naples and it’s a favourite among children so we brought this special tradition to Melbourne pizza lovers,” Mr Di Francesco said.

He said the pizza cost $22 and was rolled out as part of the launch of the restaurant’s new menu.

“The pizza is available at our Essendon and Brunswick pizzerias and it will be rolled out at Eastland on Monday and Crown in two weeks,” he said.

Mr Di Francesco urged pizza lovers to come and try the Pizza Viennese.

“Don’t knock it until you’ve tried it … it tastes great and it’s been so popular with our customers and we can’t wait for everyone to have a slice,” he said.

Cassandra Kowalik tucks into the pizza with chips at 400 Gradi in Brunswick. Picture: Ian Currie