A new contender for Sydney’s best pizza has arrived in Redfern, with Regina La Pizzeria offering an authentic Italian experience unlike any other in the city. Co-owned by experienced pizzaiolo Matteo Ernandes, the pizzeria brings a unique mix of woodfired, deep-dish, and fried pizzas to the vibrant Wunderlich Lane dining precinct.
A Sicilian Legacy Comes to Redfern
Regina La Pizzeria is the realisation of Matteo Ernandes’ lifelong ambition. Growing up in his family’s pizzeria on the remote Sicilian island of Lampedusa, Mr Ernandes learned the craft from his father before moving to Sydney in 2014. His experience includes time at Matteo (Double Bay), Da Orazio (Bondi), and Avoja, where he worked with Federico Zanellato, the chef-owner of Lumi Dining and Lode Pies.
Now, in collaboration with Mr Zanellato, chef Karl Firla (Restaurant Leo, Oscillate Wildly), and Lumi co-owner Michela Boncagni, Mr Ernandes has launched Regina, meaning “queen” in Italian, with the goal of elevating Sydney’s pizza scene.
Three Distinct Pizza Styles
Unlike most pizzerias that focus on a single style, Regina La Pizzeria offers three:
- Woodfired Pizza: Made in Sydney’s only Fazzone oven, known for its volcanic stone base and superior heat retention. The pizzas, including the classic Margherita and the Bocelli (a blend of six cheeses with truffle honey), emerge with a perfectly crisp crust and airy interior.
- Padellino (Pan-Baked) Pizza: A lighter deep-dish style, blind-baked and then stuffed with ingredients like white bolognese, provolone, or duck ragu. This Sicilian and Calabrian tradition is given a contemporary twist by Ernandes.
- Pizza Fritta (Fried Pizza): A twice-cooked pizza that is first fried and then finished in the oven. Unlike traditional deep-fried pizzas, Regina’s version remains light, airy, and crisp.
Each pizza showcases Regina’s signature high-hydration dough. The dough undergoes extended cold fermentation for optimal flavour and texture.
A Unique Dining Experience in Redfern
Regina La Pizzeria’s 85-seat restaurant combines a mid-century Italian aesthetic with modern design. The cream and emerald interiors, checkerboard floors, and an open pizza kitchen provide diners with a front-row seat to the pizza-making process.
The wine list, curated by Angelo Cristella, features organic and sustainable wines, while the cocktail menu includes a Negroni Sbagliato (Campari, prosecco, sweet vermouth) among other Italian-inspired drinks.
For those who prefer a more immersive experience, counter seating allows guests to watch the pizzaiolos at work, adding an interactive element to the dining experience.
Community Reception and Customer Reviews
Since opening, Regina La Pizzeria has received glowing reviews. Local guide Elia Longo described it as a “true gem” with pizzas that transport diners “straight to Italy”. Another reviewer, Grace, praised the staff’s hospitality and recommended sitting at the pizza bar to watch the process unfold.
Diners have also highlighted the friendly atmosphere, high-quality ingredients, and authentic Italian flavours as standout features.
How to Visit Regina La Pizzeria
Address: Shop RL 107/109, 2 Baptist Street, Redfern
Website: reginalapizzeria.com
Phone: 0416 172 280
Regina is located in Wunderlich Lane, accessible from Cleveland Street or Baptist Street. Free two-hour parking is available in the Wilson Car Park on Baptist Street.
Published 12-Mar-2025
