People have varying tastes and preferences, especially when it comes to food. However, there is one particular meal that everyone loves: pizza. In fact, many consider the delectable treat to be their comfort or go-to food. As a result, it is held to a higher standard than most other dishes. When it comes to making mouth-watering pizza, one name stands out – Francesco Calò.
He is the brilliant mind behind the world-renowned Via Toledo Enopizzeria. Founded in 2016, the restaurant is located in the heart of Vienna and is known not only for its superb food but also for its fantastic atmosphere. Its specialty is a combination of Neapolitan pizza and incredible wine pairings, solidifying its reputation as a niche Neapolitan wine pizzeria.
His immense love for his craft inspired the visionary to create such a well-thought-out venture. Born in Puglia in Southern Italy to a family of bakers, the Master PizzaChef’s earliest memories involved sacks of flour. This early exposure to the business and the industry has helped shape his passion for good food. Throughout his childhood and even after graduating, he helped out in the family bakery.
Eventually, Francesco pursued another dream of his and enlisted in the Coast Guard to serve in the Rimini Harbour Office. Yet despite his newfound career, he found himself longing for his first love of cooking and baking. And so, he went back to school and studied culinary arts, where he found his niche in Neapolitan pizza. Afterward, he earned his master’s and Neapolitan pizza instructor qualifications.
Because of the restaurateur’s profound understanding of great food and his remarkable work ethic, he has received numerous accolades. For example, he won the prestigious Best Italian Pizzaiolo in the World award in 2019, when he bested over 350 competitors in the two-day competition.
On top of that, Via Toledo Enopizzeria was awarded the highly coveted Golden Fork. The restaurant was also recognized by the distinguished Italian ranking 50 Top Pizza as the Best Pizzeria in Austria, Second-Best Pizzeria in Europe, Best Performance of the Year, and Best Wine List.
Asked to share his motivations for developing such an excellent brand rooted in good food, the insightful man explained, “My vision is to elevate pizza to the highest culinary experience using advanced production techniques, top quality raw materials, slow food products, creating new balances and flavors and pairing them with the best wines. Tradition and innovation are my mantras.” Aside from that, he also attributes his success to his perseverance and unwavering commitment to his goals.
“No start is ever easy. Mine was turbulent, and I had to make sacrifices. I had to leave my comfort zone when I ran the family bakery because I felt cramped. But, although I had chosen to take a leap of faith by leaving everything behind by moving abroad and starting afresh, I was happy. I did not know what awaited me, but my motivation was strong, and my hunger was incredible. And I am here today because of that; if I had stayed in my comfort zone for fear of an uncertain future, I certainly would not have achieved all that I have built with so much hard work and tenacity,” he explained.
Francesco Calò is indeed an inspiring visionary who has elevated Italian cuisine to greater heights. As he continues on his journey, the esteemed Master PizzaChef hopes to continue making exceptional pizza and, at the same time, inspire others who wish to pursue their passion.
