HOT: Ladro, Fitzroy

Ladro is a stalwart in the Melbourne dining scene and after 10+ years I still think they produce some of the best pizza in town. The base is just perfect – stretchy and chewy – and the toppings are balanced and never soggy.

I love the casual yet cool vibe of the original Gertrude Street restaurant too (their second outpost is in  Greville St Prahran), with super-friendly service and a small courtyard out the back.

Ladro Junior is their children’s offering that’s only available at the Fitzroy store. It’s a great way to introduce under 12s to the Ladro magic. Every night before 7pm the kids menu is $12.50. For that you get to choose pizza or pasta – margherita, salami, porcini or prosciutto crudo – and then a dessert of either bomboloni or Rickets Point ice cream. What a bargain!

You can also order extras if you choose, such as more toppings, calamari fritti, fries, steamed veg, a rocket salad, more ice cream or a hot chocolate.

While you’re waiting for your food kids can turn over their menus and use colouring-in pencils to create their artistic masterpiece.

If you have a junior chef you can send them to pizza making classes at Ladro Greville. They’re suitable for 3-14 years.