Tucked away in West End, La Lupa brings a true taste of Rome to Brisbane. Since opening in 2017, this neighbourhood pizzeria has gained a loyal following for its light, crispy Roman-style pizzas, handcut pastas, and thoughtful wine selection.
Owners Valentina Vigni and Andrea Contin have created a spot where traditional techniques meet fresh ideas, making every visit an experience worth savouring.
Authentic Roman Pizza, Done Right
La Lupa takes pizza seriously. The team uses organic, stone-milled Italian flour, fermenting the dough to create a base that’s light, crisp, and easy to digest. This slow fermentation gives the pizza a delicate crunch without the heaviness of traditional styles.
Toppings range from classic to creative. The Margherita keeps it simple while the Pizzo Calabro turns up the heat with spicy spreadable salami, hot salami, and creamy burrata. If you’re after something different, the lupacchiotto bites—mini focaccia-style pizzas—offer a flavour-packed alternative to traditional starters.
More Than Just Pizza
La Lupa’s menu extends well beyond its signature pizzas. It offers antipasti, handcut pastas and larger mains with dishes rotating monthly, ensuring fresh flavours with every visit.
For starters, you might like milky burrata following a silky spaghetti with mussels and ‘nduja. And if you love dessert, don’t leave without trying the tiramisu—a house specialty that balances coffee, mascarpone, and just the right amount of sweetness.
A Carefully Curated Wine List
Great food deserves great wine, and La Lupa delivers. The wine list highlights Italian varietals, giving equal attention to classic producers and modern innovators. Whether you prefer a bold red to complement a meaty pizza or a crisp white to pair with seafood pasta, the staff will happily guide you to the perfect glass.
A Relaxed, Welcoming Space
La Lupa’s setting adds to its charm. Inside, a handful of tables sit near the wine cellar, creating an intimate feel. Most guests, however, opt for the al fresco dining area, where they can enjoy the laid-back West End atmosphere with a pizza in one hand and a glass of wine in the other.
Even the restaurant’s name ties back to its Roman roots. La Lupa, or “the she-wolf,” references the legend of Romulus and Remus, the twin brothers raised by a wolf before founding Rome. It’s a fitting tribute to a restaurant that stays true to its heritage.
When to Visit
La Lupa keeps a simple schedule. It’s open for dinner Wednesday to Sunday from 5 pm and lunch on weekends from 12 pm to 2:30 pm. Whether you stop in for a quick meal or settle in for the evening, you’ll find authentic Roman-style pizza and welcoming hospitality.
If you haven’t been yet, now’s the time. La Lupa isn’t just serving pizza—it’s bringing a slice of Rome to Brisbane.
Published 18-Feb-2025
