If you’re on the hunt for exceptional pizza, you’re in for a treat at Bandra’s newest Italian eatery, Level 1 Pizzas. This establishment, headed by restaurateur Suren Joshi and a team of talented chefs led by Chef Richard D’Souza, is bringing a touch of gourmet sophistication to the world of sourdough pizzas. In a city bustling with pizza joints, Level 1 Pizzas stands out by focusing on healthy, high-end ingredients and a meticulous preparation process.
The Gourmet Touch
At Level 1 Pizzas, the menu is a culinary journey of exploration. The ingredients used are premium, featuring truffle Picante sauce, cream cheese as a base, smoked Norwegian salmon, vegan cheese, and an array of fresh exotic mushrooms, including portobello, shiitake, and milky. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill pizza joint; it’s a haven for pizza connoisseurs.
The Sourdough Secret
What sets these pizzas apart is the laborious and time-intensive sourdough process. Chef Richard explains, “It’s a big trend these days as people are appreciating sourdough over regular breads because of the whole process of self-activation without yeast. It takes almost two days to get the fermentation of the dough right. Another 24 hours to proof, and we use almost no yeast for the dough, so you get a nice crust all around with a lot of air pockets.”
A Gastronomic Journey
The menu offers an exquisite selection of six vegetarian and six non-vegetarian gourmet pizzas. Among them, the Pesto Burrata, Fig, and Caramelized Onion pizza is a delightful surprise with its harmonious blend of flavors. The Truffle Mushroom pizza, adorned with shiitake, portobello, and trumpet mushrooms, boasts an airy, crispy crust that envelops the palate. Even the unconventional Smoky Salmon pizza, complemented by caper salsa and truffle oil, proves to be a winning combination. The Level 1 Pizzas menu captures the essence of Italian cuisine with each meticulously crafted pie.
A Niche and Healthy Option
Suren Joshi, the mastermind behind Level 1 Pizzas, shares his inspiration, “My interest has always been in consuming healthier foods, and we tried to do the same with the pizzas we make through the use of sourdough for the base. I believe our pizzas will hit the spot for those looking for niche and healthy options.”
Beyond Pizza
The ambiance at Level 1 Pizzas, designed by architect Ashiesh Shah, is intimate and charming. The establishment boasts limited seating capacity and a quaint balcony dining area. As you ascend the staircase, you’ll catch sight of the red wood-fired oven, which infuses each pizza with a signature smoky charm. A narrow hallway leads to an intriguing elephant safari bar adorned with monochrome murals. This bar offers a curated collection of wines and wine cocktails, perfectly complementing the flavors of every pizza on the menu.
A Distinct Experience
Suren Joshi affirms, “It’s all about balance between indulgence and well-being, and Level 1 Pizzas reflects that philosophy by using high-quality, imported ingredients and a range of thoughtfully curated wines and wine cocktails to complement the flavors.”
Conclusion
In a city with no shortage of dining options, Level 1 Pizzas brings something truly unique to the table. With a focus on healthy ingredients, a meticulous sourdough process, and an intimate ambiance, it’s the ideal spot for those seeking a gourmet pizza experience that transcends the ordinary.
