Long ago in the bustling alleys of Naples, Italy, a simple but magical dish was born — a humble flatbread crowned with tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. It was food for the people, eaten by workers and kings alike. But little did anyone know, this delicious invention would embark on a journey across oceans, deserts, and mountains, eventually finding a beloved home in the heart of the Middle East.
The journey began slowly. In the early 20th century, Italians migrating around the world carried their culinary traditions with them. In port cities like Alexandria and Beirut, Italian sailors, merchants, and expatriates introduced pizza to curious locals. It wasn’t just food — it was a taste of a distant land, baked in wood-fired ovens, rich with the scent of oregano and olive oil.
By the 1970s and 80s, the Middle East was opening up even more to global culture. American pizza giants like Pizza Hut and Domino’s saw an opportunity. They arrived with neon signs, family-sized boxes, and new variations like pepperoni lovers’ and veggie supreme. For many Middle Easterners, this was their first real bite of pizza — fast, cheesy, comforting. And they loved it.
But the story doesn’t end with imitation. No, the Middle East, with its centuries of culinary tradition, began to make pizza its own. Lebanese bakeries started crafting “Manakeesh Pizza” — thin, chewy bread slathered with cheese, meats, and za’atar. In Saudi Arabia, pizza was topped with spicy chicken shawarma and creamy garlic sauces. In Bahrain and the UAE, luxurious versions appeared — truffle pizzas, za’atar-spiced crusts, lamb sausage toppings.
Local artisans, inspired by Italian masters, opened boutique pizzerias. They respected the old ways — stone ovens, long-fermented doughs — but infused every pie with regional love: pomegranate molasses drizzles, labneh cheese bases, and hints of cardamom and sumac.
Today, pizza is everywhere in the Middle East — from the crowded souks of Amman to the glittering skyscrapers of Dubai. It’s eaten at grand weddings, casual Friday nights, and even Ramadan iftars. It’s a slice of global flavor that feels, somehow, wonderfully local.
The journey of pizza to the Middle East is not just about food. It’s a story of how cultures meet, mingle, and create something entirely new — a golden, bubbling circle of joy that needs no translation.
And somewhere, in a quiet bakery as the wood fire crackles, another new pizza is born — and the journey continues.
🍕 Top Pizza Restaurants in Bahrain
1. Empire Pizza (A’ali)
A haven for New York-style pizza enthusiasts, Empire Pizza is renowned for its hand-crafted thin-crust pizzas. They use cold-fermented dough, house-made sauces from Italian tomatoes, and locally-sourced produce. Signature pizzas include Goat’s Cheese with Honey & Basil, Sriracha Garlic Chicken, and Black Truffle. Available by the slice or whole pie.
2. Blaze Pizza (The Avenues & Marassi Galleria)
Originating from the U.S., Blaze Pizza offers a build-your-own pizza concept with a variety of artisanal toppings. Known for its fast service and customizable options, it’s a favorite among those seeking quick yet quality meals.
3. Fatto (Seef, Adliya & Time Out Market)
Fatto delivers a cozy Italian dining experience with a menu that includes a selection of pizzas, pastas, and international dishes. It’s particularly popular for its authentic flavors and convenient delivery service via Talabat.
4. Cucina Italiana (Juffair)
Cucina Italiana offers a warm ambiance and a menu rich in Italian classics. Their pizzas are known for their authentic taste, and the restaurant emphasizes fresh, high-quality ingredients in all its dishes.
5. Crazy Pizza (Al Liwan, Hamala)
Crazy Pizza offers a unique dining experience with its hand-tossed, thin-crust pizzas and artisanal fresh mozzarella. The restaurant is known for its spinning pizza show, where skilled chefs toss and spin pizzas in the air, adding a touch of theatricality to your meal.
6. Urban Slice (Juffair & Riffa)
Urban Slice brings a New York-style pizza experience to Bahrain. Known for serving the island’s largest pizza, it’s a go-to spot for those craving sizable, flavorful slices. Popular choices include the All-American Cheeseburger and Tandoori Chicken pizzas.
7. Mama Joz Pizza (Multiple Locations)
Mama Joz Pizza stands out for its generous portions and a variety of flavors. Their menu features options like the Spicy Chicken Ranch and Half & Half pizzas. They also offer free home delivery for online orders.
8. Otto (Janabiyah)
Otto specializes in wood-fired pizzas with a focus on gourmet flavors. Their ‘Selezione Gourmet’ menu offers unique options like the Polpettine, topped with homemade meatballs. The restaurant’s ambiance complements its culinary offerings, making it a must-visit for pizza aficionados.
9. Oliveto (Adliya)
Oliveto offers a luxurious dining experience with its comprehensive pizza menu and elegant outdoor terrace. The ‘Magnum’ pizza, a meter-long creation with four different toppings, is perfect for groups. The restaurant’s ambiance and culinary excellence make it a standout choice.
10. Gusto Pizzeria Ristorante (Budaiya)
Gusto Pizzeria offers a fully customizable pizza experience, allowing diners to tailor their meals to their preferences. The emphasis on fresh ingredients ensures a delightful dining experience.
Whether you’re in the mood for a traditional Margherita or an inventive gourmet slice, Bahrain’s diverse pizza offerings cater to all palates. Each establishment brings its own flair, ensuring that pizza enthusiasts have plenty to explore and enjoy.
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